Azhimala Siva Temple, located near the Poovar-Vizhinjam road in Thiruvananthapuram, is home to the tallest Shiva statue in Kerala. This temple is believed to date back to the 8th century AD and was constructed during the Pandya dynasty. It is also regarded as a significant center of Shaivism, a sect of Hinduism that venerates Lord Shiva as the supreme deity.
The statue of Azhimala Siva Temple, known as the Gangadhareshwara Statue or Aazhimala Siva Statue, stands 52 feet high and was sculpted by P.S. Devadathan. It was commissioned by the Pulinkudi Azhimala Shiva Temple Devaswom Trust and was completed and dedicated to the public on December 31, 2021, after six years of construction. This statue depicts Lord Shiva holding the goddess Ganga in his locks, and its intricate details and 3D structure make it a must-see for nature lovers and pilgrims alike.
Azhimala Siva Temple ആഴിമല ശ്രീ മഹാദേവ ക്ഷേത്രം
Lord Shiva Sculpture
The Azhimala Shiva Temple is renowned for its mesmerizing sculpture of Lord Shiva, which stands on a rock at an altitude of 20 ft. from the sea. The statue, which took almost six years to complete, depicts Lord Shiva in his chaturbhuj avatar holding a Trishul and a damru, with another left hand releasing Devi Ganga from his hair strands while the right hand rests on his thighs. The third eye on his forehead symbolizes Lord Shiva’s ability to see all three periods – past, present, and future. The statue is also adorned with tiger skin, rudraksha beads, and a serpent over his neck, with a crescent moon placed on his crown, representing his incarnation as Chandrashekhara. The sculpture is a testament to the skill and dedication of its creator, P.S Devadathan, and is admired by thousands of devotees who visit the temple every year.
Maha Shivratri Festival
The Mahashivratri festival is a grand celebration of Aazhimala Shiva Temple that takes place with great fervor and enthusiasm in February or March. This occasion is celebrated with great pomp and show, where the temple is beautifully decorated with vibrant lights and colorful decorations. Thousands of devotees come together during this auspicious night to offer their prayers and seek blessings from Lord Shiva.
Historical Sculpture Chamber
The Azhimala Shiva Temple is not only a place of worship, but also a treasure trove of history and art. The grand chamber spanning over 3,500 square feet, adorned with intricate sculptures is one of its unique highlights that depict the temple’s rich past. The chamber’s cave-like structure and the 27 steps leading to it add to the charm of this architectural marvel. The Dhyana Mandapa inside provides a tranquil atmosphere for meditation and reflection, while the sculptures on the chamber walls take visitors on a journey through time.
Azhimala Beach
Nestled just a stone’s throw away from the Azhimala Shiva Temple lies the mesmerizing Azhimala Beach. With its captivating natural beauty and tranquil ambiance, this beach is a must-visit for anyone seeking relaxation and leisure. The azure sea invites visitors to take a refreshing dip, while the sandy shore is ideal for leisurely strolls. The beach’s scenic surroundings of verdant greenery and rocky cliffs also offers a picturesque backdrop for capturing some incredible sunset views.
Naranga Vilakku Festival
Naranga Vilakku is one of the main festivals of the Aazhimala Shiva Temple that is celebrated annually between the months of January and February. During this festival, thousands of devotees come together to offer the “Naranga Vilakku,” a lemon with an oil lamp lit atop. The highlight of the festival is the evening celebrations where hundreds of lighted lamps on the seashore create a mesmerizing and enchanting atmosphere that is pure delight to the eyes.