Chowallur Shiva Temple, Guruvayur - Timings, History, Darshan, Pooja Timings
#10 of 12 Places to Visit in Guruvayur
Distance (From Guruvayur): 4 Kms
Trip Duration (Including Travel): 1-2 Hours
Transportation Options: Cab / Auto
Travel Tips: Only Hindus are allowed inside the temple premises.
At a distance of 4 km from Guruvayur Railway Station, Chowallur Shiva Temple is an ancient temple located at Guruvayoor. It is one of the famous places of pilgrimage near Kochi, and among the top places to visit in Guruvayur.
The gorgeous complex of Chowalloor Shiva Temple is dedicated to the worship of Lord Shiva, and is over 1000 years old. The temple is a part of the 108 famous Shiva temples in Kerala that were established by Lord Parasurama and one among the five Shiva temples around Guruvayoor. As a result, it holds a special significance in the hearts of Shiva devotees and followers of the Hindu faith.
Covering an area of 4 acres, the Chowalloor Shiva Temple is constructed in the traditional Kerala architectural style. The circular, two-story sanctum sanctorum of the temple is distinctive and is famous for its colorful mural paintings depicting scenes from the Mahabharata on the outer walls. The main deity of the temple is Lord Shiva in the form of a Shivalinga. A 10-foot-tall Balikalpura is strategically placed to obscure the view of the lingam from outside. An interesting aspect of the temple is that the idol of Lord Shiva faces west, while the idol of Goddess Parvathi faces east, symbolizing blessings from all directions.
At the temple entrance, there is a shrine dedicated to Thiruvambadi Krishna. Additionally, a shrine of Subrahmanya Swamy faces east on the north-western side of the temple complex. Visitors can also find Navagrahas, stone idols of Saptha Matrikas, as well as shrines for Ganesha, Ayyappan, and Anjaneya within the temple premises.
One of the major festivals celebrated at the Chowalloor Siva Temple is Maha Shivratri, which involves elaborate ceremonies and festivities commemorating the marriage of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvathi. Another significant festival is Thiruvathira Mahotsavam, a 12-day celebration held every December. Access to the temple premises is restricted to Hindus only.
Timings: 5 AM - 11 AM & 5 PM - 8 PM
Entry: Free
