Chirakkaduvu Mahadeva Temple
Chirakkadavu Mahadevar Temple is situated between the Kollam-Theni route of the National Highway 183. The temple is estimated to be a 1000-Year-old. The temple is located on the way to the Ayyapan Temple at Sabarimala. The Ayyappa devotees considered Chirakadavu Sri Mahadeva as the father of Lord Ayyappan. Pilgrims on the way to Sabarimala halt at the Mahadeva temple and conduct the Ayyappapattu.
History has it the temple was built during the time of the 'Alwars'. There is also a temple tank, from where the mud was dug up to build this temple. Because of the pond ('Chira' in Malayalam) in the eastern side of the temple the place is called 'Chirakadavu'. The idol is a 'Swayambhu Siva Lingam which was found under a 'bilva Tree' (Aegle marmelos).
The 'Balikallu' of this temple is huge in size. In front of this there is beautiful sculpture and a huge lamp carved out of granite which attracts attention. Even though the 'Balikallu' is huge in size the Darshan of the Lord is possible if we stand near the gate of the eastern gopuram. The wooden carvings all-round the temple is extremely attractive.
Due to the traditional rituals followed and the income of the temple it occupies an important place in the Devaswom Board Temples. Also, this is one of the very few self-sufficient temples of the [Travancore] Dewasom Board.
Location
Chirakkadavu
Main Deity
Lord Siva
Other Deities
Lord Ganesha, Naga Deities, Lord Ayyappa & Rakshas.
Festivals
Maha Sivarathri
Main Offerings
An important vazhipadu 'Chaturshatam' is performed in this temple which is a rare offering. Meenari- During the 'Karkidaka Vavu' devotees buy rice from the temple and feed the fish in the temple pond. People believe that those who perform this 'Vazhipadu' can get cured of many diseases. The other offerings are Swayamvara Pushpanjali, Jaladhara and Mrithinjaya Pushpanjali.
How To Reach
By Air: Cochin International Airport is situated 101 KM from the temple.
By Rail: Thiruvalla Railway Station is situated 36.2 KM from the Temple.
By Road: Erumeli KSRTC Bus Stand is situated 14.9 KM from the Temple.