In the sparsely populous area near Melankode, near the Velli mala, stands the small temple of Lord Shiva in his form of Kalakalar, or the one who defeated Yama. The temple is eighth in the sequence of the Sivalaya ottam. The saint Vyagrapadhar is believed to have visited the temple.

location TamilNadu, Kanyakumari, Chennai

Legend

The  legend of the deity temple is rooted in the mythological reference of Shiva as Kalantaka or Kalakar. Markandeya a devout follower of Lord Shiva, clung on to the lingam he was worshipping when Yamadeva came to take his should away. An angry Yama threw his noose to capture Markandeya. When the noose touched the linga, Shiva emerged from it and with his Trishul, killed the lord of death. On request of the Gods, Shiva resume ted Yama's life.

This temple is part of the famous Shivalaya Ottam.

Architecture

The temple is small and located near the Velli mala. The shrine is made of stone and there is a small golden dome on top of the sanctum. The lingam of the temple is swayambhu and is believed to be bearing the marks when Yama threw his rope around it.

Culture

Kanyakumari district is the southernmost tip of the Indian peninsula. The traditions and customs of the people are similar to those of the people of Kerala. Padmanabhapuram was the was the erstwhile capital of Travancore.

Darsan Info

Thirumelancode Kaalakaalar Temple timings :5.00 AM to 11.00 AM and 5.00 PM to 7.00 PM. The temple is a part of the famed Shivalaya ottam conducted during Shivratri. It is the eighth temple in the run sequence.

Darsan Dresscode

Devotees are advised to wear clean and traditional clothing. Western attire are not allowed in the temples of Tamil Nadu

Famous Festival

March - Sivrathri, Sivalaya ottam(Feb/Mar)

December - Thiruvathira

Temple Rituals

The priests perform daily rituals and puja to the diety.

Special Rituals

The abode of Melankode yakshi being nearby, the vicinities of the temple is considered unsafe in the night and hence the shrine closes by sunset.

Additional Info

 

Small eateries are there near the temple.

Restaurants are available at Thuckalay