Kerala Divya Desams

There are 13 Divya Desams in Kerala that could be divided into three groups – 8 Divya Desams around Kochi, 3 around Thiruvananthapuram and 2 on the Shoranur – Mangalore route. All of these Divya Desams have been praised by Namazhvar in his Tiruvoimozhi. One can have darshan of all these 13 Divya Desams in two days, though it is better to visit the three near Thiruvananthapuram on a separate trip. 

Almost all the temples in the region open at 5am and close at 11am and reopen at 5pm and close at 8pm as contrasted with the Divya Desams in Tamil Nadu. The set of temples around Chenganur is believed to have been visited and built by the Pandavas and are propularly referred to s ‘Anju- Ambalam’. There are also a set of temples around Kochi (three are non Divya Desams) that are believed to have been visited by the four brothers from the Ramayana.

Kutta Nattu Thiru Puliyur, Thiru Chittaru, Thiru Varan Vilai, Thiru Van Vandur, Thiru Valla, Thiru Kadithanam (Chenganasery) can be visited in one half of the day starting at 5am at Thiru Kadithanam (Chenganasery) and ending at 11am at Thiru Chittaru or the other way around. The two Divya Desams around Kochi can be visited between 5pm and 8pm in the evening. On the next morning the two Divya Desams near Kuttipuram can be visited between 5am and 10am,

The three Divya Desams in and around Thiruvananthapuram can be visited on a separate trip between 3am /4am and 11am.

1.    1. Thiru Katkarai – Kochi

Located 10kms North East of Ernakulam, close to the Science and Technology University near Edapalli is the over 1200 years old Thiru Katkarai Appan Divya Desam where the Lord  Katkarai Appan is seen with Conch, Chakra and Padma Hastham.

 உருகுமால் நெஞ்சம் உயிரின் பரமன்றி 

பெருகுமால்  வேட்கையும் என் செய்கேன் தொண்டனேன் 

தெரிவு எல்லாம் காவி கமழ் திருக்காட்கரை 

மருவிய மாயன்  தன் மாயம் நினைதொறே 

Namazhvar refers to lotus flowers growing in large numbers around the temple. He praises the location as being home to fertile groves. He praises the Lord, Thirukatkarai appan as having lotus eyes and beautiful lips and seen with four arms.

Katkarai Appan came here as a Vamana Moorthy to end the troubles caused by King Bali and hence this place is referred to as Vamana Kshetram. To mark this event, it is believed that Lord Vishnu visits this Divya Desam every year on the Thiruvonam day in Avani. Bali is said to have invoked Lord Shiva every day. Hence, there is a Paramasivan Sannidhi to the right of the Perumal Sannidhi, with Bali seen invoking the blessings of Lord Shiva.

Special Plantain Trees

A King tried to plant several plantain saplings but none grew into a full fledged tree. He then decided to present the Lord Katkarai Appan with a Golden Plantain Sapling.  Pleased with the devotional commitment, the Lord is said to have blessed him with a huge number of well grown special plantain trees at this place, now referred to as ‘Nenthram banana’.

Festivals

Onam is the biggest Festival at this temple

The Temple is open from 5am-11am and 5pm-8pm. Contact: Priest S. Venkatan @ 99952 16368 / 97475 36161, Manager Vinod @ 94462 05706 or President Janardhan @ 0484 257 6653

How to reach

The temple is 4kms from Edapalli railway station. An auto to the Divya Desam will cost Rs.150/- from Ernakulam Railway Station A taxi-to and fro- from Ernakulam railway station will cost Rs.400-450/. There are direct buses from Ernakulam Town to this temple (Edapalli)

2.    2.  Thiru Moozhikalam – Lakshmana Kshteram
      Namazhvar in his praise refers to the Lord as being beautiful and at his radiant best. He describes the Lord as having lotus eyes and wears Tulasi garlands. He says that the flower groves of Thiru Moozhikalam give out nectar like drops. Nam Azhvaar in his opening verse of praise on this location asks the true devotees to go to Thiru Moozhikalam to invoke the blessings of the 'pot dancer'.

      தூது உரைத்தல் செப்புமின்கள் தூ மொழி 

வாய் வண்டு இனங்காள் 

போது இறைத்து  மது நுகரும் பொழில் 

மூழிக்களத்து உறையும் 

மாதரைத் தம் மார்வகத்தே வைத்தார்க்கு 

என் வாய் மாற்றம் 

தூது  உரைத்தல் செப்புதிரேல் சுடர்வளையும் களையுமே 

While the Divya Desams around Chenganur relate to the legend from Mahabaratha, this Divya Desam in Thiru Moozhikalam dates back to the Ramayana period and is a temple dedicated to Lakshmana. This is one of the four temples in this region relating to the four brothers.

Baratha, who came in search of Rama, was suspected by Lakshmana to have come to battle with Raama. Lakshmana is said to have prepared himself to taking on Baratha only to be cooled down by Raama. Having wrongly suspected his brother Baratha, Lakshmana is believed to have come here to repent for his wrong doing. Much later, it became a tradition here to worship Lakshmana as the Moolavar deity.

How to reach
Thiru Moozhikalam is about 10kms from Angamaley off the Thrissur- Ernakulam Rail route and around 30kms from Ernakulam on the Mala Road. Buses every 15 minutes from Alwaye (Aluva) to this temple.

For Cab to visit ThiruKatkarai and Thiru Moozhikalam, 9846043666

3. Thiru Varan Vilai – Aranmula Parthasarathy Temple

Located about 10kms East of Chengannur Divya Desam on the Southern banks of the Pamba river on the Pathanamthitta State Highway is the Thiru Kuralappan Divya Desam in Aranmul, said to have been built by Arjuna. This Divya Desam has been praised by Namazhvar as Thiru Vaaran Vilai and symbolises Arjuna’s thanks giving gesture to his sarathy (charioteer) Krishna who guided him through the Mahabaratha war. Arjuna undertook penance here to repentfor the killings of his relatives, especially his brother Karna, who he unceremoniously killed when his chariot was grounded to the earth.

Namazhvar, who refers to Thiru Varan Vilai as one of great fame, praises the Lord as one who is seen amidst groves and surrounded by gardens. Similar to the many of the Divya Desams in Tamil Nadu, this Divya Desam was full of mansions that were so tall that Namzhvar visualised it as almost touching the sky. The devotees of the time were seen worshipping the Lord  in every way possible, through their deeds, with a good heart and by uttering pure words.

Ornaments for Sabarimala Lord

Lord Ayyappa’s ornaments are kept here through the year and are taken from here to Sabarimala 2 days prior to the Mandala Vilakku during the Makara Jyothi period.

The Aranmula Boat Race is  a popular event and takes place at the Pamba River which runs right next to the Aranmula Divya Desam.

Festivals

10 day Brahmotsavam in January

Big Pushpa Abhishekam in May

12 day Kalapam Festival in November when the Lord is decorated completely with Chandanam- a beautiful sight to watch

In March every year, the Goddess from Punnan Thottam temple, about a km east of this temple visits the Aranmula Divya Desam and the two are seen together for a day.

Tulabharam, an age old practice, continues to take place at this temple.

Priest Krishna Kumar Namboodari @ 94471 16689 or 0468 2212170

How to reach

The temple is 10kms East of Chengannur. There are buses from the Chengannur bus stand, opposite the railway station.   An auto from the Chengannur Railway Station to the Puliyoor Divya Desam will cost Rs.100/-.

 4.  Thiru Puliyoor - Bheema Kshetram

ஊர் வளம் கிழார் சோலையும் கரும்பும்
பெரும் செந்நெலும் சூழ்ந்து
ஏர் வளம் கிளர் தண் பணைக்
குட்ட நாட்டுத் திருப்புலியூர் 

சீர் வளம் கிளர் மூவுலகு உண்டு உமிழ்
தேவ பிறான்
பேர் வளம் கிளர்தண்றிப் பேச்சு இவள்
இன்று இப் பனை இழையே 

Namazhvar refers to this place as ‘Kutta Nattu’ Thiru Puliyur as distinguished from the Sirupuliyur 

(near Mayiladuthurai) praised by Thiru Mangai Azhvaar.  Bheema  undertook penance at this place and created the Puliyoor Divya Desam. Hence, this place is referred to as Bheema Kshetram. On a direction from Lord Vishnu, Indra came on a Tiger and killed the demon at this place. Hence, this place has come to be referred as called ‘Puli’yur.

Festivals

Makara Atham Nakshatram - Brahmotsavam

Thiruvonam Makara Sankara Nakshatram- Kavadi Aattam

The temple is located  6kms West of Chengannur Railway Station on the Mavalikera Highway. Contact Unni Krishnan Namboodari @  99478 31069, 0479-246 4825

5.  5. Thiru Chittaru Imayavarappan Divya Desam, Chenganur

Referred to as the Dharmaraja temple, the East facing Imayavarappan Divya Desam in Chengannur has been praised by Namazhvar as Thiru Chittaru temple in Thiru Chenkundroor.  This is one of the five Pandava brothers related temples in this region.

Unhappy at the death of his cousins in the Mahabaratha war, Dharma Raja, the eldest of the Pandava brothers, came to this place and built this temple. This is believed to be the first of the Vishnu temples built by the Pandavas in this region.

Festivals

Panguni Ashta Nakshatram 10 day Brahmotsavam

Ashtami-Rohini- Birthday celebrations of Krishna

Dasavatharam Utsavam- The Lord gets decorated in different avatarams. On the last day, he takes on the Mohini Avataram

January -7 day Sapthaham Festival- During this Utsavam, Bhagavatham Parayanam takes place every day

The temple is 1km West of the Chengannur Railway Station. Contact Mohan Rao @ 94976 74799 or 0479 2456672

 6. Thiru Vanvandur Pambanai Appan temple

Namazhvar refers to the Pambanai Appan Temple as being on the Northern banks of the Pamba River in Thiruvanvandur. The Lord is seen here with Conch, Chakra, Spear and Mace. Nakula renovated the Thiruvanvandur temple. At the Western entrance, one finds sculptures relating to Kalinga Narthanam and Dasavatharam.

வைகல் பூண்கழிவாய் வந்து மேயும் குறுகினங்காள்
செய்கொள் செந்நெலுயர் திரு வண்வண்டூர் உறையும்

கைகொள் சக்கரத்து என் கனிவாய் பெருமானை கண்டு
கைகள் கூப்பிச் சொல்லீர் விணை யாட்டினேன் காதன்மையே

Namazhvar refers to this as a prosperous location where paddy trees grow tall. He refers to the Lord as being ‘Wealthy’.  One heard the sound of the conches at all times. The place reverberated amidst the chants of Vedic Seers. Namazhvar identifies the personality of the Lord as one with Discus and Conch and describes him as one with red lips, lotus eyes and feet.

Festivals

Ashtami-Rohini Krishna Festival, 11day Festival in Dhanur and 10 day Uthiratadhi festival in Kumbham are celebrated in a grand way at the temple.

Contact priest Parameswaran @ 0479 2427808

How to reach:

The temple is located about 7kms North of Chengannur and about 5kms South West of Thiruvalla on the Erimala route. Auto from Thiruvalla bus stand will cost Rs.125/-

7. Thiruvazh Marban, Thiruvalla 

At the Thiru Vazhmarban Divya Desam in Thiruvalla, the Lord is seen in a standing posture facing the East. The sanctum is in such a way that one cannot see the feet of Thiru Vazhmarban.  The Moolavar Lord is also known by the names of Vallabhan and Kolapiran. This place is referred to as the ‘Vallabha Kshetram’.

Lord Vallbhan disguised himself as a Brahmachari and killed an asura with his chakra. The Chakra is said to have fallen at the place where the temple is situated currently. It is a tradition to organise Kathakali to invoke the blessings of Lord Vallabhan. Another tradition is that the Lord is presented with 12000 ripe bananas, half of which is distributed to the devotees.

Thirumangai Azhvaar, who has not sung praises of too many of the Malai Naatu Divya Desam Lords, has dedicated 10 verses to Thiruvalla Lord and has referred to the Lord as ‘Valla Vaazh’. 

உருவின்  ஆர்பிரவி சேர் ஊன் பொதி நரம்பு

தோல் குரம்பையுள் புக்கு

அருவி நோய் செய்து நின்று,

ஐவர் தாம் வாழ்வதற்கு அஞ்சினா யேல்

திருவின் ஆர வேதம் நான்கு ஐந்து தீ

வேல்வியோடு அங்கம் ஆறும்

மருவினார் வல்லவாழ் சொல்லுமா வல்லை

ஆய் மருவு நெஞ்சே

One can find a number of historical inscriptions inside the temple. There are references to the Thiruvalla Lord in Garuda Puranam and Matsya Puranam.

The other Thiru Vazhmarban temple in Malai Naatu Divya Desam is in Thiruvan Parisaram http://prtraveller.blogspot.com/2009/04/thiruvazhmarban-in-thiruvanparisaram.html

NamAzhvar in his praise refers to a large number of Areca trees and Jasmine gardens around the temple. The Punnai, Magil and Madhavi flowers give a great fragrance to the devotees as they make their way to the temple. Here too, Vedic recital was a regular feature and compares their rendition to the roaring of the sea in high waves.  Namazhvar also refers to thick smoke from Vedic sacrifices that darken the sky.  Repeatedly he refers to the tall groves of Thiruvallaval and water lilies and lotus flowers growing in the water tanks of the temple. He also makes a mention of Sugarcane and Paddy fileds at Thiru Valla.

Festivals

10 day Festival in Poosam

Kathakali Festival is the most popular festival at this temple

Every Saturday morning, there is a special pooja

Contact PK Unnikrishnan Pothi/ Govindan Namboodhari  0469 2700191

How to reach Thiruvalla:

Thiruvalla is located about 30kms South of Kottayam on the Ernakulam-Kottayam-Kayankulam rail route. The temple is about 4kms from the railway station. An auto from the station to the Divya Desam will cost Rs.100/-.  There are buses every10minutes from Kottayam to Thiruvalla.

8. Thiru Kadithanam, Chenganaseri 

The Arputha Narayanan Divya Desam in Thiru Kadithanam is one of the important Kadigai Kshetrams. Legend has it that those who visit the Arputha Narayana Perumal Koil in Changanachery and stay here for at least one Kadigai (24minutes) will be liberated from all sins/curses. Also read http://prtraveller.blogspot.com/2009/03/sholingur-narasimha-at-thiru-kadigai.html

Namazhvar praises the Lord as one seen with Lakshmi on his chest. He says that Vedic recital was a regular feature at Thiru Kadithanam. Kalpa trees were abound in large numbers.

அற்புதன் நாராயணன் அறி வாமணன்

நிற்பது மேவி இருப்பது என் நெஞ்சகம்

நில் புகழ் வேதியர் நான் மறை நின்று அதிர

கற்பகச் சோலைத் திரு கடித்தானமே

Sahadeva is said to have consecrated this temple. This is one of the special Krishna temples in India specifically dedicated for moksham.

There was a festival of dance here at this temple. The belief was that ladies dancing with buckets on top of their head and undertaking prayers to Lord Arputha Narayanan helped them conceive. 10day festival in Virchigam and Narasimha Jayanthi are celebrated in a grand way at the temple.

The temple is 4kms east of the Chenganancheri Railway Station (Kottayam-Kayankulam rail route)

Contact  Vasudevan Namboodari @  94972 22107 or 0481 2435711. An auto from the Chenganacheri Railway Station to the Divya Desam will cost Rs.100/-

9. Thiru Vithuvakkodu - Five Idols temple near Pattambi 

On the western banks of Baratha Puzha River, off the Pattambi – Guruvayur highway is the Uyavantha Perumal Divya Desam at Thiru Vithuvakkodu. The Lord has been praised by Kulasekara Azhvar. Arjuna, Dharmaputra, Bheema and Nakula/Sahadeva created an idol each for their daily poojas at this temple. The main Moolavar deity was installed by Arjuna.  Dharma Raja installed the idol on Southern side as did Nakula and Sahadeva. Bheema installed the idol of Vishnu on the Northern side.

Pleased with a rishi’s prayer, Kasi Viswanathar found himself a small place in the umbrella of the rishi. After his bath, the rishi found the umbrella broken and found a swayambu idol of Lord Shiva at this place. Later, a separate temple was built for Shiva. Hence, this place is referred to as the ‘5 idols’ temple.

Festivals

Janmashtami, Shivarathri are celebrated in a grand way.  Kalababhisekam is presented on Vaikasi Mrigaseesham

The temple is about 5kms South of Pattambi off the Palghat- Shoranur- Kozhikode rail route

Contact Ravichandran and Ramachandran Embranthari @  98460 92853

How to reach:

An auto from Pattambi Railway Station to this Divya Desam (about 7kms) and back will cost Rs.150/-.

10. Thiru Navai

Only Divya Desam in Kerala with a separate Sannidhi for Thaayar 

On the Northern Banks of Barathapuzha River is the Navai Mukundan Divya Desam, praised by Thiru Mangai Azhvar and Namazhvar.  The Lord is seen in an East Facing Standing Posture. On the other side of the river are temples for Lord Shiva and Brahmma. Hence this is said to be a Tri Murthy Sangamam 

Goddess Lakshmi and Gajendran wanted to adorn Lord Narayana with Lotus flowers. However, Gajendran could not locate the flowers and undertook prayers here to Narayana, who asked Goddess to stop plucking the Lotus flowers, thus providing an opportunity to Gajendran to adorn the lord with flowers. Goddess Lakshmi is said to have asked the Lord to provide her with an equal status at this temple. Hence, there is a separate sannidhi for the Goddess here, the only Divya Desam in Kerala.

Nava Yogis undertook penance at this place and are said to have installed the idol at this place. Hence, this place was referred to as Thiru ‘Naa’ ‘Vaai’.

Parasurama performed Tharpanam for his father at this place. Hence, this Kshetram is auspicious for performing ‘Pitru Tharpanam’.

Azhvaar Praise

Thiru Mangai in one of his 2 paasurams refers to Thiru Navai Lord alongside Koshtiyur Divya Desam and Thiru Naraiyur Naachiyar Koil.

“கம்ப மா களிறு அஞ்சிக் கலங்க, ஓர்

கொம்பு கொண்ட குறை கழல் கூத்தினை

கொம்பு உலாம் பொழில் கொட்டியுர்க் கண்டு பொய்

நம்பனைச்சென்று காண்டும் நாவாயுலே” -1856

In another verse, Thiru Mangai Azhvar refers to seeing the Thiru Navai Lord at Thiru Naraiyur

“தூ வாய புள் ஊர்ந்து வந்து, துறை வேழும்

மூவாமை, நல்கி, முதலை துணித்தானை

தேவாதிதேவனை, செங்கமலக் கண்ணானை

நாவாய் உளானை நறையூரில் கண்டேனே”- 1520

Festivals

10 day festival in April (14-23)

NamAzhvar's Praise of Thiru Navai Devotee

Devotees who think of him and invoke his blessings with sincere devotion will be blessed says Namazhvar in his opening verse in praise of the Lord of Thiru Navai.

அறுக்கும் வினையாயின ஆகத்து அவனை 

நிறுத்தும் மனத்து ஒன்றிய சிந்தையினார்க்கு 

வெறித்தன் மலர்ச் சோலைகள் சூழ் 

திரு நாவாய் 

குறுக்கும் வகை உண்டுகொலோ கொடியேற்கே 

Contact Narayana Namboodari 0494 2603747 or 93876 34946

How to reach

Thiru Navai is about 30kms West of Shoranur on the Palghat - Kozhikode rail route. Take Chennai Central-Mangalore Mail and get down at Kuttipuram Station (630am arrival). A local bus from outside the station will take you to the Divya Desam in 20minutes. Auto from Kuttipuram Station to Thiru Navai Divya Desam will cost Rs.200/-

Not many trains stop at Thiru Navaya Railway station. An auto from Navaya station to the Divya Desam (about 2kms) will cost Rs.30-40/-. Accommodation is available here opposite the temple.

Cab for Thiru Vithuvakodu and Thiru Navai: Santhosh @ 9846953270 / Sasi Thekkadil@8593087980

For cab to visit the 6 Divya Desams around Chenganur, contact: Anoop@ 94462 79788/85477 63079. Approximate charges to cover the 6 temples in one half of the day Rs. 1500.

Anantha Padmanabhaswamy temple in Thiruvananthapuram

The full form of the Huge Sleeping Lord has to be seen from three different openings
'Fortunate is one who has the opportunity to have darshan of the Sleeping Lord at Thiru Anantha Puram'- NamAzhvaar in his Thiruvoimozhi Praise


பேசுமின் கூச்சம் இன்றி, பெரிய நீர் வேலை சூழ்ந்து
வாசமே கமழும் சோலை வயல் அணி அனந்தபுரம்
நேசம் செய்து உரைகின்ரானை நெறிமையால் மலர்கள் தூவி
பூசனை செய்கின்றார்கள் புன்னையும் செய்தவாறே

 

Located in the heart of Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum) half a km from the railway station is the 5000 year old Anantha Padmanabhaswamy Divya Desam, where the gigantic Lord Anantha Padmanabhan is seen in a Bhujanga Sayana Kolam.

There is reference in Bhagavatha Puranam of the visit to Syaananthapuram (Thiruvananthapuram) of Balarama and his stay here.

The Story

Wanting a darshan of Lord Vishnu, a Tulu Sage from Mangalore undertook penance. Pleased with his prayers, the Lord appeared before him as a small handsome child. Impressed with the child, the sage requested the child to stay with him.

Agreeing to the condition that the sage would not get angry on any count, the child lived along with the Sage. One day, while the sage was performing his pooja, the child picked up the sacred saligrama stone and began to play with it.

Angered at this gesture of the child, the sage lost his cool prompting the child to leave the place. The sage finally located the child under a tree near the Arabian Sea.

To his delight, the Lord appeared before the sage not as a child but in a gigantic form that did not stop growing. Unable to see the full form of the Lord, the sage requested to provide darshan in a form that he can see.

Lord to be seen through 3 different openings

Giving the huge size of the Sleeping Anantha Padmanabhaswamy, one is able to have the full darshan of the Lord from three different openings- Head from the Southern side, the body from another opening and the leg from a third entrance.

Please with the dedication of the Tulu sage, Anantha Padmanabhaswamy wanted the Tulu Brahmins to perform the pooja at this temple.

Another story goes that a Namboodari Brahmin, who found himself without an offering to the Lord, picked up a few mangoes from the tree and offered them to the Lord on a coconut shell. In memory of this event, the Lord is today offered mangoes on a golden coconut shell.

While the pooja service is performed by the Tulu Brahmins, the administration of the temple is by the Namboodaries.

Ramanuja's Visit and Absence of Garuda

Ramanuja made trips to Divya Desams such as Thiruvattaru and ThiruvanParisaram. From Anantha Padmanabhaswamy temple in Thiruvananthapuram, Garuda carried him fast that same night back to Thirukurungkudi. And to Ramanuja’s surprise, he was on top of the Thirukurungudi rock at the blink of an eye.

As a result of this event, it is believed that one does not find Garuda in the Anantha Padmanabhaswamy temple.

Temple Construction

It is said that Cheraman Nayanar laid the foundation for this temple. After the poojas had stopped in the 17th Century AD and a subsequent fire at the temple led to the destruction of all the idols except the moolavar idol, Raja Marthanda Varma is credited with the complete renovation of the temple in the 18th Century AD. He used 12000 Sacred Saligrama Stones to reinstall a new Moolavar deity.

NamAzhvaar’s Thiruvoimozhi Praise

In his Thiruvoimozhi verses, NamAzhvaar refers to the sleeping posture atop the Serpant Lord. He also makes a mention of this place ( Thiru Anantha Puram)  in every verse. The moment one visits the Lord who resides on Adisesha at Thiru Anantha Puram, all our problems will vanish. He goes on to praise him  saying that even Lord Yama will stay away from us.

 கெடும் இடர் ஆய் எல்லாம், கேசவா, என்ன நாளும்
கொடுவினை செய்யும் கூற்றின்
தமர்களும் குறுககில்லார்விடம் உடை அரவில் பள்ளி விரும்பினான்
சுரும்பு அலற்றும், தடம் உடை வயல் 
அனந்தபுரநகர் புகுத்தும் இன்றே


Quick Facts

Moolavar : Anantha Padmanabhaswamy, East Facing Bhujanga Sayana Kolam
Thaayar   : Hari Lakshmi
Time        : 4am-1230pm and 5pm-730pm
Contact    : 0471 2450233
Azhvaar   : NamAzhvaar (Thiruvoimozhi 11 Paasurams)

How to reach
There are several express trains and buses from across the country to Thiruvananthapuram.

The temple is half a kilometre from the Trivandrum Central Railway Station.

One can reach the temple from the State bus stand  by auto(Rs.20/-)

Thiru Vithuvakkodu Divya Desam Pattambi

Five Idols temple near Pattambi

Located about 5kms South of Pattambi off the Palghat- Shoranur- Kozhikode rail route is the Uyyavantha Perumal divya desam in Thiru Vithuvakkodu (Thirumittacode in Malayalam), right on the western banks of Baratha Puzha River.

The story
Pandavas in their exile are said to have stayed here and undertaken penance. Arjuna, Dharmaputra, Bheemasena and Nakula/Sahadeva created an idol each for their daily poojas at this temple. The main Moolavar deity was installed by Arjuna.

Yudishtra ( Dharmaraja Installed Idol)

Dharma Raja installed the idol to the right of the main deity as did Nakula and Sahadeva. Bheema installed the idol of Vishnu to the left of Uyyavantha Perumal.

Another story goes that Kasi Viswanathar who was impressed with a rishi’s penance accompanied the rishi to this temple, finding a small place for himself in the umbrella taken by the rishi. On arriving here, the rishi went for a bath at the river. After his bath, he found the umbrella broken and found a swayambu idol of Lord Shiva at this place. Later, a separate temple was built for Shiva. Hence, this place is referred to as the ‘5 idols’ temple.

BHEEMA INSTALLED TEMPLE

Festivals

Janmashtami
Shivarathri
On the Vaikasi Mrigaseesham day- Kalababhishekam

Azhvaar Praise

In his verse, the Kerala born Kulasekara Azhvaar praises the Vithuvakodu Lord thus:

வெங்கண்தின்களிறு அடர்த்தாய் 
விற்றுவகோட்டுஅம்மானே 

எங்குப் போய் உய்கேன்..
உன் இணையடியே அடைய அல்லால் 

எங்கும் போய்க் கரை காணாது 
எறிகடல்வாய் மீண்டு ஏயும் 
வங்கத்தின் கூம்பு ஏறும் மாப் பறவை போன்றேனே - Perumal Thirumozhi

Quick Facts

Moolavar: Uyavantha Perumal South Facing Standing Posture
Thaayar : Vithuvakottu Valli, Padmaasini Thaayar
Azhvaar : Kulasekara Azhvaar-10verses in Perumal Thirumozhi
Time      : 5am-1030am and 5pm-8pm
Contact : Ravichandran and Ramachandran Embranthari @ 98460 92853
Address : Thirumittacode PO, Kootanad Via, Palakkad Dist 679 533

How to reach:
On the Chennai-Palghat-Kozhikode rail route, get down at Pattambi station (about 10kms West of Shoranur Junction).  An auto from Pattambi Railway Station to this Divya Desam (about 7kms) and back will cost Rs.80-100/-.

From Coimbatore, one can reach this place by driving(about 110kms) via Palghat, Ottapalam, Shoranur and Pattambi. Very Good road

One can combine the visit here with Thiru Navai (about 25kms from here)

Cab for Thiru Vithuvakodu and Thiru Navai: Santhosh @ 9846953270 / Sasi Thekkadil@8593087980

Thiru Navai Divya Desam

An auspicious place for Pitru Tharpanam
Only Divya Desam in Kerala with a separate Sannidhi for Thaayar

Located just under 40kms West of Shoranur on the Palghat - Kozhikode rail route is the Naavaai Mukundan divya desam in Thiru Naavaai on the Northern Banks of Barathapuzha River. On the other side of the river are temples for Lord Shiva and Brahmma. Hence this is a TriMurthy Sangamam.

The story

Both Goddess Lakshmi and Gajendran wanted to adorn Lord Narayana with Lotus flowers. However, Gajendran could not locate the flowers and undertook prayers here to Narayana, who asked Goddess to stop plucking the Lotus flowers, thus providing an opportunity to Gajendran to adorn the lord with flowers. Goddess Lakshmi is said to have asked the Lord to provide her with an equal status at this temple. Hence, there is a separate sannidhi for the Goddess here, the only Divya Desam in Kerala.

Nava Yogi Kshetram

Nava Yogis undertook penance at this place invoking the blessings of Lord Vishnu, who is said to have provided darshan as Mukundan. These nine yogis are said to have installed the idol at this place. Hence, this place was referred to as Thiru ‘Naa’ ‘Vaai’. Locally, this place is called Thiru Navaya.

Pitru Tharpanam
Another story goes that Parasurama performed Tharpanam for his father at this place. This Kshetram is an auspicious place for performing ‘Pitru Tharpanam’ and is believed to have powers equivalent to that of performing Tharpanam in Kasi.

Azhvaar Praise

Thiru Mangai in one of his 2 paasurams refers to Thiru Naavai Lord alongside Thiru Koshtiyur Divya Desam.

“கம்ப மா களிறு அஞ்சிக் கலங்க, ஓர்
கொம்பு கொண்ட குறை கழல் கூத்தினை
கொம்பு உலாம் பொழில் கொட்டியுர்க் கண்டு பொய்
நம்பனைச்சென்று காண்டும் நாவாயுலே”

In another verse, Thiru Mangai refers to seeing the Thiru Navai Lord at Thiru Naraiyur

“தூ வாய புள் ஊர்ந்து வந்து, துறை வேழும்
மூவாமை, நல்கி, முதலை துணித்தானை
தேவாதிதேவனை, செங்கமலக் கண்ணானை
நாவாய் உளானை நறையூரில் கண்டேனே”

Quick Facts

Deity      : Navai Mukundan East Facing Standing Posture
Goddess : Malar Mangai Naachiyar
Separate Sannidhi for Goddess: Mahalakshmi

Azhvaar  : Thirumangai-2 and NamAzhvaar- 11
Temple Time : 5am-11am (till 1130am on Sundays) and 5pm-8pm

Priest : Narayana Namboodari @ 0494 2603747 or 93876 34946

Festivals
10 day festival in April (14-23)
Amasavai Tharpanam Sacred here

Accommodation

ThiruNavai temple offers accommodation to devotees at Rs. 100/- for 2 hours
or full day deluxe rooms between Rs.200 and 500 based on the specific needs

Breakfast is available at the temple premises.

How to reach Thiru Navai (Thiru Navaya)

Take Chennai Central-Mangalore Mail and get down at Kuttipuram Station (630am arrival). A local bus from outside the station will take you to the Divya Desam in 20minutes. Auto from Kuttipuram Station to Thiru Navai Divya Desam will cost Rs.100-125/-.

Not many trains stop at Thiru Navaya Railway station. An auto from Navaya station to the Divya Desam (about 2kms) will cost Rs.30-40/-

Thiru Navaya is about 25kms West of Thiru Vithuvakodu Divya Desam (near Pattambi)

and is about 140kms South West of Coimbatore.

Cab for Thiru Vithuvakodu and Thiru Navai: Santhosh @ 9846953270 / Sasi Thekkadil@8593087980

Thiru Moozhikalam Lakshmana Kshetram

Lakshmana as the Moolavar deity

Located about 30kms North West of Ernakulam Railway Station is the Moozhikalathan Divya Desam in Thiru Moozhikalam. The temple dates back to the Ramayana period and is a temple dedicated to Lakshmana.

Nam Azhvaar in his opening verse of praise on this location asks the true devotees to go to Thiru Moozhikalam to invoke the blessings of the 'pot dancer'.

He describes the Lord as one who wears Tulasi garland.

எம் கானல் அகம் கழிவாய் இரை தேர்ந்து 
இங்கு இனிது  அமரும் 
செங்கால் மட நாராய் திருமூழிக்களத்து உறையும் 

கொங்கு ஆர் பூந் துழாய் முடி எம் 
குடக்கூத்தர்க்கு என் தூதாய் 
நும்  கால்கள்  என் தலைமேல் கெழுமீரோ நுமரோடே 

The story
Pleased with Haritha Rishi’s penance, Lord Vishnu initiated the Rishi with the doctrine of attaining moksham. Hence, this place is called Thiru ‘Mozhi’ Kalam. In course of time, this became Moozhikalam.

Lakshmana Kshetram
Baratha, who came in search of Raama, was suspected by Lakshmana to have come to battle with Raama. Lakshmana is said to have prepared himself to taking on Baratha only to be cooled down by Raama. Having wrongly suspected his brother Baratha, Lakshmana is believed to have come here to repent for his wrong doing.

Baratha is also believed to have come here and met with Lakshmana.

Much later and in course of time, it became a tradition here to worship Lakshmana as the Moolavar deity.

Quick Facts

Deity : Moozhikalathan
Goddess : Mathuraveni Thaayaar
Azhvaar : Thirumangai and NamAzhvaar- 14

Temple Time : 5am-11am, 5pm-8pm

How to reach:

This is about 32kms from Ernakulam Junction.Will take about 1 hour by car/auto.

There are buses from Alwaye(Aluva) to this temple. One can also get down at Alwaye Railway Station to reach this Divya Desam.

ThiruKatkarai Divya Desam near Kochi

Vamana Kshetram


Located 10kms North East of Ernakulam, close to the Science and Technology University near Edapalli is the 1200 year old Thiru Katkarai Appan Divya Desam where Lord Vishnu displays his Vamana Avatar to the devotees.

The story goes that Lord Kaatkarai Appan came here as a Vamana Moorthy to end the troubles caused by King Bali. To mark this event, it is believed that Lord Vishnu visits this Divya Desam every year on the Thiruvonam day in Aavani.

This is known as a Vamana Kshetram. Katkarai Appan is seen with Conch, Chakra and Padma Hastam.

Bali is said to have invoked Lord Shiva every day. Hence, one can see a Paramasivan Sannidhi to the right of the Perumal Sannidhi, with Bali seen invoking the blessings of Sivan.

Special Plantain Trees


Another story goes that a King tried to plant several plantain saplings but none grew into a full fledged tree. He then decided to present the Lord Katkarai Appan with a Golden Plantain Sapling.

Pleased with the commitment of the devotee, the Lord is said to have blessed him with a huge number of well grown special plantain trees at this place, now referred to as ‘Nenthram banana’.

Festivals

Onam is the biggest Festival at this temple


Quick Facts

Deity : Katkarai Appan Standing Posture
Goddess : Perunchelva Naayaki, Vaathsalya Valli
Azhvaar : NamAzhvaar- 11( 3612-22)
Temple Time : 5am-11am and 5pm-8pm

Priest : S. Venkatan @ 99952 16368 or 97475 36161

Manager : Vinod @ 94462 05706

President : Janardhan @ 0484 257 6653


How to reach Thiru Kakkara:

4kms from Edapalli railway station
An auto to the Divya Desam will cost Rs.100/- from Ernakulam Railway Station
A taxi-to and fro- from Ernakulam railway station will cost Rs.300-350/-.

There are direct buses from Ernakulam Town to this temple (Edapalli)

Moozhikalam Divya Desam is about 25kms West of here.

Cab for Thiru Katkarai and Thiru Moozhikalam @ 9846043666

Thiru Vanvandur Pambanai Appan temple

‘Naradiya Purana’ comprising of 25000verses was created here 
Nakula, the younger Pandava, created the temple at Vanvandur

Nam Azhvaar praises Vanvandur Lord as the one who has a dark face with red lips, lotus eyes, lotus feet and has Discus and Conch as his identification marks

Located about 7kms North of Chengannur and about 5kms South West of Thiruvalla on the Erimala route, on the banks of the Pamba River is the Pambanai Appan Divya Desam in Thiru Vanvandur.

Narada Purana
Cursed by Brahmma in the course of a heated argument, Sage Narada undertook penance invoking Lord Vishnu to relieve him from the curse. Narada is said to have got the boon, from Vishnu, of being the one to disperse and spread ‘truthful wisdom’ in this world. Delighted at having had darshan of Lord Vishnu in his full form, Narada is said to have created the ‘Naradiya Purana’, an extensive document comprising of 25000 verses.

Pandava Temple


As seen in the other stories relating to Divya Desams around Chengannur, the Pandava brothers visited these temples and created a temple each in this region. One of the younger Pandava brothers, Nakula, renovated the Thiruvanvandur temple. Lord is seen here with Conch, Chakra, Spear and Mace.

At the Western entrance, one finds sculptures relating to Kalinga Narthana and also Dasavathara.

Nam Azhvaar provides hints to locate Van Vandur Perumal
Nam Azhvaar in his Tiruvoimozhi verse presents identification marks to locate the Lord of Thiru Van Vandur

ஒரு வண்ணம் சென்று புக்கு
எனக்கு ஒன்று உரை ஒண் கிளியே
சேறு ஒண் பூம் பொழில் சூழ் செக்கர்
வேலை திருவன்வன்டூர்

கரு வண்ணம், செய்ய வாய் , செய்ய கண்
செய்ய கை , செய்ய கால்

சேறு ஒண் சக்கரம் சங்கு அடையாளம்
திருந்தக் கண்டே - Tiruvoimozhi 6-1-7

Festivals

Ashtami-Rohini Krishna Festival
11day Festival in Dhanur
Uthiratadhi 10day festival in Kumbham

Quick Facts

Moolavar  : Paambanai Appan, Kamalanathan West Facing Standing Posture
Goddess   : Kamalavalli Nachiyar
Azhvaar   : NamAzhvaar- 11 Paasurams
Time        : 5am-1130am and 5pm-8pm

Contact   : Parameswaran @ 0479 2427808


How to reach Vanvandur:

About 7kms North of Chengannur Divya Desam and about 5kms South of Thiruvalla
An auto from Thiruvalla bus stand will cost Rs.75/-

It is best to take a taxi from Chengannur or Changanacheri to visit the 6 Divya Desams around this place. It will cost. Rs.600/- to visit all the 6 temples and will take about 5 hours if you start at 5am either from Chengannur or Changanacheri.

Thiruvazh Marban Thiruvalla

Vallabha Kshetram

Located about 30kms South of Kottayam on the Ernakulam-Kottayam-Kayankulam rail route is the Thiru Vazhmarban Divya Desam in Thiruvalla. Interestingly, the sanctum has been constructed in such a way that one cannot see the feet of the Standing Thiru Vazhmarban.

The Moolavar Lord is also known by the names of Vallabhan and Kolapiran. This place is referred to as the ‘Vallabha Kshetram’.

The other Thiru Vazhmarban temple in Malai Naatu Divya Desam is in Thiruvan Parisaram
http://prtraveller.blogspot.com/2009/04/thiruvazhmarban-in-thiruvanparisaram.html

Historical Reference

One can find a number of historical inscriptions inside the temple. There are references to the Thiruvalla Lord in Garuda Puranam and Matsya Puranam.

The Story

A spinster who used to undertake Ekadesi penance at this place was constantly disturbed by an asura. Pleased with her prayers, Lord Vallbhan disguised himself as a Brahmachari and killed the asura using his chakra. The Chakra is said to have fallen at the place where the temple is situated currently.

At the end of her penance, she found the Lord’s chest being blocked by the Brahmachari and immediately realised that the Lord had himself come down here to protect her from the Asura. She requested the Lord to stay put here displaying his handsome form.

It is believed that the Lord here protects all the devotees from evil forces.

Another story goes that KandaaKarnan, a Shiva devotee, undertook penance invoking Lord Vishnu. It is believed that Vishnu appeared before Kandaa Karnan and provided him darshan as Vallabhan.

Prarthana Sthalam for childless couples-Performance of Kathakali

Childless couples who offer their sincere prayers at this temple are said to be blessed with children. As part of this prayer, it is a tradition to organise Kathakali to invoke the blessings of Lord Vallabhan. Another tradition is that the Lord is presented with 12000 ripe bananas, half of which is distributed to the devotees.

In centuries gone by, ladies were allowed inside the temple only on a couple of specific occasions in the year but this is no more the case.

Thirumangai Azhvaar's Praise

Thirumangai Azhvaar, who has not sung praises of too many of the Malai Naatu Divya Desam Lords, has dedicated 10 verses to Thiruvalla Lord and has referred to the Lord as ‘ Valla Vaazh’.

'உருவின் ஆர்பிரவி சேர் ஊன் பொதி நரம்பு
தோல் குரம்பையுள் புக்கு
அருவி நோய் செய்து நின்று,
ஐவர் தாம் வாழ்வதற்கு அஞ்சினா யேல்

திருவின் ஆர வேதம் நான்கு ஐந்து தீ
வேல்வியோடு அங்கம் ஆறும்
மருவினார் வல்லவாழ் சொல்லுமா வல்லை
ஆய் மருவு நெஞ்சே'

Festivals

10 day Festival in Poosam

Kathakali Festival is the most popular festival at this temple

Every Saturday morning, there is a special pooja at this divya desam similar to the one at Thiruvanparisaram.

Quick Facts

Moolavar       : Thiru Vazhmarban, Srivallapan Kolapiran East Facing Standing Posture

Thaayar         : Selva Thirukozhunthu Nachiyar, Vaathsalya Devi

Azhvaar         : Thirumangai Azhvaar  and Nam Azhvaar – 22Paasurams

Temple Time: 5am-1145am and 5pm-8pm

Contact         : PK Unnikrishnan Pothi/ Govindan Namboodhari @  0469 2700191

How to reach Thiruvalla

By train:

Thiruvalla is about 15 minutes by an express train from Kottayam. Get down at Thiru Valla Railway station. The temple is about 4kms from the railway station. An auto from the station to the Divya Desam will cost Rs.40-50/-

By bus: Buses ply every 5-10minutes from Kottayam on the Thiruvalla route.