Sivagiri Mutt Temple
Sivagiri Temple is a pilgrimage center located in Varkala, in the Thiruvananthapuram district of the state of Kerala. It was established by Sree Narayana Guru, a great social reformer, who founded the Saradha Mutt Temple in Varkala, located 46 km away from Trivandrum. The 'Sivagiri Pilgrimage' is conducted between December 30 and January 1st every year. The temple is dedicated to the Goddess of knowledge and wisdom, Mother Goddess Sri Sharadamba, who was installed at Sivagiri Saradamutt on May 1st, 1912 (M. E. 1087 Medam 18). Sri Sharadamba is the supreme patron goddess of all fine arts and education. She is depicted carrying a bird, a book, a pot full of nectar, and chinmudra (the symbol of salvation) in her four hands, and is seated on a full-blown lotus flower.
The temple itself is a beautiful octagonal structure with white walls and windows paneled with dark blue glass. It is enclosed in a circular half-wall with white sand spread on the space between the temple and the half-wall. The whole structure, with a special stage for prayers in front of it, creates a special splendor and attraction to the ambience. Devotees assemble on the stage and spend time in prayers, recitations, and meditation. It is an ideal spot for marriages, first rice feeding of babies, and initiation to education for children. The temple was constructed in the 19th century and is dedicated to all religions, not just a single god.
Sivagiri Temple is known for its Saraswati Prathista, one of the most remarkable among his consecration of temple deities. There are very few temples in Kerala with this feature.
Location
Varkala
Main Deity
Goddess Saraswathy
Other Deities
Festivals
The Sri Narayana Jayanthi, birthday of the Guru, and the Samadhi day are befittingly celebrated in August and September respectively every year. On these days colorful processions, seminars, public meetings, cultural shows, community feasts and special rituals are held.
Main Offerings
Unlike in other temples, Nivedyam (offering of food to the deity) or Abhishekam (pouring oil, ghee and such on the idol) is not practiced in the temple.
How To Reach
The ashram is located at the distance of 2.5 kms from Varkala.
Air: The nearest airport is Thiruvananthapuram International Airport about 57 km away from Varkala
Rail: The nearest railway station is at Varkala town. here is direct connects from major towns in the states as well as neighboring states.
Road: Varkala is 51 km away from Thiruvananthapuram and 37 km away from Kollam. Buses ply regularly between Thirvananthapuram and Kollam.