Vaikom Mahadeva Temple is one of the supreme shrines of Lord Mahadevan. This temple is popularly known as the Kashi of South and is devoted to Lord Shiva. The deity of Vaikom Mahadeva Temple is known by the name "Vaikkathappan".This temple is a classic example of traditional Kerala architecture which is believed to have been built by Parasurama, the incarnation of Vishnu.

Vaikathashtami is the most prominent festival of the Vaikom Mahadeva Temple which is celebrated with much pomp and grandeur. It is celebrated between the months of November and December which continues to 12 days. The elephant pageants and the traditional art performances are the major highlights of Vaikathashtami.

History of the Temple:

As per legends, saint Vyaghrapada saw Lord Shiva along with Goddess Parvati at this place on Vrishchikam, which is the Krishna Paksha. Hence, the people began calling this place as Vyaghrapadapuram. Later, when the Tamil language became popular here, Vyaghrapadapuram came to be known as Vaikom.

Another popular myth about this temple is related to an asura named Khara. On receiving the Shaiva Vidya Upadesh from Malyavan, Kharasura went to Chidambaram and did severe penance and Tapasya for the attainment of Moksha. Being pleased with his penance, Lord Shiva presented Kharasura three Shiva Lingas. Kharasura returned to Kerala from the Himalayas with all three Shiva Lingas, holding one on his left hand, one in right and the third one was hung from his neck. During his journey, he felt tired. So, he kept the three Shiva Lingas on the ground and sat to rest. When he got up, he was not able to lift the Lingas. Suddenly, he heard a voice from the heaven saying that the Lingams will remain there to help people attain moksha. Hence, after attaining moksha, Kharasura entrusted the Lingams to saint Vyaghrapada and left the place. The Shiva Linga which was held in the right hand of Kharasura was consecrated at Vaikom, the one which was hung in the neck is at Kaduthruthy and the one held in his left hand at Ettumanoor. The devotees believe that Lord Shiva grants all their wishes if they worship at these three shrines on the same day before Ucha Pooja.

The holy ash which is given as prasadam is believed to cure people from hysteria, poison and wounds as per myth. There is a pond which is believed to have been created by Lord Shiva from the Ganges from his hair as per the request of saint Parasurama.

At the eastern side of the temple, there is a pond, once, two Brahmins from Kanyakumari, named Shankara and Mukunda came to Vaikom while they were travelling to Kashi. While Shankara was busy listening to the Bhajans and having food at the shrine, Mukunda left him and set off to Kashi. A few days later, Shankara felt lonely and was sad that he could not take a bath in River Ganges. He also fell in severe fever. So, he prayed to Lord Shiva. As a result, Lord Shiva came to him in his sleep. The Lord asked him to take a bath in the pond at the eastern side of the temple to fulfil his wish. Next morning, Shankara took bath in the pond and he felt as if he was bathing in the Ganges. This pond is considered as good as the River Ganges and the people call it Arathihara Theertha.

Speciality of the Temple

The devotees believe that Lord Shiva grants all their wishes if they worship at these three shrines on the same day before Ucha Pooja.

It is one of the few temples which is worshipped by both the Shaivites and the Vaishnavaites.

Vaikom Mahadeva Temple is one among the biggest temples in Kerala and has a vast courtyard of about 8 acres. The temple premises is levelled by river sand.

The Sree kovil of the temple is covered with copper sheets. Also, the Sree kovil has a front chamber, known as the Mukha Mandapa. The Mukha Mandapa is built with stone and wood. The Sreekovil also has a second chamber which is square in shape and is built with stone.

The Shiva Lingam which is of black stone and six feet in height is kept inside the Sreekovil. The Shiva Lingam has three eyes, nose and four hands and wears a Chandrakala which means the crescent.

Timings

5 AM to 12 PM.

4 PM to 9 PM.

Festivals in the temple

Vaikathashtami: Vaikathashtami is the most prominent festival of the Vaikom Mahadeva Temple which is celebrated with much pomp and grandeur. This grand temple festival extends for 12 days and is celebrated between the months of November and December.

Shivaratri: Vaikom Mahadeva Temple also celebrates Shivaratri festival.

Dress Code to visit the temple:

Traditional wears are the most preferable attire, Women can wear Saree, Churidar, and Pavada and blouse to this temple. Men are not allowed to wear shirts while entering the Temple.

Way to reach :

By Air - Cochin International Airport is the nearest airport to Vaikom Mahadeva Temple which is situated at a distance of 76 Km. On reaching the airport, one can hire a taxi or bus to reach the temple.

By Rail - Vaikom Road Railway Station is the nearest railway station to Vaikom Mahadeva Temple which is situated at a distance of 12.5 Km. On reaching the railway station, one can hire a taxi or bus to reach the temple.

By Bus - Vaikom Bus Station is the nearest bus station to Vaikom Mahadeva Temple which is just 1Km away. Many state transport buses and private buses are easily available from major cities to Vaikom

FAQs

What is the significance of the Vaikom Mahadeva Temple?

Vaikom Mahadeva Temple, known as the "Kashi of the South," is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is revered by both Shaivites and Vaishnavites.

What are the main festivals celebrated at Vaikom Mahadeva Temple?

The most prominent festival is Vaikathashtami, celebrated with grandeur over 12 days between November and December, featuring elephant pageants and traditional art performances.

What are the unique features of the temple’s architecture?

The temple boasts traditional Kerala architecture, with a vast 8-acre courtyard, copper-covered Sreekovil, and intricate wood and stone work in the Mukha Mandapa.

What are the rituals and timings for worship at Vaikom Mahadeva Temple?

Lord Shiva is worshipped in three forms throughout the day: Sri. Dakshinamurthy in the morning, Kiratha Moorthy at noon, and Shakti Panchakshari in the evening.

What myths are associated with the Vaikom Mahadeva Temple?

Legends include the presence of Shiva Lingas consecrated by Kharasura and the role of saint Parasurama in the temple’s establishment, enhancing its spiritual significance.