Annapurneshwari Temple – Sacred Devi Temple in Cherukunnu
The Annapurneshwari Temple is positioned in Cherukunnu, Kannur district of Kerala. This prominent Hindu shrine is dedicated to the worship of Annapurneshwari (Annapurna), the Goddess who vanquishes hunger or the Goddess of food. Legend has it that centuries ago, Sree Annapoorneswari visited the shrine, which was submerged under the sea. Alongside the goddess, Lord Krishna is also revered in this temple.
Annapurneshwari Temple - Kerala
With a history dating back around 1500 years, the Annapurneshwari Temple in Cherukunnu originally served as a Vishnu/Krishna Temple. Following the consecration of Amma's Prathishta (bestowing sacred power to the idol of Annapoorneswari), the temple was constructed under the patronage of Avittam Thirunal Raja Raja Varma of Chirakkal Kovilakam. According to Hindu mythology, the goddess is believed to have arrived from Kashi along with two other goddesses (Kalarivathukkal Amma and Madayi Kavil Amma) and a boatman, sailing in a golden ship. They disembarked at Azhi Theeram, now known as Aayiram Thengu.
This remarkable temple is noted for its unique construction style. The temple was built using one single type of rock, bonded with avil and belam (a mixture of flattened rice and jaggery). Both the Sree Kovils of Goddess Annapoorneswari and Lord Krishnan are of the same size according to Vastu, emphasizing equal importance to both the goddess and the god. The entrance to the temple is positioned in front of Krishnan's Sree Kovil. The absence of a direct entrance to Annapoorneshwari's Sree Kovil is rooted in the ancient belief that women from Brahmin families should not be seen directly (Antharjanam). Hence, a small window is provided in front of the Sree Kovil for the Antharjanam's to view the idol from outside.
Entry/Darshan Time
5:30 AM to 12:45 PM
5 PM to 8 PM
Specialty
Annapurneshwari Temple in Cherukunnu is the only Durga temple in Kerala where Parvathy Devi is worshipped as Annapurneshwari, the Goddess of Food.
While this temple is primarily dedicated to Goddess Parvathy in the form of Annapurneshwari, the idol of Lord Krishna is also worshipped alongside the incarnation of Goddess Parvathy.
Inside the sanctum sanctorum of Annapurneshwari, there is a mirror idol of the goddess, a rare phenomenon not commonly found in other Devi Temples in Kerala.
Dress Code
It's advisable to dress modestly and respectfully, preferably in traditional attire, while visiting Annapurneshwari Temple, Cherukunnu. It is important to note that men are not allowed to wear shirts when entering the temple premises.
Festivals
Vishu Vilakku
Best Time to Visit
Throughout the year
How to reach
By Air : Kannur International Airport is the nearest airport, 41.7 Km away from Annapurneshwari Temple. From the airport, you can avail of public transport or get a cab/ taxi to reach the temple.
By Train :The nearest railway station is Kottayam Railway Station, 17.7 Km away from Annapurneshwari Temple. From the railway station, one can hire a bus or an auto-rickshaw to reach the temple.
By Road :Annapurneshwari Temple is easily accessible by road. You can choose private transportation, take a bus, or hire an auto-rickshaw to reach the temple.