The famous Ambalapuzha temple is in Alleppey district. This gorgeous temple is dedicated to Lord Sri Krishna.

Ambalapuzha temple has a significant connection to the famous Guruvayoor temple. During Tipu Sultan's raid in 1789, the idol of Sri Krishna from the Guruvayoor temple was moved to Ambalappuzha Temple to keep it safe & sound. People admire the architecture of this temple, and it’s considered one of the seven greatest Vaishnava temples in Travancore. The inner walls of Chuttambalam are adorned with various paintings, quite colorful ones. The popular art form Ottanthullal had its first performance here too! It's interesting, right? The poojas at this temple are performed by Namboothiri Brahmins from the Puthumana Thanthri family.

People believe that Devanarayanan Thampuran was very pious. His devotion led him to decide that an idol of Lord Krishna should be brought to Ambalapuzha Sree Krishna Swamy Temple from Karinkulam temple. The event of bringing this idol marks the origin of the Ambalapuzha Temple Festival, also known as Chambakulam Moolam water festival—it’s a celebration you wouldn't want to miss! Held every year on the Moolam day of Mithunam month (Malayalam era).

Other yearly festivals include a grand festival held in March/April (month Meenam) lasting 10 days with feasts, & the Kalabham festival lasting 12 days during January/February (Malayalam month Makaram). Notably, 'Pallipana' is played once every twelve years.

One cannot forget to mention Ambalapuzha Payasam! This sweet pudding made from rice and milk is legendary. There's even a wonderful myth attached to it—it's said that Lord Sree Krishna himself visits daily for Palpayasa Nedyam just to have this delicious treat.

So, if you ever get a chance, do visit and participate in these rich traditions and taste that heavenly payasam at Ambalappuzha Temple!

FAQs:

What is the historical significance of Ambalapuzha Sri Krishna Temple?

The Ambalapuzha Temple, located in Alleppey, Kerala, was constructed by Chembakasserry Pooradam Thirunal-Devanarayanan Thampuran. It has historical ties to the Guruvayoor temple, as the idol of Sri Krishna was moved here during Tipu Sultan's raid in 1789 for safekeeping.

What makes the architecture of Ambalapuzha Temple unique?

The temple is renowned for its beautiful Kerala-style architecture, with inner walls adorned with vibrant paintings. It is considered one of the seven greatest Vaishnava temples in Travancore, and the first performance of the traditional art form Ottanthullal took place here.

What are the main festivals celebrated at Ambalapuzha Temple?

Major festivals include the Chambakulam Moolam water festival in the Malayalam month of Mithunam, the grand 10-day festival in March/April (Meenam), and the 12-day Kalabham festival in January/February (Makaram). The unique 'Pallipana' ritual is performed once every twelve years.

What is the story behind the famous Ambalapuzha Payasam?

Ambalapuzha Payasam is a sweet pudding made of rice and milk, believed to be a favorite of Lord Sree Krishna. According to legend, the deity visits daily for the Palpayasa Nedyam offering, making this dessert an essential part of the temple's culinary tradition.

How can visitors reach Ambalapuzha Sri Krishna Temple?

The temple is accessible by road, with frequent bus services from major cities like Kochi and Trivandrum. The nearest railway station is Ambalapuzha, just a few kilometers away, making it easy for devotees and tourists to visit.