Chowalloor Shiva Temple

Reckoned as one the most beautiful temples in Kerala, the Chowalloor Shiva Temple, Guruvayuris located at a distance of about 3 km from the famous Guruvayur Sri Krishna temple. The temple is believed to be one of the oldest Shiva temples dating about 1000 years old. It is considered as one of 108 Shivalayas commonly known as the abode of Shiva. As per an ancient legend, the deity of Thrissur Sree Vadakunnatha Temple had manifested himself on an umbrella which was carried by one of his devotees belonging from the Chowalloor Mazhavannoor Mana. He used to walk to Thrissur regularly to pay homage to the Great Lord.

However, with old age coming in, he became too old to walk and worship Shiva regularly. However, under such circumstances, also, he still continued to go and worship the Lord. It was believed that the Lord himself used to accompany him to Chowalloor. The Swayambhoo idol of Lord Shiva is seen facing west in the temple. However, the consort of Shiva, Goddess Parvati faces east. The entire idol reflects the idea of showering the blessings of Lord in every direction.

Architecture

The Chowalloor Shiva Temple, Guruvayuris built on an area of about 4 acres of land. It has a vast edifice around which makes it look more extravagant and beautiful. However, the towers were not built initially on the side of the temple wall. The main Balikalluof theBalikalpura is around 10 feet in terms of height. Due to it, the Shiva lingam cannot be seen from outside. The holy shrine of Subrahmanya Swamy has its face towards the east. The Subrahmanya Temple is the part that was brought up during the renovation of the temple done in the year 2001. The main sanctum sanatorium of the temple is round in shape and has two distinct floors. The main point of attraction is the second roof of the Sanctum Sanctorum which is made out of copper. There is a golden dam too.

Festivals celebrated with vigour:

The festival of Shivratri is celebrated with great pomp and show. People here celebrate the festival with a lot of enthusiasm here. At the Chowalloor Temple, the Thiruvathira Mahotsavam is celebrated. It is a 12-day long festival that involves the worship and celebration of Lord Shiva. This time is often considered as the prime time to visit the temple and take part in the festive celebration.

How to Reach?

Chowalloor Shiva Temple is about 3 km away from Guruvayur Sri Krishna temple. This temple though not too large can definitely lay claim to being the most scenic temple in the vicinity of Guruvayur. You can easily pick up for Cab or Taxi service to reach the temple.

Timings:

Coming to the schedule, it is open from early morning till night. The average hours of operation start from 4:30 AM -9:15 PM. There is no such difference in the time schedule for weekends and special/public holidays.

Other Details:

There is no such entry fee for the temple. However, the visitors are not allowed to take their pets inside. The women and the men should be dressed in traditional garments in order to get access and enter the holy temple.

Nearby Attractions:

Some of the major places of attraction located near to the Chowallor Shiva Temple include:

• Guruvayyur temple

• Elephant Camps

• Guruvayurappam Temple

• MammiyurMahadevan Temple

• Palayur Church

• Institute of Mural Painting

• Parthasarthy Temple

• Dewaswom Museum

• Chamundeshwari Temple

• Harikanyaka Temple

• ThiruvambadiKrishna Shrine

• Nava Mukunda Temple

• Venkitachalapathy Temple

So, get close to the divine power by paying a visit to Chowalloor Shiva Temple