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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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
