Located within the dense forests of Periyar Tiger Reserve, Mangaladevi Temple or commonly known as Mangaladevi Kannagi Kottam is a pilgrim centre at a distance of 15 km from the Idukki district. The temple is only open once a year during the Chitra Pournami Festival in Summer (April/May), during which devotees come in to worship in the temple trekking around 12 km within the forest.
The top view from Mangaladevi Temple is gorgeous with greenery. The Western Ghats and some villages of the state of Tamil Nadu are visible from the peak point that is about 1337m above sea level. There is a 2000-year-old myth behind the temple. This temple is dedicated to Kannagi, the mythical character of the Tamil Epic, Silapathikaram. Kannagi was a very devoted wife, her husband Kovalan was put to death by the king upon the case of theft. Enraged Kannagi proved the innocence of her husband and burnt down the whole town of Madurai in her fierce anger. Since then, Kannagi is regarded as the symbol of strength and power in women. Her vengeance was seen as a just action by her devotees.
It is also believed that the Mangaladevi Temple in Idukki has a secret underground passage leading to Madurai, the place that was burnt to ashes by Kannagi. Even though the temple is only open during the Chitra Pournami festival, visitors are allowed to see the temple with special permission from the forest range. The view on top of the temple is incomparable. The temple on the top is a blend of mythologies and natural beauty. You can cherish the myths while enjoying the glory of nature.
