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Thirunelli Temple Wayanad

4.7
·10k reviews·Thirunelly, India

Ancient Maha Vishnu temple on Brahmagiri hills, renowned for ancestral rituals and serene forest surroundings.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

November to February

Ideal weather for exploration

CrowdMedium
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Temple Courtyard

Thirunelli Temple Wayanad

Best Time

November to February

Ideal weather for exploration

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Ancient Maha Vishnu temple on Brahmagiri hills, renowned for ancestral rituals and serene forest surroundings.

4.7
(10k reviews)

"A timeless spiritual experience blending natural beauty, divine energy, and cultural legacy."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Plan for Rituals

Participate in ancestral rituals like Sradham and Bali Tharpanam. Arrive early, especially on Sundays and new moon days.

🚗 Scenic Drive

Enjoy the beautiful forest drive to the temple; roads are well-maintained.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Maha Vishnu Sanctum

Maha Vishnu Sanctum

Main Sanctum

Ancient sanctum dedicated to Lord Maha Vishnu, facing east, with traditional copper-sheet roofing.

Papanasini River

Papanasini River

Western side of the temple

Sacred river originating from Brahmagiri hills, ideal for performing ancestral rituals and offering a tranquil setting.

Architectural Grandeur

Architectural Grandeur

Temple Courtyard

Intricately carved pillars and traditional Kerala architectural style, even amidst ongoing renovations.

Brahmagiri Hills

Brahmagiri Hills

Surrounding area

Majestic hills offering a scenic backdrop and a sense of spiritual elevation, perfect for nature lovers.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit for Serenity

To experience the temple's peaceful ambiance, aim for weekdays outside of major holidays. Sundays and Amavasi (new moon days) are particularly busy due to ancestral rituals. Arrive early, especially if participating in Bali Tharpanam, as it's conducted until around 12:15 PM.

Respectful Attire and Customs

As a sacred Hindu temple, modest dress is essential. Avoid revealing clothing. While the temple is undergoing renovations, the spiritual atmosphere remains intact. Remember, entry is restricted to Hindus.

Best Times

When
November to February
Why
Ideal weather for exploration
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays mornings
Why
Quieter, more spiritual vibe
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

I hope you were able to enjoy the start of this wonderful piece with me🩷 #sanskrit #vishnu #hindu #sahasranamam #mahabharatha #classical
@amu.sings
28.6K likes • 407.6K views

🎯 Plan for Rituals

Participate in ancestral rituals like Sradham and Bali Tharpanam. Arrive early, especially on Sundays and new moon days. Reddit

🚗 Scenic Drive

Enjoy the beautiful forest drive to the temple; roads are well-maintained. Reddit

Thiruvonam ⭐️abishekam (Thirumanjanam) . . #govinda #perumal #balaji #omnamonarayanaya #omnamovenkateshaya #vishnu #lordvishnu #tirupati #tirupatibalaji #tirumalatirupati #hari #govind #govindagovinda #lordbalaji #spirituality #venkateswaraswamy #tirumalahills #Goovinda #lordvenkateshwara #ttd #tirupatibalajitemple #tirumalatirupatidevasthanam #padmavathiammavaru #alamelumangamma #namovenkateshay...
@9reaction
19.2K likes • 283K views
Thirunelli Temple (also Tirunelli) is an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Maha Vishnu on the side of Brahmagiri hill in Kerala, India, near the border with Karnataka state. The temple is Classified one among the 108 Abhimana Kshethram of Vaishnavate tradition. The temple is at an altitude of about 900m in north Wayanad in a valley surrounded by mountains and beautiful forests. . . . . #thirunelli ...
wayanadview
53.3K likes • 603.4K views

🙏 Modest Dress Code

Dress modestly to respect the sacredness of the temple. Avoid revealing attire. Instagram

💧 Holy Dip in Papanasini

Experience the spiritual cleansing by taking a dip in the Papanasini River. Reddit

ഓം നമോ നാരായണായ 🙏🤍 . . #ThirunelliTemple #WayanadVibes #MahavishnuTemple #KeralaTemples #PeacefulKerala #SpiritualJourney #DivineBlessings #TempleDiaries #KeralaReels #SoulfulMoments #BlessedDay #PositiveVibesOnly #TrendingNow #PeaceWithin #spiritualvibes . . [ Thirunelli Mahavishnu temple, Wayanad temple, Kerala reels, spiritual journey, temple vibes, family moments, peaceful Kerala, divine b...
ft.jithsh
38.6K likes • 274K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Plan for Rituals

Participate in ancestral rituals like Sradham and Bali Tharpanam. Arrive early, especially on Sundays and new moon days. Reddit

🚗 Scenic Drive

Enjoy the beautiful forest drive to the temple; roads are well-maintained. Reddit

🙏 Modest Dress Code

Dress modestly to respect the sacredness of the temple. Avoid revealing attire. Instagram

💧 Holy Dip in Papanasini

Experience the spiritual cleansing by taking a dip in the Papanasini River. Reddit

🍲 Free Meals (Annadanam)

Devotees can partake in free meals served at the Devaswom dining hall. Reddit

📸 Photography Tips

Capture the architectural beauty and serene surroundings, but be mindful of temple rules. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.7
(10k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Thirunelli Temple for its profound spirituality, serene atmosphere, and traditional Kerala architecture. The scenic drive and the sacred Papanasini River are highlighted as significant draws. While renovations are ongoing, the spiritual ambiance and the opportunity to perform ancestral rituals are highly valued.

"This temple is built in the traditional architectural style of Kerala. The temple surrounded by an open courtyard. Lush green forests encompass the temple premises, and the peaceful surrounding has a refreshing effect on the mind. They hosts special poojas and festive celebrations throughout the year. The temple opening timings in Thirunelli are from 5:30 AM to 12 PM and 5.30 AM to 8 PM. You should go to the temple in winter, between November and February, to enjoy the best.The weather is ideal during that time.

There is no entry fee"

Shivakumar gowda

"We recently visited the Tirunelli Temple as a family, and it was a peaceful and memorable experience. The drive to the temple is beautiful, with well-maintained roads that pass through scenic forest areas — a treat for nature lovers. Though the temple is currently undergoing renovation, it doesn’t affect the visit or rituals. The surroundings remain calm and spiritual, and we had no trouble accessing the main temple. Overall, it's a serene place worth visiting, both for its spiritual significance and the scenic journey to get there."

Kiran S

"Tirunelli Mahadev Temple is a truly divine experience! The temple's serene surroundings and stunning architecture make it a must-visit destination for any devotee or traveler. The temple's history and mythology are fascinating, and the priests are very knowledgeable and welcoming.

The temple's ambiance is peaceful and calming, and the puja rituals are performed with great devotion and sincerity. I felt a deep sense of spirituality and connection to the divine during my visit.

The scenic beauty of the surrounding hills and forests adds to the temple's charm, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers and photographers.

Overall, Tirunelli Mahadev Temple is a gem of a destination that I would highly recommend to anyone looking for a spiritual and cultural experience. The temple's beauty, history, and spiritual significance make it a truly unforgettable experience."

Arya Sreejith

What People Like

Spiritual ambiance
Traditional architecture
Scenic drive

What People Dislike

Ongoing renovations

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Buses, both KSRTC and private, run from Mananthavady Bus Stand starting around 6 AM, taking about 50-60 minutes. The drive itself is scenic, passing through forests. Reddit

The closest railway stations are Kozhikode and Vadakara, both of which have connections to Mananthavady. From there, you can take a bus or taxi. Reddit

Yes, there are spacious vehicle parking facilities available at the temple premises. Reddit

Taxis are available from Mananthavady and other nearby towns. It's a good option if you prefer a direct and comfortable journey. TikTok

The roads leading to the temple are generally well-maintained, offering a pleasant drive through the forest. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, there is no entry fee to visit Thirunelli Temple. Reddit

The temple is typically open from 5:30 AM to 12 PM and again from 5:30 PM to 8 PM. Reddit

No, entry to the main temple premises is restricted to Hindus only. Reddit

For ancestral rituals like Bali Tharpanam, it's best to arrive early in the morning, as they are conducted until around 12:15 PM. Reddit

Yes, visitors are expected to dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, out of respect for the sacred site. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

It's one of the 108 Abhimana Kshethrams of the Vaishnavate tradition, dedicated to Lord Maha Vishnu, and a prominent site for ancestral rituals. Reddit

The temple is renowned for performing after-death rituals like Sradham and Bali Tharpanam in the Papanasini River. Reddit

Yes, the temple is undergoing phased renovations from 2024 onwards, but this does not significantly impact the visitor experience or rituals. Reddit

It's a sacred river originating from the Brahmagiri hills, flowing past the temple, believed to cleanse sins. Reddit

Nearby attractions include the Panchatheertham pond, Gundika Sivan cave temple, and the serene Brahmagiri hills. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, the temple provides Annadanam (free meals) to devotees, with breakfast and lunch served at the Devaswom dining hall. Reddit

You can contribute to the Annadanam service, allowing you to support this charitable offering. Reddit

Local restaurants and eateries are available in the vicinity, offering regional cuisine. Reddit

Expect traditional South Indian vegetarian meals, especially at the temple's dining hall. Reddit

While the Annadanam is generally standard, local restaurants might offer more variety. It's advisable to inquire locally. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is generally permitted in the outer areas and courtyard, but check for specific restrictions inside the sanctum. Instagram

The intricately carved pillars, the temple architecture, the Papanasini River, and the surrounding Brahmagiri hills offer great photographic opportunities. Instagram+1

Early morning or late afternoon light can be ideal for capturing the temple's beauty and the natural surroundings. Instagram

It's highly unlikely that drone photography is permitted within the temple premises or its immediate surroundings due to security and sanctity. TikTok

It's best to avoid photographing during active prayer or ritual ceremonies out of respect for devotees and the sanctity of the event. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Visiting Thirunelli Temple can be a peaceful family outing. The drive through the forest is engaging for children, and the temple's serene environment offers a calming experience. While the main temple is for Hindus, the surrounding natural beauty, like the Papanasini River banks, can be explored. Ensure children are dressed modestly and are supervised, especially near water bodies. Reddit

The Annadanam (free meal) facility is a practical aspect for families, providing a simple and wholesome meal. The temple's spacious parking and washroom facilities add to the convenience. Consider visiting on a weekday to avoid larger crowds and make the experience more relaxed for everyone. Reddit

🙏 Devotees Performing Rituals

Thirunelli Temple is a paramount destination for performing ancestral rituals like Sradham and Bali Tharpanam. The temple is well-equipped to handle these ceremonies, with experienced priests guiding the process. It's advisable to arrive early, particularly on Sundays and Amavasi (new moon days), as these are peak times for such rituals. Reddit

The Papanasini River is the sacred site for these rituals. The temple administration organizes mass Sradham, making it accessible for many. Donating for Annadanam is also a common practice for devotees performing rituals, allowing them to contribute to the temple's charitable services. Reddit

🌿 Nature Lovers & Photographers

The journey to Thirunelli Temple is a visual treat, with scenic forest roads leading to the Brahmagiri hills. The temple itself, with its traditional Kerala architecture and intricate carvings, offers excellent photographic opportunities. Capture the grandeur of the main sanctum, the serene flow of the Papanasini River, and the panoramic views from the surrounding hills. Instagram+1

Beyond the temple, explore the tranquil Kalindi River, a hidden gem offering raw natural beauty. The lush greenery and mountainous terrain provide a perfect setting for nature photography. Early morning or late afternoon light can enhance the aesthetic appeal of both the temple and its natural surroundings. Instagram+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Spiritual Significance of Thirunelli

Thirunelli Temple, an ancient shrine dedicated to Lord Maha Vishnu, holds profound spiritual importance in Kerala. It's recognized as one of the 108 Abhimana Kshethrams within the Vaishnavate tradition. The temple's location on the Brahmagiri hills, at an altitude of approximately 900 meters, adds to its mystical aura. The serene valley, surrounded by mountains and lush forests, creates an atmosphere conducive to prayer and reflection. Instagram+1

Beyond its architectural beauty, Thirunelli is particularly revered for performing ancestral rituals like Sradham and Bali Tharpanam. The Papanasini River, flowing near the temple, is considered holy and is central to these ceremonies. The temple administration organizes mass Sradham events, guided by experienced priests, ensuring the rituals are conducted with devotion and discipline. This makes it a significant pilgrimage site for those seeking to honor their ancestors. Reddit

The temple's history is intertwined with mythology, with legends suggesting Lord Brahma discovered the idol on a gooseberry tree in this sacred location. This deep-rooted history and the continuous performance of ancient rituals contribute to the temple's enduring spiritual legacy. Instagram

Navigating the Journey and Facilities

The journey to Thirunelli Temple is an experience in itself. Located about 30 km from Mananthavady in Wayanad district, the drive is characterized by well-maintained roads winding through picturesque forest landscapes. This scenic route is a delight for nature enthusiasts and offers a peaceful transition to the spiritual destination. Buses, including KSRTC and private services, operate from Mananthavady Bus Stand starting early in the morning, making it accessible for pilgrims and tourists. TikTokReddit

Upon arrival, visitors will find ample facilities to ensure a comfortable visit. The temple offers spacious vehicle parking, clean washrooms, and a Devaswom dining hall that serves Annadanam (free meals) to devotees. This practice of offering free meals is an integral part of the temple's service and a way for devotees to contribute to a noble cause. Reddit

In the vicinity, you can find local restaurants and shops selling spiritual items and Wayanad village products. While the temple is undergoing renovations, these facilities remain operational, ensuring that visitors can focus on their spiritual journey and enjoy the natural beauty surrounding the temple. Reddit

Exploring Beyond the Temple

While Thirunelli Temple is the primary draw, the surrounding region offers natural beauty and other points of interest. The Brahmagiri hills provide a stunning backdrop and opportunities for nature walks, offering panoramic views of the lush green landscape. The altitude of the hills contributes to a pleasant climate, making exploration enjoyable. Instagram

A notable natural attraction near the temple is the Kalindi River. Described as a hidden gem, this lesser-known spot perfectly captures the raw beauty of Wayanad, with its lush greenery and flowing waters. It offers a tranquil escape and a chance to connect with nature away from the main temple crowds. Instagram

For those interested in further exploration, the Panchatheertham pond, fed by five holy water sources, and the Gundika Sivan cave temple are also worth visiting. These sites add to the spiritual and natural tapestry of the area, providing a more comprehensive experience of the region's heritage and environment. Reddit

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