This temple, positioned on the banks of the Karamana River near Thuvallam in Thiruvananthapuram District, located a mere 250 meters from our Trivandrum office. It stands as only temple in Kerala devoted to Lord Parasurama. Found approximately 9 kilometers from Kovalam Beach and 15 kilometers from Trivandrum Airport, this historical temple was constructed during the 13th centuries and is currently managed by the Travancore Devaswom Board.

Lord Parasurama, regarded as the creator of Kerala, holds significant reverence at this temple. During Karkidaka Vavu (observed in July - August), which corresponds to a holiday in the Malayalam month of Karkidakam, devotees engage in Bali—a religious ritual where they pay homage to their forefathers. This ritual is performed after devotees take a purifying dip in the sacred waters.

Temple History

Parasurama visited numerous holy sites to absolve himself of the sin incurred for killing his mother at his father's behest. Following Lord Shiva's guidance, he arrived at this spot and bathed in the Karamana River. Here, he discovered a Linga, installed it, and undertook penance at this location to cleanse himself of his sins. Additionally, he performed Tarpan for his mother here.

The temple maintains specific visiting hours: from 05:00 AM to 11:00 AM and from 04:00 PM to 07:00 PM.

FAQs

What is the significance of the Parasurama Temple in Kerala?

The temple is the only one in Kerala dedicated to Lord Parasurama, the creator of the state, and is renowned for its Balitharpanam ritual, which honors ancestors.

Where is the Parasurama Temple located?

It is situated on the banks of the Karamana River near Thuvallam in Thiruvananthapuram District, about 9 kilometers from Kovalam Beach and 15 kilometers from Trivandrum Airport.

What is Balitharpanam, and when is it performed?

Balitharpanam is a ritual to pay homage to ancestors, performed during Karkidaka Vavu in July-August, where devotees take a purifying dip in the river before the ritual.

What are the temple's visiting hours?

The temple is open from 05:00 AM to 11:00 AM and from 04:00 PM to 07:00 PM.

What is the historical significance of the temple?

Built in the 12th and 13th centuries, the temple is managed by the Travancore Devaswom Board and holds great historical and spiritual importance, especially for rituals of ancestor worship.