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Among the many historical and ancient devi temples in Kerala, Thirumandhamkunnu Temple is one of the most popular ones on the list. It is located in Angadipuram, which is in Kerala’s Malappuram district. Beyond the daily rituals and offerings, one of the key significances of this temple comes from the 11-day annual pilgrimage that takes place between March and April. While the principal deity in the temple is Lord Shiva, the most important part of the temple lies in the shrine dedicated to Sree Bhadrakali or Sree Parvathy, locally known as Thirumandhamkunnilamma.
Quick Details About Thirumandhamkunnu Temple
Thirumandhamkunnu Temple Address: Angadipuram, Perinthalmanna, Malappuram District, Kerala 679321
Thirumandhamkunnu Temple Morning: 4:30 AM – 12 PM; Evening: 4:30 PM – 8 PM
How To Reach: You can take an auto rickshaw from the nearby city, Perinthalmanna. Also, there are regular public buses that ply from major cities and towns to Angadipuram.
Nearest Airport: Calicut International Airport (around 50 km away)
Nearest Railway Station: Angadipuram Railway Station (around 2 km away)
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Where To Stay: Apsara Residency, Narmada Homestay, The River Retreat, Karibu Residency
Where To Eat: Arabian Majlis, Criswings Broast, Aarya Bhavan, Planet Cafe, Coffee And Beyond
About Thirumandhamkunnu Temple
Photo: Rojypala / Wikimedia Commons
There are a lot of stories, history and local folklore associated with the existence and origins of the Thirumandhamkunnu Temple. Located on top of a hillock in Angadipuram, the temple served as a point of religious significance for the Valluvanad rulers back in the day. Legends narrate that Thirumandhamkunnil amma, a manifestation of Sree Bhadrakali, was the paradevatha (official goddess) of the Valluvanad kings.
As you step inside to explore the architecture of the temple, you will see the direct influence of the Kerala temple architecture. Inside the temple complex, the main inner sanctum is dedicated to the principal deity, which is Lord Shiva. However, the most important part of this temple is the shrine dedicated to Thirumandhamkunnilamma, which is a manifestation of Sree Bhadrakali. Her idol is carved and shaped entirely out of wood, which is the primary attraction of this temple. Beyond that, the temple also houses a shrine dedicated to Lord Ganesha. On the walls and pillars of the temple, you can notice tales and carvings depicting stories from the Ramayana.
Suggested Read: Kerala Temples
Things To Do In Thirumandhamkunnu Temple
1. Seek Blessings Of The Deities
Photo: Rahul Mishra / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Given that the temple is home to multiple deities, the first thing you must do once you enter the temple is seek blessings from each one of the deities. You can start by seeking blessings from Thirumandhamkunnilamma, whose shrine usually has the longest queue. Once done, you must seek blessings from Lord Shiva and Lord Ganesha, whose shrines are located nearby. You can also witness the daily puja and rituals that are conducted in each of the temple sanctums.
2. Attend The Annual Pooram Festival
Photo: Rajesh Kakkanatt / Wikimedia Commons
The concept of the Pooram Festival is quite common in Kerala, so the next time you visit the temple, ensure to visit during March, usually from March 17 to March 27 when the annual festival is held. The festival features traditional music and dance performances, including Panchavadyam and Thiruvathira. You can also witness decorated elephants who are taken out on a procession during this festival for the eleven days it continues. The Mangalya Pooja is usually conducted during the annual Pooram Festival in the temple. Besides that, women from across the country visit the temple to seek blessings from the deities for marital bliss.
Suggested Read: Shiva Temples In Kerala
3. Enjoy Cultural Performances
Photo: Sumita Roy Datta / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Despite the crowd, the temple is popular for its peaceful surroundings and serenity. You can explore the temple’s walls and pillars, and witness the tales that are carved on them. Beyond that, you can also take your time to indulge in the temple’s culture through various performances, art forms, and traditional practices. Once you finish the darshan, take the time to sit in a secluded spot inside the temple complex and soak in the views around you.
Places To Visit Around Thirumandhamkunnu Temple
1. Kottakkunnu Park
Photo: Sahalpk / Wikimedia Commons
Kottakkunnu Park is of extreme importance and is known for its scenic beauty. This is a nice hill spot, which is great for families to visit and spend some time appreciating the surrounding hills and valleys. The site also features a children’s park, an open-air theatre, and a water fountain, providing entertainment for visitors of all ages. Even if you don’t feel like indulging in any adventure activities, you have the choice to relax and witness the beauty of the sunset on the benches around the park.
Distance From The Temple: 18.6 Km
Timings: 8 AM – 8 PM
Suggested Read: Vishnu Temples In Kerala
2. Puthanangadi Juma Masjid
Photo: Ammar Andiko / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Puthanangadi Juma Masjid is a historic mosque known for its architectural beauty and spiritual significance. It is located in Vengara, which is also in the Malappuram district in Kerala. Not just Muslims, the mosque also attracts visitors from across the country and of varying faiths. The mosque is located amid sprawling nature, which contributes to its popularity too because it offers a peaceful respite.
Distance From The Temple: 2.2 Km
Timings: 4 AM – 10 PM
3. Kodikuthimala
Photo: HUBAIB NEDUVANCHERI / Shutterstock
Often termed as ‘Ooty of Malappuram’, Kodikuthimala is a secluded hill station that’s located at an elevation of 522 metres above sea level. The hill station has a variety of attractions, including springs and waterfalls, a watchtower and a suicide point as well. The entire hill station is surrounded by lush greenery and fresh mountain air, adding to the beauty and tranquillity of the spot.
Distance From The Temple: 14.3 km
Timings: 24*7
Suggested Read: Nagaraja Temples In Kerala
4. Angadipuram Laterite
Photo: Werner Schellmann / Wikimedia Commons
If you are interested in history and royal heritages, consider visiting the Angadipuram Laterite. It is a ‘National Geo-heritage Monument’, which is located in Angadipuram. It was Dr. Francis Buchanan-Hamilton, a professional surgeon who described the existence of the laterite in one of his reports, depicting that the clay is resilient and strong enough to sustain different kinds of constructions of the buildings. Since then, it has held a lot of historical and cultural significance in Kerala.
Distance From The Temple: Within walking distance
Timings: 24*7
5. Kadampuzha Bhagavathy Temple
Photo: Sabarinathcnair / Wikimedia Commons
Another popular Bhagavathy temple that is a must-visit in Kerala is the Kadampuzha Bhagavathy Temple, located in the Malappuram district in Kerala. The annual Kadampuzha Pooram, held in February-March, is the highlight of visiting this temple. This temple doesn’t have an idol instead the daily poojas and rituals are conducted in a hole inside the temple.
Distance From The Temple: 22 km
Timings: 4:30 AM – 12 PM and 3:30 PM – 7 PM
Suggested Read: Bhadrakali Temples In Kerala
The Thirumandhamkunnu Temple is one of the most popular Bhagavathy temples in Kerala, showcasing a blend of history, spirituality, and cultural richness. If you are visiting Kerala, more specifically, the Malappuram district, ensure that you include this temple as one of the stops in your travel plans. For the best deals and discounts, secure all your books for your Kerala trip with TripXL.
Cover Photo: Jayakumar / Shutterstock / Image For Representation Only
