Bhadrakali Temples In Kerala: Seek Blessings Of Goddess Kali

Kerala—the land of beaches and backwaters—has no scarcity of temples of various deities, among which those of Goddess Bhadrakali, are prominent. Let us have a look at the most popular Bhadrakali temples in Kerala, each telling a story of age-old traditions and their festive fervour. Goddess Bhadrakali is considered to be the auspicious and fortunate form of Adi Shakti who protects the good. Bhadrakali temples are spread across Kerala, each with its unique rituals, legends, and architectural styles. These temples are not only centres of worship but also reflect the state’s rich history.

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Top 14 Sacred Bhadrakali Temples In Kerala

Discover the spiritual essence of Kerala with this guide to the top 14 Bhadrakali temples. Explore revered shrines, ancient rituals, and sacred traditions that celebrate the goddess Bhadrakali across the state.

1. Kadakkad Sree Bhadrakali Temple

Kadakkad Sree Bhadrakali Temple is one of the best Bhadrakali temples in Kerala.

Photo: Agnostos Theos / Wikimedia Commons

Kadakkad Sree Bhadrakali Temple is a Hindu temple in Pandalam, Kerala, and is one of the most holy Bhadrakali temples in the state. Bhadrakali goddess is primarily worshipped here, and the temple complex includes an anakottil (platform for elephants during the rite Seva) as well as shrines of other deities such as Brahmarakshas, Yakshi, Nāga. It is an auspicious place to conduct Hindu marriages and they are hosted with pomp and show in its huge feast hall. Holy fire from the temple is taken out to start the fire for cooking Pongala, an important festival of South India.

Best Time To Visit: February to April, during Pongala

2. Kodungallur Bhadrakali Temple

Kodungallur Bhadrakali Temple is counted among the popular Bhadrakali temples in Kerala.

Photo: Ms Sarah Welch / Wikimedia Commons

Kodungallur Temple, regarded as the most powerful Bhadrakali temple in Kerala, is also considered the biggest Bhadrakali temple in Kerala. Bhadrakali enshrined here has inspired the establishment of many other Bhadrakali temples across the state. The goddess in this temple is revered as Kodungallur Amma and Srikuruba. Though primarily a Devi temple, its architecture resembles that of a Shiva temple. The sanctum is believed to house the Mahameru Chakra created by Parashurama, the Sri Chakra consecrated by Sri Shankaracharya, and the idol of Rudhira Mahakali, the supreme deity draped in a black cloth.

Best Time To Visit: Late March to early April, during Kodungallur Bharani

3. Vellayani Devi Temple

Vellayani Devi Temple, one of the oldest Bhadrakali temples in Kerala, is beautiful.

Photo: Vishnu Madhusoodanan / Wikimedia Commons

In Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, the Vellayani Devi Temple is situated on the shores of Vellayani Lake. The Vellayani Devi Temple was allegedly constructed in the fourteenth century AD. This temple’s most alluring feature is its gorgeous location on the banks of Vellayani Lake. One of the most significant temples honouring the fiercest goddess of them all, Goddess Bhadrakali, is located here. In South India, Vellayani Devi Temple is well known for holding the longest non-pilgrimage celebration. Every three years, the festival, which spans approximately 65 to 70 days, takes place.

Best Time To Visit: February to April, during the Kaliyoottu Mahotsavam

Suggested Read: Most Famous Varahi Devi Temples In Kerala

4. Sarkara Devi Temple

Sarkara Devi Temple, dedicated to Goddess Bhadrakali, is located in Trivandrum district.

Photo: Binoyjsdk / Wikimedia Commons

Sarkara Devi Temple, a temple dedicated to Goddess Bhadrakali, is in Chirayinkeezhu Taluk, Thiruvananthapuram district in Kerala, India. The local folklore says that Vilwamangalam Swamiyar, an ardent devotee of Lord Vishnu, offered special prayers with full devotion to the Lord and Goddess Kali and eventually was able to call upon the divine presence of Lord Vishnu and Goddess Kali. This story is also enacted during the major festival of the temple – Kaliyoot – held during the Kumbh months.

Best Time To Visit: Kumbh (February or March), during Kaliyoot

5. Pournami Kavu Bhadrakali Temple

Pournami Kavu Bhadrakali Temple is, probably, the best Bhadrakali temple in Kerala.

Photo: Richard Mortel / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Located in Venganoor, Trivandrum, Kerala, the Pournami Kavu Bhadrakali Temple is an important temple dedicated to the Goddess Bhadrakali. The war goddess of the Aay Dynasty, Shri Bala Tripura Sundari Devi, is the principal deity of the Pournamikavu temple. Owing to the consecration and adoration of all 51 Akshara devatha idols for the first time in history, the temple is also known as the Akshara Devatha temple. This temple is only open on the day of the full moon, or Pournami, as well as on select holidays like Navaaham, Festival, Vidhyarambham, etc.

Best Time To Visit: Full Moon days

6. Pisharikavu Temple

Pisharikavu Temple, one of the best Bhadrakali temples in Kerala, offers serenity.

Photo: Vijayanrajapuram / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

The Pisharikavu Temple is located in Kerala’s Koyilandy, Kozhikode district. The goddess Bhadrakali is the subject of the temple. The breathtakingly serene atmosphere of Pisharikavu Temple is provided by its magnificent ancient architecture. The month of ‘Meenam’ in Malayala is when the Sri Pisharikavu Temple celebrates its annual celebration. Over eight days, the festival is thrown with grandeur. On the seventh and eighth day, a completely decked female elephant carries the sacred Nandhakam sword around the temple in a procession, and the temple also hosts a performance of a traditional Kerala art form.

Best Time To Visit: March to April, during the Pooram festival

7. Punnainallur Mariamman Temple

Punnainallur Mariamman Temple is one of the most beautiful temples to visit in Kerala.

Photo: Nittavinoda / Wikimedia Commons

Punnainallur Mariamman Temple is located in Palakkad and is one of the most beautiful temples in the city. It is dedicated to the Bhadrakali Goddess. The temple is very noticeable due to the festivals that characterise it and the beautiful idol of the goddess. The silent nature and tranquil atmosphere have made this temple a favourite place for pilgrimage among the devotees, with maximum numbers seeking blessings and spiritual solace. The annual festival, celebrated every April, displays traditional rituals, cultural performances, and festive celebrations that are a must to experience.

Best Time To Visit: April, during the annual festival

8. Neendoor Subrahmanya Swami Temple

Neendoor Subrahmanya Swami Temple is one of the popular Bhadrakali temples in Kerala.

Photo: Ashok Rajan / Wikimedia Commons

One of the important Hindu temples in Kerala’s Kottayam district is the Neendoor Subrahmanya Swami Temple. The temple, which is devoted to the Goddess Bhadrakali and Lord Subrahmanya (sometimes called Kartikeya or Murugan), is highly regarded for its religious significance, unusual customs, and colourful festivals. Devotees who come to this hallowed location in search of blessings and spiritual comfort have a particular place in their hearts for it. Many followers visit the temple to offer prayers and rituals to Lord Subrahmanya, requesting success in their next endeavours. Ottanarangamala Samarppanam is the name of the ancient special rite performed at this temple.

Best Time To Visit: April to May, during the Arattu festival

9. Thiruvarppu Sree Krishna Temple

Kerala’s Thiruvarppu Temple is dedicated to both Lord Krishna and Goddess Bhadrakali.

Photo: Ranjith Siji / Wikimedia Commons

This temple is dedicated mainly to Lord Krishna. However, Thiruvarppu Temple in Kottayam also enshrines Mahishasura Mardini, and thus, attracts worshippers who come to receive blessings from the powerful goddess. It is famously known for its unique rituals and the grand annual festival, which falls in April or May, wherein large processions comprising famous cultural arts are carried out. The temple is surrounded by greenery and undulating hills that calm the mind and soul of the people who return after offering their prayers in the temple with spiritual peace and blessing.

Best Time To Visit: April to May, during the annual festival

Suggested Read: Temples In Kottayam

10. Kidangoor Sree Subramanya Swamy Temple

Kidangoor Sree Subramanya Swamy Temple is one of the best Bhadrakali temples in Kerala.

Photo: Ms Sarah Welch / Wikimedia Commons

A historic Hindu temple, known as Kidangoor Sree Subramanya Swamy Temple, is situated in Kidangoor, Meenachil Taluk, Kottayam district, Kerala. One of Kerala’s most well-known Subramanya temples, it is thought to be at least 1500 years old, making it one of the oldest Bhadrakali temples in Kerala. According to legend, as the water spilled out of the Kamandalu of Sage Gauna and reached the Vishnu shrine at Kidangoor, the idol of Subramanya emerged. Every month on Shashti, thousands of devotees flock to the temple to offer prayers on this auspicious day.

Best Time To Visit: April to May, during the annual festival

11. Thirumandhamkunnu Bhagavathy Temple

Thirumandhamkunnu Bhagavathy Temple in Kerala, showcasing its traditional Kerala-style architecture atop a hill

Photo: Rojypala / Wikimedia Commons

Perched on a peaceful hill in Angadipuram, Thirumandhamkunnu Bhagavathy Temple is a famous Bhadrakali temple in Kerala, attracting devotees and travellers alike. Its traditional Kerala-style architecture and lush surroundings create a serene setting for spiritual reflection. Daily rituals and poojas add to the temple’s vibrant cultural charm, while the annual Pooram festival in March – April offers a colourful glimpse into local traditions. Visitors often enjoy the tranquil atmosphere and panoramic views, making it a must-visit spot in Malappuram.

Best Time To Visit: March to April, during the Thirumandhamkunnu Pooram festival

12. Chottanikkara Bhagavathy Temple

Chottanikkara Bhagavathy Temple in Kerala, showcasing its traditional architecture and intricate wood carvings

Photo: Vinayaraj / Wikimedia Commons

Chottanikkara Bhagavathy Temple, near Kochi in Ernakulam, is a serene spiritual spot dedicated to Goddess Bhadrakali. Famous for its healing powers, devotees visit seeking relief from ailments and mental stress. The temple welcomes visitors from 4 AM to 12 PM and 4 PM to 8:30 PM, with evenings offering a peaceful, illuminated atmosphere. The best time to explore is between October and March, while the vibrant Makam Thozhal Festival in February – March showcases grand rituals and lamp-lit processions, making it a memorable experience.

Best Time To Visit: February to March, during the Chottanikkara Utsavam festival

13. Palliyarathalam Bhadrakali Kshethram

An image of a temple showcasing the traditional architecture used in most of the Indian ancient temples

Photo: Kaushikvishu / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Palliyarathalam Bhadrakali Kshethram, set in the quiet village of Nedumpuram East near Podiyadi, Thiruvalla, is a historic temple devoted to Goddess Bhadrakali and Lord Shiva. Famous for its rare sanctum housing Bhadrakali, Shiva, and Brahma Rakshassu together, it reflects Kerala’s unique temple traditions. The temple hosts vibrant festivals like Thalapoli Maholsavam with colourful processions and community feasts, and the ritualistic Theeyattu performances. Early mornings or evenings are ideal for a visit, offering a serene and culturally rich experience in Pathanamthitta.

Best Time To Visit: February to March, during the Kumbha Bharani festival

14. Kavil Sri Bhadrakali Temple

Idol of Goddess Kali awaiting immersion during the Visarjan ceremony in the River.

Photo: Subhrajyoti07 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Kavil Sri Bhadrakali Temple, located in the peaceful village of Karumadi in Alappuzha, is a sacred spot devoted to Goddess Bhadrakali. Surrounded by open fields and a calm rural setting, the temple offers a serene escape from the bustle of city life. Visitors can witness the lively Pongala festival in Makaram, when colourful rituals fill the temple grounds and devotees gather in large numbers.
Best Time To Visit: February to March, during the Kavil Pooram festival

The worship of Bhadrakali emphasises the duality of the goddess — both fierce and protective — reflecting the deep-rooted belief in the power of the feminine divine in Kerala’s spiritual traditions. She is one of the most ancient deities, who has been worshipped for generations, bringing peace and prosperity to the followers. So, immerse yourself in the spiritual experience while exploring the most famous Bhadrakali temples in Kerala. Discover exclusive tour packages for a hassle-free experience with TripXL.

Cover Photo: Ms Sarah Welch / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of Bhadrakali in Hinduism?

Bhadrakali is a fierce and benevolent form of the Hindu goddess, Kali. Worshipped primarily in South India, Bhadrakali is also seen as a protective mother figure who bestows blessings on her devotees.

What are the major festivals celebrated at Bhadrakali temples?

Major festivals celebrated at Bhadrakali temples include the Bharani Festival at Kodungallur Bhagavathy Temple, Attukal Pongala at Attukal Bhagavathy Temple, Trippunithura ritual at Chengannur Mahadeva Temple, and Makam Thozhal at Chottanikkara Bhagavathy Temple.

Why is the Attukal Pongala festival significant?

The Attukal Pongala festival at Attukal Bhagavathy Temple is significant because it holds the Guinness World Record for the largest gathering of women for a religious activity. Women from all over Kerala and beyond come together to cook Pongala, a special offering, in clay pots, which is then blessed by the goddess.

What are the main rituals performed at Bhadrakali temples?

Main rituals at Bhadrakali temples include Abhishekam (ritual bathing) of the deity, Homams (fire rituals), Archana (chanting of names and offering flowers), and Annadanam (offering of free meals to devotees).

Are there any specific dress codes for visiting Bhadrakali temples?

Yes, most Bhadrakali temples in Kerala have a dress code to maintain the sanctity of the temple. Men are typically required to wear mundu (traditional Kerala dhoti) without shirts inside the inner sanctum. Women are expected to wear traditional attire such as sarees or salwar kameez.

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