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Vilwadrinatha Temple in Thrissur

Of the many temples situated in Thiruvilwamala, the Vilwadrinatha Temple is one of the most well-known and important. This temple in the Talappilly Taluk of Thrissur derives its grand prominence owing to its rich historical and cultural roots in the discourse and literature of temples in the southern states of India. In addition to its historical significance, the Vilwadrinatha temple region has received the generous gifts of natural beauty in abundance. The place is famous for its serene and picturesque beauty.

Vilwadrinatha Temple in Thrissur

History of Vilwadrinatha Temple

As is observed with all things ancient, the Vilwadrinatha Temple has numerous legends associated with its deities and the course of its establishment.

The most popular legend related to this temple built centuries ago is derived from a Sanskrit document in 18 chapters, which describes the origins of this age-old temple. The text, called “Sri Vilwadri Mahatmya”records a dialogue (or rather, a duologue) between God Shiva and Goddess Parvati. The conversation is about how Bhargava Rama, in the avatar of Parasurama is summoned in pleas of freedom by a devout worshipper. Pleased with his prayers, Parameswara blessed him with an idol in the form of Lord Vishnu that He used to workship himself. It was here that Parasurama, came across the beautiful land of Vilwadri in his quest to search for an appropriate place to consecrate his deity. Thereafter, he consecreated the temple deity. The clearing where he finally settled down is called Bhutan Mala to date.

A legend also goes that on a particular day of Ekadasi, the evil Asura Kumbhanasika had attempted to tamper with the image in the sanctum from the west side, and Lord Mahavishnu then made an appearance and flung Kumbhanasika and the other band of Asuras (demons) to the southern side. Here is where they also got locked up. This particular place is what is referred to as the “rakshasapara” today.

Another popular belief talks about a passageway in the cave, found near the Peepal Tree close the temple's eastern gateway. The underground passageway is, however, now sealed. It is said it was done after the story of a priest passing through the pathway after his worship, encountered a young woman walking in front of him, holding up a light to him.

Architecture and Natural Beauty of Vilwadrinatha Temple

The flowing Bharatapuzha river and the looming hills in the background of the temple add natural beauty to this region. These hills, known as Vilwamala, are the reason why Lord Sreerama is also called Vilwadrinathan.

Many hundreds of years ago, the Temple had two “Gopurams”. The prominent temple tank is situated to the North of the main shrine. However, in the premises of the temple, there exists no well (which is actually an oddity). This water tank serves as the source of water required for all temple pujas and other rituals. For this reason, to maintain its sanctity, strict measures are taken to ensure it remains pollution-free.

Important Temple Festivals

Ekadashi and Niramala.

How to Reach Vilwadrinatha Temple in Thrissur

The Thrissur Railway station is at a distance of approximately 50 kilometers from Tuvilwamala, and is easliy accessible by road. One can opt for a taxi, autorikshaw, cab, or hire a car (with or without a driver) from one of the agencies giving cars on rent close to the Thrissur station. The nearest airport to the Viwadirnatha Temple is the Cochi International Airport (90.2 Kms) and Calicut Airport, Mannapuram, and the airport is well-connected to the temple by means of road transport.

Address: Vilwadrinatha Temple, Temple Rd, Thiruvilwamala, Kerala 680588

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