Munnar is one of the most preferred hill stations of Kerala’s Western Ghats, lying amidst a haven of lush green hills, tea gardens, and serene landscapes. It is home to many temples steeped in spiritualism and architecture. Each temple, with its unique character and charm, invites visitors to immerse themselves in a journey of spiritual discovery. This article quests for enlightenment as you go through the ten most beautiful temples in Munnar, each carrying its essence and mystery.
10 Temples In Munnar
Let us discuss the most famous temples in Munnar that hold different spiritual experiences and cultural heritages.
1. Sree Narayanapuram Mahavishnu Temple
Photo: Madhumanalil / Wikimedia Commons
Sree Narayanapuram Mahavishnu Temple is an ancient Hindu shrine located in the beautiful village of Chithirapuram, almost as stunning as its name, about 10 km from Munnar. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishu and is one of the biggest temples in Munnar. This ancient temple, perhaps even a few hundred years old, has the essence of typical Kerala architecture in its minute wood carvings, sloping tiled roofs, and open courtyard. The idol of Lord Mahavishnu is kept in the sanctum sanctorum, which harbours soulful murals and carvings of mythological deeds relating to Hindu mythology.
Best Time To Visit: November to January during the temple festival.
Major Attractions: Ancient architecture, serene surroundings, annual festival.
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2. Mullakkal Bhagavathy Temple
Photo: Vanilekshmi1 / Wikimedia Commons
In the heart of Munnar, Mullakkal Bhagavathy Temple is one of the most significant Hindu temples dedicated to Goddess Durga. The most famous thing about the temple is its festive atmosphere and culturally important heritage. The gorgeously flowered and ornamented deity is a sight, mainly during the festival of Navratri, which is celebrated with much fanfare. This temple cannot be less than an ideal retreat for devotees and tourists to spend their time in serenity with a panoramic view of the hills amidst a tranquil atmosphere.
Best Time To Visit: October during Navratri celebrations.
Major Attractions: Navratri festival, panoramic views, vibrant decorations.
3. Chinnakanal Sree Mahadeva Temple
Photo: Ms Sarah Welch / Wikimedia Commons
Chinnakanal Sree Mahadeva Temple is in the picturesque village of Chinnakanal. The temple radiates serenity in the atmosphere, offering a calm haven for devotees and nature lovers. One of the significant events here is the Shivaratri festival, held annually, in which many more devotees come to attend the rituals and celebrations. With the gentle sound of flowing water in nearby streams and the freshness in the mountain atmosphere, the visiting experience of this temple is truly a resurging advantage for the soul.
Best Time To Visit: February during Shivaratri.
Major Attractions: Scenic surroundings, peaceful ambience, Shivaratri festival.
Suggested Read: Pampanal Waterfalls
4. Sree Ayyappa Temple, Anachal
Photo: Swarnavilasam / Wikimedia Commmons / Image For Representation Only
Sree Ayyappa Temple in Anachal is a fine Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Ayyappa. The temple’s serene surroundings, architectural beauty, and spiritual ambience enhance its specialities. All kinds of devotees visit the temple to seek blessings and participate in daily rituals and ceremonies. The temple has green surroundings, providing peaceful settings for meditation and reflection. It is the simple temple and dedicated devotees that create a spiritual ambience.
Best Time To Visit: November to January.
Major Attractions: Beautiful architecture, tranquil environment, lush greenery.
5. Sree Krishna Temple, Devikulam
Photo: Ranjith Siji / Wikimedia Commons
In the peaceful town of Devikulam, Sree Krishna Temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna. This temple is synonymous with serenity amidst the enthralling surroundings and soothing ambience. It attracts many devotees during Janmashtami when the birthday of Lord Krishna is celebrated with fanfare and zeal. The serene environment of the temple and the picturesque beauty of Devikulam, offer a perfect setup for spiritual introspection and worship. The peacefulness of the temple campus facilitates meditation and prayer.
Best Time To Visit: August during Janmashtami.
Major Attractions: Peaceful ambience, Janmashtami celebrations, beautiful surroundings.
Suggested Read: Njandirukki Waterfalls
6. Mariamman Kovil, Munnar
Photo: Vkraja / Wikimedia Commons
Mariamman Kovil is located in the heart of the busy town of Munnar. Goddess Mariamman, enshrined here, is the Goddess of rain and fertility. This colourful temple, central to the local Tamil community, hosts one of the most important annual events on the cultural calendar. The colours, the music, and traditional rituals all give way during the festival to an atmosphere of festivity that draws in both devotees and tourists. The temple has a great location and is imbued with culture.
Best Time To Visit: April during the Mariamman festival.
Major Attractions: Vibrant festivals, colourful decorations, lively atmosphere.
7. Chengulam Sree Krishna Temple
Photo: Kaakkara / Wikimedia Commons
Chengulam Sree Krishna Temple, on the banks of the serendipitous Chengulam Dam, enshrines Lord Krishna. This temple, situated in a peaceful environment with its beautiful surroundings, provides a quest for a quiet retreat to the visiting devotees and other people. People celebrate the temple’s annual festival with great devotion and joy for several days, which draws many worshippers to participate in rituals and festive programs. In the serene atmosphere, complimented by the unchanged beauty of nature, this temple finds itself ideally suited for spiritual contemplation and worship.
Best Time To Visit: August during the temple festival.
Major Attractions: Serene environment, beautiful surroundings, annual festival.
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8. Sree Rama Swami Temple, Munnar
Photo: Kaakkara / Wikimedia Commons
Sree Rama Swami Temple is one of the popular Hindu temples in Munnar. This shrine was constructed in the worship of Lord Ram. The intricate architecture and a serene atmosphere are the major highlights of the temple, making it a prominent spiritual hub for the locals. The festival of Ram Navami, a celebration of the birth of Lord Rama, is done with utmost devotion and zeal. Large numbers of devotees assemble and take part in rituals and ceremonies. This offers a very vibrant and sublime atmosphere to the festivities.
Best Time To Visit: March-April during Ram Navami.
Major Attractions: Intricate architecture, peaceful ambience, Ram Navami festival.
9. Sree Murugan Temple, Munnar
Photo: Vinayaraj / Wikimedia Commons
Sree Murugan Temple is in the middle of the specious scenery of the tea plantations of Munnar. It has Lord Murugan as its presiding deity. Sree Murugan Temple is famous for its vibrant festivals, out of which Thaipusam is the primary one, people celebrate enthusiastically and devotedly. The picturesque surroundings and serene setting offer an ideal location for worship and meditation. The spiritual pursuit enhances with lush green surroundings and the soft sound of running streams nearby, thus turning a visit to this temple into a rejuvenating and peaceful retreat.
Best Time To Visit: January-February during Thaipusam.
Major Attractions: Grand festivals, picturesque surroundings, serene ambience.
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10. Pothamedu Sree Mahadeva Temple
Photo: Ranjithsiji / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Pothamedu Sree Mahadeva Temple is in a village named Pothamedu and home of Lord Shiva. This temple is a peaceful retreat for the devotees, having calm surroundings and a pleasant atmosphere. The annual Maha Shivaratri festival is celebrated here with total devotion, and many worshippers visit this place to attend the ritual and ceremony. This temple is located amidst greenery and rolling hills. Its spiritual atmosphere is serene and calm, apt for meditation and worshipping.
Best Time To Visit: February during Maha Shivaratri.
Major Attractions: Tranquil environment, beautiful surroundings, Maha Shivaratri festival.
The temples of Munnar are not just places of worship; they are sanctuaries of peace and spiritual enrichment that offer a respite from the hustle and bustle of modern life. So pack your bags, don your traditional attire, and explore the most famous temples in Munnar to experience different cultures. Discover comprehensive tour packages for a hassle-free experience with TripXL.
Cover Photo: kaakkara / Wikimedia Commons