Varakkal Devi Temple – Famous Goddess Durga Temple in Kerala

Varakkal Devi Temple - Kerala

According to legend, Lord Parshuram prayed to Goddess Durga Devi during the Threthayuga era. The Goddess appeared before him and pledged to bless her devotees at a specific location on Vaavu day (full-moon night). Upon hearing this, Lord Parshuram erected the temple at that very spot. However, over time, pilgrim visits to the shrine dwindled. Later, the responsibility of the temple fell to the Zamorins, who renovated and revitalized the traditions, ensuring the temple's continued operation. To this day, the Varakkal Devi Temple continues to be managed by the descendants of Zamorins.

Varakkal Devi Temple was renowned for fostering cultural arts during the ancient period. Vaavu Bali, a sacred ritual for departed souls, holds great significance here, drawing thousands of devotees from distant places to perform ancestral obsequies. Vavu Bali is conducted every year on the full moon of the Thulam month which falls between October-November. It involves solemn customs and rituals performed ceremoniously to provide peace to the departed souls. Family members observing the pooja fast on the preceding day, with priests administering the pooja on Varakkal Beach the next day. On this day, the sea is found to be unusually calm, seemingly facilitating the religious observances.

Entry/Darshan Time

5 AM to 10:30 AM

5 PM to 8 PM

Specialty

Varakkal Devi Temple is regarded as the 108th and final Devi temple constructed by Sree Parasurama, the legendary founder of Kerala. According to the legend, Parasurama ploughed this area to invoke the presence of Devi, the goddess. The myth narrates that Parasurama crafted the idol of Durga with his axe and conducted the Vaavu Bali here as an expression of gratitude for all those he had defeated and conquered.

Hence, Vaavu Bali (a ritual for the departed souls) is a very important ritual for this temple. Thousands of devotees from far and wide flock to this temple to carry out their ancestral obsequies.

Varakkal Devi Temple is a key destination for those undertaking the Dakshin Pilgrimage and Ayyappans on the Sabarimala Yatra, to cleanse themselves of sins by offering prayers to their ancestors.

Dress Code

It's advisable to dress modestly and respectfully, preferably in traditional attire, while visiting Varakkal Devi Temple. It is important to note that men are not allowed to wear shirts when entering the temple premises.

Festivals

Vaavu Bali
Navratri

Best Time to Visit

Throughout the year

How to reach

By Air : Calicut International Airport is the nearest airport, 33.2 Km away from Varakkal Devi 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 Calicut Railway Station, 7.9 Km away from Varakkal Devi Temple. From the railway station, one can hire a bus or an auto-rickshaw to reach the temple.

By Road :Varakkal Devi Temple is easily accessible by road. You can choose private transportation, take a bus, or hire an auto-rickshaw to reach the temple.