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Nearby Pilgrimage
Shabarimala Sree Dharmashastha Temple
Sabarimala is the most famous pilgrim centre in Kerala. This temple is dedicated to Lord Ayyappa. It is believed to be the place where Lord Ayyapa meditated soon after killing the powerful demon, Mahishi. It is situated on a hilltop and is surrounded by mountains and dense forest. This temple is unique in many respects. One is that the temple is open to all irrespective of caste, creed or religion. There is a place near the temple (east to Sannidhanam) dedicated to the Vavar called "Vavarunada".This is an epitome of religious harmony. Another fact is that it is not open throughout the year. It is open for worship, only during the days of Mandalapooja, Makaravilakku and Chitra Vishu. The pilgrims have to follow fasting for many days and the journey to the temple is to be taken through difficult paths in the forest as the vehicles can go only up to Pampa. temple is situated 95 kms from Neervilakom Village.
Aranmula Parthasaradhi Temple
Aranmula Temple, in Pathanamthitta district, is famous as one of the five temple towns of Kerala. There are five ancient shrines around Chengannur, sanctified by the Pandavas. One of them is Aranmula pilgrimage centre in Pathanamthitta dist 7 kms away from Neervilakom. It is said that this temple has existed since the time of Mahabharata. Aranmula temple comes alive during the time of Onam festival when snake boat races are held in this temple. The temple premises is decorated beautifully and is thronged by thousands of devotees who come to offer prayers and cheer for those participating in the boat race.
Maramon Convention
Chengannur Mahadeva Temple
Parumala Church
Parumala Church is one of the major pilgrimage center in Kerala. The St.Peter's and St. Paul's Orthodox Church attracts a lots of belivers throughout the year irrespective of cast and creed. Parumala Church contains the tomb of Mor Gregorios Geevarghese Chathuruthil (Parumala Kochu Thirumeni), the only declared saint of Malankara. The Church is situated on the banks of river Pampa in Mannar. Mannar is a beautiful village in Pathanamthitta district and is 20 kms away from Neervilakom.
The annual commemorative feast (Ormapperunnal) celebrations at the Parumala Church is held on 1st and 2nd of November. Devotees from all over the state attended the special rites and prayers offered as part of the commemorative feast of the saint.
The nearest railway station is at Thiruvalla and the nearest airport is at Cochin. Parumala is well connected to the other cities with its road networks.
St.Mary's Orthodox Church. Puthencavu
One of our oldest churches of the malankara orthodox Syrian group. It's declared as a CATHEDRAL now. The mortal remains of three great metropolitan of the church has made it as place of pilgrimage.Two church perunals of mar Anthrayos (AD 17th century Syrian saint who was buried at Kallada) and of puthencavu mar peilexinose are celebrated here.The wooden horse of Mar Anthrayose donated by the padinjareveetil family is preserved in the church. There are a lot of village stories around this horse this horse on which Anthrayos bava used travel at night.This cathedral is situate around 3 kms from Neervilakom and all most all Christian community in neervilakom, belongs to this Cathedral.
The famous Puliyoor Sreekrishna swami temple situated in the Chengannur - Mavelikkara road via Cheriyanad is only 10 Kms away from Neervilakom. The main deity of this temple is Sreekrishna and is one of the sacred Pancha Pandava Temples. The image of Krishna in this temple is believed to be worshiped by Bhima of Pandavas.
This famous temple is situated very near to the chengannur mahadeva temple and 7 kms from Neervilakom. This temple is one of the sacred Pancha Pandava temples. The image of Krishna in this temple is believed to be worshiped by ‘Yudhishtira’ of pandavas.
Chakkulathukavu Devi Temple.
Chakkulathukavu Sree Bhagavathi Temple Neerettupuram, 10 kms west of Thiruvalla,18 kms east of Ambalapuzha and 28 kms away from Neervilakom.Vrichikom - Karthika the day of famous ponkala naivedyam. Vrichikom 18th friday Nareepooja ( worshipping the women) and every friday observe as auspicious. Dhanu 1 to 12 penance festival. Irrespective of cast and creed everybody is allowed to enter into the temple.
Chakkulath Bhagavathy Temple 'The Sabarimala of women' is located at Ambalapuzha, Neerattupuram in Alappuzha District of Kerala after Thakazhi and Edathuva. (17 kms East of Ambalapuzha and 9 kms west of Thiruvalla). Chakkulathamma the benefactress cosmic mother, the conduit power of Brahma, Vishnu and Maheswara, the creator, preserver and destroyer dwells here. This Bhagavathy temple is famous for its Pongala Maholsav. Pongala is a devout offering made of pudding by devotees as a reverent exposure of their awesome offering of love and respect. The myth about Chakkulathamma makes an interesting reading as it was she who transfonned a foolish shepherd into the saint poet Kalidas overnight. The revered Brahmasree Radhakrishnan Thirumeni, the best among the blessed of Chakkulathamma provide remedy to all who approach him for various worldly solutions. P.B.K. Namboodiri, one of the best astrologer, Unnikrishnan Namboodiri and Ashokan Namboodiri worship the goddess during the daily temple rituals under the efficient and capable guidance of the administrator Brahmasree Manikuttan Namboodiri who is also famous in writing divine songs. Sri. Damodharan Namboodiri, the father of the blessed five leads his sons in religious texts and rituals and is their beacon light.
Pongala - This is the phenomenally renow-ned festival that takes place in the temple during the month of 'Vrischikam' (November! December). This is the time when the glory of the Goddess is at its peak. Lakhs of women devotees gather around the temple as early as even one week before the function. The temple premises will be over crowded and the devotees arrange places for offering the pongala on both sides of the main streets. The queue usually extends to a surprising length of 20 km. Rice, coconut and jaggery are brought by women devotees along with round earthen pots for cooking. The Chief Priest lights the main hearth from the divine fire inside the sanctum sanctorum. This fIre is exchanged from one oven to another. Every year at the time of lighting the main hearth an eagle is found to circle far above the sky. This is an unfailing blessing of the Goddess. The sight of the bird drives the devotees into an inexplicable feeling of ecstacy. They utter the divine names of the mother and the atmosphere echoes and reverberates with a thousand names of the Goddess.
Pandrandu Noyampu - -This is the type of fasting and prayer which qualifies the devotee for eternal blessings of Chakkulathamma. This fasting starts every year from the first day of the Malayalam month of Dhanu till the twelfth. Men and women irrespective of age, caste or creed can resort to this powerful fasting. They have a streamlined life with a bath in the early morning and chanting of Devi mantras as far as possible. They adhere to strict vegetarianism and should totaly avoid cigarettes or liquors. Brahmacharya or a condition of celibacy is observed during this period.
Thiruvalla Sreevallabhaswami Temple.
Sree Vallabha temple here is one of the important pilgrim centers of Vaishnavites all over India. Lord Vishnu is the main deity of this temple. Kadhakali is performed almost on all days in this temple as offerings by devotes. A granite pillar carved out of single piece with an image of Garuda on its top stands in front of the temple. The pillar, which serves as a flag staff, is 60ft high and is made of granite. It is believed that its bottom touches the water table.Sreevallabha swami temple is situated around 18 km away from Neervilakom.
Ambalappuzha Sri Krishna Temple
This temple is directly associated to the Guruvayoor Sri Krishna Temple. During the raids of Tipu Sultan in 1789, the idol of Sri Krishna from the Guruvayoor Temple was brought to the Ambalappuzha Temple for safe keeping.
The pal payasam served in the Ambalappuzha Temple is famous among Hindu devotees. This sweet pudding made of rice and milk has an interesting mythological legend behind it.
Ambalapuzha is a coastal town besides the NH 47 about 13 km to the south of Allepey. The temple of Sree Krishna is located 1.5 km east of the town junction. In the olden the headquarters of the Ambalapuzha rajahs were near the temple. There was a time when the Ambalapuzha territory had been under the rule of Chempakasseri rajahs. But when Marthanda Varma, the valorous ruler of Travancore conquered Chempakasseri territory in 925 M.E., there occurred a gradual declension of the royal family of Chempakasseri. Some people worship the presiding deity of the Ambalapuzha temple as ‘Parathasarthy’ while others as Gopalakrishna but both the names of course, are the two sides of the same coin. As it is said commonly, the legend about the origin and exaltation of the temple goes like this:-
At one time in the history of Ambalapuzha, the place where the present temple is situated, was under water. While the rajah of Ambalapuzha dynasty and Vilwamangalam Swamiyar were going through the waterways, it so happened that they could hear a luscious sound of flute coming from a nearby huge and luxuriant peepul tree. Swamiyar was so attracted by the music that the wanted the oarsman to row the boat to the shore. On landing they went in search of the origin of the melodious song. To his astonishment Swamiyar saw Sree Krishna sitting on a branch of the peepul tree playing his flute. At first he could not believe his eyes. He folded his hands and bowed his head, so did rajah. Both of them went round the tree singing praises of the Lord. The rajah thought that at last prosperity had come to his kingdom. He was so much pleased with the presence of the Almighty in his kingdom that he considered it as a blessing in disguise for the smooth functioning of his duties as well as the lofty administration of the territory
Vilwamangalam urged the king to build a suitable temple for the Lord where they had seen him. The place belonged to an Ezhava leader Ambanattu Panicker. The king bought the land, a major portion of which was submerged land, by giving him adequate compensation. The submerged land was filled up with soil and temple was built in a few months. It was decided to install the image made for the purpose in an astrologically suited time. But the high priest, after he examined the idol, expressed the view that the idol had certain inauspicious traits so that it was unsuitable for placement. The declaration of the priest fell upon the king like a thunder bolt. However, he wanted to get and idol placed at the stipulated time itself. He did not want to put off the function to a later period. It was a pity that the king could not make use of the original image meant for the purpose. Some people believe that the present idol was brought from Thiruvanvandoor, a village near Thiruvalla by bullying and coaxing a Brahmin priest. On the other hand some are of the opinion that it was brought from Koratti Thiruvampadi temple. Anyhow, the king and his men were able to find an idol suitable to be fixed, and it was carried out on the day of ‘Moolam’ astericism in ‘Midhunam (June/ July). Every year on the same day people in and around the place, forgetting themselves of their caste or creed, celebrate the eventful day by arranging colourful boat-race which is now known as the famous Champakulam boat-race.
Chempakasseri mana was the old royal palace on the southern part of the temple. Since ll the Chempakasseri kings were nampoothiries, the name of the ‘mana’ became the name of the kingdom. After having established the temple, Pooram Thirunal Maharajah handed over his kingdom into the divine hands of Lord Unnikrishna and left his kingdom to become one with the Brahma.
The sweet broth made of milk, sugar and rice, otherwise known as ‘Ambalapuzha palpayasam’ is well-known because of its speciality. No other sweet broth of any kind is as delicious and melodious as this payasam.
The folk-story behind the source of this broth, as handed down from generation to generation is as flows:- When there existed an acute financial difficulty at Chempakasseri kingdom, the king borrowed some money and paddy from a Patter and saved the country from a crisis. But the king was not able to repay the debt in time. So he became very sad. One day, when the king visited the temple as part of his daily routine, the Patter approached him and demanded the money and paddy. The king could not help avoiding the Patter and so he was completely at sea. At this time, as good luck would have it, Patter felt a sudden call of conscience and he told the king that he wouldn’t have to repay the debt and in lieu of this he would make use of the money and paddy for a daily offering of palpayasam to Lord Krishna. The king heeded to this request and from the next day onwards he arranged for the preparation of the broth to be used for the noon offering to the deity. The ceremonial 10 day festival in ‘Meenam’ (March/ April) is the most important festival at this temple. During this time there will be spectacular processions of deities on decorated elephants. Besides, there will be a grand feast at the temple dining hall. It is believed that the Lord Unnikrishna will be present in disguise for the feast. So it is conducted with utmost care and sanctity. Once during festival Vilwamangalam Swamiyar had seen the Lord in the mess hall! ‘Velakali’ a kind of dance in imitation of battle, is an important ritualistic item which is being performed in front of the shrine. It reminds us of the old type of warfare using shield and sword which was once prevalent in the Chempakasseri kingdom. A 12-day ‘Kalabham’ festival (smearing of sandal paste) from the 1st of ‘Makaram’ (January/ February) and ‘Pallippana’ which is held once in 12 years are special occasions of the temple. The main gate of the temple is on the western side. The golden tope dome, a single-stone mandapam, the architectural stone images and the golden flag staff in front are a few signs of its eminence and splendour. The temple has neither a gate tower, nor shrines for gods outside the main sanctum sanctorum. The divine image is about 3 feet high. Each day the holy face is adorned with gold when the rituals are being performed. In the right hand the divine holds a lash and in the left a conch which proclaims that the deity is none other than Parthasarathy himself. An idol of Sri Krishna, The Lord Parthsarathy idol was installed in the temple.
The Aaraattu festival commences with the flag hoisting ceremony on the Atham star in Meenam (March-April). The important Aaraattu festival takes place on the Thiruvonam day of the same month.
In this temple 'Pallipana' is performed by 'Velans' (sorcerers) once in twelve years. Human sacrifice was conducted in ancient times. However, cocks have now replaced humans on the sacrificial altar.
Kalakkaththu Kunchan Nambiar(1705-1770) also spent his youth at Ambalappuzha.
Ampalappuzha sreekrishna swami temple is 40 kms away from Neervilakom towards east.
Mannarasala Temple
Mannarasala Sree Nagaraja Temple is a very ancient and internationally-known centre of pilgrimage for the devotees of serpent gods. One of the rarest temples in the world where serpent deities are worshipped, particularly by woman priests. A fine example of eco-friendly existence.The Mannarashala temple is located about three kilometers to the south-east of the bus station in N.H.47 at Haripad, in Alleppey district of Kerala.
Proper signboards are available from the N.H.47 to the temple. Since the temple is very renowned, accessibility to the temple may not be a problem for the devotees. Various cabs and auto rickshaws are available near the Haripad bus station and Railway station to reach Mannarasala at nominal fare. Since located near the highway almost equidistant between the cities of Thiruvananthapuram and Kochi (approx.113 kms and 103 kms respectively), it is easy to reach Haripad via bus and train.
Though the legends related to the origin of a place cannot be deemed as its history, the story on the evolution of Mannarasala temple as the supreme place of worship of the serpent Gods is associated with Parasurama, the creator of Kerala.The history of Mannarashala has been mentioned in the 'Mandara Salodayam' Sanskrit poem written by Mannarasala M.G.Narayanan Nampoodiri of the sacred family, who wrote it on the basis of reliable accounts and legends traditionally handed down and in the light of old books available with the Mannarasala temple. Since the poem was incomplete, the history narrated here is from the book 'The Serpent Temple Mannarasala', published by Mr.N.Jayadevan of Manasa Publications (Translated to English by the renowned scholar Dr.Ayyappa Panikker). This book is also based on the advice and instructions received from the former Great Mother, and in accordance with the other members of the family as well as the old records examined for the purpose.
Uruli Kamazhthu in Nilavara (offering of traditional bronze vessel) is one of the most popular devotee offering in Mannarasala. Known for begetting children to couples, thousands of people come here to carry out this sacred and rare offering to Nagaraja.
According to Mannarasala temple sources, there are certain strict rituals to be followed for this offering. It is advisable only for married couples who have not been able to have children for years, since their marriage.
The couple should come to the temple and pray to the God for his blessings. Receipts for the offering have to be taken from the administration office. Offering includes a bronze Uruli that can be used to cook at least a score of rice, a Nilavilakku (bronze lamp), garland etc. In the presence of the temple authorities, the couples should offer the Uruli with its mouth upwards in front of the Nagaraja shrine after three rounds to the mannarasala temple with due prayers. An offering have to be given to Sarpayakshi as well. After Pooja, Valiamma will take the Uruli to Nilavara and it will be kept there with its mouth downward, which will be opened only after the couples get a child. Expenses for this offering are charted in a way to offer at least two Kadali fruits every day to Nagaraja, for about one year
Once the couples are blessed with child, they should come to the temple with the child for prayers. They should submit either silver cradle or a miniature baby in gold or a miniature divine serpent in gold to the Nagaraja, in accordance to their financial abilities. Then Valiamma will open their Uruli kept in the Nilavara after due prayers.
According to temple sources, devotees can source all that are required for this offering from the temple administration office at nominal costs. Normally more than 5000 Urulis are offered in a year at this temple.
The most celebrated festival at Mannarasala is the Ayilyam of Thulam. In the beginning, the Ayilyam of Thulam had no speciality or importance. It was a regular custom for the Maharaja of Travancore to visit this temple on Ayilyam day in Kanni. On one occasion, the Maharaja could not reach the temple as usual and had to postpone the visit to the Ayilyam day in Thulam. The royal palace met all the expenses for the celebrations of that Ayilyam. Several landed properties were given away to the temple free of land tax in order to make the festival more attractive, as an expression of repentance. Thus the Ayilyam of Thulam came to secure a royal splendor and official glamour without difficulty. The Ayilyam days of Kanni and Kumbham are still celebrated with befitting grandeur.
Sree Subrahmanya Swamy Temple 
This is the oldest and most important of all Subrahmanya temples in Kerala. One of the most prestigious centres of pilgrimage in South India. And an evidence of the excellence of Southern architecture. Subrahmanya Swamy temple is situated at haripad. The image of the deity with four arms is also the biggest of the kind. It is believed to have been originally worshipped by Parashurama.In 1921 A.D a fire destroyed the temple. It was rebuilt with the anakottil (elephants hed), kuttambalam etc
Several annual festivals are celebrated in this temple the Avani Utsavam in Chingom (August- September), Markazhi Utsavam in Dhanu (November- December), Chitra Utsavam in Medom (April-May), Kartika in Vrischikam (November- December) and Taipuyam (January- February). Kavadiyattam dance with Kavadi is the most important offering here.
Sabarimala is the most famous pilgrim centre in Kerala. This temple is dedicated to Lord Ayyappa. It is believed to be the place where Lord Ayyapa meditated soon after killing the powerful demon, Mahishi. It is situated on a hilltop and is surrounded by mountains and dense forest. This temple is unique in many respects. One is that the temple is open to all irrespective of caste, creed or religion. There is a place near the temple (east to Sannidhanam) dedicated to the Vavar called "Vavarunada".This is an epitome of religious harmony. Another fact is that it is not open throughout the year. It is open for worship, only during the days of Mandalapooja, Makaravilakku and Chitra Vishu. The pilgrims have to follow fasting for many days and the journey to the temple is to be taken through difficult paths in the forest as the vehicles can go only up to Pampa. temple is situated 95 kms from Neervilakom Village.
Aranmula Parthasaradhi Temple
Aranmula Temple, in Pathanamthitta district, is famous as one of the five temple towns of Kerala. There are five ancient shrines around Chengannur, sanctified by the Pandavas. One of them is Aranmula pilgrimage centre in Pathanamthitta dist 7 kms away from Neervilakom. It is said that this temple has existed since the time of Mahabharata. Aranmula temple comes alive during the time of Onam festival when snake boat races are held in this temple. The temple premises is decorated beautifully and is thronged by thousands of devotees who come to offer prayers and cheer for those participating in the boat race.
Maramon Convention
The Maramon Convention is a christian convension held in Nedumprayar Junction Later known as Maramon, India. It is the largest Christian gathering in Asia. This gathering is conducted by the Mar Thoma Evangelistic Association, the missionary wing of the Mar Thoma Church, headquartered in Tiruvalla. It is held annually during the month of February on the vast sand-bed of the pampa river next to the Kozhencherry Bridge. The first convention was held in 1896 for a period of 8 days. In 2007 the convention celebrated 112 years of existence. About two weeks before the convention, the sand bed becomes a scene of great activity. Christians from the parishes around Maramon carry interwoven coconut leaves hand made by the people of kerala, which their earlier generations used for housing and household uses, like, building shelter, walls and used to make kotta to take dried leafs to for cooking purpose, bamboo poles and other materials for erecting the convention tent. The tent has a seating capacity in excess of 150,000. There is also a smaller tent erected next to the larger one for people with infants and small children. All around the tent there are temporary sheds and tents for various purposes related to the Convention. Stalls for the sale of religious literature, church offices and restaurants are allowed to operate in the vicinity of the tent under the strict control of the Church authorities. The Maramon Convention is pre-eminently an assembly of Christians who once a year come here for listening to the Word of God as read and expounded by leaders of Christian thought from all over India as well as abroad. Preaching and Bible study occupy the major part of the conference programmed. Along with the Bible reading and discourse, singing of hymns and praying for the sick are also held. Prayer and worship at the convention accompanied by singing. The Maramon Convention displays co-operation and union between different sections of Church in Kerala. It fosters an ecumenical outlook. It is also a source of spiritual inspiration and enlightenment for thousands.
It is home to Mahadeva. The western side enshrines Shiva while the eastern side enshrines Bhagawati - Parvati. The Shivalingam, is covered with a gold plate bearing an image of Ardhanareeswara - the Shiva-Shakti manifestation of Shiva.Idols of Saasta, Ganesha, Krishna and Chandikeswara are also enshrined in the temple.
This temple is regarded as a Shakti peetham because the temple is associated with the story of Daksha`s sacrifice and Sati`s self-immolation. The reproductive organ of Sati`s body fell here, after she was cut into several pieces by Vishnu`s discus. Another myth is that Agastya had a vision of the divine marriage of Shiva and Shakti taking place at this shrine, also known as Sonadri or the red hill (Chenkunnu). Yet another one talks about Kannagi of Silappadikaram and Chenkunnu marks the site where she observed penance after incinerating the city of Madurai. The Chera monarch Senkuttuvan brought a piece of stone from the Himalayas and carved her image and consecrated it here as Chenkamalavalli. This is a sprawling temple complex with a circular sanctum with a copper plated conical roof. The mukha mandapam in front of the temple and other mandapams are full of fine woodwork. The performance hall or the kuttambalam in the temple is incomplete with lamps lit on each of the posts, so the performer`s shadow should not fall on the stage. A three-tiered gopuram marks the entrance. The temple was damaged by fire in the 18th century and later restored.
An interesting belief prevails in this temple. Celebrated as a symbol of fertility, a menstruation ceremony has been observed periodically in the temple, and per tradition during this period, the Bhagawati shrine is closed and worship is offered to a processional image elsewhere in the temple. After three-days the processional image is taken to the Pampa River on a female elephant after which worship commences at the Bhagawati shrine.
The 28 daylong Varshikotsavam begins on the Ardra asterism in the Malayalam month of Dhanus. Shivaratri and Chitra Pournami are also celebrated here.
This temple is regarded as a Shakti peetham because the temple is associated with the story of Daksha`s sacrifice and Sati`s self-immolation. The reproductive organ of Sati`s body fell here, after she was cut into several pieces by Vishnu`s discus. Another myth is that Agastya had a vision of the divine marriage of Shiva and Shakti taking place at this shrine, also known as Sonadri or the red hill (Chenkunnu). Yet another one talks about Kannagi of Silappadikaram and Chenkunnu marks the site where she observed penance after incinerating the city of Madurai. The Chera monarch Senkuttuvan brought a piece of stone from the Himalayas and carved her image and consecrated it here as Chenkamalavalli. This is a sprawling temple complex with a circular sanctum with a copper plated conical roof. The mukha mandapam in front of the temple and other mandapams are full of fine woodwork. The performance hall or the kuttambalam in the temple is incomplete with lamps lit on each of the posts, so the performer`s shadow should not fall on the stage. A three-tiered gopuram marks the entrance. The temple was damaged by fire in the 18th century and later restored.
An interesting belief prevails in this temple. Celebrated as a symbol of fertility, a menstruation ceremony has been observed periodically in the temple, and per tradition during this period, the Bhagawati shrine is closed and worship is offered to a processional image elsewhere in the temple. After three-days the processional image is taken to the Pampa River on a female elephant after which worship commences at the Bhagawati shrine.
The 28 daylong Varshikotsavam begins on the Ardra asterism in the Malayalam month of Dhanus. Shivaratri and Chitra Pournami are also celebrated here.
Parumala Church
Parumala Church is one of the major pilgrimage center in Kerala. The St.Peter's and St. Paul's Orthodox Church attracts a lots of belivers throughout the year irrespective of cast and creed. Parumala Church contains the tomb of Mor Gregorios Geevarghese Chathuruthil (Parumala Kochu Thirumeni), the only declared saint of Malankara. The Church is situated on the banks of river Pampa in Mannar. Mannar is a beautiful village in Pathanamthitta district and is 20 kms away from Neervilakom.
The annual commemorative feast (Ormapperunnal) celebrations at the Parumala Church is held on 1st and 2nd of November. Devotees from all over the state attended the special rites and prayers offered as part of the commemorative feast of the saint.
The nearest railway station is at Thiruvalla and the nearest airport is at Cochin. Parumala is well connected to the other cities with its road networks.
St.Mary's Orthodox Church. Puthencavu
Puliyoor Sreekrishna Temple.
The famous Puliyoor Sreekrishna swami temple situated in the Chengannur - Mavelikkara road via Cheriyanad is only 10 Kms away from Neervilakom. The main deity of this temple is Sreekrishna and is one of the sacred Pancha Pandava Temples. The image of Krishna in this temple is believed to be worshiped by Bhima of Pandavas.
Thiruvanvandoor Sreekrishna Temple.
Situated on the banks of Manimala and Pamba rivers, Thiruvanvandoor is a famous Hindu Pligrimage centre. The Vishnu shrine here is believed to have been consecrated by the legendary Bhrigu Muni in Thiruvanvandoor. It is mentioned that this place is one of the five sacred places where the image of Vishnu was worshiped by Pandavas during their vanavasa. This temple is only 16 km away from Neervilakom. Thrichitat Sreekrishna Temple.
This famous temple is situated very near to the chengannur mahadeva temple and 7 kms from Neervilakom. This temple is one of the sacred Pancha Pandava temples. The image of Krishna in this temple is believed to be worshiped by ‘Yudhishtira’ of pandavas.
Sasthamkulangara (Chathankulangara) Temple.
Chathankulangara in Chengannur town is known for the famous temple dedicated to Narasimha. This temple is situated very near to the Chengannur Mahadeva Temple in the eastern side and around 4 kms away from Neervilakom. The presence of elegant wood carving of artistic perfection depicting the puranic scenes connected with Sree Rama and Sree Krishna is the peculiarity of this temple. Chakkulathukavu Devi Temple.
Chakkulathukavu Sree Bhagavathi Temple Neerettupuram, 10 kms west of Thiruvalla,18 kms east of Ambalapuzha and 28 kms away from Neervilakom.Vrichikom - Karthika the day of famous ponkala naivedyam. Vrichikom 18th friday Nareepooja ( worshipping the women) and every friday observe as auspicious. Dhanu 1 to 12 penance festival. Irrespective of cast and creed everybody is allowed to enter into the temple.
Chakkulath Bhagavathy Temple 'The Sabarimala of women' is located at Ambalapuzha, Neerattupuram in Alappuzha District of Kerala after Thakazhi and Edathuva. (17 kms East of Ambalapuzha and 9 kms west of Thiruvalla). Chakkulathamma the benefactress cosmic mother, the conduit power of Brahma, Vishnu and Maheswara, the creator, preserver and destroyer dwells here. This Bhagavathy temple is famous for its Pongala Maholsav. Pongala is a devout offering made of pudding by devotees as a reverent exposure of their awesome offering of love and respect. The myth about Chakkulathamma makes an interesting reading as it was she who transfonned a foolish shepherd into the saint poet Kalidas overnight. The revered Brahmasree Radhakrishnan Thirumeni, the best among the blessed of Chakkulathamma provide remedy to all who approach him for various worldly solutions. P.B.K. Namboodiri, one of the best astrologer, Unnikrishnan Namboodiri and Ashokan Namboodiri worship the goddess during the daily temple rituals under the efficient and capable guidance of the administrator Brahmasree Manikuttan Namboodiri who is also famous in writing divine songs. Sri. Damodharan Namboodiri, the father of the blessed five leads his sons in religious texts and rituals and is their beacon light.
Pongala - This is the phenomenally renow-ned festival that takes place in the temple during the month of 'Vrischikam' (November! December). This is the time when the glory of the Goddess is at its peak. Lakhs of women devotees gather around the temple as early as even one week before the function. The temple premises will be over crowded and the devotees arrange places for offering the pongala on both sides of the main streets. The queue usually extends to a surprising length of 20 km. Rice, coconut and jaggery are brought by women devotees along with round earthen pots for cooking. The Chief Priest lights the main hearth from the divine fire inside the sanctum sanctorum. This fIre is exchanged from one oven to another. Every year at the time of lighting the main hearth an eagle is found to circle far above the sky. This is an unfailing blessing of the Goddess. The sight of the bird drives the devotees into an inexplicable feeling of ecstacy. They utter the divine names of the mother and the atmosphere echoes and reverberates with a thousand names of the Goddess.
Pandrandu Noyampu - -This is the type of fasting and prayer which qualifies the devotee for eternal blessings of Chakkulathamma. This fasting starts every year from the first day of the Malayalam month of Dhanu till the twelfth. Men and women irrespective of age, caste or creed can resort to this powerful fasting. They have a streamlined life with a bath in the early morning and chanting of Devi mantras as far as possible. They adhere to strict vegetarianism and should totaly avoid cigarettes or liquors. Brahmacharya or a condition of celibacy is observed during this period.
Thiruvalla Sreevallabhaswami Temple.
Sree Vallabha temple here is one of the important pilgrim centers of Vaishnavites all over India. Lord Vishnu is the main deity of this temple. Kadhakali is performed almost on all days in this temple as offerings by devotes. A granite pillar carved out of single piece with an image of Garuda on its top stands in front of the temple. The pillar, which serves as a flag staff, is 60ft high and is made of granite. It is believed that its bottom touches the water table.Sreevallabha swami temple is situated around 18 km away from Neervilakom.
Ambalappuzha Sri Krishna Temple
The Ambalappuzha Sri Krishna Temple is believed to have been built in the in the year AD 790 by the local ruler Chembakasserry Pooradam Thirunal-Devanarayanan Thampuran.
This temple is directly associated to the Guruvayoor Sri Krishna Temple. During the raids of Tipu Sultan in 1789, the idol of Sri Krishna from the Guruvayoor Temple was brought to the Ambalappuzha Temple for safe keeping.
The pal payasam served in the Ambalappuzha Temple is famous among Hindu devotees. This sweet pudding made of rice and milk has an interesting mythological legend behind it.
Ambalapuzha is a coastal town besides the NH 47 about 13 km to the south of Allepey. The temple of Sree Krishna is located 1.5 km east of the town junction. In the olden the headquarters of the Ambalapuzha rajahs were near the temple. There was a time when the Ambalapuzha territory had been under the rule of Chempakasseri rajahs. But when Marthanda Varma, the valorous ruler of Travancore conquered Chempakasseri territory in 925 M.E., there occurred a gradual declension of the royal family of Chempakasseri. Some people worship the presiding deity of the Ambalapuzha temple as ‘Parathasarthy’ while others as Gopalakrishna but both the names of course, are the two sides of the same coin. As it is said commonly, the legend about the origin and exaltation of the temple goes like this:-
At one time in the history of Ambalapuzha, the place where the present temple is situated, was under water. While the rajah of Ambalapuzha dynasty and Vilwamangalam Swamiyar were going through the waterways, it so happened that they could hear a luscious sound of flute coming from a nearby huge and luxuriant peepul tree. Swamiyar was so attracted by the music that the wanted the oarsman to row the boat to the shore. On landing they went in search of the origin of the melodious song. To his astonishment Swamiyar saw Sree Krishna sitting on a branch of the peepul tree playing his flute. At first he could not believe his eyes. He folded his hands and bowed his head, so did rajah. Both of them went round the tree singing praises of the Lord. The rajah thought that at last prosperity had come to his kingdom. He was so much pleased with the presence of the Almighty in his kingdom that he considered it as a blessing in disguise for the smooth functioning of his duties as well as the lofty administration of the territory
Vilwamangalam urged the king to build a suitable temple for the Lord where they had seen him. The place belonged to an Ezhava leader Ambanattu Panicker. The king bought the land, a major portion of which was submerged land, by giving him adequate compensation. The submerged land was filled up with soil and temple was built in a few months. It was decided to install the image made for the purpose in an astrologically suited time. But the high priest, after he examined the idol, expressed the view that the idol had certain inauspicious traits so that it was unsuitable for placement. The declaration of the priest fell upon the king like a thunder bolt. However, he wanted to get and idol placed at the stipulated time itself. He did not want to put off the function to a later period. It was a pity that the king could not make use of the original image meant for the purpose. Some people believe that the present idol was brought from Thiruvanvandoor, a village near Thiruvalla by bullying and coaxing a Brahmin priest. On the other hand some are of the opinion that it was brought from Koratti Thiruvampadi temple. Anyhow, the king and his men were able to find an idol suitable to be fixed, and it was carried out on the day of ‘Moolam’ astericism in ‘Midhunam (June/ July). Every year on the same day people in and around the place, forgetting themselves of their caste or creed, celebrate the eventful day by arranging colourful boat-race which is now known as the famous Champakulam boat-race.
Chempakasseri mana was the old royal palace on the southern part of the temple. Since ll the Chempakasseri kings were nampoothiries, the name of the ‘mana’ became the name of the kingdom. After having established the temple, Pooram Thirunal Maharajah handed over his kingdom into the divine hands of Lord Unnikrishna and left his kingdom to become one with the Brahma.
The sweet broth made of milk, sugar and rice, otherwise known as ‘Ambalapuzha palpayasam’ is well-known because of its speciality. No other sweet broth of any kind is as delicious and melodious as this payasam.
The folk-story behind the source of this broth, as handed down from generation to generation is as flows:- When there existed an acute financial difficulty at Chempakasseri kingdom, the king borrowed some money and paddy from a Patter and saved the country from a crisis. But the king was not able to repay the debt in time. So he became very sad. One day, when the king visited the temple as part of his daily routine, the Patter approached him and demanded the money and paddy. The king could not help avoiding the Patter and so he was completely at sea. At this time, as good luck would have it, Patter felt a sudden call of conscience and he told the king that he wouldn’t have to repay the debt and in lieu of this he would make use of the money and paddy for a daily offering of palpayasam to Lord Krishna. The king heeded to this request and from the next day onwards he arranged for the preparation of the broth to be used for the noon offering to the deity. The ceremonial 10 day festival in ‘Meenam’ (March/ April) is the most important festival at this temple. During this time there will be spectacular processions of deities on decorated elephants. Besides, there will be a grand feast at the temple dining hall. It is believed that the Lord Unnikrishna will be present in disguise for the feast. So it is conducted with utmost care and sanctity. Once during festival Vilwamangalam Swamiyar had seen the Lord in the mess hall! ‘Velakali’ a kind of dance in imitation of battle, is an important ritualistic item which is being performed in front of the shrine. It reminds us of the old type of warfare using shield and sword which was once prevalent in the Chempakasseri kingdom. A 12-day ‘Kalabham’ festival (smearing of sandal paste) from the 1st of ‘Makaram’ (January/ February) and ‘Pallippana’ which is held once in 12 years are special occasions of the temple. The main gate of the temple is on the western side. The golden tope dome, a single-stone mandapam, the architectural stone images and the golden flag staff in front are a few signs of its eminence and splendour. The temple has neither a gate tower, nor shrines for gods outside the main sanctum sanctorum. The divine image is about 3 feet high. Each day the holy face is adorned with gold when the rituals are being performed. In the right hand the divine holds a lash and in the left a conch which proclaims that the deity is none other than Parthasarathy himself. An idol of Sri Krishna, The Lord Parthsarathy idol was installed in the temple.
The Aaraattu festival commences with the flag hoisting ceremony on the Atham star in Meenam (March-April). The important Aaraattu festival takes place on the Thiruvonam day of the same month.
In this temple 'Pallipana' is performed by 'Velans' (sorcerers) once in twelve years. Human sacrifice was conducted in ancient times. However, cocks have now replaced humans on the sacrificial altar.
Kalakkaththu Kunchan Nambiar(1705-1770) also spent his youth at Ambalappuzha.
Ampalappuzha sreekrishna swami temple is 40 kms away from Neervilakom towards east.
Mannarasala Temple
Proper signboards are available from the N.H.47 to the temple. Since the temple is very renowned, accessibility to the temple may not be a problem for the devotees. Various cabs and auto rickshaws are available near the Haripad bus station and Railway station to reach Mannarasala at nominal fare. Since located near the highway almost equidistant between the cities of Thiruvananthapuram and Kochi (approx.113 kms and 103 kms respectively), it is easy to reach Haripad via bus and train.
Though the legends related to the origin of a place cannot be deemed as its history, the story on the evolution of Mannarasala temple as the supreme place of worship of the serpent Gods is associated with Parasurama, the creator of Kerala.The history of Mannarashala has been mentioned in the 'Mandara Salodayam' Sanskrit poem written by Mannarasala M.G.Narayanan Nampoodiri of the sacred family, who wrote it on the basis of reliable accounts and legends traditionally handed down and in the light of old books available with the Mannarasala temple. Since the poem was incomplete, the history narrated here is from the book 'The Serpent Temple Mannarasala', published by Mr.N.Jayadevan of Manasa Publications (Translated to English by the renowned scholar Dr.Ayyappa Panikker). This book is also based on the advice and instructions received from the former Great Mother, and in accordance with the other members of the family as well as the old records examined for the purpose.
Uruli Kamazhthu in Nilavara (offering of traditional bronze vessel) is one of the most popular devotee offering in Mannarasala. Known for begetting children to couples, thousands of people come here to carry out this sacred and rare offering to Nagaraja.
According to Mannarasala temple sources, there are certain strict rituals to be followed for this offering. It is advisable only for married couples who have not been able to have children for years, since their marriage.
The couple should come to the temple and pray to the God for his blessings. Receipts for the offering have to be taken from the administration office. Offering includes a bronze Uruli that can be used to cook at least a score of rice, a Nilavilakku (bronze lamp), garland etc. In the presence of the temple authorities, the couples should offer the Uruli with its mouth upwards in front of the Nagaraja shrine after three rounds to the mannarasala temple with due prayers. An offering have to be given to Sarpayakshi as well. After Pooja, Valiamma will take the Uruli to Nilavara and it will be kept there with its mouth downward, which will be opened only after the couples get a child. Expenses for this offering are charted in a way to offer at least two Kadali fruits every day to Nagaraja, for about one year
Once the couples are blessed with child, they should come to the temple with the child for prayers. They should submit either silver cradle or a miniature baby in gold or a miniature divine serpent in gold to the Nagaraja, in accordance to their financial abilities. Then Valiamma will open their Uruli kept in the Nilavara after due prayers.
According to temple sources, devotees can source all that are required for this offering from the temple administration office at nominal costs. Normally more than 5000 Urulis are offered in a year at this temple.
The most celebrated festival at Mannarasala is the Ayilyam of Thulam. In the beginning, the Ayilyam of Thulam had no speciality or importance. It was a regular custom for the Maharaja of Travancore to visit this temple on Ayilyam day in Kanni. On one occasion, the Maharaja could not reach the temple as usual and had to postpone the visit to the Ayilyam day in Thulam. The royal palace met all the expenses for the celebrations of that Ayilyam. Several landed properties were given away to the temple free of land tax in order to make the festival more attractive, as an expression of repentance. Thus the Ayilyam of Thulam came to secure a royal splendor and official glamour without difficulty. The Ayilyam days of Kanni and Kumbham are still celebrated with befitting grandeur.
Sree Subrahmanya Swamy Temple
This is the oldest and most important of all Subrahmanya temples in Kerala. One of the most prestigious centres of pilgrimage in South India. And an evidence of the excellence of Southern architecture. Subrahmanya Swamy temple is situated at haripad. The image of the deity with four arms is also the biggest of the kind. It is believed to have been originally worshipped by Parashurama.In 1921 A.D a fire destroyed the temple. It was rebuilt with the anakottil (elephants hed), kuttambalam etc
Several annual festivals are celebrated in this temple the Avani Utsavam in Chingom (August- September), Markazhi Utsavam in Dhanu (November- December), Chitra Utsavam in Medom (April-May), Kartika in Vrischikam (November- December) and Taipuyam (January- February). Kavadiyattam dance with Kavadi is the most important offering here.
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