Believed to be a 1000 years old, the Chowalloor Shiva Temple is located in Thrissur, Kerala. It is one of the holiest Hindu temples with thousands of believers visiting all year round. The Chowalloor Shiva Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and Parvathi and is one of the Shivalayas (where Shiva abodes) out of the total 108 shrines. According to legend, Lord Parshuram himself installed the idol at this temple. Only Hindus are permitted to enter the premises and attend the three poojas carried out daily. The idol of Goddess Parvathi is facing east whereas Lord Shiva's is facing west indicating blessings from all directions.
Widespread over 4 acres, a 10 feet tall Balikalpura is placed so that the lingam cannot be visible from outside. The main Sanctum is about two floors high and circular enclosed with a copper roof. One of the rarest Pooja, the Mangalya Pooja (carried for marital bliss and fulfilment of the wishes of an anxious bride), takes place at this temple. The pooja is conducted only 12 days every year.
Dedicated to Lord Shiva, Maha Shivratri is one of the main festivals celebrated at the Chowalloor Siva Temple. Grand celebrations and ceremonies mark the marriage of Lord Shiva with Goddess Parvathi. Yet another grand festival celebrated here is The Chowalloor Temple Thiruvathira Mahotsavam, which lasts about 12 days in December every year.