Mannarasala Sree Nagaraja Temple, Haripad

Haripad, Kerala

Nestled in the sacred surroundings of Haripad, Mannarasala Sree Nagaraja Temple stands as a prominent pilgrimage site that draws worshippers from near and far. This temple is celebrated for its spiritual energy, captivating architecture, and the unwavering faith it inspires in all who visit. Generations of devotees have made their journey here, seeking divine grace and spiritual fulfilment. The temple grounds often come alive during festivals, with vibrant decorations, traditional music, and devotional activities that reflect the region’s rich culture. Even on quiet days, the gentle sounds of temple bells and the sight of flickering lamps create a deeply calming environment. For many, a visit to Mannarasala Sree Nagaraja Temple is not just a religious journey but also a soulful retreat that renews the heart and mind. This cherished shrine stands alongside many Popular temples in Kerala, celebrated for their devotion and heritage.

Mannarasala Sree Nagaraja Temple History and Significance

The history of Mannarasala Temple is linked to Lord Parashurama, believed to be the creator of Kerala. The temple's history is detailed in 'Mandara Salodyam', a Sanskrit poem by Mannarasala M.G. Narayanan Namboothiri.

Mannarasala Sree Nagaraja Temple Pooja Timing
Mannarasala Sree Nagaraja Temple Interesting Facts
Mannarasala Sree Nagaraja Temple Nearby Temples
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Mannarasala Sree Nagaraja Temple Pooja Timing

Pooja Name	Timings
Nirmalya Darshanam	5:00 AM
Usha Pooja	7:30 AM
Noon Pooja	12:00 PM
Athazha Pooja	7:30 PM

Mannarasala Sree Nagaraja Temple Location Details

How to Reach Mannarasala Sree Nagaraja Temple

By Road:

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

By Train:

Nearest railway stations: Haripad Railway Station (about 3 km away) and Kayamkulam Junction (approximately 15 km away). From these stations, buses or taxis are available to Haripad.

By Air:

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

Mannarasala Sree Nagaraja Temple Nearby Temples

Best time to visit (season/months):

October to March. Avoid the monsoon season (June to September) due to heavy rainfall. Winters are pleasant and ideal for temple visits.

Mannarasala Sree Nagaraja Temple Interesting Facts

Legends Beliefs

Legends and BeliefsLord Parashurama reclaimed Kerala from the sea to atone for his sins. The land was uninhabitable due to its salinity and poisonous snakes. Worship of Nagaraja was initiated to make the land habitable.Nagaraja appeared before Parashurama and granted his wish to desalinate the land. Parashurama installed Nagaraja and other deities, making the land prosperous and habitable.Vasudeva and Sreedevi, a childless couple, worshipped Nagaraja. Pleased with their devotion, Nagaraja blessed them with a serpent-child and a human child. The serpent-child entered Samadhi, blessing the devotees.
Deities and Sub Deities

Deities and Sub-DeitiesThe main deity is Nagaraja, representing Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva. Other deities include Sarpayakshi, Nagayakshi, and Nagachamundi. These deities are worshipped with proper rituals and offerings.
Offerings

OfferingsFor wealth and prosperity, devotees offer a pot filled with gold. For education and fame, silk grains and divine ornaments are offered. Salt is offered for health recovery, and turmeric for protection from poison.Pepper, mustard, and green peas are offered for curing diseases. Serpent caves made of gold are offered for protection from damage. Melted butter is offered for long life, and milk and ripe kadalai fruit for fulfilling wishes.For having a child, a brass or bronze vessel called Uruli is used for performing 'Nurum Palum'.
Architecture

ArchitectureThe temple follows the traditional Kerala architectural style. It is nestled in a forest glade, with over 100,000 images of snakes along the paths and among the trees, making it the largest snake temple in Kerala.
Festivals

FestivalsMannarasala Ayilyam is the main festival, celebrated on the Ayilyam asterism in the months of Kanni and Thulam (September and October). All serpentine idols are taken in a procession to the Brahmin illom, where offerings are made.The matriarch of Mannarasala Illom carries the idol of Nagaraja, and the procession is conducted with great pomp and rejoicing.
Religious Practices

Religious PracticesDevotees perform various rituals and offerings to please the serpent deities. These include Abhishekam, Alankaram, Neivedyasamarpanam, Neeranjanam, and Sarpabali. Special turmeric paste available at the temple is credited with curative powers.

FAQ's

Where is the Mannarasala Sree Nagaraja Temple located?

The Mannarasala Sree Nagaraja Temple is located in Haripad, Kerala, India. Specifically, it is situated in the Alappuzha district.

Which God is Nagaraja?

Nagaraja is a major Hindu deity.

What is the best time to visit Mannarasala Sree Nagaraja Temple?

October to March. Avoid the monsoon season (June to September) due to heavy rainfall. Winters are pleasant and ideal for temple visits.

How to reach Mannarasala Sree Nagaraja Temple from near City or Town?

Nearest railway stations: Haripad Railway Station (about 3 km away) and Kayamkulam Junction (approximately 15 km away). From these stations, buses or taxis are available to Haripad. Nearest airport: Cochin International Airport (approximately 115 km away). From the airport, you can take a taxi or bus to Haripad via connecting cities.