Sree Vilwadrinatha Temple, situated on the banks of the Bharathapuzha river atop a hill in Thiruvilwamala, is one of the rare temples in Kerala dedicated to Lord Rama and his brother Lord Lakshmana. The temple is famous for its unique 'Punarnava' ritual and its architectural grandeur.
The name Vilwadrinatha translates to "The Lord of the Hill of Vilwa trees," referring to the sacred Bael trees that once covered the area.
The temple complex features two separate shrines—one facing West (Lord Rama) and one facing East (Lord Lakshmana). The 'Sreekovil' (sanctum sanctorum) is built with exquisite wood carvings and traditional stone masonry, reflecting the pinnacle of Kerala's temple architecture.
Legend has it that the idol of Lord Rama here was installed by Lord Parasurama himself to provide salvation to his ancestors. The temple is also associated with the legend of 'Punanjanmam', a narrow cave on the hill through which devotees crawl to be spiritually reborn and cleansed of sins.
5:00 AM – 11:00 AM and 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM. Thiruvonam and Ramayana Month are special occasions.
Traditional attire mandatory. Men: Mundu (Dhoti) without shirt. Women: Saree, Set-Mundu, or modest Salwar.
Sacred sites nearby to continue your spiritual journey.
