Nestled amidst the picturesque environs of Kottayam lies the 500-year-old Thirunakkara Mahadeva Temple. Constructed by Thekkumkoor Maharajah in 16th century the temple depicts stunning and colourful murals. Koothambalam, the building in the Temple premises used for cultural functions is so beautiful that people believe it to be the best in all of God’s Own Country.
The main deity worshipped in Thirunakkara Mahadevar Temple is Lord Shiva. Within the main temple, there is a six inches high Shiva Linga and to its left is a small idol of goddess Parvati.
Thirunakkara Mahadevar Temple’s surreal architecture attracts a lot of visitors. Koothambalam and its rooftop murals depicting stories from the epics are worth seeing too.
Phalguna Utsavam celebrated in March/April is the annual festival of the temple. It lasts for ten days. The festival includes a procession of caparisoned elephants. During the festival temple, art and cultural programmes are showcased. The other two festivals fall in October/November and June/July. Aaraattu is the best festival celebrated in Thirunakkara Mahadeva Temple. During the festival, the temple looks extravagant.