Historic Mangala Devi Kannagi Temple
The Mangaladevi Kannagi Temple is an ancient historical temple dedicated to Goddess Mangaladevi who is also known as Kannaki. The temple is situated on the border of Theni District in Tamil Nadu and Idukki District in Kerala. It is approximately 7 km from Pazhiyankudi in Theni district and 15 km from Thekkady in Idukki. Lying deep inside the Periyar Tiger Reserve, the Mangaladevi Temple can be reached only by jeep.
Mangaladevi Kannagi Temple - Kerala
Speciality
Mangaladevi Temple stands as a testament to the legend of Kannagi, who transformed into a divine being after expressing her wrath and bestowing blessings upon the people. According to the tale, Kannagi's husband, Kovalan, was unjustly accused of theft and executed by the king of Madurai. In her fury, Kannagi set fire to Madurai and ascended to the hills, departing from earthly life with Kovalan in the Pushpaka Vimana. Legend has it that Kannaki arrived in the Periyar forests following the destruction of Madurai.
To honour the legendary Kannagi, the ancient king Chera Chenguttuvan commissioned the construction of Mangaladevi Temple, renowned for its Pandyan architecture. An ancient underground passage, rumoured to lead to the temple town of Madurai, adds to the temple's mystique. Some speculate it led to the renowned Meenakshi temple, while others claim it reached the palace of the Pandya king.
Access to the temple is permitted only on Chitra Pournima day, and due to its disputed status, entry is allowed only in the presence of the district collectors and police chiefs from Theni and Idukki. After all, the journey to the temple promises to captivate visitors with its natural beauty.
Entry/Darshan Time
6 AM to 1 PM
4 PM to 8:30 PM.
Specialty
• Mangaladevi Temple is nestled within the dense forests of the Periyar Tiger Reserve.
• Constructed from massive granite blocks, Mangaladevi Temple stands proudly at an altitude of 1337 meters above sea level.
• Entry to Mangaladevi Temple is allowed only in the presence of the collectors and police chiefs of the Theni and Idukki districts or you have to take prior permission from the Wildlife Warden at Thekkady.
Dress Code
There is no special dress code for visiting Mangaladevi Temple. But, it's advisable to dress modestly and respectfully, preferably in traditional attire, while visiting the temple.
Festivals
Chithra Pournami Festival
Best Time to Visit
April to May during Chithra Pournami day.
How to reach
By Air : Cochin International Airport is the nearest airport, 155 Km away from Mangaladevi 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, 117 Km away from Mangaladevi Temple. From the railway station, one can hire a taxi or bus to reach Kumily. A lot of jeeps are available from Kumily to reach the temple. However, the majority of pilgrims prefer to undertake the uphill climb.
By Road :Thekkady is easily accessible by road. You can either take a jeep from Kumily or climb uphill to reach the temple.