Vaikom Mahadeva Temple
Vaikom Mahadeva Temple — located in the serene town of Vaikom in Kottayam district, Kerala — is one of the most revered and ancient Shiva temples in South India. Popularly known as Dakshina Kashi (the Varanasi of the South), this sacred temple holds immense spiritual significance and attracts devotees from across the country.
The presiding deity, Lord Mahadeva (Lord Shiva), is worshipped here in three forms — in the morning as Dakshinamurthy (the divine teacher), at noon as Kirathamoorthy (the hunter form), and in the evening as Sankaranarayanamoorthy (a combined form of Shiva and Vishnu). The temple’s massive stone Shivalinga is believed to be Swayambhu (self-manifested), radiating divine power and grace.
Steeped in history, the temple is associated with the great saint Vyaghrapada and Parasurama, who is said to have established the temple. The grand Vaikathashtami Festival, celebrated annually during November–December, is one of Kerala’s most prominent temple festivals, marked by colorful processions, traditional rituals, and cultural performances.
Architecturally, the temple showcases classic Kerala-style temple construction with majestic wooden carvings, intricate murals, and a vast courtyard surrounded by corridors. The sacred temple pond (Theertham) adds to the tranquil beauty of the surroundings.
Vaikom Mahadeva Temple stands as a timeless symbol of faith, tolerance, and devotion — a spiritual destination that beautifully blends myth, tradition, and culture.
Address : Vaikom, Kerala 686141
Phone : 18004254747