Weather: 21 - 34°C
Category: Temple, Religious Landmark
Label: Popular Among Locals
Tags: Temple, Spiritual, Historical, Ganesh
Timings:

  • Morning Darshan: 4:30 AM - 10:45 AM
  • Evening Darshan: 5:00 PM - 8:30 PM
    Time Required: 1-2 hours
    Entry Fee: No entry fee

Pazhavangadi Ganapathy Temple: A Sacred Place for Devotees

Located in the heart of Trivandrum, the Pazhavangadi Ganapathy Temple is a revered and iconic religious site. Dedicated to Lord Ganesh, this temple attracts both locals and devotees from all corners, seeking blessings for overcoming obstacles and fulfilling their wishes. The temple’s tranquil atmosphere and divine ambiance leave every visitor with a sense of serenity and peace.

One of the temple’s unique features is its jet-black color—a rare sight in Indian temples—and its distinct Ganesh idol. Unlike most depictions where Lord Ganesh is seated or standing, the idol here shows him in a relaxed pose with only his right knee folded beneath him. This striking appearance enhances the temple’s uniqueness and adds to its charm.

The Legend Behind Pazhavangadi Ganapathy Temple

The origins of the Pazhavangadi Ganapathy Temple date back to a remarkable incident during the time of the Travancore Kingdom. A soldier, stationed at a fort, stumbled upon an idol of Lord Ganesh by a riverbank. He believed that the deity would protect him and carried the idol with him, bringing protection to the entire regiment. As a result, the fort was free from the torment of a menacing demon known as the Yakshi.

The discovery of the idol was celebrated, and a temple was built in its honor. Later, when the kingdom moved its headquarters to Trivandrum in 1795, the idol was moved, and the current temple structure was completed in 1860. Interestingly, the temple has always been maintained by the army, a testament to its historical significance.

Religious and Spiritual Significance

Pazhavangadi Ganapathy Temple is not only a place of worship but also a cultural and spiritual landmark. Inside the shrine, two Ganesh idols are enshrined—one made of pure granite and the other entirely made of gold. Other deities, such as Lord Vishnu, Lord Ayyappa, Goddess Durga, Nagaraja, and the Brahmarakshaks, are also worshipped, making it a multi-faith spiritual site.

Among the rituals, the most popular is the coconut offering. Devotees break open coconuts as a symbolic gesture of overcoming obstacles, with more than 2,500 coconuts cracked daily at a small tank within the temple.

A unique tradition at the temple is the Murajapam, which occurs every 6 years. This 56-day long ritual involves continuous chanting by priests and culminates in the lighting of over one lakh lamps, illuminating the night sky in a spectacular display.

Dress Code for Visitors

Visitors are expected to follow the temple dress code:

  • Men: Must wear a traditional Kerala Mundu (dhoti) and are not allowed to wear shirts inside the sanctum sanctorum (nabhalam).
  • Women: Should wear traditional attire that is at least knee-length and covers the shoulders. Dupattas are mandatory.
  • Footwear: Not allowed inside the temple premises.

Best Time to Visit

The Pazhavangadi Ganapathy Temple is a year-round attraction. However, for those interested in witnessing grand festivals, visiting during the following times is highly recommended:

  • Vinayak Chaturthi (August to September): A major festival lasting 1 to 11 days, marked by grand celebrations.
  • Varad Chaturthi (January to February): A festival dedicated to prosperity, health, and happiness.
  • Sankashti Chaturthi (once a month, always on a Tuesday): A highly auspicious day dedicated to Lord Ganesha.
  • Murajapam (every six years): A stunning 56-day long ritual with over one lakh lamps lighting up the sky.

How to Reach Pazhavangadi Ganapathy Temple

  • By Air: The nearest airport is Trivandrum International Airport, located about 7 km from the temple. A taxi or auto-rickshaw can take you directly to the temple in 15 minutes.
  • By Train: The Thiruvananthapuram Central Railway Station is just 600 meters away, a short 8-minute walk to the temple. Alternatively, Kochuveli Railway Station is 9 km away, about 17 minutes by road.
  • By Bus: Vizhinjam Bus Station, located 16 km from the temple, offers bus services that can take you to the temple in about 30 minutes.
  • By Car: The temple is easily accessible by car or taxi, with ample parking space available nearby.