Palakkad, titled as the 'Rice bowl of Kerala' is one of the scenic places of the state with its stretches of palm trees and paddy fields. However, the place also has many temples to flaunt.
Let us take a look at some of the ancient temples in Palakkad that are worth a visit on your next trip to this beautiful land.
Emoor Bhagavathy Temple
Emoor Bhagavathy Temple, also known as Kallekulangara Bhagavathy Kshethram, is one of the ancient temples in Kerala. Also known as Hemambika Temple of Kaipathi Ambalam (the temple of the hand), this temple is one of the 4 Ambika Temples in South India. Interestingly, only the Goddess' hands are worshipped here. To know more about this ancient temple, click here.
Panniyoor Sri Varahamoorthy Temple
This is the only temple in Kerala that worships the 'Varaha' avatar of Lord Vishnu. Around 4000 years old, the temple was built by Parashurama. Located in Kumbidi village in Palakkad, the other deities worshipped here are Lord Shiva, Ayyappa, Durga, Ganesha, Subramanya and Lakshmi Narayan.
PC: Mahesh K
Sri Ayyappan Kavu Temple
Being one of the historical temples of Kerala, Sri Ayyappan Kavu Temple is located in Cheruppulasseri, around 40km from Palakkad city. This 1000 year old temple is also known as Women's Sabarimala, Malabar's Sabarimala and Valluvanad's Sabarimala. Along with Lord Ayyappa, the other deities like Ganesha. Navagrahas, Sri brahma Rakshassu and Nagaraja are worshipped here.
Thiruvalathur Randu Moorthy Temple
This temple is located around 7km from Palakkad city, on Chittoor road. Being one of the ancient temples in Kerala, it is known for its historical relevance. Believed to have been found by Parasurama, the temple worships two deities - Mahisasuramardhini and Annapurneswari. The temple is spread across two hectares of land, and is known for its impressive architecture and sculptures.
PC: Temple website
Sri Ramaswamy Temple (Dakshina Ayodhya)
This temple in Palakkad has one of the rarest idols of Lord Rama. The figure is of the Lord who was seen on the shores of river Sarayu, just before his ascent to heaven. It is also believed that he was accompanied by his companion Lord Hanuman. The temple is also known as Karimpuzha Sriramaswamy Temple.