Thiruvallavazh Sri Srivallapa Temple, Kerala

Address

Thiruvallavazh Sri Srivallapa Temple,Temple Road, Kizhakummuri,Sree Vallabhapuram, Thiruvalla, Kerala 689102

Deity

Sreevallabhanm,Kolapran, Amman: Selva thirukozhndu devi

Introduction

• • Sreevallabha Temple is dedicated to Lord Sreevallabhan and is one of the oldest and largest temples in Kerala.
  • Located in Thiruvalla, it is known for its architectural grandeur and unique customs.
  • The temple is one of the 108 Divya Desams and has been praised in ancient texts by Alvars.
  • Kathakali is performed daily as an offering at the temple.
  • The temple’s deity is Sreevallabhan, worshipped by Lakshmi and Krishna, and was installed in 59 BC.
  • Sage Durvasa and Saptarishis are believed to visit the temple at midnight.
• Puranic Significance:
  • Thiruvalla was once part of 64 Namboothiri villages and is one of the oldest human settlements in India.
  • The temple for Sudarshana Chakra was built in 2998 BC.
  • Sreevallabha Temple was rebuilt in 59 BC by Queen Cherumthevi.
  • It became a major spiritual and educational center by AD 1100, with a Vedic school and an Ayurvedic hospital.
  • Tamil Vaishnavite saints like Nammalvar and Thirumangai Alvar praised the temple.
  • Other works, including the Thiruvalla inscriptions and Unnuneeli Sandesam, glorified the temple’s fame and status.
• Special Features:
  • The temple covers 8.5 acres and is surrounded by red granite compound walls built in 57 BC.
  • A big pond, a Kathakali platform, and unique structural features like the oottupura dining hall and the position of the temple guard are found here.
  • The Garuda Dhvaja Sthambam (flagstaff) is a major highlight, a 53.5-foot monolithic structure built in 57 BC, with a Garuda idol on top.
  • Other notable features include a self-originated pond (Jalavanthi), the resting place for priests, and the Kurayappa Swamy shrine.
• Festivals:
  • Two main festivals: Thiru Uthsavam and Uthra Sreebali.
  • Thiru Uthsavam lasts for ten days, ending with the Pushya Nakshatra in the Malayalam month of Kumbham (February-March).

Century/Period/Age

1000-2000 years old

Managed By

Travancore Devasthanam Board

Nearest Bus Station

Thiruvallavazh

Nearest Railway Station

Pathanamthitta

Nearest Airport

Kochi

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