Home > Indian History > Temples of India > Thirunelli Temple
Thirunelli Temple
Thirunelli Temple is an ancient temple that is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It is situated on the side of Brahmagiri hill in Kerala.

Share this Article:

Thirunelli Temple, Wayanad, KeralaThirunelli temple is located at an altitude of about 900m in north Wayanad in a valley. It is situated around 32 km away from Manathavady. The exact history of the temple is not known. However Thirunelli was once an important town and pilgrim centre that was surrounded on four sides by mountains. There is proof that Thirunelli at the time of Chera king Bhaskara Ravi Varma I (962-1019 CE) was an important town and pilgrim center in south India.

The name Thirunelli derives from the nelli, which means Indian gooseberry. The Matsya Purana, Skanda Purana, Narasimha Purana, Padma Purana, and many other Puranas and Hindu texts mentions this temple as being built by Lord Brahma, located in the picturesque Sahya valley and it is referred to as Sahyamalaka Kshetra. It is believed that the famous incarnation of Lord Vishnu Parasurama visited Thirunelli and performed last rites at the death of his father sage Jamadagni.

Kottiyoor Temple and Trisillery temple have been linked with legends of Thirunelli temple. Papanasini is a holy mountain stream that is around 1 km North West of the temple premises. It is believed that one dip in the cold Papanasini waters in reputed to wash away all sins. It is also believed that Papanasini is the confluence of river Ganga and Saraswathy. Panchatheertham is the holy temple pond. The temple has no well in its premises. Therefore water is transported from a perennial mountain stream deep in the valley through impressive stone aqueducts into the priest`s room. This place is a well known destination to perform last rites of the deceased at the rock close to Papanasini stream.

This article is a stub. You may enrich it by adding more information to it. You can send your write-up at [email protected]


Share this Article:

Related Articles

More Articles in Temples of India


Khajuraho Temples
Khajuraho Temples are known the world over for their beauty and architectural construction. This group of temples is situated in the central Indian state of Madhya Pradesh.
Temples In Hampi
Temples in Hampi are the manifestations of rich religious beliefs and architectural and sculptural abundance.
Dilwara Temples
Dilwara Temples located at Mount Abu date back from the 11th to 13th century and rank among the popular tourist destinations of Rajasthan.
Chola Temples
Chola Temples of South India comprises of the three great temples that were constructed in the 11th and 12th century and is declared as a World Heritage Site.
Badami Cave Temples
The Badami Cave Temples, an exemplary production of Indian architecture, are situated in the town of Badami.
Temples in Guwahati
Known to be the temple town of Assam, the temples in Guwahati are a reflection of the Assamese style of culture and architecture.
West India Temples
West India Temples are worth a visit for their beautifully designed masterpieces on stone.
North Indian Temples
India has a rich cultural and historical heritage because of its temples and pilgrimage sites. The North Indian Temples are in plenty and cater to people of all religion.
South Indian Temples
South Indian Temples lavishly built and aesthetically designed, in true sense are the symbol of architectural brilliance.
East India Temples
East India temples are really fascinating and enthralling and visit to these places can mesmerize a person very easily.
Northeastern Temples of India
Religious fervor and spiritual passion enlaces the northeastern temples of India.
Central India Temples
Central Indian temples amidst their religious fervour reverberates the true spirit of Hinduism.
Temple Architecture During Rajput Period
Temple architecture during the Rajput period was inclined to the aspect of Bhakti. Rajput kings encouraged this art which is reflected in the grandeur style of the temples.
Architecture of Mata Vaishnodevi Temple
Architecture at Vaishnodevi has been the source of artistic enjoyment for many, reinstating the vitality of the Indian religiosity and cultural fervour.
History of Sri Sanjeevi Rayar Temple
Steeped in glorious history this is indeed a legendary temple.
Temples in Munnar
Munnar houses myriad temples that are visited by many people. The temples of Munnar are especially known for their festivals that are celebrated with great grandeur.
History of Indian Temples
The history of Indian temples dates back to the ancient ages and variant dynasties that have ruled throughout the ages. Every temple of every region has a story attached to it that reflects the cultures of the specific dynasty.
Kalyaneshwari Temple
Kalyaneshwari Temple is one of the well known Shakti peeth of India. Located at a distance of 20 kms from Asansol this age old temple is known for its miracles and a number of legends that attract the devotees and tourists as well.
Kalika Temple in Udhampur
Also known as Maha Kali Temple, the Kalika Temple located at the Reasi town is a holy shrine.
Medieval Temples of India
Medieval temples of India vary from each other due to the style and architecture. The impact of the prevalent kingdom is prominent in the style of building.
Temples of Ramanathapuram District
Temples of Ramanathapuram district have special significance in the state, owing to its architectural attributes.
Architecture of Brihadeeswarar Temple
Architecture of Brihadeeswarar Temple in Thanjavur reflects the Dravidian style architecture. Lord Shiva is the primary deity of this temple.