Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple is located in the tranquil Kottayam, Ettumanoor in Kerala, India. It is known to be one of the most famous and visited holy shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva, the Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple timings is from 4:00 AM to 8:30 PM which includes other pooja and darshan timings which we will tell you further in this travel blog about Kerala tourism.
Before we get into the Ettumanoor Temple Timings, lets talk about the brief history and legend of this sacred holy shrine.
Table of Contents
The History and Legend of Ettumanoor Temple
The Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple is a part of the great Hindu Mythology that is often taught to kids in India from a very young age. The mythical story goes like this, as per the legend, there was an Asura named Khara who received three great Shivalina (Vaikom, Ettumanoor, and Kaduthruthy). These Shivalinga was bestowed to him by non-other than the Great Lord of Destruction – Lord Shiva.
Asura Khara carried these linga to the Kerala State, while placing each of them in a different unique location. After placing the Linga the Asura Khara turned himself into a deer while devoting himself in the service of Lord Shiva. This was liked by the heavenly God’s who then took the deer in his hand as a symbol of appreciation to the devotion, which in turn gave rise to the temple’s name “Udhruthaina Puram” meaning in English “the place were the deer was lifted”.
The temple’s history and architecture dates back to the year 1542 A.D. as per a finding from an incription at the foundation of the adytum, when wall surrounding the temple had to be reconstructed for minor cracks. It is believed that the Pandavas from the Mahabharat would often come here to pray to Lord Shiva. Even the sage Vyasa, a rishi muni who would often come to the temples premises to pray and gain blessings from Lord Shiva.
Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple Timings and Puja
| No. | Timing | Pooja Name | Pooja Description |
| 1 | 4:00 AM | Temple Opening/ Nirmalyam | Nirmalyam is the time when you see the idol in the early morning, like you did during the night time without any garlands on the deity. |
| 2 | 4:20 AM | Abhishekam | Abhishekam refers to the worship of the God by pouring water on the statue of deity while chanting the mantras. |
| 3 | 5:45 AM | Madhavipalli Puja | This puja refers to the rite of adoration of the statue of the Deity with sacred substance |
| 4 | 6:15 AM | Ethruthu Puja | This Puja denotes when the sun rays of the sun fall in front of the deity |
| 5 | 6:45 AM | Sribali/ Siveli | A ritual where the lord witnesses the offerings made to the “Bali Kallu”. |
| 6 | 8:00 AM | Pantheeradi Pooja | This Puja refers to when the puja is done when the human shadow is measuring 12 feet in the morning, it is usually done 2 hours after sunrise. |
| 7 | 10:30 AM | Kalasam/ Dhara/ Navakam | This Puja refers to the Abhishek of linga with continuous stream of holy water |
| 8. | 11:15 AM | Usha Pooja | It is the puja in which the diety is offered cooked rice or cooked rice in milk and sugar |
| 9. | 11:45 AM | Usha Sree Bali | This is the last pooja done before reaching 12 Pm, it is done before closing the doors of them temple until 5 PM. |
| 10. | 5:00 PM | Reopening of Temple | It is the first pooja done after the sun starts to set |
| 11 | 6:30 PM | Deeparadhana | It is the worship of the deity done by lightening the lamps at dawn and dusk |
| 12 | 7:15 PM | Athazha Puja | It is the last Puja done one or two hours after the sun set, normally before 8:30PM |
| 13 | 8:00 PM | Athazha Sree Bali | It is the last ritual done by taking out he garlands on the deity before closing the temple doors |
| 14 | 8:30 PM | Temple Closing | The temple doors are closed by the high priest of the Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple |
Note: The timings of the temple are not official as they can be changed at any point of time by the temple officials. For more information go to Kerala Tourism.
Architecture of Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple
The architecture of the temple is one of the most finest and detailed ones, which was constructed in the early 16th century. The temple houses beautiful carvings of wood which depict the epic tales of Mahabharata and Ramayana. The majestic temple was built in the Dravidian style that has beautiful mural paintings as well. One of them is the fresco of Pradosha Nritham which is also known as the Dance of Shiva.
It is the most admired paintings of the temple not just in Kerala but all of India. Another one of the architecture marvels of this temple is the Golden Flagstaff which is the idol of the bull on the top, it is surrounded by small bells and metal leaves of the Banyan tree. Meanwhile, the roof of the Ettumanoor Temple is adorned with 14 ornamental tops and covered by copper sheets.
The Festival of Aarattu at Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple
The festival of Arattu which is also known as Ettumanoor Ezharapponnana by the local resident Ettumanoor. This festival is like an extravaganza that bring all the people together to celebrate the deity- Lord Shiva. The meaning of Arattu means “Holy Bath” , which is the grand finale of the annual festival held at this majestic temple. But do not let this simple term fool you as, this event is meticulously orchestrated to showcase the perfect blend of tradition, spirituality, and communal harmony.
This festival starts off with a procession which a procession as tons of people walk together on the streets of Ettumanoor filling it with the aura of spirituality and vibrancy. There are elephants that are decked out in golden caparisons, as their massive big trucks moving to the melodic and rhythmic sound of traditional percussion instruments. The air gets filled with the sweet fragrance of the burning incense and the sound of chants that have been passed down through generations extending down towards a line of ancient history.
This procession is given a big importance, as it is believed that Lord Shiva comes down below to the mortal land to bless his devotees, thus allowing to break the barrier of the divine and the mortal, the Statue of Lord Shiva is brought to a pond nearby, where the statue is dipped into the water to go through a cleansing ritual. This cleansing ritual is no ordinary ritual as it is done as an act of rejuvenation, of washing away the old and embracing the new.
But this does not just drive the factor of religious sentiments as it is also a massive economic driver for the local community of Ettumanoor. Basically, from the flowers used in the festival to the food sold to thousands of devotees and attendees, this festival creates a mini-economy of its own, showcasing how tradition and culture can co-exist with commerce to create a thriving environment.
How to reach Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple
By Road
The temple is well- connected by roads, one of the best way is to reach the Ettumanoor Temple by Bus as the Ettumanoor Bus Station is just 2 kilometer from Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple. You can also book a private cab if you wish for comfort travel.
By Railway
The Ettumanoor temple is about 1.7 kilometer from the Ettamanoor railway junction. You can reach the temple by hiring an autorickshaw once you reach exit the railway station.
By Air
The nearest airport to the Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple is Cochin International Airport which is about 75 kilometers from the temple. It is best to hire a private cab from the airport to the temple which can be the most convenient way to reach the temple.
Whether you seek cultural exploration, spiritual peace or checking out architectural beauty. The temple is one of the best destinations to visit for the best traveling experience to Kerala. Plan your visit accordingly and make sure to give a visit to this astounding temple.
FAQs
When is the annual festival of Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple?
The annual festival that includes the famous Aarattu, takes place during March to April and another during October to November.
What is the dress code for visiting the temple?
The dress code for the people preferred is usually an Indian attire. Men usually wear Dhotis, Lungi or pants with shirts, meanwhile women wear churidars, sarees, long skirts with tops. In both cases modest clothing is required.
Are non-Hindus allowed inside the temple?
Yes, non-Hindus are generally allowed inside the temple premise, but they may be restricted to certain areas of the temple such as the Shiva lingam.
What are the main attractions inside the temple?
The key attractions of the Ettuamanoor Mahadeva include the mural paintings, the Shiva lingam, and the golden flag staff also known as Dhwajasthambam.
Is photography allowed inside the temple?
Normally, photography is not allowed inside the temple’s main premises, however it is best to re-confirm from authorities before visiting.
Is there any legend associated with this temple?
Yes, as per the legend it is said that the Pandavas of the Mahabharata had once visited this temple and made offerings.
Are there any specific rituals or offerings popular at this temple?
Archana (offering of flowers) and Abhishekam( ritual bathing of the deity) are popular. The temple is also famous for its “Ezharaponnnana” (seven and a half elephants made of gold) offering.
What is so special about the architecture of Ettumanoor Mahadeva temple?
The temple is known for its detailed wood carvings, mural paintings, and the unique circular sanctum known as Sreekovil.
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