Thiruvalla Temple

The Thiruvalla Temple at Alappuzha, Kerala is a classic example of Kerala Temple architecture. Built on a large premise, the temple is adorned all over with finely etched murals and intricate rock carvings. The construction was made during the pre-Christian Era and the long, elegant corridors, inlaid with granite slabs, are testimony to the highly refined architectural finesse of the age.

The high display of the temple is its 50 feet tall granite flag post atop which is perched a massive 3 feet idol of Garuda the majestic eagle mount of Lord Vishnu. A large tank has been built near the temple is believed to be a natural spring. The bottom of the flag post is believed to be deep enough to touch the underground surface below which the ground is wholly saturated with water (also known as water table or groundwater level).

The main sanctum in the shrine is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and thus the temple is called Sree Vallabha Temple. Five other deities are also acknowledged in lesser shrines within the temple premises.

Every evening after the Sayankala Puja (Evening Puja) a Kathakali recital is held in the temple courtyard. This is a ritual upheld till date. The lord is deemed to enjoy this performance from Vaikuntha, his heavenly abode.

Women are generally not allowed to enter the sanctum sanctorum of the temple. An exception is made on the festive days of Vishu and Thiruvathirai. The Thiruvalla temple rises to its festive swing twice a year, once in February - March and again in March – April. The March – April festivities (the Uthraseeveli Festival) is held on the day when the Makayiram constellation is on the rise in the Meenam month (March - April) of the Kollavarsham. Cultural song-dance programs mark the event. Small stalls of vessels and granite items are set up and active trade takes place.

The Thiruvalla temple is situated at a distance of 3 km from the Thiruvalla Railways station. The closest airport is the Cochin Airport and excellent roadways link this pilgrimage spot to almost all cities in the state. One could also make this trip by taking the waterways to Alappuzha Port and proceeding from there on Road.

The Thiruvalla temple at is an important Vaishnavite (worshippers of Vishnu) shrine in South India and its significance can be noted from the fact the temple is the theme of many songs sung by the Alwars, noted devotees among the Vaishnavites.