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

History of the Temple

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.

Speciality of the Temple

• Thiruvallam Parasurama Temple is the only temple in Kerala dedicated to Lord Parasurama, the legendary creator of Kerala.
• Sree Parasurama Swamy Temple in Thiruvallam is believed to be around 2,000 years old, making it one of the oldest temples in South India.
• Parasurama Temple in Thiruvallam is famous for the Balitharpanam ceremony, where devotees honour their ancestors through offerings.
• The temple is recognized as a protected monument by the Archaeology Department of Kerala.It is listed among the 108 Abhimana Kshethrams of the Vaishnava tradition.

Timings

4 AM to 11 AM
5 PM to 8:20 PM.

Festivals in the Temple

• Karkidaka Vavu Bali: This is the major annual festival celebrated at Thiruvallam Parasurama Temple where thousands of devotees perform rituals for their ancestors. It takes place during the Malayalam month of Karkidakam (July-August).
• Parasurama Jayanti: It is celebrated to commemorate the birth of Lord Parasurama. This festival features special rituals and ceremonies at the temple and falls on Tritiya (the third day) of Shukla Paksha in the month of Vaishaka.

Dress Code to Visit the Temple

Traditional attire is preferred when Thiruvallam Parasurama Temple. Men are expected to wear a shirt and trousers, dhoti, or pyjamas with an upper cloth. Women are encouraged to wear a saree, half-saree with a blouse, or a churidar with pyjamas and an upper cloth.

Best Time to Visit

Thiruvallam Parasurama Temple can be visited throughout the year. But the best time to visit Parasurama Temple in Thiruvallam is the winter months from October to February are ideal, as the weather is cool and comfortable for temple visits and exploring the surrounding areas.

How to Reach the Temple

By Air: Thiruvananthapuram International Airport is the nearest airport to Parasurama Temple in Thiruvallam which is situated at a distance of 6.9 Km. Upon arrival at the airport, you can easily reach the temple by taxi or bus.

By Train: Thiruvananthapuram Central Railway Station is the nearest railway station to Thiruvallam Parasurama Temple which is situated at a distance of just 7.5 Km. On reaching the railway station, one can hire a cab, an auto rickshaw or a bus to reach the temple.

By Road: Thiruvallam Parasurama Temple is conveniently accessible by road. Visitors can reach the temple by private vehicle, bus, or by hiring an auto-rickshaw for a hassle-free journey.

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 04:00 AM to 11:00 AM and from 05:00 PM to 08:20 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.