About Thirunavaya Nava Mukunda Temple
Opening Hours: 5:00 AM to 11:00 AM and 5:00 PM to 7:30 PM
Prime Day & Hours: Weekends, 5:00 AM to 10:00 AM
Suggested Duration: 1-2 hours approximately
Tickets: Free entry
Nearest Railway Station: Thirunavaya Railway Station, 2 km away
Nearest Airport: Calicut International Airport, 42 km away
Nearest Bus Stop: Ajithappadi Bus Stop, 2 km away
The Navamukunda Temple, located on the serene banks of the Bharathapuzha River, is one of Kerala’s oldest and most revered temples. Renovated by Vettath Rajah, the chieftain of Tanur, the temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, worshipped here as Navamukunda Perumal. The temple has witnessed many historical events, including attacks by Tipu Sultan’s troops and damages during the Moplah Rebellion.
Architecturally, the temple is a fine example of traditional Kerala craftsmanship making it aone of the prominent places to visit in Kerela. The shrine is enclosed by a rectangular compound with gateways and a pavilion known as Chuttambalam. At the centre, Sri Kovil is the main sanctum which features beautifully carved wooden panels that depict stories from the Ramayana and Mahabharata.
The temple is home to a unique idol of Navamukunda facing east, where only the portion above the knees is visible whereas the lower part is hidden underground. The idol is a 6-foot-tall stone figure covered in Panchaloha (five metals) and is the focal point of devotion. The temple is renowned for the Mamankam festival, a historic 28-day event held once every 12 years and the annual 10-day Utsavam celebrated in April.
Thirunavaya Nava Mukunda Temple Highlights
• Explore the Thirunavaya Sree Nava Mukunda Temple and offer your prayers to lord Vishnu in the form of Navamukunda.
• Experience the vibrant culture of the temple through the Utsavam, a grand 10 day long festival, celebrated in April.
• Admire the temple’s classic Kerala architecture, with its Chuttambalam pavilion and detailed wooden carvings.
How To Reach Thirunavaya Nava Mukunda Temple
By road- The Thirunavaya Sree Nava Mukunda Temple is located around 29 km from the Malappuram city center and can be reached in approximately 1 hour via Tirur - Malappuram - Manjeri Road and Puthanathani - Thirunavaya Road.
Best Time To Visit Thirunavaya Nava Mukunda Temple
Peak Season (October to March):
- Weather insights- Pleasant weather, temperatures between 21°C and 24°C.
- Things to do- Visit the temple, offer your prayers, attend the rituals.
Moderate Season (April to June):
- Weather insights- Hot and humid, temperatures between 39°C and 42°C.
- Things to do- Visit the temple, seek blessings, take part in rituals, poojas, attend Utsavam.
Low Season (July to September):
- Weather insights- Moderate rainfall, potentially humid, temperatures between 24°C and 29°C.
- Things to do- Explore the temple, offer your prayers, participate in rituals, poojas.
Thirunavaya Nava Mukunda Temple Other Essential Information
Know before you go to Thirunavaya Sree Nava Mukunda Temple:
- Please maintain silence and dress modestly to respect the sacred atmosphere.
- Carry offerings like flowers and coconuts if you wish to participate in the rituals.
- Avoid photography inside the sanctum and during puja ceremonies.
- Visit early in the morning for a peaceful darshan without heavy crowds.
- Please remove your shoes and sandals outside the temple premises.
- Carry a water bottle to stay hydrated during the time of exploring the temple.
Visit the temple
The Thirunavaya Nava Mukunda Temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, who is worshipped as Navamukunda. The lord’s idol is believed to be the ninth idol installed by the Navayogis. The temple is famous for the Bali Tharpanam ritual for which devotees need to carry offerings like cooked rice, banana leaves and Darbha. Before performing this ritual, people usually are on a fast and avoid items made from cooked rice.
Explore the architecture
The architectural style of Thirunavaya Nava Mukunda Temple is its standout feature. Enclosed by a rectangular wall with traditional gateways, the temple houses an outer pavilion known as Chuttambalam. At its heart stands the Sri Kovil where the roof and walls display intricate wood carvings illustrating tales from the Ramayana and Mahabharata. The idol of Navamukunda faces east, with only the portion above the knees visible, while the rest remains concealed underground.
Tourism Board Alliances
Thirunavaya Nava Mukunda Temple FAQs
What is the Thirunavaya Temple famous for?
Thirunavaya Nava Mukunda Temple is especially famous for Bali Tharpanam, a sacred ritual performed to honor ancestors. The temple also holds historical significance for hosting the ancient Mamankam festival, held every 12 years.
Who is the deity of Thirunavaya?
The deity of the Thirunavaya Nava Mukunda Temple is Lord Vishnu, worshipped here as Nava Mukundan. It is believed that this idol of Lord Vishnu is the ninth one to be installed in the shrine by the Navayogis, a group of holy sages.
What is the dress code for Thirunavaya Temple?
The dress code for Thirunavaya Nava Mukunda Temple requires men to wear a mundu or dhoti, with shirts removed, while women should wear a saree, half-saree or churidar. Non-traditional clothes like pants, shorts, skirts, or sleeveless tops are not allowed.
.jpg)