Search Indian Maps, Pincodes, Local Info and more...
Kerala Kottamkulangara Temple
Kottamkulangara is a very small village of district alappuzha. The village got its name after famous temple complex called Kottamkulam. The important point about this sacred Hindu worship place is that it is devoted to two sacred deities called Sri Bhadrakali and Lord Sri Maha Vishnu. Moreover, having installed two deities in the temple, devotees enjoy or celebrate two festivals- one is for goddess Bhadrakali and second one is for Lord Sri Maha Vishnu. The famous Kottamkulangara temple is considered among the oldest Hindu worship places in the state.
History
The renowned Kottamkulangara temple is a Hindu worship complex. The Maha Vishnu temple was constructed by King Vilwa mangalam Swamiyar during the 12th of century. The four handed idol of Sri Maha Vishnu is the main attraction of this temple complex. However, Devi temple or Maa Bhadrakali Mandir was built later. The Bhadrakali temple was constructed in 1799 AD by an unknown dynasty. The idol of Maa Bhadrakali was kept greatly in Avaloor Madam however; later it was taken to present temple complex. Now, it is installed on the left side of Maha Vishnu temple. Moreover, the temple complex is also famous for its special ritual in which men need to be dressed in female outfits to worship the main deities of the temple. According to popular legend, the reason behind this amazing ritual is that once, Goddess Bhadrakali visited the place in the form of an old woman. She met to local villagers and asked for help but the villagers never respected the women and denied to help her. Thus, goddess ordered that whoever wants to worship her need to be in female outfits.
Architecture
The renowned Kottamkulangara temple complex is surrounded by lush green vegetation. The area is famous for its natural scenic beauty and sacredness. The temple’s architecture resembles the old style of south Indian architecture. The main temple was built during the 12th of century thus resembles the then style of architecture. The walls of the temple have been scripted with religious texts. Moreover, all the stone pillars in the temple having the important sculptures that show the Hindu mythological stories. Apart from that, an idol of “Nandi” or sacred cow can be also being seen in the centre of the temple complex. It is said, the idol of the Nandi is a Swayambhu or self originated.
How to Reach
Kochi airport is the nearest airport located only 104 km distance from district Alappuzha. However, some of the important rail heads in the district are including Alleppey railway station, Punnapra railway station, Kalavur Halt railway station and Tumboli railway station. Apart from air and railway networks, visitors or pilgrims can also use regular road –based transportation such as KSRTC buses, private cabs and taxis to reach at Kottamkulangara temple.
Weather and Time to Visit
However, Kottamkulangara temple can be visited throughout the year but the best time to get there is from the month of October to November. Moreover, in case you want to participate in special ritual then you need to visit during the festival of Kollam. Hence, Kollam festival allows you to enjoy a unique ritual which cannot be seen elsewhere in the country.
Photo Gallery