One of Kerala’s most significant temples, the Ernakulam Shiva Temple—also known as Ernakulathappan Temple – is centrally located in Ernakulam, Kochi, Kerala, India. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple is deeply rooted in local Hindu beliefs and customs and is revered as the city’s temple, with the presiding deity serving as the guardian of Ernakulam.
Ernakulam Shiva Temple Deity and Significance
Deity is affectionately referred to as Ernakulathappan, meaning “Lord of Ernakulam,” a title that underscores the temple’s cultural importance. Situated in the Durbar Hall Ground, the temple has a storied history intertwined with the city’s evolution.
Ernakulam Shiva Temple History
Temple is one of the seven royal temples of the Kochi Maharajas. It gained its current prominence and structure under the patronage of Diwan Sri Edakkunni Sankara Warrier in 1846, thus becoming a royal temple within the Kochi Kingdom. Today, the Cochin Devaswom Board manages the temple’s operations.
Architecture Ernakulam Shiva Temple
Occupying an area of one acre (4,000 m²), the Ernakulam Shiva Temple is not only a place of worship but also a landmark of historical and cultural heritage. Its architecture and layout reflect the traditional Kerala style, providing a serene environment for devotees and visitors.
Ernakulam Shiva Temple Location : X79J+CV5, Durbar Hall Rd, Marine Drive, Ernakulam, Kerala 682011.
Ernakulam shiva temple contact number : 9104842370
Ernakulam Shiva Temple Timings
Morning Poojas:
- Nadathurakkal and Nirmalyam: 3:30 AM
- Abhishekam: 4:00 AM to 4:45 AM
- Shankhabhishekam: 5:15 AM
- Ushapooja: 5:45 AM
- Ethirtha Pooja: 6:15 AM
- Ethirtha Sheeveli: 6:30 AM
- Jala Dhara: 7:00 AM
- Pantheeradi Pooja: 7:30 AM to 8:15 AM
- Uchcha Pooja, Uchcha Sheeveli, Nada Adakkal: 9:30 AM to 11:00 AM
Evening Poojas:
- Vykunneram Nadathruakkal: 4:00 PM
- Deeparadhana: 6:30 PM
- Athaazha Pooja, Athaazha Sheeveli, Thrippaka, Nada Adakkal: 7:15 PM to 8:00 PM
Things Not Allowed at Ernakulam Shiva Temple
To maintain the temple’s sanctity and peace, the following items and activities are not allowed:
- Cameras
- Alcohol
- Footwear
- Weapons
- Pets
- Skates
- Smoking
- Plastic Bags
Ernakulam Shiva Temple Dress Code
- Male Worshipers: Males are required to enter the temple with their upper torso uncovered. This is in line with traditional customs and reflects respect for the deity.
- Female Worshipers: Females are expected to wear traditional Indian attire, which includes sarees, salwar kameez, or any other traditional dress deemed appropriate.
Adhering to this dress code is essential to maintain the sanctity and traditions of the Ernakulam Shiva Temple.
Ernakulam Shiva Temple Photos
How to Reach Ernakulam Shiva Temple?
By Road:
- Buses: Buses to Ernakulam are available from all major towns in Kerala, as well as from Bangalore, Chennai, Mangalore, Salem, Coimbatore, and Madurai. Most long-distance buses travel through MG Road.
- Nearest Bus Stop: The closest bus stops are South or Pallimukku. The temple is about 2 km from the KSRTC bus terminal. Once in Ernakulam town, you can take one of the local private buses or an auto-rickshaw to reach the temple.
By Train:
- Stations: Ernakulam has two major railway stations, Ernakulam Junction (South) and Ernakulam Town (North). Both stations are well-connected to major cities in India.
- Distance: The temple is approximately 2 km from the Ernakulam Junction (South) railway station. You can hire an auto-rickshaw or take a local bus to reach the temple from the station.
By Air:
- Nearest Airport: The nearest airport is Kochi International Airport at Nedumbassery, around 20 km from the city of Ernakulam and the temple.
- Flights: Regular flights to Kochi are available from major Indian cities such as Mumbai, Delhi, and Bangalore. Airlines operating include Air India and Jet Airways.
- Airport to Temple: From the airport, you can take a taxi or airport bus service to reach the temple. The journey typically takes around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic conditions.
Festivals Celebrated in Ernakulam Shiva Temple
Utsavam Festival
One of the grandest festivals celebrated at the Ernakulam Shiva Temple is the Utsavam, held with great devotion and splendor during the months of December and January. This festival is marked by several key events and rituals:
Kodiyettam (Flag Hoisting)
Festival begins with the Kodiyettam on the first day, symbolizing the commencement of the celebrations.
Pakalpooram
On the seventh day, the Pakalpooram takes place, featuring a majestic procession with beautifully adorned elephants and the rhythmic beats of Panchavadyam (an ensemble of five traditional musical instruments). Day’s festivities culminate with a spectacular fireworks display at Durbar Hall, following the energetic Pandimelam (a traditional temple orchestra).
Holy Bath and Arattu Procession
Final day of the festival includes a solemn evening ceremony where the deity is taken for a holy bath in a nearby temple tank. Ritual is followed by the lowering of the festival flag.
Arattu Procession then begins, accompanied by the vibrant sounds of Panchavadyam, creating a festive and devotional atmosphere.
Cultural Events and Performances
Throughout the festival, a variety of cultural events and performances are organized. These include:
- Chenda Melam: Performances by top Chenda Melam (traditional drum) artists.
- Sheeveli: Ritual processions inside the temple premises.
- Special Poojas: Conducted daily by renowned priests from Puliyannoor Mana and Chennose.
Temple Arts and Performances: Festival also showcases various temple-related arts such as:
- Paatakam: Traditional narrative performances.
- Thayambaka: Solo drum performances.
- Ottamthullal: A classical dance-drama.
- Classical Dances and Kathakali: Performances of classical Indian dances and Kathakali (a classical Indian dance-drama).
- Classical Music Concerts and Bhajans: Musical renditions and devotional songs.
Utsavam festival at Ernakulam Shiva Temple is a vibrant celebration that reflects the rich cultural and religious heritage of Kerala, drawing devotees and tourists alike to participate in its joyous and devotional festivities.
Ernakulam Shiva Temple Nearby Places
- Ernakulam Junction Railway Station: 2 km
- Ernakulam Town Railway Station: 3 km
- Kochi International Airport: 30 km
- Fort Kochi: 13 km
- Marine Drive: 3 km
- Mattancherry: 7 km
- Lulu Mall: 7 km
- Bolgatty Palace: 6 km
- Hill Palace Museum: 10 km
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q. How did Ernakulam Shiva Temple originate?
A. Ernakulam Shiva Temple was built by Arjuna, who offered sincere adoration to Goddess Parvathy here. His devotion was so intense that he shivered in the mud, which led to Lord Shiva blessing him with the Pashupatha arrow. Child named Devala worshipped the deity here and was released from his curse.
Q. What is the opening time of Ernakulam Shiva Temple?
A. Ernakulam Shiva Temple opens at 3:30 AM and closes at 8:00 PM. The temple is managed by the Cochin Devaswom Board and spans over 1 acre of land.
Q. Who is the main deity of Ernakulam Shiva Temple?
A. Main deity of the Ernakulam Shiva Temple is Lord Shiva, worshipped in the form of Gauri Shankar. The deity is represented as a Swayambhoo Shiva Linga in the main sanctum.
Q. Which are the other temples of Lord Shiva in Kerala?
A. Ernakulam Shiva Temple is one of the most important Shiva temples in Kerala, along with:
- Ettumanoor Mahadevar Temple
- Kaduthuruthy Mahadeva Temple
- Vaikom Temple
- Chengannur Mahadeva Temple
- Vadakkunnathan Temple
Q. What is the dress code for Ernakulam Shiva Temple darshan?
A. Dress code for devotees is traditional attire. Women should wear sarees or salwar suits, while men should not cover their upper torso with clothing.
Q. Which festival is celebrated in Ernakulam Shiva Temple?
A. One of the biggest festivals celebrated at the Ernakulam Shiva Temple is the “Utsavam,” held with great devotion and splendor in December-January.
