Located amidst the verdant hills and lush greenery of Kerala’s Kannur district lies a sanctuary of serenity and spirituality - the Peralassery Sri Subrahmanya Temple. Lord Subrahmanya, the son of Lord Shiva, is the main deity worshiped at this temple which is situated around 14 kms from Kannur. 

An ancient temple whose history can be traced to the Thretha Yuga (the second of the four yugas or ages of humankind), the story of its origin is quite interesting. It is believed that when Lord Rama along with Lakshmana and Hanuman were on the way to Lanka to rescue Sita, the consort of Lord Rama, they had stopped there. On sensing the presence of Lord Subramanya, Lord Rama decided to consecrate the idol of Lord Subramanya there. To find a suitable idol to be installed he sent Hanuman to the north but he failed to return on time for the consecration. 

Lord Rama, left with no other options, took off his Peruvala (the ‘great bangle’ which is a symbol of the kingdom) and consecrated it instead. Thus the place got its name Peruvalassery, which over time became Peralassery. It is believed that on his return Hanuman had tried to replace the bangle with an idol but was forbidden from doing so by a serpent. The main deity here at this renowned pilgrimage centre is the serpent form of Lord Subramanya and the chief offerings are eggs. 

The temple premises also have a massive Ashoka tree with a snake pit where Naga Aradhana (snake worship) is offered by devotees. 

The annual kodiyettam festival that falls in December is one of the biggest and most vibrant attractions of the temple. Devotees flock to the temple from far and wide on these auspicious days to soak in the divinity. Thayambaka, Irattathayambaka, Chakyarkoothu, Pattakam Ottan Thullal, and Kathakali are the traditional temple art forms that are conducted each year during the festival season. A visit to the temple at this time of the year is sure to leave you mesmerised by the vibrance and cultural magnificence that surrounds you. 

The massive temple pond, Kerala’s largest step well, is another astounding structure at this temple. Considered to be sacred by devotees, the pond reflects an exquisite and unique style of architecture that cannot be found elsewhere. The rectangular pond is constructed like a well that has countless steps leading into the pool from all sides. The intricate architecture is awe inspiring. Local legends say that on the day of Thulam Sankramam, the water from the river Cauvery will reach the well of the temple pond. 

A visit to the Peralassery Sri Subrahmanya Temple is a treat not just for devotees but for any visitor especially because of its visual beauty and the fact that it sits nestled in the midst of nature’s bounty. Renowned not just for its festivals and religious fervour, the temple is also famous for its architectural splendour, legends and historic relevance. A must visit destination for all those who are interested in the religious and cultural legacy of the land. 

Temple Timings: 06:00 A.M. - 12:30 P.M. | 04:15 P.M. - 08:00 P.M.