Azhimala Shiva Tempe is a serene place of worship, set in the picturesque backdrop of the Arabian Sea in Trivandrum (Thiruvananthapuram). This temple, perched atop a cliff by the Azhimala Beach, is renowned for its Shiva statue, the largest in Kerala.
I had the privilege to visit this temple on my Trivandrum trip and be mesmerized by the magnanimity of the shiva statute, the peaceful atmosphere, and the sheer beauty of this ancient temple. Here is some information you would find useful in planning your trip to Azhimala Shiva Temple.
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Best Ayurvedic Resorts Near Azhimala Shiva Temple:
Azhimala Shiva Temple Dress Code
When we visited Azhimala Shiva Temple, I noticed that there was no particular dress code for tourists visiting just the Shiva sculpture. The temple has a separate entrance, other than the main temple entrance, for visiting the shiva sculpture photography point. In spite of that, keep in mind that it is a temple premise and so avoid tee-shirts with fancy graphics or too revealing clothing. I would choose something modest as a mark of respect to the local culture.
Ashley’s Tip: If you are a woman and wearing shorts or short dresses, consider wearing a wraparound skirt over it for any temple visit. This is what I do to “dress for the occasion.”
If you are visiting the temple for darshan as a devotee, you are required to dress in traditional attire. Men should wear white dhoti and shirt. Women, who wish to enter the temple should wear saree or churidar. Avoid Western wear if you are visiting as a devotee.
Temple Timing
The Azhimala Shiva Temple is open for darshan from 5:30 am to 10:30 am in the morning and then again from 4:30 pm to 7:30 pm in the evening.
If you are only visiting the Shiva statute, it can be any time in the 5:30 am to 7:30 pm time frame. There is a nominal entry fee of Rs. 20 per adult for those visiting just to see the shiva temple.
Photography Permissions
Photography is permitted for the shiva statue, and the temple premises for no additional charges. However, photography is strictly prohibited inside the temple.
Azhimala Shiva Temple Specialty
Azhimala Shiva Temple is famous for the statue of Lord Shiva, which stands at around 58 feet tall. This magnificent statue depicts Shiva in a meditative posture, known as the Gangadhareshwara pose, exuding a sense of calm and divine presence. In this posture, lord Shiva is seated on a rocky platform with matted hair and four hands.
The sculpture is mounted on a rock at a height of 6.1 meters (20 feet). The back right hand holds a damaru (a two-headed drum), the front right hand rests on the right thigh, the back left hand holds a trishula (the trident), and the front left hand is raised within the dreadlocks that contain Ganga. Shiva is wearing necklaces and amulets of rudrakhsa with his snake, Vasuki, loosely hanging on from his neck. Ganga is represented as a woman on top of the matted hair of lord Shiva.
The Shiva statute was built by a local sculptor of Azhimala, P.S Devadathan. He took six years to complete the sculpture and it was opened to public in December 2021.
Azhimala Shiva Temple is believed to have been built during the Pandya dynasty in the 8th century. The temple architecture strongly reflects that of Tamil Temple architectural styles. The use of bright colors, and intricate carvings of different deities all around the temple are unique aspects of this temple that show a perfect medieval blend of Kerala and Tamil culture.
The temple festival, or utsavam, is conducted every year in the month of January-February. Maha Shivaratri in March is another famous religious festival celebrated with much pomp in this temple.
Other Useful Information
Here are some general useful information for planning a visit to Azhimala Shiva Temple:
The temple is busiest on Tuesdays with devotees. Hence try to avoid the day if you are visiting as a tourist.
There is a parking area withing the temple premises that can comfortably accommodate about 20 four-wheelers at a time. For larger vehicles like buses and tempo travellers, there is a separate parking on the way to the temple.
There is a small cafeteria next to the temple serving vegetarian snacks and tea. We found the temple surroundings and Azhimala Beach to be very beautiful and serene. And so, we spent quite some time in the cafeteria watching the waves crash against the shore while sipping our tea.
The temple also has a pay and use public conveyance at your disposal. We found the washrooms to be quite clean and well-maintained.
How to Reach Azhimala Shiva Temple
Azhimala Shiva Temple is located approximately 27 kilometers or 50 minutes’ drive from Trivandrum. The temple is at a distance of only 7 kilometers from Kovalam Beach.
Located just 2.5 kilometers from National Highway 66, this temple can also be easily accessed by public transportation as well.
If traveling by own vehicle, just follow the GPS to reach the temple.
Tourist Attractions Near Azhimala Shiva Temple
Here are some tourist attractions you can visit on the way to Azhimala Shiva Temple:
Kovalam Beach
Distance: Approximately 9 km
Highlights: Kovalam Beach is one of Kerala’s most famous beaches, known for its crescent-shaped shoreline and lighthouse. It offers activities like swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. The beach is divided into three parts: Lighthouse Beach, Hawa Beach, and Samudra Beach.
Rock Cut Cave Shiva Temple
Distance: Approximately 8 km
Highlights: This ancient temple, carved out of rock, dates back to the 8th century. It features intricate carvings and sculptures dedicated to Lord Shiva. The Rock Cut Cave Shiva Temple offers a glimpse into the region’s rich history and architectural heritage.
Kerala Art and Craft Village
Distance: Approximately 12 km
Highlights: This cultural village showcases the traditional arts and crafts of Kerala. You can see artisans at work, participate in workshops, and purchase handcrafted items. The village aims to preserve and promote Kerala’s rich artistic traditions.
Poovar Backwaters
Distance: Approximately 16 km
Highlights: Poovar Backwaters offer a serene and picturesque experience with boat rides through mangroves and narrow canals. The backwaters lead to the Poovar Beach, where the Neyyar River meets the Arabian Sea. It’s an ideal spot for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility.
Vellayani Lake
Distance: Approximately 10 km
Highlights: Vellayani Lake is a large freshwater lake, popular for its scenic beauty and peaceful environment. It’s a great spot for picnics, fishing, and boating. The lake is especially beautiful during the Onam festival when the annual boat race takes place.
Kuzhipallam Botanical Gardens
Distance: Approximately 15 km
Highlights: These botanical gardens are home to a wide variety of plant species, including medicinal plants, orchids, and ornamental plants. The gardens provide a tranquil environment for nature walks and are ideal for plant enthusiasts and families.
Wrapping Up: Azhimala Shiva Temple
Azhimala Shiva Temple is a serene sanctuary that seamlessly blends spiritual reverence with natural beauty. Whether you seek a moment of peace, a glimpse of stunning coastal views, or an appreciation of intricate architecture, this temple offers a unique and enriching experience for all visitors.
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