Aazhimala, a picturesque village in Vizhinjam, presents an unrealistic combination of nature and sanctity. The place is famous for its widespread beaches, greenery and the much-admired Trivandrum Shiva Temple. This temple is famous for the concrete-made 58-foot-tall statue of Lord Shiva in his Gangadhareshwara form. This idol is the creation of P.S Devadathan, a 29-year-old native artist from Aazhimala. This temple just adds up to the mystic vibe of this village giving it a magical touch. Let’s take a glimpse through all the information you must have before visiting this magnificent temple.
Trivandrum Shiva Temple History And Architecture
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The Trivandrum Shiva Temple’s history is as old as the Mahabharata. The main deity here is Lord Shiva with a popular belief that this temple has spiritual connections with Pandavas. It is also said that Draupadi, the wife of the Pandavas was thirsty and the water nearby was very salty. Bhimsen, one amongst the five Pandava brothers, immediately smashed a rock using his elbow and a stream of fresh water came out by which Draupadi satisfied her thirst. The temple has got its name as it is located amidst large rocks and the sea.
Over the last centuries, this temple has been remodelled and expanded many times and presently, it is regarded as one of the most significant temples in this state. The main idol in this temple was sanctified by Naalaniyeru, a Vedic Scholar. Currently, the temple is popular for the huge and majestic statue of Lord Shiva carved with a lot of intricacy.
Must Read: Temples in South India
Poojas Performed At Trivandrum Shiva Temple
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One of the most remarkable Trivandrum Shiva Temple facts has to be the special poojas that are conducted here. Daily, the priests perform Archanas, Abhishekams and Vivedam along with four significant poojas conducted inside the temple including Divasa Pooja, Pradosham Pooja, Uma Maheshwari Pooja and Udayaastamaya Pooja.
Twice every month, the priests conduct the Pradosham Pooja for forgiveness from God. From sunrise to sunset, another Udayasthama Pooja is conducted here. The Divasa Pooja is carried on throughout the day to chasten the minds and souls of the devotees of Mahadeva. The Uma Maheshwari Pooja is performed mostly by married couples for a happy and long life. Some other poojas performed here are the Vahana Pooja, Thali Pooja, Shanghabhishekam, and so on. Based on the type, devotees can perform these poojas, which may cost anywhere between Rs 5 to Rs 5000.
Tips To Know Before You Visit Aazhimala Shiva Temple
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If it’s your first time visiting the famous Trivandrum Shiva Temple, these are a few tips you must consider:
- The temple is very near the sea, and as a visitor, you can expect the weather to be hot and humid. Remember to carry your hats, sunscreen, water bottles, and sunglasses.
- It is not advisable to visit the temple during the months of June-September because of heavy rainfall and unsuited weather.
- Visitors are allowed to take pictures in the temple, but it is recommended that they confirm with the shrine authorities before taking images of the deities.
- Touching the plants and spitting within the temple premises can be punishable.
- The temple’s yearly festivities are celebrated in January and February. During this time, a large number of visitors from all over the world visit the temple.
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Places To Visit Near The Trivandrum Shiva Temple
There are many other attractions located close to the famous Trivandrum Shiva temple. If you’re visiting this temple, you may consider visiting these places too:
1. Shangumugham Beach
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Shangumugham Beach is a famous beach just 21 km from the Trivandrum Shiva Temple. An ideal place to spend your leisure time and relax, this beach is expanded on a large area of sand and possesses a sense of tranquillity. Many eateries, small shops, and open-air theatres have dedicated car parking spaces. The sunset here feels surreal.
Location: Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala
Best Time to visit: October to February
2. Poovar Island Resort
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Poovar Island Resort is heaven for people who enjoy visiting tropical regions and is located about 12 km from the temple. It is surrounded by the serene backwaters of Kerala, bordered by the Arabian Sea from the East and the elevated Western ghats from the West. Large stretches of golden-white sands, swinging coconut trees, flaming sunsets, bright blue ocean waters, and lush greenery create a mystical aura around you.
Location: K.P. VII/911, Pozhiyoor, Kulathoor, Kerala
Best Time to visit: August and March
Suggested Read: Hill Stations Near Trivandrum
3. Thiruvananthapuram Zoo
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The Thiruvananthapuram Zoo is located just within a distance of 23 Km from the Trivandrum Shiva Temple. It is spread across a massive land area of 30 acres and accommodates 1025 animals belonging to various species. Not just animals, but this zoo also hosts nearly 93 species of birds including migratory birds, exotic birds and water birds. It also has a beautiful lake surrounded by various trees. The entry fee here is Rs 20/- per person for people above 12 years of age and Rs 5/- for those below 12.
Location: GX63+6XP, Kanaka Nagar, Nanthancodu, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala
Best Time to visit: October to February
4. Napier Museum
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Located about 23 km from Trivandrum Shiva Temple, the Napier Museum was constructed in the 19th Century and named after John Napier, the previous governor-general of Madras. It showcases Kerala’s rich cultural heritage in the best possible way and houses a plethora of historic remnants, such as ivory statues, bronze sculptures, temple chariots, and ancient mammals.
Location: GX54+H2P, LMS Vellayambalam Rd, near Museum Junction, Kanaka Nagar, Nanthancodu
Best Time to visit: October to February
Suggested Read: Treehouses In South India
5. Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple
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The Padmanabhaswamy Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu in Trivandrum, 19 km from Aazhimala Temple. According to the Sri Vaishnava cult, this temple is one of the 108 Divya desams, which are regarded as the divine homes of Lord Vishnu. The origin of this temple and the sanctification of the idol are still unknown, as there is no historical evidence or other sources for reference in this regard.
Location: West Nada, Fort, East Fort, Pazhavangadi
Best Time to visit: October and February
How To reach
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Depending on your preference and convenience, you can reach the Trivandrum Shiva Temple by train, flight or road. Here are the details:
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- By train: Thiruvananthapuram Central Railway Station is the closest railway station to this temple, located nearly 20 km away. Once you have reached the station, there are plenty of transport facilities, such as buses and taxis, that can take you directly to the temple.
- By air: If you’re travelling by air, the nearest airport to this temple is Trivandrum International Airport, which is 21 km from Trivandrum Shiva Temple. This airport is excellent in terms of its connectivity with international airports. You’ll find taxis at the airport that can take you to the temple.
- By road: Trivandrum Shiva Temple is located on the road connecting Vizhinjam and Poovar, and it has good road connectivity. Aazhimala bus stop is just 100 metres away from the temple, so even if you’re travelling by bus, you can reach the temple in no time.
Further Read: Hill Resorts In Kerala
The Trivandrum Shiva Temple is one of the most eminent temples in Kerala and a must-visit place if you visit this state. This temple majestically boasts the tallest idol of Lord Shiva in the entire state. The huge structure of Shiva with his hair floating in the wind and goddess Ganga oozing out is a testament to the impressively beautiful creation of this temple. So, what are you waiting for? Add this place to your next trip to Kerala itinerary.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Trivandrum Shiva Temple
What are the Trivandrum Shiva Temple timings?
The Trivandrum Shiva temple timings are 5:30 AM- 10:30 AM and 5 PM-7:30 PM
Is there any dress code for visiting the Aazhimala Shiva Temple?
The dress code at Aazhimala Shiva Temple is the same as the rest of the temples in Kerala. Men are supposed to be in dhoti and women in any traditional attire.
Which is the nearest beach near the Trivandrum Shiva Temple?
The nearest beach to this temple is Kovalam Beach.
Are there any recommended places to eat near Aazhimala Shiva Temple?
There are many places to eat near Aazhimala Shiva Temple.
Is there any other name for Trivandrum Shiva Temple?
The Aazhimala Shiva Temple was originally known as Aazhimala Pulinkudi Sree Mahadeva Temple. Presently it is popular by the name Aazhimala Shiva Temple only.
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