History:

dates back to the beginning of the 19th century. It is the oldest temple in Thrissur district of Kerala. It was built by the devotee late Raja Kesava swami along with his followers in 1821 and is entirely dedicated to Lord Ganapathi. It is a unique temple, because by tradition the temple is named for a female deity, Sree Shivashakthi Mahaganapathi. The idol of Lord Ganapathi is accompanied by four goddesses – Shri Bhadrakali, Shri Bala Bhadra, Shri Mahalakshmi, and Saraswathi. The temple also houses several small shrines of other Hindu gods and goddesses. The temple is known for its annual eight day festival, which is celebrated in the month of Kumbham (February/March). During this festival, devotees from all over Kerala come to worship Lord Ganapathi and other deities. The temple is also popular for its special rituals which involve various forms of offering including abhishekam, Pattu, Ganapathi Homam, Punyahavachanam etc. The devotees also perform circumambulation of the temple, which is believed to bring good luck. Apart from the religious aspect, Sree Shivashakthi Mahaganapathi Temple is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, unique architecture, and vibrant festivities. During the annual festival, cultural events such as musical performances, puppet shows, and drama performances are held to entertain the devotees and visitors. It is one of the best temple in Kerala which you must visit.

Facts:

1. The Sree Shivashakthi Mahaganapathy Temple is located in Vaikom, Kerala, India. 2. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and his consort Parvati. 3. The temple complex is believed to have been constructed by sage Parasurama in the 16th Century. 4. It is said to be as ancient as the Travancore royal family and was patronized by the royal family of Venad. 5. The main deity of the temple is Lord Mahaganapathy (Lord Shiva), flanked by two Goddesses - Jagat Janani (Parvati) and Vanambika (Kali). 6. The temple is known to be one of the most powerful temples in South India, and is also referred to as ‘Vaikom Muruga’. 7. The temple is famous for its annual festival which is celebrated in the month of Vrichikam (November). 8. During the festival, thousands of devotees from across the country gather here to witness the grand procession of Lord Shiva. 9. The temple is associated with the famous Vaikom Satyagraha, a non-violent social reform movement led by Mahatma Gandhi to ensure equal rights for all sections of society, with the temple premises serving as a meeting point for the protesters. 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 worship methods at the Sree Shivashakthi Mahaganapathi Temple in Kerala consists of various forms of Hindu rituals and traditional practices. These include puja or offering of prayers to the deity, abhisheka or pouring of holy water on the deity, archana or offering of flowers and devotionals, ringing of the temple bells, yaga or sacrificial offerings, homa or offering of holy fire and mantras, havan or making offerings of ghee, and various others. It also includes the participation in the Hindu festivals like Sivaratri, Navaratri, Masi Magam, and Vishu. On the day of Siva Rathri, specially prepared sweets such as laddu (a deep fried sweet), appam and paal (white porridge) are offered. These are accompanied by kalasam (an offering made by relatives of the worshipper) and bhajan (devotional songs). This most visited temple in Kerala

Opening Timing:

The temple is open for all devotees between 5.30 am to 8 pm. top temples in Kerala

How to reach:

Sree Shivashakthi Mahaganapathi Temple is located in Kanjoor, Kochi, Kerala. The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport, which is about 17 Km away from the temple. The nearest railway station is Aluva Railway Station, which is about 13 Km away from the temple. There are regular bus services from various parts of the city to Kanjoor, from which the temple is about 5 Km away. famous temples in Kerala