Kottarakkara Ganapathy Temple – Famous Ganesha Shrine Kerala
Kottarakkara Ganapathy Temple is one of the most prominent Maha Ganapathy Temples in Kerala. The temple is centuries-old and is situated in Kottarakkara, about 25 Km from Kollam. According to legend, the Kottarakkara Ganapathy Temple was originally known as the Kizhakkekara Shiva temple, where Lord Shiva was the primary deity and Lord Ganesha was a minor deity. However, over time, the temple gained renown as a Ganesha temple rather than a Shiva temple.
Kottarakkara Ganapathy Temple - Kerala
Kottarakkara Ganapathy Temple is beautifully built in traditional Kerala style of architecture. The temple features a golden dwajasthambam, or flagpole. Its Sreekovil, or sanctum sanctorum, is circular in shape with a copper-covered conical roof. The idol of Lord Ganesha at the sanctum santoru stands at 3 feet tall and bears four hands carrying Pasa, Modakam, Kadali pazham, and Ankusa. Devotees believe Lord Ganesha removes obstacles from their lives. In addition to Lord Ganesha, the temple also houses sub-deities including Lord Shiva, Goddess Parvati, Lord Murugan, Lord Ayyappan, and Nagaraja.
The temple celebrates Vinayaka Chaturthi, Lord Ganesha's birthday, with grand festivities including Maha Ganapathy Homam using 1008 coconuts. Kottarakkara Ganapathy Temple is renowned for its Unniyappam, a popular offering to Lord Ganesha. A famous pilgrim centre in South India, Kottarakkara Ganapathy Temple serves as a halting point for devotees heading to Sabarimala from Thiruvananthapuram.
Entry/Darshan Time
4 AM to 11:30 AM
5 PM to 8 PM
Specialty
Although the primary deity of Kottarakkara Ganapathy Temple is Lord Shiva, the temple is renowned as the Ganapathy Temple.
The main offerings at Kottarakkara Ganapathy Temple include Unniyappam, Udayasthamanapooja, Maha Ganapathi Homam, and Pushpanjali.
Dress Code
There is no strict dress code enforced at Kottarakkara Ganapathy Temple. But, it's advisable to dress modestly and respectfully, preferably in traditional attire, while visiting the temple.
Festivals
Vinayaka Chaturthi
Navratri
Vishu
Sivarathri
Best Time to Visit
Throughout the year
How to reach
By Air : Thiruvananthapuram International Airport is the nearest airport, 72.9 Km away from Kottarakkara Ganapathy 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 Kottarakkara Railway Station, just 550 m away from Kottarakkara Ganapathy Temple. From the railway station, one can hire a bus or an auto-rickshaw to reach the temple.
By Road :Kottarakkara Ganapathy Temple is easily accessible by road. You can choose private transportation, take a bus, or hire an auto-rickshaw to reach the temple. Thampanoor Bus Station is just 3.3 Km away from the temple.