Sree Vallabha Temple Thiruvalla – Famous Vishnu Shrine in Kerala
Sree Vallabha Temple is a highly traditional Hindu temple devoted to Sree Vallabha, a manifestation of Lord Vishnu. It is positioned in Thiruvalla, Pathanamthitta district of Kerala. It's among Kerala's oldest and biggest temples, drawing devotees from all over India for many years.
Sree Vallabha Temple - Kerala
The 400-year-old Sree Vallabha Temple attracts devotees with its divine ambience and captivating architectural allure, adorned with stone-wood carvings and vibrant mural paintings. It is believed that the Garuda Sthamba of the temple was crafted by the renowned architect, Perumthachan. The temple holds a special place among the 108 Divya Desams, celebrated by Alvars and ancient texts. It is identified as the Vallabha Kshethram mentioned in the Garuda Purana and Matsya Purana. A unique aspect of Sree Vallabha Temple in Thiruvalla is its daily performance of Kathakali, making it one of India's foremost venues for the art form. Here, Kathakali performances is offered as a ritual in honor of the deity who holds a fondness for this special art form.
Legend has it that Lord Vishnu appeared as Sree Vallabha for Sage Durvasa and Khandakarnan. According to lore, the temple's deity was installed in 59 BC after Vishnu, pleased by the prayers of an elderly Brahmin woman, incarnated as a Brahmachari and vanquished the demon Thokalaasuran. Since then, the temple has maintained its distinctive worship protocols, unparalleled elsewhere. It is said that Sage Durvasa and Saptarishi visit the temple every midnight to pay homage to the Lord. In ancient times, the temple also oversaw one of the region's largest educational institutions, contributing significantly to Kerala's cultural and educational landscape.
Entry/Darshan Time
4:30 AM to 12 PM
5 PM to 8 PM
Specialty
Sree Vallabha Temple is the only temple in Kerala where Kathakali is performed daily.
It is believed that Sage Durvasa and the Saptarishi visit the Sree Vallabha Temple every midnight to worship Sree Vallabha.
Dress Code
It's advisable to dress modestly and respectfully, preferably in traditional attire, while visiting Sree Vallabha Temple
Festivals
Uthra Sreebali.
Best Time to Visit
Throughout the year
How to reach
By Air : Thiruvananthapuram International Airport is the nearest airport, 130 Km away from Sree Vallabha 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 Thiruvalla Railway Station, just 3.4 Km away from Sree Vallabha Temple. From the railway station, one can hire a bus or an auto-rickshaw to reach the temple.
By Road :Sree Vallabha Temple is easily accessible by road. You can choose private transportation, take a bus, or hire an auto-rickshaw to reach the temple.