The Attukal Bhagavathy Temple, one of South India's most revered shrines, is renowned for its rich mythology and deep-rooted traditions. The temple is often referred to as the "Sabarimala of Women", as it attracts millions of female devotees every year, particularly during the world-famous Attukal Pongala festival.

The Attukal Bhagavathy is believed to be the divine manifestation of Kannaki, the heroine of Silappathikaram, an ancient Tamil epic by Ilango Adigal. 

The temple's Thottampattu hymns, sung during the annual festival, narrate Kannaki's story, while architectural depictions of her can be seen on the temple's Gopuram. The revered Kerala saint Chattambi Swamikal is said to have meditated on the temple premises, further affirming its spiritual significance.

The Attukal Pongala is the temple's most prominent festival and holds a Guinness World Record for the largest gathering of women for a religious festival. Dedicated exclusively to women, the festival spans ten days, in the Malayalam month of Kumbham (February-March). On the ninth day, millions of women gather around the temple, extending up to five kilometers, to prepare Pongala (a sacred offering of rice and jaggery cooked in earthen pots). The entire city of Thiruvananthapuram transforms into a consecrated ground, reminiscent of Kumbh Mela in North India.

The Attukal Bhagavathy Temple is an architectural marvel, blending Kerala and Tamil styles. The sculptures of Mahishasuramardini, Goddess Kali, Rajarajeswari, and Parvati with Lord Shiva adorn the temple complex. The Southern Gopuram depicts the legend of Dakshayaga, while the main sanctum houses two idols of the Goddess—the original idol enshrined in gold ornaments and gemstones and a second installed beside it. Additionally, shrines for Lord Ganesha, serpent deities and Lord Shiva enhance the temple's sacred ambience.