What are the special events at the temple?

Mahashivratri and Azhimala Utsavam are the two major festivals celebrated at the Azhimala Shiva Temple. Held in February or March, Mahashivratri is celebrated with great energy and puja rituals happening within the temple premises. Azhimala Utsavam, on the other hand, is celebrated during the Malayalam month of Makaram as the major event.

Are there food and transportation facilities easily available near the Azhimala temple?

Yes, food and transportation facilities are available. There are vegetarian restaurants available near the temple. Public buses run from Thiruvananthapuram to the temple, and those heading to Poovar require a short walk. The temple is around 27 km from Thiruvananthapuram and 7 km from Kovalam, accessible by car or taxi.

What is the history of the Azhimala temple?

The Azhimala Shiva Temple dates back to the 8th century and is linked to the Pandya dynasty. It is named after "Azhi" (sea) and "Mala" (hill). A legend connects it to Bhima from the Mahabharata, who created a water source for Draupadi. The temple is a revered Shaivism center on a scenic coastal cliff. This is also a place where the Pandavas spent their exile for a certain period.

Kerala

Azhimala Shiva Temple, Kerala

About Azhimala Shiva Temple

Opening Hours: Morning: 05:00 AM to 09:00 AM; Evening: 05:00 PM to 09:00 PM

Prime Day & Hours: Monday

Suggested Duration:

Tickets: Available offline

Nearest Railway Station: Thiruvananthapuram Central Railway Station, about 22 KM away

Nearest Airport: Trivandrum International Airport, about 27 KM away

Nearest Bus Stop: Aazhimala Bus Stop, about 6 KM away

The Aazhimala Shiva Temple is located near the Poovar-Vizhinjam road, Thiruvanantapuram, Kerala, and is home to the tallest Lord Shiva statue in Kerala. Counted among the must-see places to visit in Kerala, the temple is believed to have been built during the Pandya dynasty in the 8th century AD. The temple is also one of the main centers of worship for Hindus, where they can worship the supreme deity, Lord Shiva.

The statue of Lord Shiva, known as Gangadhareshwara Statue or Aazhimala Shiva statue, is 52ft high and was sculpted by PS. Devananthan. After 6 years of construction, the statue was dedicated to public worship on December 31st, 2021, and depicts Lord Shiva and goddess Ganga flowing from his head.

The temple is also surrounded by a pond named Sivaganga, adding to the temple’s peaceful environment. The interiors of the temple are adorned with beautiful paintings and sculptures, depicting scenes from the Hindu mythology. Apart from the temple, Aazhimala is also known for its location as it is a hilltop surrounded by dense forest and offers panoramic views of the sea and lush green areas nearby.

Day Wise Timings

Burj Khalifa opening hours through the week.

Open 7 days a week

Free entry

Monday17:00 – 20:00, 05:30 – 11:00

Tuesday17:00 – 20:00, 05:30 – 11:00

Wednesday17:00 – 20:00, 05:30 – 11:00

Thursday17:00 – 20:00, 05:30 – 11:00

Friday17:00 – 20:00, 05:30 – 11:00

Saturday17:00 – 20:00, 05:30 – 11:00

Sunday05:30 – 20:30

Hours are seasonal — confirm your date at checkout. Special events may extend closing time.

Azhimala Shiva Temple Highlights

• Step into Azhimala Shiva Temple, Kerala, which offers a glimpse into ancient architecture and sculptures from the 8th century AD.
• Explore the 8th-century Azhimala temple, linked to the Pandya Dynasty, and connect with the spiritual and historical essence.
• Visit the sacred Kaneerkuzhy water source, which is tied to Bhima from the Mahabharata.
• Marvel at the 58ft tall statue of Lord Shiva, known as Gangadhareshwara sculpture, the tallest in Kerala.

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Point of Interest for Azhimala Shiva Temple

Participate in Naranga Vilakku Ritual:

Experience local traditions by participating in the Naranga Vilakku ritual. This unique offering involves lighting lamps placed inside halved oranges, a practice believed to fulfill wishes and bring prosperity. The fragrant citrus scent, combined with the flickering flames, creates a serene and devotional atmosphere, offering a tangible connection to the temple's ancient customs.

Shop Local goods

Shop for temple goods from the local shops to worship and carry along a memory of your beautiful visit. Kerala is also known for its spices, tea plantations, and do not forget to bring home the goodness Kerala has to offer.

Admire the architecture

Temple architecture is a thing for people to behold. Being a temple belonging to the south of India, rich in architectural culture, the Aazhimala temple is a treat for the eyes, housing beautiful architecture.

Azhimala Shiva Temple FAQs

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