History:

Vaikom Mahadevar Temple is one of the oldest and most renowned temples in Kerala, located in the small town of Vaikom in Kottayam district. It is said to be the first temple built and consecrated by Parasurama, the sixth incarnation of Lord Vishnu, after reclaiming land from the Arabian Sea. As per legends, it is believed that Parasurama used his axe to break away the land from the sea and created Kerala. The presiding deity of this temple is Lord Shiva, represented by the'lingam' and popularly known as Mahadeva. The main shrine in the temple complex is the sanctum sanctorum, the Koothambalam, dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is well known for its traditional rituals and festivals, and various cultural and religious activities are conducted by the devotees here. The annual festival of Vaikom Mahadevar Temple is celebrated in the month of Vrischikam in Keralite calendar (November-December). Thousands of devotees visit the temple to receive blessings from the presiding deity during this time. The temple is also known for its art and architecture, and is visited by many devotees and historians throughout the year. It is one of the best temple in Kerala which you must visit.

Facts:

1. The Vaikom Mahadev Temple is one of the most famous and important temples of Kerala. 2. It is located in the heart of Vaikom town in the Kottayam district. 3. Vaikom Mahadev is a form of Lord Shiva, and is revered and adored by Hindus. 4. Legends say that it was Lord Shiva himself who installed the Shiva Linga which is worshipped in the temple. 5. As per belief, the town has been named after the deity. 6. One of the most important festivals of the temple is 'Mahashivaratri', which is celebrated with great enthusiasm in the months of February-March every year. 7. The sacred Ganges water is supposed to reach Vaikom on this day, and is a spectacular sight to watch. 8. Devotees from various parts of India come to the Vaikom Mahadev temple to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva. 9. The temple is one of the ancient Siva temples of Kottayam and is believed to be constructed more than 2000 years ago. 10. Many devotees throng the temple, requesting the God to answer their prayers. Here are some facts about the Kerala temple.These facts will help you understand why it is oldest temple list of the best temples in Kerala

Worship Method:

The Vaikom Mahadevar temple in Kerala follows the Kerala style of worship, which involves a basic five-step ritual. This includes a puja of the shlokas given in the Thiruvaymozhi, an offering of Perum Palliyunarath, vedic chanting and arati, flower offerings and the application of sandalwood paste and vibhuti, the final offering of the prasada. This is completed with the recital of aarti. It is common for devotees to perform a parayanam (reading of the scriptures) in the main temple as part of their worship. Devotees are also encouraged to do pujas at the nearby pond and riverbanks as part of this traditional worship. This most visited temple in Kerala

Opening Timing:

? The Vaikom Mahadev Temple opens at 4.30 am and closes at 9.30 pm. top temples in Kerala

How to reach:

? Vaikom Mahadevar Temple is situated in Kottayam district in the state of Kerala, India. By Air: The nearest airport to Vaikom Mahdavar temple is Cochin International Airport (COK), which is located 56 km away. By Rail: The nearest railway station to Vaikom Mahadevar temple is Kottyam (KTYM), located 19 km away. By Road: Vaikom Mahadevar temple is well connected with major cities by road. The temple is connected with Kottayam which is 16 Km from temple. There are regular bus services from Kottayam to Vaikom. famous temples in Kerala