Kandiyoor Sree Mahadeva Temple, Mavelikkara

Mavelikkara, Kerala

Kandiyoor Sree Mahadeva Temple in Mavelikkara is a revered and time-honoured place of worship that continues to inspire deep devotion among countless devotees. Surrounded by a serene atmosphere and enriched with cultural charm, the temple stands as a symbol of faith, tradition, and community bonding. Its sacred premises have witnessed generations of prayers, festivals, and rituals that reflect the spiritual heartbeat of the region. Visitors are often drawn not only by the temple’s divine presence but also by its beautiful surroundings, intricate craftsmanship, and the sense of peace it offers. Whether you are a pilgrim seeking blessings or a traveller exploring heritage sites, Kandiyoor Sree Mahadeva Temple remains an unmissable spiritual landmark that speaks of the region’s enduring cultural and religious legacy. As part of the broader heritage of Famous temples in Kerala, it continues to attract devotees and travellers alike.

Kandiyoor Sree Mahadeva Temple History and Significance

Kandiyoor Sree Mahadeva Temple is an ancient temple with significant historical importance. It was established before the advent of Kali Yuga and completed in 823 AD during the reign of Rajasekhara Varman. The temple was once the capital of the Odanadu kingdom.

The temple has connections to ancient Buddhism in Kerala. There was a Hinayana Buddhist temple nearby, managed by the Kannankara Panicker family. The displaced Buddha idol was later placed near the Mavelikkara Sree Krishna Swamy Temple.

The Kandiyoor inscription dated 1218 mentions the temple's reconstruction by Rama Kotha Varma of Odanad. The Kalasam ceremony was attended by Unniyachi, wife of Ravi Kerala Varma, King of Venad. Kandiyoor was later annexed to Kayamkulam and then to Travancore by Marthanda Varma.

Kandiyoor Sree Mahadeva Temple Pooja Timing
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Kandiyoor Sree Mahadeva Temple Pooja Timing

Pooja Name	Timings
Nirmalyam	4:30 AM
Usha Pooja	6:00 AM
Ucha Pooja	12:00 PM
Athazha Pooja	7:30 PM

Kandiyoor Sree Mahadeva Temple Location Details

How to Reach Kandiyoor Sree Mahadeva Temple

By Road:

Mavelikkara is well-connected by road to major towns in Kerala. State Transport Buses and private taxis operate regularly from cities like Alappuzha, Kollam, and Thiruvananthapuram.

By Train:

Nearest railway stations: Mavelikkara Railway Station (3 km) and Kayamkulam Junction (10 km). From these stations, buses or taxis are available to Mavelikkara.

By Air:

Nearest airport: Cochin International Airport (approximately 115 km away). From the airport, you can take a taxi or bus to Mavelikkara via connecting cities.

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Best time to visit (season/months):

October to March. Avoid the monsoon season (June to September) due to heavy rainfall. Summers can be hot and humid, so winter months are ideal for a pleasant visit.

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Legends Beliefs

Legends and BeliefsThere are many legends associated with the temple. It is one of the 108 great Shiva temples of ancient Kerala, consecrated by Lord Parashurama. Another legend says Rishi Mrikandu got an idol of Lord Shiva in Kirathamoorthy form while bathing in the Ganga and established the temple in Kandiyoor.According to another legend, the temple is located where Lord Shiva cut off Lord Brahma's head. The name Kandiyoor comes from Shiva Sri Kantan. It is believed that Lord Parasurama renovated the temple and gave tantrik rights to the Tharananallur family.
Deities and Sub Deities

Deities and Sub-DeitiesThe primary deity of the temple is Lord Shiva, known as Kandiyoorappan. The deity is worshipped in different forms throughout the day: Dakshinamoorthy in the morning, Umamaheshwaran at noon, and Kirathamoorthy in the evening. The sub-deities include Vishnu, Parvatheesan, Nagaraja, Nagayakshi, Gosala Krishnan, Sastha, Sankaran, Sreekandan, Vadakkumnathan, Annapoorneswary, Ganapathy, Subrahmanyan, Moola Ganapathy, and Brahmarakshas.
Offerings

OfferingsDevotees offer various items to the deities, including flowers, fruits, and traditional items used in Hindu rituals. Special poojas and rituals are conducted on auspicious days, and devotees participate in these offerings to seek blessings.
Architecture

ArchitectureThe temple is built in the traditional Kerala style. The rectangular sanctum sanctorum is two-tiered, with an oval bottom tier and a rectangular top tier. The 10-foot Gajaprishta style wall is believed to be constructed by Shiva's Bhoothaganas. The temple also features puranic legend stone scriptures.
Festivals

FestivalsThe temple celebrates various Hindu festivals with great fervour. Major festivals include Maha Shivaratri, Thiruvathira, and other important days in the Hindu calendar. Devotees from all over Kerala and beyond visit the temple during these festivals to participate in the rituals and seek blessings.
Religious Practices

Religious PracticesThe temple follows traditional Hindu rituals and practices. Daily poojas are conducted by the priests, and special rituals are performed on auspicious days. Devotees follow a strict code of conduct while visiting the temple, including dress codes and cleanliness.

FAQ's

Where is the Kandiyoor Sree Mahadeva Temple located?

The Kandiyoor Sree Mahadeva Temple is located in Mavelikkara, Kerala, India. Specifically, it is situated in the Alappuzha district.

Which God is Shiva?

Shiva is a major Hindu deity.

What is the best time to visit Kandiyoor Sree Mahadeva Temple?

October to March. Avoid the monsoon season (June to September) due to heavy rainfall. Summers can be hot and humid, so winter months are ideal for a pleasant visit.

How to reach Kandiyoor Sree Mahadeva Temple from near City or Town?

Nearest railway stations: Mavelikkara Railway Station (3 km) and Kayamkulam Junction (10 km). From these stations, buses or taxis are available to Mavelikkara. Nearest airport: Cochin International Airport (approximately 115 km away). From the airport, you can take a taxi or bus to Mavelikkara via connecting cities.