Mannarasala Sree Nagaraja Temple
Mannarasala Sree Nagaraja Temple, located near Haripad in the Alappuzha district of Kerala, is one of the most famous serpent temples in South India. Dedicated to Lord Nagaraja, the king of serpents, this ancient shrine is a unique pilgrimage destination deeply rooted in Kerala’s spiritual traditions and serpent worship rituals.
Surrounded by dense forest and tranquil groves, the temple exudes a serene and mystical atmosphere. It is believed that the presiding deity, Lord Nagaraja, embodies the combined essence of Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva, and possesses immense powers to bless devotees with prosperity, fertility, and protection from snake-related fears and curses (Sarpa Dosha).
A distinctive feature of Mannarasala is its illustrious priestess, known as the Valiyamma, who leads the temple rituals — a rare tradition where the chief priest is a woman. The temple complex houses over 30,000 serpent idols, placed under trees, in niches, and along pathways, making it a sacred haven for those who revere the serpent deities.
The major festival celebrated here is the Mannarasala Ayilyam, observed on the Ayilyam star of the Malayalam month of Thulam (October–November). During this grand festival, thousands of devotees gather to offer prayers and witness special rituals, processions, and the Valiyamma’s ceremonial visit to the sanctum.
Devotees visit Mannarasala to seek blessings for health, fertility, family harmony, and relief from Naga Dosha. The temple’s spiritual aura and the surrounding natural beauty make it a truly divine destination that reflects Kerala’s ancient cultural and religious heritage.
Address : Mannarasala P.O, Haripad, Kerala 690514
Phone : 04792413214