🐍 Nagaraja Temple Mannarasala – History, Poojas & Darshan Timings
Introduction
The Mannarasala Sree Nagaraja Temple, located in Haripad, Kerala, is one of the most famous snake temples in South India. Dedicated to the Nagaraja (King of Serpents), this unique temple is deeply connected to serpent worship, fertility rituals, and mystical traditions. It is believed that the temple blesses devotees with protection from snake curses (Sarpa Dosha), prosperity, and children for childless couples.
History of Mannarasala Nagaraja Temple
According to legends, the temple dates back thousands of years and was consecrated by Lord Parashurama, the creator of Kerala. The temple is traditionally managed by a Brahmin family, where the oldest female member, known as the Valiya Amma, holds the position of chief priestess—a rare tradition in Hindu temples.
The Valiya Amma plays an important role in temple rituals, especially those related to fertility and blessings for progeny. Devotees strongly believe that prayers at Mannarasala never go unanswered.
Myth & Legend
The legend says that the temple was once a dense forest filled with serpents. After Kerala was reclaimed from the sea, serpent deities were worshipped here to calm their anger. The Nagaraja deity at Mannarasala is considered both Ananta (Vishnu’s serpent) and a manifestation of Shiva—a rare and powerful form worshipped with equal devotion.
Temple Architecture
Mannarasala Temple is surrounded by thick groves, symbolizing serpent habitat. With over 30,000 serpent idols placed by devotees as offerings, the temple exudes a mystical aura. The sanctum houses the Nagaraja deity, depicted with five hoods, and nearby shrines dedicated to serpent goddesses.
Location & How to Reach
📍 Mannarasala Nagaraja Temple, Haripad, Alappuzha district, Kerala.
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By Road: Well connected via NH 66, 3 km from Haripad town.
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By Rail: Haripad Railway Station (3 km).
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By Air: Cochin International Airport (115 km) and Trivandrum Airport (120 km).
Temple Timings & Poojas
🕰 Temple Timings:
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Morning: 5:00 AM – 12:00 PM
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Evening: 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM
🙏 Major Poojas:
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Noorum Palum – traditional serpent offering with turmeric, rice, and milk.
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Sarpa Dosha Nivarana Pooja – performed to remove serpent curses and astrological doshas.
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Ayilyam Pooja – monthly ritual on the Ayilyam star day.
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Fertility Rituals – women seeking children tie cradle offerings inside the temple.
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Valiya Amma’s Blessings – childless couples often seek blessings from the temple priestess.
Festivals at Mannarasala
✨ Mannarasala Ayilyam Festival – the most important annual event, celebrated during the Malayalam month of Thulam (October-November). A grand procession led by the Valiya Amma carrying the serpent idol is the highlight.
✨ Mahashivratri – celebrated with special poojas to Nagaraja as a form of Shiva.
✨ Nag Panchami – worship of snakes across Kerala, with Mannarasala being the central hub.
Why Visit Nagaraja Temple, Mannarasala?
✅ Oldest and most powerful serpent temple in Kerala
✅ Worship by a female priestess (Valiya Amma) – rare tradition
✅ Remedies for Sarpa Dosha, infertility, health issues, and prosperity
✅ Thousands of serpent idols creating a mystical ambience
✅ Unique festivals and rituals not found elsewhere
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