Kilimarathukavu Shiva Parvati Temple- Kerala

Address

Kilimarathukavu Shiva Parvati Temple- Kadalkkal, Koolam District, Kerala-691536

Deity

Shiva Amman: Parvati

Introduction

• Location: Kadakkal, Kollam, Kerala, India.
• Significance: One of the most famous centuries-old temples in South India.
• Deities:
  • Two Lord Shiva deities: main Shiva and Mahanadan.
  • Largest cult image of Dharma Sastha (Lord Ayyappan).
  • Unique elliptical Navagraha temple.
• Temple Practices: Strictly followed puja routines.

Puranic Significance

• Historical Background:
  • Believed to be thousands of years old; previous temple destroyed, only idols remained.
  • Renovation completed in the 21st century, with daily poojas restarted.
  • Under the control of the Travancore Devasom Board since 2011.
• Legend of Arjuna:
  • During the Pandavas’ exile, Arjuna sought the Pashupatastra from Lord Shiva.
  • Meditated at the “Kilimaram” tree after being guided by a bird.
  • Encountered Lord Shiva and Parvati in disguise during his ascension.
  • Received blessings and the Pashupatastra from Lord Shiva.
  • Two Shivalingams were established, worshipped to this day.

Special Features

• Deities:
  • Lord Shiva: Main deity is Ardhanarishvaran, and Mahanadan is another.
  • Sree Parvathy: Special “Kunkumam” pooja; Navarathri is the main festival.
  • Lord Murugan: Located near Shiva; main festival is Skandha Shashti.
  • Lord Ayyappa: Believed to have the largest deity of Shastha in India.
  • Lord Hanuman: Unique temple located in the center of the temple pond.
  • Lord Ganapathy: Near Shiva and Parvathy; receives special homams.
  • Nagathara: Lord of snakes; Ayilya pooja held on every Ayilam.
  • Navagraha Temple: Built in an elliptical shape; completed in February 2021.

Festivals

• Shivaratri: Celebrated in Kumbham (Malayalam month).
• Navarathri: Celebrated in Kanni (Malayalam month).
• Skandha Shashti: Celebrated in Thulim (Malayalam month).
• Mandalavilakku: Celebrated in Vrischikam (Malayalam month).

Century/Period/Age

1000- Years old

Managed By

Travancore Devaswom Board.

Nearest Bus Station

Kilimarathukavu

Nearest Railway Station

Varkala

Nearest Airport

Thiruvananthapuram

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