Ernakulam Mahadeva Temple – Sacred Shiva Shrine
Ernakulam Mahadeva Temple, also known as Ernakulathappan Temple, is a major religious landmark in Kerala, situated in the heart of Ernakulam, Kochi. This ancient temple holds significance as the city temple with the presiding deity, Lord Shiva as the protector of the city. The temple stands within the Durbar Hall Ground and has historical ties to the city's past as one of the seven royal temples of Kochi Maharajas.
Ernakulam Mahadeva Temple - Kerala
The uniqueness of Ernakulam Shiva Temple lies in the fact that the presiding deity, Lord Shiva, faces west towards the sea. This orientation adds to the temple's significance, creating a distinctive feature among Shiva temples. Lord Shiva resides in the main sanctum sanctorum in the Gourisankara form. The Lingam in the sanctum is revered as Swayambu (Divinely derived). Adjacent to the main sanctum, there is a small shrine dedicated to Kirthamoorthy, believed to be the original Lingam worshipped by Arjuna. Administered by the Cochin Devaswom Board, the temple features Lord Sastha and Lord Ganapathi as its sub-deities.
The highlight of Ernakulathappan Temple is the grand Ernakulathappan Utsavam festival, marked by elaborate ceremonies and a magnificent procession of adorned elephants, attracting both tourists and devotees. The rituals and traditions observed at Ernakulam Shiva Temple contribute to the rich cultural heritage of the region. As a center of devotion and spirituality, the temple continues to be a symbol of faith and reverence for the devotees who throng its premises seeking divine blessings.
Entry/Darshan Time
3:30 AM to 11 AM
4 PM to 8 PM
Specialty
Ernakulam Shiva Temple is one of the 7 royal temples of Kochi Maharajas and it showcases the grandeur of Kerala architecture.
It is one of the major Shiva temples in Kerala which is counted along with the Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple, Vadakkunathan Temple, Kaduthruthy Mahadeva Temple, Vaikom Temple, and Chengannur Mahadeva Temple.
Ernakulam Shiva Temple is one of the rare Shiva Temples where the deity, Lord Shiva faces west, towards the sea.
Dress Code
There is no strict dress code enforced at Ernakulam Mahadeva Temple. But, it's advisable to dress modestly and respectfully, preferably in traditional attire, while visiting the temple.
Festivals
Ernakulathappan Thiru Utsavam
Best Time to Visit
Throughout the year
How to reach
By Air : Cochin International Airport is the nearest airport, 35.2 Km away from the Ernakulam Shiva 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 Ernakulam South Railway Station, just 1 Km away from the Ernakulam Shiva Temple. From the railway station, one can hire a bus or an auto-rickshaw to reach the temple.
By Road :Ernakulam Shiva Temple is easily accessible by road. You can choose private transportation, take a bus, or hire an auto-rickshaw to reach the temple.