Dakshina Mookambika Temple Panachikkadu
Panachikkadu Temple, popularly known as the Dakshina Mookambika, is a revered Hindu shrine dedicated to Goddess Saraswati. Situated at Panachikkadu in Kottayam district, it is one of the most prominent Saraswati temples in Kerala. Interestingly, the main deity of the temple is Lord Vishnu, installed long before Goddess Saraswati. Panachikkadu Temple holds great significance for Vidyarambam, and the Navratri festival is celebrated with grandeur at this sacred temple in Kerala.
Panachikkadu Temple - Kerala
The Panachikkadu Temple, with a history spanning over a thousand years, has a fascinating tale behind its origins. A Namboodiri from Kizhapuram Illam, unable to bear sons, sought blessings at Mookambika temple after a pilgrimage to Varanasi. In a divine encounter, he was instructed to adopt a child from a nearby family. He accepted his fate and returned home.
Back at Panachikkadu, he bathed in the temple pond and left his umbrella on the southern side. Unable to retrieve it, a man appeared, explaining that the goddess Mookambika Devi resided within the umbrella. He guided the Namboodiri to find an idol in the nearby forest and to appease its protector, a Yakshi, before installing the Panachikkadu Devi idol. The idol was erected in a low terrain filled with water without a roof, making it seem as if the Devi was seated in the middle of a pond. The Namboodiri followed the instructions, and thus, the Goddess Panachikkadu Devi became the deity of the place. The main deity, now covered in foliage, sits in a pond fed by continuous spring water, never drying even in summer. This spring water is considered sacred and is used for worship and other temple needs.
Entry/Darshan Time
5:30 AM to 10:30 AM
5 PM to 7 PM
Specialty
The main deity of Panachikkadu Temple is Maha Vishnu, despite the fact that the temple derives its name and fame from the presence of Saraswati.
The temple is renowned for the "Vidyarambam" ceremony, where children take the first step into the world of letters.
Dress Code
It's advisable to dress modestly and respectfully, preferably in traditional attire, while visiting Panachikkadu Temple. It is important to note that men are not allowed to wear shirts when entering the temple premises.
Festivals
Navratri
Best Time to Visit
Throughout the year
How to reach
By Air : Cochin International Airport is the nearest airport, 95.3 Km away from Panachikkadu 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, 9.5 Km away from Panachikkadu Temple. From the railway station, one can hire a bus or an auto-rickshaw to reach the temple.
By Road :Panachikkadu Temple is easily accessible by road. You can choose private transportation, take a bus, or hire an auto-rickshaw to reach the temple.