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1 The Definitive Pilgrimage Guide to Chottanikkara Temple

The Definitive Pilgrimage Guide to Chottanikkara Temple

Chottanikkara Temple, located in the serene outskirts of Ernakulam, Kerala, is often referred to as the “Bhooloka Vaikuntam” (Heaven on Earth). This ancient shrine, dedicated to Goddess Bhagavathi, stands as a beacon of hope and healing for millions of devotees. As the Lead Heritage Architect and SEO Strategist for bharattemples.com, I present this comprehensive guide to help you navigate the spiritual, architectural, and logistical aspects of this sacred destination.

Date built:	–
Deity:	–
Architectural style:	–
Major festivals	–
Locale:	Chottanikkara
District::	Ernakulam
Address:	Chottanikkara, Ernakulam, Kerala 682312
Phone	04842711032

Introduction & Spiritual Essence

The Chottanikkara Temple is a unique Shakti Peetham where the Goddess is revered in three distinct forms throughout the day. This temple is not merely a structure of stone and wood but a living energy center known for miraculous healing.

Primary Deity & Forms

The central deity is Sree Bhagavathi (Mahalakshmi). Unlike many other shrines, the idol here changes attire and form based on the time of day, representing the cosmic cycle of creation, preservation, and destruction:

Morning (6:00 AM – 12:00 PM): Maha Saraswati (Goddess of Knowledge), draped in white.
Afternoon (12:00 PM – 4:30 PM): Maha Lakshmi (Goddess of Wealth), draped in crimson.
Evening (6:30 PM onwards): Maha Kali (Goddess of Destruction of Evil), draped in blue.

Phalaśruti: The Benefits of Visiting

According to the Skanda Purana and local tradition, visiting Chottanikkara yields profound spiritual merit. It is particularly renowned for:

Mental Healing: Devotees suffering from mental afflictions and stress find solace here. It is believed that the Goddess cures her devotees of “Raktha Dosham” (sins accumulated through bloodline).
Removal of Obstables: Performing the Guruthi Pooja at the nearby Keezhkavu temple removes negative energies and ancestral curses.
Divine Union: Since Lord Vishnu resides here with Goddess Lakshmi, the temple is considered highly auspicious for marital harmony.

Historical Origins & Scriptural Legend

The history of Chottanikkara is a blend of Vedic scriptural references and fascinating local folklore (Sthala Purana).

The Legend of Kannappan and the Divine Stones

Tradition holds that centuries ago, the temple site was a dense forest inhabited by a tribal chieftain named Kannappan, a devotee of Kali who performed animal sacrifices. One Friday, intending to sacrifice a black calf, his daughter intervened. Shortly after, the daughter died, and in his grief, Kannappan discovered two divine stones where the calf had stood. A local priest performed a Devaprasnam (astrological divination) and identified these stones as representations of Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi. This spot became the sanctum of the temple.

The Adi Shankara Connection

Another revered legend attributes the temple’s prominence to Adi Shankaracharya. It is said that Shankara wished to bring the Goddess to Kerala so the elderly would not have to travel to the Kodachadri Hills in Karnataka. He mediated there, and the Goddess agreed to follow him on the condition that he never look back. When he heard her anklets stop, he turned around. She paused at a spot which later became the Mookambika Temple in Kodachadri. However, as a compromise, the Goddess promised to appear at Chottanikkara every morning before the doors of Mookambika opened.

Architectural Marvels

The temple is a masterpiece of traditional Kerala architecture, blending Dravidian and Nagara styles. The construction reflects the ancient Vishwakarma Sthapathis (wooden sculpture traditions).

Structural Elements

Wooden Sanctum: The Sreekovil (sanctum) is built with polished wooden logs, designed to resist the humid tropical climate of Kerala.
Mandapas: The temple features expansive Nalambalam (covered corridors) and a Mukhamandapam (front hall) that house intricate wood carvings depicting stories from the Puranas.
Keezhkavu Shrine: Located slightly away from the main complex, this shrine houses the fierce form of Bhadrakali. The architecture here is distinct, focusing on the Ugra (fierce) aspect of the deity.

While the temple is not a UNESCO site, it is protected and maintained by the Travancore Devaswom Board, preserving its ancient heritage.

Darshan & Ritual Logistics

To ensure a smooth spiritual experience, it is vital to be aware of the timings and rituals. The temple follows the Malayalam calendar for festivals.

Daily Timings

Note: Temple timings may vary slightly during festival seasons and special occasions.

Time Slot	Event	Description
04:00 AM – 04:30 AM	Nada Opening	Morning cleaning and rituals.
04:30 AM – 12:00 PM	Morning Darshan	Deity in Saraswati form. Best time for students.
12:00 PM – 12:30 PM	Noon Pooja	Deity switches to Lakshmi form.
12:30 PM – 16:30 PM	Afternoon Darshan	Continued darshan (closed for noon rest).
16:30 PM – 18:00 PM	**Aravana & Deeparadhana**	Break for temple closure and offering preparation.
18:00 PM – 21:00 PM	Evening Darshan	Deity in Kali form. Includes Guruthi Pooja.
21:30 PM	*Thiruvabharanam*	Closure of sanctum doors.

Key Sevas & Online Booking

The Travancore Devaswom Board manages bookings. For 2026, devotees are encouraged to book in advance via the official portal.

Abhishekam: Performed daily at 10:00 AM. Special ingredients include tender coconut water and rosewater.
Archana: Can be performed in Malayalam or Sanskrit.
Guruthi Pooja: The most powerful ritual performed at Keezhkavu. Booking is mandatory due to high demand. It is performed after 20:00 PM.

2026 Festival Highlights

Makam Thozhal (February 2026): The most important festival. The deity is adorned with full golden ornaments. The temple courtyard is filled with devotees chanting “Amma.”
Navaratri (October 2026): Nine nights of special poojas, cultural programs, and the Vidyarambham ceremony for children.
Thiruonam (August 2026): Celebrated with grand Sadya (feast) and cultural festivities.

Practical Visitor Guidance

To maintain the sanctity of the temple and ensure a comfortable visit, please adhere to the following guidelines.

Dress Code & Etiquette

Attire: Traditional Indian wear is preferred. Men should wear dhotis or full-length trousers; women should wear sarees or salwar kameez. Avoid shorts and sleeveless tops.
Photography: Strictly prohibited inside the sanctum and the Keezhkavu shrine.
Mobile Phones: Electronic devices must be switched off or kept in silent mode. Lockers are available near the entrance.

Accessibility & Crowd Management

Best Hours to Visit: For a peaceful darshan, visit between 6:00 AM and 8:00 AM. Evenings are generally crowded due to the Guruthi Pooja.

Accessibility: The temple has ramps for wheelchair access to the main courtyard, though the inner sanctum requires stepping over a small threshold. An Anjaneya Swamy temple is located at the entrance, marking the start of the pilgrimage.

Pilgrimage Connectivity

Chottanikkara is well-connected to the rest of Kerala, making it accessible for pilgrims from all over India.

How to Reach

By Air: Cochin International Airport (COK) is approximately 30 km away. Taxis and airport shuttle buses are available directly to the temple.
By Rail: The nearest major railway station is Ernakulam South (ERS) (approx. 20 km). Local buses and auto-rickshaws are easily available.
By Road: The temple is located off the Aluva – Kalamassery Highway (NH 544). It is a short drive from the Edappally junction. State-run KSRTC buses ply frequently from Ernakulam city.

Nearby Sacred Sites (Pilgrimage Circuit)

Vaishno Devi Temple, Chottanikkara: Located very close to the main temple, this shrine replicates the Vaishno Devi shrine in Jammu.
Edappally Shri Gowreesha Temple: Famous for the Navaratri festival and located near the Edappally junction.
Kodungallur Bhagavathy Temple: About 35 km away, this is another major Shakti shrine in Kerala with a distinct ritualistic history.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Is there a VIP Darshan entry available?

Yes, the temple offers a Sowparnika Darshan (paid darshan) which allows devotees to bypass the general queue. Tickets can be purchased at the counter near the entrance. Online booking for VIP darshan is available via the Devaswom website.

2. Can non-Hindus visit Chottanikkara Temple?

While entry to the main sanctum is traditionally restricted to Hindus, the outer areas and the courtyard are often accessible to all visitors. However, specific poojas and offerings inside the sanctum are reserved for Hindus.

3. What is the significance of the Guruthi Pooja?

The Guruthi Pooja is performed at the Keezhkavu shrine to invoke Goddess Mahakali. It is believed to cleanse severe negative energies and mental illnesses. It is a powerful ritual and is performed every evening at 7:30 PM.

4. Is accommodation available near the temple?

Yes, there are numerous guesthouses run by the Devaswom Board and private hotels in Chottanikkara and nearby Edappally. It is advisable to book accommodation in advance during the Makam Thozhal festival.

5. What is the best time to visit to avoid crowds?

Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends. The best time for a peaceful darshan is early morning (4:30 AM – 6:00 AM) or late afternoon (3:00 PM – 4:30 PM).

Photo Gallery

Contact Details

Official Address: Chottanikkara Devaswom, Chottanikkara, Ernakulam, Kerala – 682312

Contact Number: 0484 271 1032

Administrative Office: Devaswom Board, Sree Padmanabha Swamy Temple, Thiruvananthapuram.

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