Oachira is a center of reverence since the Chera Dynasty. The rituals and traditions here offers insights into Kerala’s culture and heritage. This place is located in Kerala’s Kollam district. This place is dedicated to parabrahma, This site is famous for its Padanilam, a footprint believed to symbolize Parabramha’s presence. This place allures visitors from all paths of life to find peace and calmness. Visitors here can engage in many other activities like boat rides, nature watching. So if you are ever travelling to Kerala, Oachira should definitely be on your itinerary.
Understanding The Significance Of Oachira
Image Credit: Akhilan for Wikimedia Commons
This place holds significant cultural and religious importance due to its ancient temples and unique spiritual practices. This place stands out for its unconventional structure – an open ground with no formal idol worship. Historically, this place has been a center of worship and pilgrimage since ancient times, dating back to the Chera dynasty. This site serves as a epitome to Kerala’s rich heritage, where ancient traditions have been preserved and continued to thrive in the modern times.
Apart from its religious importance, Oachira’s cultutal significance contributes to its charm. The temple is surrounded by backwaters and landscapes, it creates a very calm atmosphere ideal for spirituality and relaxation. Visitors can enjoy a lot here because of the ambiance and relaxation that it provides.
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Location And Best Time To Visit
Oachira is located in the Kollam district of Kerala, South India.This place is situated approximately 32 Kilometers north of Kollam city and is accessible by road.
This place can be visited by visitors at anytime they want, but the one that is preferred is during the winter months, from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and calm. The winter season here collides with the festival season in Kerala, including various cultural and religious celebration, It is further advisable to visitors to visit during the monsoon seasons, from june to september, When Kerala experiences heavy rainfall and humidity. This place can be very difficult to travel due to waterlogging and slippery roads.
Entry Fees And Rules
The entry fee to this place is absolutely free and costs nothing to visitors; however, there are a few rules that one must keep in mind while visiting this place. They must respect the place and other people visiting the shrine. Visitors should keep the place clean and should not litter it. While clicking pictures, visitors should get permission from the authorities. Visitors are advised to maintain the decorum and silence inside the shrine. They should avoid interrupting or even participating in activities unless invited. Visitors must dress modestly and wear respectful attire for the respect of this religious place. Visitors should not bring any footwear or shoes inside the temples. These are some of the rules and regulations that visitors should follow and adhere to.
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Nearby Tourist Attractions
There are many places to visit near Oachira. Here is a well-curated list of captivating places to make your trip memorable.
1. Kollam
Kollam is a hidden gem of Kerala, God’s very own country. It is a blend of rich culture, scenic beauty and the backwaters. Kollam is home to Ashtamudi Lake, one of the famous lakes there. It offers boat rides where you can explore the backwaters and the surrounding place’s beauty, providing a sense of calmness and peace. The serenity of the place and the views that your eyes are going to get are surely a treat to watch. Kollam is also a place of immense historical importance for Kerala. The various trade links, commercial relations, beautiful landscapes, art and architecture associated with this place is what makes this place special. Thangassery Lighthouse and Kollam Beach are also some must-visit places in Kollam. Thangassery Lighthouse is known to offer beautiful panoramic views of the landscapes around. Kollam offers a variety of adventure activities, cultural festivities, and vibrant social life.
Location:Kollam, Kerala
Distance from Oachira: Approximately 32 kilometres
2. Sasthamcotta
Image Credit: Arunelectra for Wikimedia Commons
Sasthamcotta is a beautiful small village in Kerala which is known for its tranquil environment and the spiritual solace that it provides. Sasthamcotta Lake is one of the largest lakes in Kerala. It is located in a picturesque environment, which allows you to capture the beauty of the place with your cameras. The hills, valleys, and soothing sounds of lakes are a perfect blend of everything a nature lover will crave. You can take a leisurely stroll, spot various birds, meditate and feel closer to Mother Nature. You can also visit the Sasthamcotta temple, which is dedicated to Lord Ayyappa and adds to the spiritual significance of this place. This place attracts devotees and tourists from all around the world. The spiritual importance, nature and the nearby tourist places are the ones that add to the charm of this place. This is a perfect place for all those seeking escape into the lap of nature.
Location:Kollam, Kerala
Distance from Oachira: Approximately 15 kilometres
3. Thenmala
Image Credit: Kannanshanmugam,shanmugamstudio,Kollam for Wikimedia Commons
Known as India’s first eco-tourism destination, Thenmala is known for its green surroundings, biodiversity, and adventure activities. Thenmala is a perfect destination for tourism for people all around the world. You can explore the surroundings, enjoy trekking and boat rides and witness the real beauty of the place. In addition to promoting sustainable tourism, this place also allows you to experience various fun and adventurous activities like rock climbing, river rafting, mountain biking, etc. There is Sherenduruny Wildlife Sanctuary, which is home to diverse flora and fauna and will surely be one of the favourite places for all nature lovers. There is also a musical fountain and a sculpture garden, which you can visit here. You can explore various kinds of art, adventure and serenity that will provide a sweet escape from the chaos of the outside world.
Location:Kollam, Kerala
Distance from Oachira: Approximately 60 kilometres
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Visit the unique place of Oachira on your next trip to Kerala for a memorable experience. Kerala is a beautiful destination, whether for a business trip, solo trip, trip with friends, or pilgrimage. This place also has a wide range of resorts and homestay options for you to choose from. We have provided you with all the details you need to know when you take a trip to Oachira.
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Cover Image Credit: Akhilan for Wikimedia Commons
Frequently Asked Questions About Oachira
What is the significance of Oachira?
This place holds significant cultural and religious importance due to its ancient temples and unique spiritual practices. This place stands out for its unconventional structure - an open ground with no formal idol worship. Historically, this place has been a center of worship and pilgrimage since ancient times, dating back to the Chera dynasty. This site serves as a epitome to Kerala’s rich heritage, where ancient traditions have been preserved and continued to thrive in the modern times.
Which season should I choose to travel, if I want to visit Oachira?
This place can be visited by visitors at anytime they want, but the one that is preferred is during the winter months, from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and calm. The winter season here collides with the festival season in Kerala, including various cultural and religious celebration, It is further advisable to visitors to visit during the monsoon seasons, from june to september, When Kerala experiences heavy rainfall and humidity. This place can be very difficult to travel due to waterlogging and slippery roads.
What are some tourist places that I can visit nearby?
Some of the tourist places that visitors can visit are Sasthamcotta, Kollam, Thenmala, Parabrahma temple etc.
What is the speciality of Kollam?
It is a blend of rich culture, scenic beauty and the backwaters. Kollam is a home to Ashtamudi lake, which is one of the famous lakes over there. It offers boatrides where you can explore the backwaters and the beauty of the surrounding place which is surely going to provide you with a sense of calmness and peace. The serenity of the place and the views that your eyes are going to get are surely a treat to watch. The various trade links, commercial relations, beautiful landscapes, art and architecture associated with this place is what makes this place special.
What are the rules i should keep in mind while visiting Oachira?
People must respect the place and other fellow people visiting the shrine. Visitors should keep the place clean and should not litter the place. While clicking pictures, visitors should take permission from the authority. Visitors are advised to maintain the decorum and silence inside the shrine. They should avoid interrupting or even participating in activities unless invited to do so. Visitors must dress modestly and should wear a respectful attire for the respect of this religious place.
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