Kaviyoor Mahadeva temple located on the banks of river Manimala is a famous tourist attraction in Pathanamthitta district. The temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is also known as Thrikkaviyoor Mahadeva temple. This temple is quite different from the other temples in the locality as it is historically significant and is preserved by the Archeological Department as a heritage monument that resembles the Pallava style of architecture. Due to this Pallava inheritance of structures, it is believed that the temple was built during the 8th century AD.
The main deity of the temple, Lord Shiva is enshrined in the square-shaped cave within the premises of the temple. The shiva linga sculpture inside the cave is 3 feet high, carved out of a rock. Apart from the prime deity, the sub-deities of the temple are Ganapathy and Dwarapalakas. Towards the northwest side of the inner courtyard, there is a small Hanuman temple, thus the temple is commonly known as Kaviyoor Hanuman temple among the locals.
The major festivals include celebrations of Hanuman Jayanti and the annual festival during the months of December and January. Non- Hindus are not allowed to enter the temple, other devotees and tourists can see the stone engravings, stone sculptures, etc. on the outside. With its ethnic Pallava architecture, copper-covered roof, wide steps and golden flag mast Kaviyoor Mahadeva Temple is a magnificent place to visit.
Contact Details
Kaviyoor Mahadevar Temple
Kaviyoor, Thiruvalla,
Pathanamthitta, Kerala 689582
