Kalpathy Vishwanatha Swamy Temple

Pilgrimage

Photo Credit: Flickr

Distance (From Palakkad Railway Station): 3 Kms

Trip Duration (Including Travel): 1 Hour

Transportation Options: Bus / Cab / Auto

Travel Tips: None

At a distance of 3 km from Palakkad Railway Station, the Kalpathy Vishwanatha Swamy Temple is an ancient Hindu temple situated in Palakkad. It is one of the best places to visit in Palakkad.

Situated on the banks of Kalpathy River, the temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It was built around 1425 AD by Kombi Achan, the raja of Palakkad, and is one of the oldest Shiva temples in this region. Legend has it that a Brahmin widow named Lakshmiammal went to Banaras and brought Lingam and installed it in the present site. The location of the temple and steps leading to the river brings the mind of a visitor to the Banaras Temples on the bank of the Ganges. Hence this temple is called Half Banaras.

The annual chariot festival is a popular event celebrated for 7 days in November. In the last 3 days, beautifully decorated temple chariots are ceremoniously drawn through the streets by thousands of devotees. The festival is dominated by three magnificent chariots, bedecked with flowers and flags, each sanctified by the presence of the Lord.

Timings: 5:30 AM to 8 PM.