Ettumanoor Temple
Ettumanoor temple is one of Kozhikode regions well known and highly frequented shrines. This 16th century temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and its Gopuram and fortress were built in 1542 AD.
Like all famous temples in Kerala, Ettumanoor too exhibits beautiful and rich sculptures and mural paintings. Depicting scenes from Ramayana and Bhagwata Gita, the carvings enhance the beauty and spiritual realm of the temple. A fine example of traditional Kerala architecture style, the temple is dotted with several murals and carvings, the most beautiful of which is the Nat raja (the dancing Shiva).
Almost all temples in Kerala organize an annual festival when the devotional excitement and activities is their peak. Ettumanoor temple is no different either and its annual ‘Ezharaponnaana Ezhunallathu’ festival draws huge number of devotees from all parts of the country.
Apart from Lord Shiva, other deities worshipped here are Ganapathy, Sasta and Bhagwati.According to legends, Adi Sankaracharya-the great philosopher wrote some of his best work meditating at this temple. The conical roof of the central shrine is covered with copper and it is regarded as one of Kerala's wealthiest Devaswom(temple management). The shrine is located at a distance of 12 km from Kottayam town.
Best time to visit
October to March
How to reach
By Air: Cochin International Airport at a distance of 64 km is the nearest one.
By Rail: Kottayam railway station is just 2 km away
By Waterways: The Ferries station is just 3 km from the shrine. Regular services to backwater destinations including Aleppey, Ambalapuzha, Chempakulam are available.
