Ettumanoor Shri Mahadeva Temple

Opening Hours:4 AM to 12 PM and 5 PM to 8 PM

Prime Day & Hours: Monday and weekends,4:30 AM to 5:00 AM or 5:30 PM to 6:00 PM

Suggested Duration: 1-2 hours approximately

Tickets: Free entry 

Nearest Railway Station: Ettumanoor Railway Station,2 km away.

Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport, 75 km away.

Nearest Bus Stop: Ettumanoor Bus Station, 600 m away. 

The Ettumanoor Shri Mahadeva Temple, one of Kerala’s major Shiva temples, is an ancient shrine in Kottayam. It is renowned for its magnificent Dravidian architecture, featuring a copper-plated roof and a golden flagstaff. The temple’s walls are adorned with elaborate mural paintings, depicting scenes from Hindu mythology, primarily from the great Indian epics, the Ramayana and Mahabharata. A visit to this sacred site is a must for those exploring places to visit in Kottayam.

It is believed that Lord Shiva appeared in eight different forms in this temple. The Pandavas and Sage Vyasa also worshipped here, making it a place of extraordinary culture and history. Legend has it that Sage Khara Prakasha, a disciple of Lord Parasurama, established this sacred shrine.

At the Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple, Lord Shiva is revered in three distinct forms throughout the day. In the morning, he is worshipped as Ardhanareeswara. In the afternoon, he is honored as Kirathamoorthy. In the evening, he appears in the Samhara Mudra, each form representing a unique aspect of the deity.

It is known for the annual Arattu festival, which is celebrated for 10 days. The festival features grand celebrations, elephant processions, and traditional performances. It concludes with the Arattu ceremony, marking the end of the festivities.

• Offer your prayers to Lord Shiva at the Ettumanoor Shri Mahadeva Temple, one of the most revered temples in Kerala.
• Explore the beautiful architecture of the temple which is a beautiful blend of Dravidian architecture with mural paintings.
• Dwell into the temple's rich heritage and spirituality exploring the spacious pond, gardens offering extreme tranquility.
• Immerse yourself in the temple's annual festivities known as Arattu, a feast for the eyes with many grand celebrations.
• Learn the fascinating myths related to this 1,000 years old temple, believed to have been worshipped by Sage Vyasa and the Pandavas.