Click it and Unblock the Notifications
Thiruvalla is a small, quiet town nestled on the banks of river Manimala in the Pathanamthitta district of Kerala. It is known as a ‘Temple Town' and is rich with its history and culture that stand tied to its numerous temples. Thiruvalla attracts tourists and worshippers from all over the nation as the legendary ‘Sri Vallabha Temple' also known as the ‘Southern Tirupati', is located here.
Thiruvalla has many stories and legends kept in its cultural folds. There is a story behind everything associated with this place, be it the temples, festivals or even its name. Here is a guide to the places you must visit when travelling to the town of Thiruvalla.
Sri Vallabha Temple
One of the places to visit in Thiruvalla is the Sri Vallabha Temple which is also known as Southern Tirupati. The ancient idols carved here are mostly out of a single rock, with numerous delicate patterns and murals on them. Sri Vallabha Temple is distinct from the rest as it is the only temple in Kerala where Kathakali is performed every single day as a manner of ritual. Such is the grandeur of this temple that even individuals who are not devotees of Vishnu would be in awe of the sculptures and architecture. The 50 feet long flag post with an idol of Lord Garuda which is carved out of a single stone is indeed an architectural wonder.
The Sri Vallabha Temple.
Photo Courtesy: Dvellakat
Paliakkara Church
A tourist place to visit in Thiruvalla is the Paliakkara church which is a place of worship for the Syrian Christians. The history of this church is dated back to the arrival of St. Thomas to Kerala in 54 A.D. The uniqueness of its architecture and the breathtaking beauty of its sculptures, especially the murals on the eastern wall of the altar are the main attractions. Among the carved latticed walls of this church lie many tales of struggles embarked to establish and spread religion and to undertake various social movements.
Kaviyoor Mahadeva Temple
Another place to visit in Thiruvalla is the Kaviyoor Mahadeva Temple which is the oldest Shiva temple in Kerala. This temple is famous for its one of its kind gable style of architecture. It is characterised by the building with a triangle formed by the slanting of roof. Built over 100 years ago, this temple is among oldest temples of South India and is commonly called as Thrikkaviyoor Mahadeva Temple. Devotees swarm to Kaviyoor in the months of December and January during the temple festival and also during the Hanuman Jayanti. The ancient carvings gracing the walls of this temple belong to the 16 century and are mostly texts from the epic scriptures of the Ramayana and Mahabharata. One can observe the extensive use of wood in the buildings of the temple. This unique structure with ancient carvings is truly an architectural marvel and will delight any traveller.
A look at the Kaviyoor Mahadeva Temple.
Photo Courtesy: RajeshUnuppally
Chakkulathu Kavu
Another tourist place in Thiruvalla is the Chakkulathu Kavu which is nestled between the two rivers called Pampa and Manimala and is placed on the border of two districts of Pathanamthitta and Alappuzha. The temple is believed be around 3000 years old and Goddesses Bagavathy who is also known as Chakkulathamma is worshipped here. Chakkulathu Kavu is popularly known as the Sabarimala of women and the major festival of the temple is celebrated during the months of November-December. Located in a forest, the temple offers a tranquil ambience to the visitors. The confluence of the two rivers is indeed very picturesque and boat racing is thus very popular in this area. It is a riveting experience to go crisscrossing and enjoying the scenic beauty the place has to offer.
How to Reach Thiruvalla
By Air: The nearest airports are Kochi International airport and Thiruvananthapuram Airport which are situated at a distance of approximately 118 and 125 km respectively. It is well connected with all the major cities in the country.
By Train: The town has a railway station and trains run frequently from the Thiruvalla to all major cities in Southern India and Western India. Regular trains run from Thiruvalla to other major cities of Kerala such as Palakkad, Thiruvananthapuram and Kochi.
By Road: Buses are the easy way of transport in the town of Thiruvalla as there are frequent services to every nook and corner of the town. Travelling by road can cut your expenses to a considerable degree as well. Kozhikode, Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Kannur, Kochi, Coimbatore, Chennai, Madurai, Bangalore and Mangalore are connected from Thiruvalla by road.
A scenic view of the town.
Photo Courtesy: Sreekuttank
