About:

Koodalmanikyam Temple is the only temple in India dedicated to Bharat, the brother of Lord Ram. It is located Irinjalakuda from Thrissur district, Kerala. The sanctum is believed to have the presence of all godly powers and hence the name Koodalmanikyam - Koodal means 'joining together'. The temple is surrounded by four vast ponds called 'Kulipini Teertham'. A story about this temple is that the idols of Ram and his three brothers where brought from the sea coast by one Vakkayil kaimal. He then placed the idol of Ram in Thriprayar, that of Bharat at Irinjalakuda,Lakshman in Moozhikulam and Shatrughna in Payammal.Koodalmanikyam Temple is a marvel in architectural beauty. The impressive gateways, round shaped Sanctum Sanctorum, the majestic Koothambalam and the Carvings in wood and stone on the walls all attract students of Art and Architecture. The murals on the walls on either side of the Eastern entry to Chuttambalam also deserve special mention. Temple has two unique features: the temple holds the image of only one deity even though most large temples in India have several; and it is also the only temple in India dedicated to the worship of Bharata (Lord Sangameshwara), the brother of Lord Rama. Thachudaya kaimal is the caretaker of the temple.



This peaceful and ancient temple is dedicated to the Hindu deity Lord Sanghameshwara. During your temple tours to the Koodalmanikyam Temple you must visit the beautiful pond that is located within the temple premises. As legend goes this pond became sacred when the sage Kulipini organized a huge yagna inside the temple premises. This temple pond is known as the Kulpini theertam.During your temple tours to the Koodalmanikyam Temple located in Kerala, South India you can pray to the presiding deity by offering marigold garlands, payasam and boiled brinjals.It is believed that the temple was built at the beginning of Kaliyug’. The entire area was once a dense forest where learned sages, headed by ‘Kuleepini Maharshi’, lived and meditated. The temple walls are adorned with beautiful murals. There is also a ‘Koothambalam’, the theater for traditional temple art forms, in the temple courtyard. Woods for construction were provided by the Kochi king.The temple is surrounded by a compound and the big walls of this are called ‘Anawayaran mathil’. There are ‘gopurams’ on the east, south and west side of the temple. On the north side is the holy kuleepini theertham. One specialty is there is no ‘upadevas’ in this temple.

This ancient temple with a unique deity hosts a colorful eleven-day annual festival with a display of twelve caparisoned elephants. Falling in April/May, this festival marks the end of Hindu festival season in Kerala. Festival is held for all days in Medom (April-May) from Utram to Thiruvonam asterisms, the flag hoisting being on the Utram day. Procession accompanied by caparisoned elephants is the special features of the festival. Darshan is possible from
3am – 12 noon , and 5pm to 8pm . Important Vazhipatus(offerings) are Thamaramala , Brinjal Nivedyam , Vedi , Gheelamp , Meeunttu.

Location info:

Address:Irinjalakuda, Thrissur district, Kerala.
District: Thrissur district
Nearest City:kochi, sholayar, kaladi, Irinjalakuda , Kunnamkulam, Kodungallur.
Best time to visit: April to may.

Climate/Weather:

The weather Temaparture on Summer: (January - May) 300 to 360C and Monsoon: (June - October) 260 to 320C.

History:

A story about this temple is that the idols of Ram and his three brothers where brought from the sea coast by one Vakkayil kaimal. He then placed the idol of Ram in Thriprayar, that of Bharat at Irinjalakuda,Lakshman in Moozhikulam and Shatrughna in Payammal

Interesting things to do:

You can do pooja to god Rama, Watch the beauty of pond, take the Picture of the Scenaries around Temple.

Interesting things to Visit:

Art Museum:

Art Museum is just 2 kms from Thrissur town, there is nice little art museum, which has a good collection of woodcarvings metal sculptures, Kathakali figures and ancient jewellery. There are also wonderful figures and good paintings. This art museum is also well known fro a great collection of traditional Kerala lamps.

Cheruthuruthy (Kathakali Centre):

North of Thrissur, 29 kms away, near the Shoranur Railway junction is Cheruthuruthy, home of the renowned repository of the tradition of the Kathakali dance form. It is in this academy that the best of Kerala's Kathakali performers get their training. The institution also offers training in music, drama and other dance forms including Mohiniyattam, Koodiyattam and Ottam Thullal.

The Zoo:

Zoo is 2 kms from Thrissur town, is the zoo, which is a wonderful place for animal enthusiasts. Within the 13.5 acres of compound, a variety of fauna like the lion tailed macaque, Sloth bear, various species of birds, deer etc. The snake park has a reptilian collection of King Cobra, Kraits, Vipers and rat snakes.

Vilangakunnu:

7 kms from Thrissur, Vilangakunnu is a beautiful little hill which is a wonderful picnic spot. This spot is a feast for ones eyes with its natural charm and serenity.

Peechi- Vazhani Wild life Sanctuary:

This large dam in the Western Ghats, 20km east of Trissur, provides the ares's drinking water while the attached sanctuary offers protection for animals.

Thriprayar:

This is situated at 22 Km from Thrissur. This is a famous temple dedicated to Lord Shri Rama. The important festival here is the Thriprayar Ekadasi held for three days in Vrischikam during Nov-Dec.

.Lourdes cathedral:

It is situated near Thrissur, which turned to a Cathedral in 1995 with an underground chapel.

Mobile range info:

How to reach?

Nearest Railway Station:

Irinjalakuda Railway Station and Thrissur Railway Station.

Nearest Airport:

Kochi International Airport.

Road Transport:

Elaborate arrangements have been made by the Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) for pilgrims. The KSRTC will operate a special service from Irinjalakuda to all temples every day at 6 a.m. The bus will return to Irinjalakuda at 2 p.m.

Nearest Visiting places:

Guruvayoor:

Guruvayoor is away from Thrissur, this is also one of the most sacred pilgrimage centers in the state. The presiding deity is Lord Krishna. Legend has it that Guru, the preceptor of Gods and Vayu, the God of wind, created the temple.

Lourdes Cathedral:

Thrissur district was under the control of Dutch and British invaders. During their period they had created several beautiful churches, an example is the Lourdes Cathedral. The exterior features an Indo-European facade with pink spires. The Centenary of Our Lady of Lourdes was celebrated during the historic visit of Pope John Paul II to Thrissur in 1986.

Punnathur Kotta (Elephant Shelter):

Near Guruvayoor, 2 km away is Punnathur Kotta, the place where temple elephants (numbering over 40) are taken care of. Nowhere else one can find so many elephants at a time. Visitors with little children are allowed to come near and have a look at the elephants.

Vadakkumnatha Kshethram:

Vadakkumnatha Kshethram temple sits atop a hill in the centre of Thrissur. This temple is a classic example of the Kerala style of architecture. The temple contains the sacred shrines of Paramashiva, Parvathi, Sankaranarayana, Ganapathi, Sri Rama and Sri Krishna. The central shrines and Koothambalam exhibit exquisite vignettes carved in wood. Legend goes that this temple was founded by Parasurama. Thissur Pooram, the grandest temple pageantry in Kerala, is celebrated here in April every year. Non Hindus are not allowed inside the temple.

State Museum:

Archeological Museum, farther along Museum road , has temple models, stone reliefs, Gandharan pieces and reproductions of some of the Mattancherry murals.

Athirapilly Water falls:

It is situated at 63 Km distance from Thrissur district. This 80" high waterfall at the threshold of the Sholayar ranges is a popular picnic spot. Dream World and Silver Storm are the two Amusement parks, which are located nearby. DTPC has a unit to gratify the needs of tourists.

Vazhachal Chalakudy River Vazhachal:

Tourist can reach there very easily as it is just a short drive from Athirapilly. This place is close to dense forests and a part of the Chalakudy River is also situated nearby.

Sakthan thampuran palace:

This is also named as Vadakkekara Palace. Sri.Ramavarma Thampuran of the former Princely State of Cochin reconstructed this in Kerala-Dutch style in 1795. However Sakthan Thampuran who was the greatest ruler of the Cochin dynasty has preserved this by Archaeological Department

Chavakkad beach:

This is seashore, and is famous for rare scenic beauty. This has been acknowledged as one of the best beaches along the west coast. Unaltered by modernization and laced on the borders by an array of coconut palms.

Nearest Petrol Pump:

HP Petrol Pump
SH 22, Vasanth Nagar
Thrissur, Kerala.

Thaliyath Petrol Pump
Irinjalakuda,
Thrissur, Kerala.

Petrol Pump
Swaraj Round West,
Thrissur, Kerala.

Petrol Pump
Swaraj Round West
Thrissur, Kerala.

Prabhus Petrol Pump
Kodungallur
Thrissur, Kerala.

Hotels/Lodge/Accommodation:

Hotel Trichur Towers
Thrissur, Kerala
Tel: 0487 2425290.

Kanoos Residency
Guruvayoor
Thrissur, Kerala.

Rugmini Regency
Guruvayoor, Thrissur
Kerala 680101
Tel: 0487 2551873.

Hotel Nalummakal
Municipal Bus Stand (west)
Kodungallur, Thrissur Kerala
Tel: 0480 2802222.

Colombo Hotel
Irinjalakuda
Thrissur, Kerala.

Bhasuri Inn Hotel
Opposite Municipal Bus Stand
East Nada, Guruvayur
Kerala
Tel: 0487 2558888.

Things to carry:

Tips & Suggestions:

Help Line/Phone Number:

Police Station:

Ayyanthole Police Station
Thrissur, Thrissur, Kerala
0487 2363608.

Police Station
SH 22, Irinjalakuda, Thrissur, Kerala.

Chalakudi Police Station
Chalakudi, Thrissur, Kerala.

Nearest Hospital:

Modern Hospital
P.O. Box No:22, Kodungallur Post
Thrissur, Kerala 680664
Tel: 0480 2802022.

Sree Chithra Ayur Home
Manathala, Chavakkad
Thrissur, Kerala 680506
Tel: 09895091639.

Nilayoram Resorts & Ayurvedic Centre
Painkulam Post, Cheruthuruthy
Thrissur, Kerala 679531
Tel: 09847044244.

Society/Community Phone Number:

Link:

http://q4music.blogspot.com/2009/05/melam-at-koodalmanikyam-temple-festival.html
http://keralatourist-place.blogspot.com/2009/04/koodalmanikyam-temple.html
http://keralatouristheaven.blogspot.com/2008/04/koodalmanikyam-templeirinjalakuda.html
http://pazhayathu.blogspot.com/2009/03/kerala-temple-at-koodal-maanikyam.html
http://pradeepcvasudevan.blogspot.com/2008/07/koodalmanikyam-temple.html

 

Photo Gallery

Video Gallery

Dream World
The enchanting beauty of Athirappilly Water Falls, the scenic attraction of Vazhachal, Thumboormuzhy and Sholayar had fascinated the Tourist from time immemorial. Dream World, the most modern man made sophisticated Water Theme Park is situated on the lap of enchanting Athirapilly waterfalls just 8 km from Chalakkudy. All facilities for enjoyment to the tourists are arranged here. Water Filteration Dream World has given utmost importance to maintain the quality of pool water to international standards and specification. Working hours: On Public Holidays : 10.00 am to 7.30 pm. On other days : 10.00 am to 6.30 pm. Dream World does not have any holidays.....more
Silverstorm
Silver Storm is noted for an unmatching amusement park. Although there are amusement parks several in numbers in Kerala and elsewhere, this particular one stands out for its serenity, enchanting milieu and the rare blend of scenic ingredients. Children get enthused, elevated and educated here, while they communicate with nature through heart springs.“The entertainment facilities at Silver Storm Park are truly world class and they cater to all age groups. The park can be reached after a 19 Km drive through the Western Ghats listening to the whispers of waterfalls, the roars of wildlife and the invigorating fragrance of a thousand wild species of plants and trees.” Silver Storm’s thrills are a blend of natural wonders and man made marvels.....more
Kerala Kalamandalam
Kerala Kalamandalam is located at Cheruthuruthy,32 km north of Thrissur district, Kerala.Its Founded in 1930 by renowned poet Padmabhooshan Vallathol Narayana Menon along the banks of the river Nila in the Cheruthuruthy. This temple of arts has preserved and propagated Kathakali - the classical dance-drama of Kerala - for the past 78 years. Many of the internationally renowned artistes of Kerala and India have been trained here.Kalamandalam is undoubtedly the best institution in India imparting training and conducting performance of Kathakali, Mohiniyattam, Panchavadyam and Thullal. Beside the regular courses, Kalamandalam also offers crash courses in different art disciplines.....more
Natana Kairali Research Centre
Natana Kairali Research Centre is located at Irinjalakuda, Thrissur District, Kerala.Natanakaisiki is a Research Centre for dance and theatre traditions of the women of Kerala as part of Natanakairali. Mohiniyattam, Nangiar Koothu and Thiruvathira Kali are the major art forms at present included in the study of Natanakaisiki which was founded by Nirmala Paniker in 1979.Natana Kairali Center, Kerala initiates a variety of creative and learning activities, both in the traditional and contemporary field.Various workshops, performances as well as festivals are also organized by in Natana Kairali Center, Kerala.Mohiniyattam is one of the classical dance forms of India which originated and developed in Kerala.....more
St Mary's Forane Church
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Thrissur City
The Cultural capital of Kerala, Trichur, gained prominence under the reign of Raja Rama Varma in 1790.Thrissur is a culturally rich city. Bestowed with breathtaking scenic beauty and warm, generous inhabitants, Thrissur acts as a time warp to the average tourist. It seems one has walked into a settlement that refuses to out grow its quaint, sylvan beauty. The ancient palaces and mansions, the cobbled streets belie the cultural progress made by the people of this beautiful place.Trichur or Thrissur as it is called locally, is well known for Vadakkunathan Temple, the Thrissur Pooram an annual festival held in the city, the Kerala Kala Mandalam, the Kerala Sahitya Academy and Kerala Sangeetha Nataka Academy.....more
Chalakkudy Dam
The Chalakudy dam lies 65 km east of Chalakudy town and it is constructed across the Chalakudy River in the Thrissur district, within the state of Kerala. This is also known as the Sholayar Dam. Chalakudy is both a city and a municipality in India. Athirappilly lies thirty kilometres from Chalakudy, which falls on the way to waterfalls. This route is a well-known tourist spot, where two water theme parks are the prime attraction. The name "Chalakudy" is taken from the word "Shalakudy" depicting a place where sacrifices were made. The tourists often visit this spot to enjoy the beauty of Athirappilly Water fall and Sholayar Dam, while on the way to Sholayar city.....more
Peechi Dam
Peechi is well known for Peechi Dam and located 23km from Thrissur. This dam project started as an irrigation project, offers boating facilities at the reservoir. Peechi is a fascinating picnic spot.Boating is permitted in the reservoir and on lucky days one can see wild tuskers on the forested banks, part of which forms a wildlife sanctuary .The Peechi-Vazhani Sanctuary has dense, moist deciduous and semi-evergreen forests is located in the catchment area of the Peechi and Vazhani dams.It is indeed a lifetime experience to go for a boating spree in the river and exploring the surrounding locales.....more
Peringalkuthu reservoir
Peringalkuthu Dam is located across the Chalakkudy River in Thrissur District. The dam is situated deep in the forest on the way to Valparai.Peringalkuthu dam and the uncontrolled inflow from 26 sq.km. of free catchment down stream of Peringalkuthu LB dam.Peringalkuthu & Sholayar Dams, Deep in the forest on the way to Valpara are the two dams that generate hydroelectric power to the state.The 23 m high gravity dam has a length of 290.25 m. The dam discharges the tailrace water into Kannamkuzhithodu, a tributary of the Chalakudy River.....more
Vazhani Dam
This Dam located in Wadakanchery, Thrissur District, Kerala, India, This is one biggest dam made purely of clay. The water of this dam is mainly used for irrigation and drinking. The Vazhani dam is an integral source of water for the people of the Thrissur district. Many renovations are being made to the Vazhani dam, in order to make it a tourist center. This is an earthen dam with a length of 792.48 metres standing across the Wadakkanchery River. The Vazhani dam stands 10 km away from Wadakkanchery town.....more
Shakthan Thampuran Palace
The Shakthan Thampuran Palace is located near Thrissur town of the Thrissur district. The Palace is a landmark in the chronicles of the Perumpadappu Swaroopam, the erstwhile ruling dynasty of Kochi. The palace located in the heart of Thrissur town is a major attraction, especially for those with a special interest in the history of rulers and dynasties. The Shakthan Thampuran Palace highlights several interesting and outstanding aspects of the former rulers of Kochi.This palace is a blend of traditional Kerala and Dutch architectural style. Formerly this palace was known as Vadakkechira Kovilakam The palace spread over six acres, This palace is named after King Rama Varma Shakthan Thampuran, who is the founder of Thrissur town.....more
Cheraman Jama Masjid
Cheraman Juma Masjid is situated in the Methala village of Kodungalloor Taluk,Thrissur, Kerala around 20 kilometres from the Irinjalakuda railway station. It was Founded in the seventh century, this is the first Juma masjid in India. This was Built in AD 629 , this is the first mosque in India and the second in the world where Juma prayers were started. Other places of interest nearby include Cheramanparambu, the ancient Thiruvanchikulam Temple, the Bhagavathi Temple and the Portuguese fort.This mosque bears a resemblance to Hindu temples as it was constructed using traditional architectural styles of the Hindus.....more
Chalakudy River
Chalakudy River or Chalakudy Puzha runs through Chalakudy town which is in the Thrissur District of Kerala state, south India.The river though has its origin in the Anamalai region of Tamilnadu, is actually a collection of some major tributaries originated from Parambikulam, Kuriyarkutti, Sholayar, Karapara and Anakayam. It is the 4th longest river in Kerala and its basin is between 10° 05’ to 10° 35’ North latitude and 76° 15’to 76° 55’ East longitude. This area is located in Thrissur, Ernakulam and Palakkad districts of Kerala.....more
Karuvanoor River
Karuvannur river is situated 48km from the city,Thrissur disrict, Kerala,It has a has a basin area of 1,050 km2 and a current population of 1.119 million. 42 km of Trichur Corporation falls within Karuvannur river basin and the balance 63 km 2 falls outside it. The water resources appraisal that has been made now is a significant improvement over earlier studies on the river basin. Surface water and groundwater have been considered in an integrated manner unlike in earlier studies where the two are considered separately.....more
Kurumali River
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Guruvayoor Temple
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Siva Temple at Avittathur
Avittathur Shiva Temple, a 1000-year-old shrine, is located 4 km from Irinjalakuda, in Thrissur District, Kerala. It is devoted to Lord Shiva. Its outer walls are graced with beautiful paintings depicting scenes from the epics.A ten-day-festival is held here annually. The major attractionis Thidampu Ezhunnallathu, which is conducted on the ninth day of the festival. The festival concludes with the Aarattu. The outer wall of the temple shrine has beautiful paintings depicting scenesfrom the epics.....more
Vadakkumnathan Temple
The famous Vadakkumnathan temple is located in Thrissur, Kerala, South India. A very big temple in 10 acres is said to have been built by Parasurama, Vadukkumnnatha is a prominent Shiva temple, in downtown Thrissur. This is one of Kerala's most ancient shrines, which also houses a museum of ancient wall paintings, wood carvings and art pieces of immense historical value.In a land crowded with several better-than-the-last temples, The Vadakkumnathan temple stands out as one of the oldest temples in the state of Kerala.....more
Athirappilly Waterfall
Athirappally Waterfalls is located 78 kms from Kochi (Cochin), located at the entrance to Sholayar ranges, this waterfall is a popular picnic spot. Affording to the onlookers, one of the most bewitching sights, Athirappally Falls is about 80 feet high and located in the forest area. Combined with the greenery, it infuses freshness into any tired soul. The Athirapally Falls join the Chalakkudy River after plummeting a drop of 80 feet.A tranquil and much needed escape from the troubles and stress of life.....more
Vazhachal Waterfall
Vazhachal Falls is a rushing waterbody joining Chalakkudy River in the Thrissur district of Kerala,just are just 3 kms from Athirappilly. Vazchachal Falls are the most beautiful falls in India. With Huge trees and forest on one side of the falls, the beauty of the Vazachal Falls increases ten fold. Near the Falls, there is the Forest called the Vazhachal Forest. Vazhachal as a place is a natures landscape. The nearness of the Falls to this beauty, makes them look more beautifuland attractive.....more