Poonjar Dharma Sastha temple or Kattunel Kavu Temple

Kerala, Kottayam, Thiruvananthapuram

Siuated at Poonjar, Kottayam, Poonjar Dharma Sastha temple also known as Kattunel Kavu is a famous temple dedicated to Lord Ayyappa. The temple is managed by the Poonjar Royal family. In this shrine, Lord Ayyappa is in the form of 'Ayyan', the avathar of Sastha with a 'Vedha Grandha' on the right hand. The idol is made of krishna sila.

Legend

According to the legends, in the disguise of an old man, Lord Ayyappan helped Pandya King Mana Vikrama Raja in defeating a dacoit called Udayanan. The king decided to build a temple for Lord Ayyappan in his place. One day when the king went to take bath in the nearby river, he kept his umbrella made of palm leaf on the banks of the river; however, he was not able to move that umbrella when he came back. Understanding that the God wanted to have temple there itself the King build a temple there.

Architecture

The temple was build by employing architects and arists from Madurai and Kerala. Though the temple is small, it is very artistic. The entire Kirtharjuneeyam story has been sculpted on the outer walls of the temple. The idol of Lord Sastha is made of black stone. The idol is made in such a way that it appears to be teaching the third Pada of Gayathri Manthra with open book of Veda in his hand, which is resting on his knee.

Darsan Info

04:30 AM to 11:30 AM (All days of the week (Morning)); 05:00 PM to 09:00 PM (All days of the week (Evening))

Darsan Dresscode

Need to wear traditional dress code while visiting temple, strictly avoid western outfit

Famous Festival

Yearly festival is celebrated for 8 days in the month of Makaram (January-Febrary). Mandala period is also significant

Culture

The culture of Kottayam is fascinating and captivating. It tells us about the people of the place, their lifestyle and their beliefs. Observing the culture of Kottayam gives you a fair idea about the traditions and practices that are still followed by the locals. The festivals, the events, the attractions, all reflect the culture of Kottayam in one way or the other. Tourism has picked up in the last decade or so and the local people are generally quite friendly towards the tourists. Come and be mesmerized by the intoxicating culture of Kottayam.