Vaikom Mahadeva Temple: Abode of Lord Shiva and Symbol of Social Reform
Opening Hours
4:00 AM - 12:00 PM, 5:00 PM - 8:30 PM (Subject to change; confirm before visiting)
Best Time To Visit
October to March (Pleasant weather)
Aarti Timing
Usha Pooja : 5:30 AM (Approximate)Pantheeradi Pooja : 8:00 AM (Approximate)
Vaikom Mahadeva Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is one of the oldest and most revered Shiva temples in Kerala. The temple is renowned for its architectural brilliance and historical significance, particularly its role in the Vaikom Satyagraha, a pivotal movement for social equality.
Expectations for Pilgrims
Seeking blessings from Lord Shiva for prosperity, well-being, and spiritual growth.
Experiencing the serene and spiritually charged atmosphere of the ancient temple.
Understanding the historical significance of the Vaikom Satyagraha and its impact on social reform.
Sacred Offerings: Prasad from the Divine
Prasad at Vaikom Mahadeva Temple embodies purity and blessings, offered to devotees as a token of divine grace.
Prasad / Prasadam :
Chandanam (Sandalwood Paste)
Note : Prasad is distributed after the main pujas at the temple counter. Special offerings like Payasam (sweet porridge) can also be obtained after making a donation.
What to Offer: Sacred Contributions to Lord Shiva
Devotees offer various items to Lord Shiva, expressing their devotion, seeking blessings, and participating in sacred rituals.
Devotee's Offerings
Bael Leaves (Bilva Patra)
Local priests can guide devotees on the appropriate offerings and rituals. It is important to offer these items with a pure heart and sincere devotion.
Essential Experiences: Immersing in Vaikom's Spirituality
Activities:
Circumambulation (Pradakshina)
Sacred Rituals & Pujas: Deepening Your Connection
Vaikom Mahadeva Temple is a center for various pujas and rituals, offering devotees a way to connect with the divine.
Attending Pujas:
Non Attending Pujas:
Pujas can be booked in advance at the temple counter. Local priests can also provide guidance on the different types of pujas and their significance.
Historical Roots & Profound Meaning: Vaikom's Sacred Legacy
Vaikom Mahadeva Temple has a rich history and deep spiritual significance, shaping the social and religious landscape of Kerala.
Significance: A Paramount Spiritual Beacon
Vaikom Mahadeva Temple is a spiritual hub, representing faith, social justice, and cultural heritage.
Key Aspects:
- Symbol of Social Reform The temple stands as a symbol of social reform and equality due to its association with the Vaikom Satyagraha.
- Center of Devotion The temple is a revered center of devotion, attracting devotees seeking solace, blessings, and spiritual enlightenment.
Opening Hours
Sunday : 4:30 – 11:30 AM, 5:00 – 8:00 PM Monday : 4:30 – 11:30 AM, 5:00 – 8:00 PM Tuesday : 4:30 – 11:30 AM, 5:00 – 8:00 PM Wednesday : 4:30 – 11:30 AM, 5:00 – 8:00 PM Thursday : 4:30 – 11:30 AM, 5:00 – 8:00 PM Friday : 4:30 – 11:30 AM, 5:00 – 8:00 PM Saturday : 4:30 – 11:30 AM, 5:00 – 8:00 PM
User Review
Total Reviews : 12652
- Star Rating :
Author Name : Shankar Rajasekharan
Review Time : 2 months ago
Review : Vaikom Mahadeva Temple, located in Vaikom, Kottayam, Kerala, is one of the oldest and most revered Shiva temples in the region. Often referred to as the "Kashi of the South," this temple is part of a trio of powerful Shiva temples, along with Ettumanoor and Kaduthuruthy .The temple is open daily from 4:00 AM to 12:00 PM and from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM.The temple's history dates back to the Treta Yuga, and it is believed that the lingam here was installed by the demon Khara after receiving Shaiva Vidya Upadesha from Malyavan .The temple's architecture is a fine example of traditional Kerala style, featuring a circular Sreekovil (sanctum sanctorum) adorned with copper sheets and intricate carvings.The temple complex includes a large courtyard, four gopurams (gateway towers), and a golden flagstaff .Vaikom Mahadeva Temple is renowned for its Vaikom Ashtami festival, which attracts thousands of devotees.The temple is also held in reverence by both Shaivas and Vaishnavas, making it a unique place of worship.The nearby Shiva temples, Ettumanoor and Kaduthuruthy, are closely associated with Vaikom Mahadeva Temple, and it is believed that worshipping all three temples before the Ucha Pooja fulfills the devotee's wishes - Star Rating :
Author Name : Varghese K C
Review Time : 2 months ago
Review : The Vaikom Sree Mahadeva Temple is historic Hindu temple and pilgrimage centre of honoring Lord Siva. The main deity of the temple is Lord Siva, fondly called as " Vaikkathappan ". The temple architecture reflects the richest cultural heritage of Kerala. People believed that Lord Parasurama involved the works of the temple and worshipped its rituals. Also belive that the Great Siva Linga is from Treta Yuga. Devotees can get holy ash as a prasadam, and this can cure people from hysteria, poison and wounds. The temple is serene and very divine place, surrounded by lush greenery and backwaters. Also a temple pond on the northern side of the temple.
The main festival of the temple is ' Vaikath Astami ' celebrated on November / December ( month of Vrichikam in malayalam calendar ). Thousands of devotees participated the festival and obtained deities grand blessings every year. - Star Rating :
Author Name : Sree Kumar KA
Review Time : a week ago
Review : Temple dedicated to lord shiva. Men must remove their shirt before entering the “Nada” (Entrance of temple). Temple is built in acres of land and has historical relevance. - Star Rating :
Author Name : Swanand Galgale
Review Time : 3 months ago
Review : Historical site not just because it is called 'Dakshin Kashi'.. but because it was an epicenter for the temple entry movement led by Mahatma Gandhi in Kerala..
Commercialization in southern India's temple is very subtle.. so nobody will force you to pay.. unlike in the northern part of India..
Clean.. - Star Rating :
Author Name : Aarunn Kumar
Review Time : a month ago
Review : Believed to be build by Lord Parasurama.
I got a chance to visit this temple on this festive occasion 🙏.
Vaikathappan is commonly known and used name by locals.
Another list of temple's when it comes to the oldest of temple's in India.
The architectural style of this temple goes back to years.
It's believed to visit 3 temples / 3 idols
1. Vaikom mahadeva temple
2. Ettumanoor and 3. in Kaduthuruthy
Temple is east facing.
The namaskara 🙏 mandapa in the inner roof taken from Ramayana.
6 steps taking us to the inner shrine.
With immensely important during vaikathashtami festival got chance in the long queue to have a grace of Lords worship ✌️🙏
