Kadakkal Devi Temple
The temple is situated in known for its unique mythology, and beliefs, the Kadakkal Devi Temple is one of the first Devi temples in Kollam.
Kadakkal Devi Temple is one of the foremost Devi temples in Kerala. Everyday 18 poojas are performed starting from Palliyunarthu (waking up the goddess) at 4.30 am to Nata Attapu at 8.25 pm. It is renowned for its unique mythology and belief. It is believed that one who worships and offering rituals to Devi (Kadakkalamma) will be protected from evil and their life will be filled with prosperity and wealth.
Kadakkal Temple has four main temples situated equal distances in three directions from the Temple Pond (Kadakkal Chira): Devi Temple, Siva Temple, Taliyil Temple and Kilimarathukavu Temple.
The uniqueness of the Kadakkal Devi temple is that there is neither an idol nor a pujari. During the temple festival thousands of devotees come to Kadakkal to worship 'Devi'.
Kadakkal temple has an unusual mythology related to its existence, that Kadakkal Devi came from Tamil Nadu with her four sisters: Kadakkal Devi situated in Peedika (a small kind of trade shop made of wood), near Kadakkal and Anchal Devi situated, in Kadayattu Kalari near Anchal, Karavalur Devi in the village of Karavalur, and Kariyara Devi at Kariyara. The four temples are called the same name: Peedikayil Bhagavathy Temples.
Another story concerns Panayappan, a Tamil trader who was killed by Kadakkal Devi in revenge for exploiting her family. After that she moved to Kadakkal Peedika, which became the sanctum sanctorum of the present Kadakkal Devi Temple.
The Nettur Kurup, who was the eyewitness of this incident, got permission from the devi to perform pooja to the devi in the Peedika.
Location
Altharamoodu
Main Deity
Goddess Bhadrakali
Other Deities
No Sub Deities.
Festivals
The festivals is on the Thiruvathira Nakshathram (star) in the Malayalam month Kumbha, celebrating the holy birthday of the mother goddess "Kadakkal Amma". Kadakkal Thiruvathira - The festival starts with 'Kuthirayeduppu', a grand procession followed by Kuthiyottam. Pongal, Thiru Mudi Ezhunnellathu - This happens once every twelve years. It is a grand procession from Kadakkal Temple to Kalari Temple (Anchal), carrying the holy circlet of Kadakkal Devi (Thirumudi). Tradition says that the sister of Kadakkal Devi is situated in Kalari Temple. Guruthi.
Main Offerings
Kalam Ezuthu, Paattu (Songs praising Goddess), Malar (Puffed Rice), Kathali Pazham (Kathali Banana).
How To Reach
By Air: Trivandrum International Airport is situated at 52.3KM from the temple.
By Rail: Varkala Railway Station is 33.5KM from the Temple.
By Road: Kilimanoor KSRTC Bus Depot is 12.3KM from the temple.