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Wayanad is a nature lover’s paradise with lush coffee plantations and cascading waterfalls. Beyond the scenic beauty, it also boasts a rich history and culture. The popular temples in Wayanad are a testament to the historical heritage and architectural marvels. Intricately carved pillars and captivating murals adorn these sacred spaces, reflecting the artistic mastery of the craftsmen of the bygone eras. This harmonious blend of nature and spirituality makes Wayanad a popular tourist destination. Whether seeking spiritual solace or simply a breathtaking escape amidst nature, Wayanad temples beckon travellers with vibrant stories and captivating beauty.
Top 10 Best Temples In Wayanad
Exploring the temples in Wayanad offers a chance for visitors to connect with the region’s rich heritage, culture, and faith. Some of the important temples in Wayanad are as follows:
1. Thirunelli Mahavishnu Temple
Photo: Ms Sarah Welch / Wikimedia Commons
Stationed at the foot of magnificent Brahmagiri hills, the Thirunelli Mahavishnu Temple is a hidden gem in Kerala. It is one of the famous temples in Wayanad, deemed as ‘Sahyamala Kshetram’ or ‘Kashi of the South’. Visitors also come here to perform ancestral rites on the banks of the Papanasini River. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the temple dates back to the Chera period. The stone aqueduct creates an uninterrupted water supply from the forests and cold mountain water can be seen gushing from these channels.
Location: Thirunelli, Wayanad
How To Reach: Accessible by road from Mananthavady (32 km) and Kalpetta (58 km)
Timings: 5:30 AM – 12 PM, 5:30 PM – 8 PM
Entry Fee: Free
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Wayanad
2. Valliyoorkkavu Bhagavathy Temple
Photo: Vinayaraj / Wikimedia Commons
The Valliyoorkkavu Bhagavathy Temple pulsates with vibrant energy, particularly during holy festivals. The temple is dedicated to Bhagavathy in 3 forms – Vana Durga, Jala Durga, and Bhadrakali, which are the fierce aspects of Goddess Parvati. Renowned for its Theyyam performances, a ritualistic art form with elaborate costumes and energetic dances, the temple attracts devotees and cultural enthusiasts during the ten-day festival in January/February. Theyyam performances are a visual feast, often depicting stories from mythology.
Location: Valliyoorkkavu, Wayanad
How To Reach: Reachable by road from Mananthavady (6 km)
Timings: 5:30 AM – 8:30 PM
Entry Fee: Free
3. Thrissilery Shiva Temple
Photo: Ms Sarah Welch / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Dating back to the 9th century, the Thrissilery Shiva Temple is an architectural marvel. This temple is built in the typical Kerala style with sloping roofs and intricate carvings that depict stories from Hindu scriptures. The temple complex houses several shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva, Parvati, and Ganesha. The temple’s rich history is believed to have been established by the powerful Chera dynasty. Tourists can soak in the serene environment and offer prayers here.
Location: Thrissilery, Wayanad
How To Reach: Accessible by road from Mananthavady (19 km)
Timings: 5 AM – 12 PM, 5 PM – 8 PM
Entry Fee: Free
Suggested Read: Shopping In Wayanad
4. Seetha Devi-Hanuman Temple
Photo: Ms Sarah Welch / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Nestled in the peaceful town of Pulpally, the Seetha Devi-Hanuman Temple holds significance for devotees seeking blessings for marital harmony. The temple is dedicated to Sita and Hanuman, characters from the epic Ramayana. The serene setting of the temple, surrounded by lush greenery and overlooking a tranquil Ponkuzhi river, adds to its spiritual aura. Devotees often perform special pujas (prayers) seeking blessings for a happy and fulfilling married life.
Location: Pulpally, Wayanad
How To Reach: Reachable by road from Sultan Bathery (24 km)
Timings: 5 AM – 11 AM, 5 PM – 8 PM
Entry Fee: Free
5. Ponkuzhi Sree Rama Temple
Photo: Ms Sarah Welch / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Located amidst the verdant hills, the Ponkuzhi Sree Rama Temple is a treat for the visitor’s eyes. Dedicated to Lord Rama, the temple complex houses exquisite murals depicting scenes from the Ramayana. Visitors can enjoy the vibrant colours and detailed storytelling on the walls that make the temple a unique and captivating destination. There are also shrines dedicated to Sita, Lakshmana, and Hanuman. Devotees believe that the pond was formed by Sita’s tears, adding to the spiritual element of the temple.
Location: Ponkuzhi, Wayanad
How To Reach: Accessible by road from Sultan Bathery (20 km)
Timings: 6 AM -10 AM, 5 PM – 8 PM
Entry Fee: Free
Suggested Read: Things To Do In Wayanad
6. Anantnath Swami Temple
Photo: Ms Sarah Welch / Wikimedia Commons
The Anantnath Swami Temple in Kalpetta is a significant pilgrimage site for Jains. Anantnath Swami is the 14th Tirthankara of the Jain faith. Also known as Puliyarmala Jain Temple, this temple is a treasure trove for art enthusiasts as well. The three main door panels with intricate carvings stand as a testament to the temple’s shifting fortunes. Locals believe that a person’s desire will be fulfilled if they successfully follow the exact path of the Sarpabandha serpent carving from head to tail. Many visitors pay special attention to Sarpabandha and take photographs of exquisite carvings.
Location: Puliyarmala, Wayanad
How To Reach: Reachable by road from Kalpetta (6 km)
Timings: 5 AM – 12 PM, 5 PM – 8 PM
Entry Fee: Free
7. Ganapathi Vattam Temple
Photo: Ms Sarah Welch / Wikimedia Commons
Located in the town of Sultan Bathery, the Ganapathi Vattam Temple, built in the 12th century, offers a unique experience. The temple has a melancholic history as it was invaded by Tipu Sultan, who looted the temple and destroyed the idol. The town was initially called Ganapathi Vattam before the invasion. Now, devotees celebrate an 8-day annual festival, praising the Lord Ganesha in January/February. Cultural programs like Chakyarkoothu, Ottanthullal, and Kalampattu attract devotees from all over the nation.
Location: Vellaramkunnu, Wayanad
How To Reach: Accessible by road from Mananthavady (10 km)
Timings: 5:30 AM – 11:30 AM, 5:30 PM – 8 PM
Entry Fee: Free
Suggested Read: Places To Visit Near Wayanad
8. Pazhur Vishnu Temple
Photo: Ms Sarah Welch / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Standing tall in the Wayanad, the Pazhur Vishnu Temple is known for its colossal idol of Lord Vishnu. Every year, the temple comes alive during the vibrant annual festival that takes place on the 24th and 25th days of Kumbam Malayalam month. Tourists often visit the temple during this festival to experience the annual spectacle accompanied by energetic music and performances. The temple also houses shrines for Bhagavathy, Ganapathy, Ayyappan, Dakshinamoorthy, Gulikan, Rakshas, and Bhagavary.
Location: Pazhur, Wayanad
How To Reach: Reachable by road from Kalpetta (15 km)
Timings: 5:30 AM – 11:30 AM, 5:30 PM – 8 PM
Entry Fee: Free
9. Thrikkaipetta Shiva Temple
Photo: Ms Sarah Welch / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The excavations. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple complex houses several shrines. Two decades ago, this temple was concealed by dense vegetation, and excavation work brought it into the limelight. The temple is renowned for its annual Shivaratri festival, a night dedicated to the worship of Shiva. During this time, devotees throng the temple grounds, participating in elaborate rituals and seeking blessings from the Lord. Thrikkaipetta Shiva Temple is believed to be 1400 years old based on archaeological
Location: Thrikkaipetta, Wayanad
How To Reach: Accessible by road from Kalpetta (8 km)
Timings: 5 AM – 12 PM, 5 PM – 8 PM
Entry Fee: Free
Suggested Read: New Year Party In Wayanad
10. Devgardha Temple
Photo: Ms Sarah Welch / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The Devgardha Temple offers a sense of serenity and tranquillity as it reflects the beliefs of the tribal community of the region. Dedicated to celestial Lord Shiva, the temple is believed to bring good fortune and prosperity to the devotees. According to the tales by locals, a devotee named Govindhan had a vision of Shiva before Shivaratri, which prompted the tribal migrants to construct the temple. After offering prayers in the temple, visitors can also explore the nearby tribal regions and interact with the community.
Location: Padinjarathara, Wayanad
How To Reach: Reachable by road from Kalpetta (19 km)
Timings: 5:30 AM – 11:30 AM, 5:30 PM – 8 PM
Entry Fee: Free
Temples in Wayanad offer something truly special for the visitors. The vibrant stories whispered by the ancient structures, the echoes of prayers, and the captivating beauty of the surroundings create a lasting memory in everyone’s mind. The annual festivals associated with these temples, like the Theyyam performances or the Shivaratri celebrations, are vibrant expressions of cultural heritage and age-old traditions. Embark on a unique journey with TripXL to enrich your mind, uplift your spirit, and enjoy an escape amidst nature.
Cover Photo: Ms Sarah Welch / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
