Ettumanoor Shri Mahadeva Temple

Ettumanoor Shri Mahadeva Temple is a prominent Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is located on Ettumanoor temple road in Kerala, India. It is one of the major Shiva temples of 108 Shiva temples of Kerala. The temple is famous for its unique architectural style, which blends typical Kerala-style temple features with ornate wooden carvings and murals. The temple is particularly known for its grand annual festival, Arattu, which attracts thousands of devotees.

Attraction

Ettumanoor Shri Mahadeva Temple has several attractions that draw both devotees and tourists alike.
The central deity of the temple, Lord Shiva, is represented in a magnificent, imposing idol, which is the focal point of worship. The idol is believed to be self-manifested, adding to its spiritual significance.
The temple is renowned for its exquisite murals, especially the intricate paintings depicting scenes from Hindu mythology. The temple houses one of India’s finest paintings, the fresco of Pradosha Nritham (Dance of Shiva).The temple features unique wooden ceilings with beautiful carvings depicting divine themes. These carvings are a testament to the architectural excellence of Kerala’s temple design.
The temple is a great example of traditional Kerala-style architecture, with a sloping roof, a large courtyard, and a finely crafted wooden structure. The sanctum sanctorum and the surrounding areas reflect the classical temple style prevalent in the region.
The annual Ettumanoor Shri Mahadeva Temple hosts the Arattu festival, which is a major attraction. The festival is celebrated with much fanfare, featuring processions, traditional music, dance, and rituals that attract devotees across the region.

History

Ettumanoor Shri Mahadeva Temple has a famous legend, according to locals.
As the story goes, an Asura, khara by its name, got 3 Shiva Linga. He carried them to Kerala, held by his teeth, right hand and left hand. One of these Shiva Linga falls in Kaduthuruthi, one in the Vaikom, and another in the Ettumanoor. According to the story, Khara forms into a deer and roams around the temples.
Also, the origin of the word Ettumanoor (the name of the place) is “man” and “our.” Maan means deer and oor means place in Malayalam. Another meaning of the word is “The land of Eight Namboothiri Manas” or “Aastha Grihas” (Brahmin families).

Inside/Outside Views

Ettumanoor Shri Mahadeva Temple is a wonderful Kerala-style temple with a large Gopuram (entrance gate) and a fortress around it. The Dravidian painting adds another charm to its beautifully made wooden walls both inside and outside. It has 14 ornamental tops made with copper sheets.
Besides Shiva, Bhagavathy, Ganapathy, Sastha, Dakshinamoorthy, and Yakshi also worshipped in the temple as subordinate deities.

Opening Hours

Monday 4.00 AM – 12.00 PM

5.00 PM – 8.00 PM

Tuesday 4.00 AM – 12.00 PM

5.00 PM – 8.00 PM

Wednesday 4.00 AM – 12.00 PM

5.00 PM – 8.00 PM

Thursday 4.00 AM – 12.00 PM

5.00 PM – 8.00 PM

Friday 4.00 AM – 12.00 PM

5.00 PM – 8.00 PM

Saturday 4.00 AM – 12.00 PM

5.00 PM – 8.00 PM

Sunday 4.00 AM – 12.00 PM

5.00 PM – 8.00 PM

How to Reach

By Air: Cochin International Airport is the nearest airport to reach Ettumanoor Shri Mahadeva Temple. It is 77 kilometers from the temple.

By Train: Ettumanoor Railway Station, which is 2 kilometers from the temple, is the nearest railway station, and the main one, Kottayam Railway Station, is around 11 kilometers from the temple.

By Road: This place is connected by a bus service from Ettumanoor, which is connected to Kottayam by frequent bus service. You can also go by private vehicle.

Tips for Travellers

Wear modest clothes. Choose clothing that covers the shoulders and knees.
Only Hindus are allowed to enter inside the temple.
Men need to puff off their upper garments.
Mobile phones, cameras, recorders, and any other devices are not allowed inside the temple.
Put off your footwear before entering the temple.
Respect that temple’s rules. Check out opening hours before making a visit.
Respect the site’s cultural and religious activities.
Combine your visit with other nearby attractions.
Leave only footprints behind.

FAQ