Located at Wayanad, Thirunelli Maha Vishnu Temple is a famous and ancient temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It is the only temple in the world where the rituals related to one's life, from birth to death and life after death. Thirunelli Maha Vishnu Temple is also known as "Sahyamala Kshetram" and "Kashi of the South". It is believed that  the prathishta of Lord Vishnu was performed by Lord Brahma.

Location Kerala, Wayanad, Thiruvananthapuram

Legend

According to the legends, it is believed that the Thirunelli Temple was built by Lord Brahma. Once Lord Brahma was traveling round the earth upon a swan and he noticed the enchanting beauty of the Brahmagiri Hills. He descended on the spot and found an idol of Vishnu under an Amla tree. Lord Brahma installed the idol there and called the temple Sahyamalaka temple. As per the request of Lord Brahma, Lord Vishnu made the waters of the area sacred and blessed it with the capability to wash away all sins. Hence, the river there is known as Papanashini, meaning the stream that washes away all sins. According to some other legends, the King of Birds, Garuda, was flying with Amritakumbha, (the pot of Amrut, the nectar of life) above Thirunelli when Lord Brahma was consecrating Vishnu's idol. Garuda circled over the place and a few drops of Amrut

fell into the stream nearby, thus making the Papanasini to attain the power for purifying sins.

Architecture

Thirunelli Temple complex is placed on an elevated level with flights of steps leading to it from south and northwest. The complex is spread over 1.03 acres. The structure includes Sreekovil, namaskara mandapam, chuttambalam with agra-mandapam, deepa sthambham, Daivathara Mandapam and pinda theertham with agrasala.

Culture

The culture of Wayanad, mainly, can be related to the tribal culture. This place is home to a huge population of Adivaasis or tribal people. Some of the main tribes that live here include Adiyars, Paniyas, Kurumas, Kattunaikar and Kadans along with a few other ones.

Darsan Info

Thirunelli Temple is open on all days from 6 AM to 1 PM and from 5:30 PM to 8 PM.

People believe that Lord Brahma worships Perumal in the temple on the wee hours every day, hence the head  priest of the temple leaves a fresh quantity of worshiping materials required for pooja in the temple before closing the temple at night.

Darsan Dresscode

At Thirunelli Temple , Kerala traditional attire is preferred.

Famous Festival

April : Vishu Festival

August :Thiruvonam

Temple Rituals

Obeisance at Thirunelli temple is believed to have the power to let the departed souls rest in peace. The ritual is done in batches and it starts with a prayer in front of the temple. The priest and the pilgrims then head towards Papanasini, with the materials for the rites. The pilgrims standing in water then follow the instructions of the priest and thus offer obeisance to their departed dear ones. After that, they take dip in the water. The pilgrims again visit the temple for prayers.

Special Rituals

The famous Pindappara where oblations are done is situated within the Paapanasini River. The legend is that Maha Vishnu converted the demon named Paashaanabhedi into a rock, which is believed to extend from Thirunelli to Gaya. His foot is supposed to be in Paapanasini River and head at Ganges in Gaya.

Additional Info

 

Eateries near Thirunelli Temple

Sree Durga Restaurant Thirunelly, Kerala 670646

Tamarind KTDC Easy Hotel Thirunelly Temple P.O. Mananthavady, Wayanad - 670 646 Tel: +91-4935-210475, +91-9447739472 Email: tamarindthirunelly@ktdc.