Thirunelli Temple: Kerala’s Ancient Shrine With Rich History And Spiritual Significance

Thirunelli temple an ancient shrine set against a backdrop of lush greenery and hills.

Thirunelli temple is the only temple in the state where devotees can perform all the rituals related to their lives. Located in Wayanad, Kerala and dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Many devotees also refer to this temple as Sahyamala Kshetram, otherwise translating to Kashi of the South. Legends depict that the Pratishtha of Lord Vishnu in this particular temple was done by Lord Brahma himself. As you plan your next Kerala trip, especially around Wayanad, dedicate a day to visiting the Thirunelli Vishnu Temple.

Quick Details

Address: Thirunelli, Wayanad District, Kerala, India
Presiding Deity: Lord Vishnu
Timings: Morning – 5:30 AM – 12:30 PM, Evening – 5:30 PM – 8:00 PM
Nearest Airport: Calicut International Airport (68 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Kozhikode Railway Station (75 km)
Best Time To Visit: October to March
How To Reach: Autos and rickshaws are available from nearby towns such as Kalpetta.

Location

Picturesque view of Brahmagiri hills lush green hills, field and clear blue sky.

Photo: Coolgama / Wikimedia Commons

Thirunelli Temple is nestled in the Brahmagiri Hills, within Wayanad district, Kerala. Surrounded by lush forests, it is a serene and ancient temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu.

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Wayanad

How To Reach

Calicut International Airport - to reach Thirunelli temple one can travel from the airport

Photo: Sulyabtv / Wikimedia Commons

By Air: The nearest airport is Calicut International Airport, around 120 km away.

By Train: The closest railway station is in Kozhikode (Calicut), about 100 km from the temple.

By Road: The temple is well-connected by road. You can hire a taxi or take a bus from major cities like Kozhikode, Mysore, or Kannur. The drive through Wayanad’s scenic landscapes is quite enjoyable.

Things To Do

Visiting the temple offers you access to a variety of unique rituals and experiences that you need to experience in real time.

1. Participate In Pujas And Rituals

 Image of a pooja thali during hindu rituals - participate in pooja at Thirunelli temple

Photo: Pooja Thali / Vijay Krishnawat / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

There are daily pujas and rituals conducted at the temple that you can witness and be a part of. The main puja is performed in the early morning and evening and being part of the experience truly fills you with a sense of fulfilment and peace. Several of the devotees even perform special rituals at the temple for their ancestors, known as ‘Pithru Tharpanam,’ which is believed to bring blessings and peace to the souls of departed loved ones.

Suggested Read: Theme Parks In Wayanad

2. Witness The Sacred River Papanasini

 River Papanasini, flowing gently through a serene landscape with spiritual significance.

Photo: Jappy / Wikimedia Commons

Located close to the temple, Papanasini is a sacred river that is a point of attraction among the devotees visiting the temple. The majority of the devotees visiting the Thirunelli temple make their way to Papanashini to take a dip in the river water to wash away their sins and further purify their souls. You can take the moment to bathe in the holy water and offer prayers to the deity to bless you.

3. Visit The Gunnika Cave Temple

 Maha Vishnu Temple, an ancient and revered shrine set amidst lush, serene surroundings.

Photo: Ms Sarah Welch / Wikimedia Commons

While the temple’s main presiding deity is Lord Vishnu, there is a separate sanctum and shrine that’s dedicated to Lord Shiva, known as the Gunnika Cave temple. Once you finish offering your prayers at the main temple complex, you can head to this cave temple to offer your prayers to Lord Shiva and seek blessings from the deity.

Suggested Read: Hill Stations In Wayanad

Places To Visit Around

If you are short on time and want to explore the beauty of Wayanad, the few places around the Temple would be enough to give you an idea of Wayanad as a place.

1. Brahmagiri Peak

Scenic view of Brahmagiri Peak, showcasing its majestic heights and surrounding landscape.

Photo: The MH15 / Wikimedia Commons

Roughly 10 km from the temple, Brahmagiri Peak is one of the most prominent tourist attractions in the area. Reaching the peak involves a rigorous trek that takes you through a challenging trail involving rugged terrains and lush green landscapes. Also, the peak is part of the Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary, further giving you more options to explore. It is a fairly popular tourist attraction, however, ensure that you are in your best health before embarking on the trek.

Distance From Temple: 10 km
Timings: 7 AM – 5 PM

2. Pookode Lake

Tranquil Wayanad Pookode Lake, with calm waters reflecting the surrounding lush greenery.

Photo: Irshadpp / Wikimedia Commons

Ideal for boating, trekking and nature walks, Pookode Lake is another one of the popular sightseeing spots that you can visit after your darshan at Thirunelli temple. The lake is built on the Kara Manathodu tributary of Kabini River, at an altitude of 770 metres above sea level. This is a great spot for a family outing where you can indulge in the activities, host a picnic and even soak in the views of the surrounding area.

Distance From Temple: 20 km
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM

Suggested Read: Beaches Near Wayanad

3. Edakkal Caves

 Edakkal Cave, featuring ancient rock and rugged cave walls - near Thirunelli temple.

Photo: Paṭippaṟivillāta / Wikimedia Commons

Although a 30-50 minute drive from the temple, Edakkal Caves is a must-visit spot in Wayanad as it possesses the peak beauty of the entire region. The prehistoric rock engravings on these caves are a popular attraction. The caves are carved into the mountains and contain ancient petroglyphs that date back to the Neolithic era. The best way to reach and explore these caves is via trekking.

Distance From Temple: 25 km
Timings: 9 AM – 4 PM

4. Soochipara Falls

Soochipara Falls, with water cascading down the rocky cliffs surrounded by greenery.

Photo: Yjenith / Wikimedia Commons

Roughly 30 km from the temple, Soochipara Falls is another popular tourist attraction to visit in Wayanad. This is a three-tiered waterfall that’s located in the middle of a dense forest. You do have to indulge in a thrilling downward trek through steep hills to reach this waterfall. So, not only for nature lovers, this waterfall is equally popular among adventure enthusiasts. The waterfall cascades down a distance of 200 metres and ends in a natural pool at the bottom.

Distance From Temple: 30 km
Timings: 8 AM – 5 PM

Suggested Read: Jungle Safari Wayanad

Where To Stay

 Image of a hotel bedroom white bed cover near wall - accommodation near the temple.

Photo: Pixabay / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

Stay at Agraharam Resorts for comfortable cottages near the temple. Jungle Retreat Wayanad offers a nature-centric experience with cosy cottages and tents. KTDC Tamarind provides budget-friendly accommodation with basic amenities, all conveniently located close to the temple.

Where To Eat

Indian food on the table - curry and rice and on side coconut - traditional Kerala cuisine

Photo: Jack Baghel / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

Enjoy traditional Kerala cuisine at Hotel Brahmagiri, near the temple. Thirunelli Agraharam Restaurant is well-known for its local dishes. For a mix of Indian and Continental options, visit Cafe Coffee & Spices, a bit further away but worth the drive.

Suggested Read: Things To Do In Wayanad

Other Things To Consider

Image of a Houseboat on river among exotic nature in Kerala - explore Thirunelli temple

Photo: Godson Bright / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

Average cost of the trip: An average trip to Thirunelli Temple costs around ₹2,500-₹5,000, covering transportation, accommodation, food, and local expenses. Costs may vary based on your travel style and choice of lodging.

Tips For Travellers

  • Weather: Visit between October and March for the best weather. The monsoon season (June-September) can make travel difficult.
  • Check the temple’s opening hours. Typically, it’s open from early morning to evening.
  • Participate in or observe the various rituals, like the Bali Tharpanam ceremony.

A pilgrimage to the Thirunelli Temple is an enriching experience to visit the next time you are in Wayanad, Kerala. Be it for seeking blessings from Lord Vishnu or performing ancestral rites, this temple leaves you with a sense of solidarity. The next time you plan a trip to Kerala, sort out the bookings with TripXL with attractive deals and discounts.

Cover Photo: Vijayakumarblathur / Wikimedia Commons

Frequently Asked Questions

The Papanasini River is believed to possess the power to cleanse sins. Taking a holy dip in its waters is considered a sacred act.
Ancestral rites can be performed during the temple's opening hours (5:30 AM to 12:30 PM and 5:30 PM to 8:00 PM). However, it's recommended to consult with the temple authorities beforehand.
The temple celebrates several festivals throughout the year, including Ekadashi, Vaikunta Ekadashi, Vishu and the annual Thirunelli festival.
The most convenient way to reach the temple is by car. Hiring a taxi from nearby towns like Mananthavady or Kalpetta is a good option.
There are no accommodations right around the temple. However, you can find a few options in the nearby towns of Mananthavady or Kalpetta.

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