Mangaladevi Temple, a 1000-year-old marvel, stands as a testament to ancient South Indian architecture and cultural heritage. Situated at an altitude of 1337 meters within the dense forests of the Periyar Tiger Reserve, this temple is dedicated to Mangaladevi, also known as Kannagi. Revered as a symbol of moral power, Kannagi’s story is immortalized in the Tamil epic, Silapathikaram, by Ilanko Adikal. The temple’s remote location and its rich historical significance make it a hidden gem in the Western Ghats.
THE LEGEND OF KANNAGI
Mangaladevi, or Kannagi, is celebrated for her unwavering devotion and righteousness. According to Silapathikaram, Kannagi avenged her husband’s wrongful death by burning down the city of Madurai, showcasing her moral strength. This tale of justice and retribution has been a cornerstone of Tamil literature and culture, and Mangaladevi Temple stands as a monument to her legacy.
HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE
Local lore suggests that the temple was constructed by the Chera king Chenkuttuvan, with the installation ceremony graced by the presence of the Lankan king Gajabahu. The temple’s architecture, characterized by the Pandyan style, reflects the grandeur of its time. Though now in a state of disrepair, the massive granite stones and boundary walls of the temple hint at its former splendor.
ARCHITECTURE AND LAYOUT
Mangaladevi Temple is a prime example of ancient South Indian temple architecture. The temple complex comprises four stone structures, each housing various deities, including Karuppa Swamy, Lord Shiva, and Lord Ganapathy. The temple’s design and construction, using large granite pieces, are a testament to the architectural prowess of the era.
PANDYAN STYLE INFLUENCE
The architecture of the temple mirrors the Pandyan style, known for its grandeur and intricate detailing. The use of large granite stones and the temple’s layout, with its boundary walls and sanctum sanctorum, reflect the architectural norms of the Pandyan dynasty.
JOURNEY TO MANGALADEVI TEMPLE
Reaching Mangaladevi Temple is an adventure in itself. The temple is accessible only by a 12-kilometer jeep ride through dense forests and high-altitude grasslands, starting from the northern boundary of the Periyar Tiger Reserve. The journey offers breathtaking views of the surrounding Western Ghats and a chance to experience the region’s rich biodiversity.
RICH BIODIVERSITY
The area around Mangaladevi Temple is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. The endangered Nilgiri Tahr, along with unique orchid species like Habenaria periyarensis, can be spotted in this region. The hillock location of the temple also provides stunning panoramic views of the Western Ghats and the nearby villages of Tamil Nadu.
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AND ACCESS RESTRICTIONS
Due to its location within the Periyar Tiger Reserve, access to Mangaladevi Temple is restricted. Visitors need to obtain prior permission from the Wildlife Warden at Thekkady. These restrictions are part of the efforts to protect the environment and preserve the temple’s surroundings.
VISITING DURING CHITHRAPOURNAMI
The temple opens to devotees only once a year during the Chithrapournami festival, which falls in April or May. During this time, rituals are performed by priests from both Tamil Nadu and Kerala. The deity, Mangaladevi, is adorned with flowers and silk, and devotees offer pongala, a sweet rice dish, as part of the celebrations.
Contact : District Tourism Promotion Council (DTPC)
Civil Station, Kuyilimala, Painavu P.O., Idukki-685603
Phone : +91 486 223 2248
Email : info@dtpcidukki.com
Getting There :
Nearest Railway Station : Aluva Railway Station, about 152 km
Nearest Airport : Cochin International Airport, about 153 km
