Wayanad - Thirunelly Temple

Wayanad - Thirunelly Temple

Thirunelly Temple - a 3000-year-old temple, placed in a serene and calm abode on the side of Brahmagiri hill in Kerala-Karnataka border, is an ancient pilgrimage centre that attracts a large number of devotees annually. Thirunelly Temple is dedicated to Lord Maha Vishnu and is one of the most popular temples in Wayanad.

Thirunelly Temple holds a unique distinction - it's the only temple in the world where devotees can perform rituals for every stage of life, from birth to death, and even for the afterlife. This characteristic has earned it the moniker "Sahyamala Kshetram," meaning "the abode of all rituals." The sacred Papanasini stream where the temple rituals are often performed, believed to possess the power to absolve sins, flows nearby, adding to the temple's spiritual aura. The holy rock within the temple complex, where devotees perform rites for their ancestors, is believed to be a part of a demon's bone, further adding to the temple's mystique.

Unlike most temples dedicated to a single deity, Thirunelly Temple offers a unique opportunity to venerate the divine trinity - Lord Vishnu, Lord Shiva, and Lord Brahma. The main sanctum houses Lord Vishnu as the presiding deity, revered as "Chaturbhuja" (four-armed). A separate cave temple, Gunnika, on the western side, enshrines Lord Shiva. Legends claim that Lord Brahma himself installed the idol of Lord Vishnu, further solidifying the temple's divine connection.

The Thirunelly Temple in Wayanad is an admirable specimen of classical Kerala temple architecture. The holy temple pond, known as Panchatheertham has an impression of Lord Vishnu's feet known as Vishnupad, on a stone slab which is placed at the centre of the pond. Another notable feature is the granite lamp post and cubical-shaped granite pillars adorning the outer wall, a distinct element compared to standard Kerala architecture. Copper plates unearthed recently offer a glimpse into the temple's rich history, detailing land allotments and expenses incurred during construction. The "Unniyachi Charitham," a renowned work of poetry, also provides an elaborate description of the Thirunelly Temple in Wayanad.

Visitors can explore the temple's intricate architecture, participate in rituals, and take a dip in the holy Panchatheertham tank. The serene surroundings of the Brahmagiri hills offer picturesque spots for photography, making Thirunelly Temple a favourite among photography enthusiasts. Additionally, guided tours provide insights into the temple's history, legends, and cultural significance.

A visit to Thirunelly Temple promises a unique and unforgettable experience. For pilgrims, the chance to bathe in the Papanasini stream and seek blessings from the holy trinity makes Thirunelly Temple a pilgrimage of immense significance.