Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple – Ancient Shiva Shrine
The Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple is ancient Shiva Temple with a rich history. It is situated at Ettumanoor, in the Kottayam district of Kerala. It is believed that both the Pandavas and the sage Vyasa worshipped here. The great philosopher Adi Shankaracharya wrote the famous Soundarya Lahari while staying at this temple.
Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple - Kerala
The temple dates back to the 16th century and is constructed in the unique Dravidian style of architecture. In terms of engineering prowess, the Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple stands as a testament to the skill of the Vishwakarma Sthapathis.
The mesmerizing temple is adorned with magnificent Dravidian mural paintings, intricate frescoes, and exquisite wood carvings depicting scenes from the Ramayana, Mahabharata, and Puranas. The fresco depicting Pradosha Nritham portraying Lord Shiva as the cosmic dancer, Nataraja, is highly admired and is considered one of the finest wall paintings in India. The temple's golden flagstaff is another architectural marvel, featuring an idol of a bull at the top surrounded by small bells and metal leaves resembling those of a banyan tree. Adding to its architectural splendour, the temple's roof boasts 14 ornamental tops, each covered with copper sheets. At the entrance of the temple, there is an ancient lamp that is believed to have been lit 450 years ago and is still replenished with oil by devotees every day.
The temple's most significant celebration is the ten-day long Arattu festival, during which the 'Ezharaponnana Ezhunallathu' takes place, featuring the procession of seven-and-a-half golden elephants for devotees to witness and worship. These seven-and-a-half elephants weigh close to 13 Kg and are made in pure gold.
Entry/Darshan Time
4 AM to 12 PM
5 PM to 8 PM
Specialty
The temple is constructed in the traditional Kerala style of architecture, featuring Dravidian Mural paintings embellishing its walls. Among these paintings, the depiction of Nataraja, portraying Lord Shiva as the cosmic dancer, adorns the ornate temple tower and stands out as the most renowned artwork.
The temple is renowned for its annual Ezharaponnana Ezhunallathu procession, during which seven and a half elephants made of gold (approximately 13 kilograms) are displayed in public view.
Dress Code
Devotees are encouraged to don traditional attire while visiting Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple. Women should wear either a Saree or Salwar Kameez (Churidar), and men should opt for either a Dhoti or trousers without an Angavastram. Modern dresses like jeans, shorts, short skirts, etc. are strictly prohibited inside the temple premises.
Festivals
Arattu Festival
Best Time to Visit
Throughout the year
How to reach
By Air : Cochin International Airport is the nearest airport, 75.4 Km away from Ettumanoor Mahadeva 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 Ettumanoor Railway Station, just 1.7 Km away from Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple. From the railway station, one can hire a bus or an auto-rickshaw to reach the temple.
By Road :Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple is easily accessible by road. You can choose private transportation, take a bus, or hire an auto-rickshaw to reach the temple. Ettumanoor Bus Station is just 600 m away from the temple.