Chenkal Mahadeva Temple – A Sacred Abode of Lord Shiva in Trivandrum
History of Chenkal Mahadeva Temple
The Chenkal Mahadeva Temple, located in the southern part of Thiruvananthapuram district, is one of the revered ancient temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is believed to date back several centuries and is considered a spiritual hub for devotees across Kerala and Tamil Nadu. Traditional architectural elements like stone carvings and wooden sculptures reflect Kerala’s temple heritage. Local folklore suggests that the temple has been a divine site for seekers performing penance and offering prayers to Lord Shiva for prosperity and well-being.
Myth and Legends
According to legend, the temple was established on land that was once blessed by sages who performed yajnas (sacrificial rituals) dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is believed that Lord Shiva manifested here as a swayambhu (self-manifested) lingam, making the temple highly sacred. Devotees believe worshipping at Chenkal Mahadeva Temple removes obstacles, grants spiritual upliftment, and fulfills wishes, especially during special poojas.
Location
Chenkal Mahadeva Temple is situated in Chenkal village, approximately 30 km from Trivandrum city. It is easily accessible via road, with regular buses and taxis available from Trivandrum Central and Neyyattinkara. The temple’s serene surroundings and rural backdrop add to the peaceful experience for visitors.
📍 Address: Chenkal Mahadeva Temple, Chenkal, Neyyattinkara, Thiruvananthapuram District, Kerala.
Temple Darsan Timings
Morning: 4.30 AM – 12:00 PM
Evening: 4.30 PM – 8:00 PM
(Timings may vary during festivals and special days)
Sivalinga Darsan Timings
Morning: 6:00 AM – 1:30 PM
Evening: 3:30 PM – 8:00 PM
Poojas and Rituals
The temple follows traditional Kerala Shaiva rituals. Daily poojas include:
Usha Pooja (Morning Pooja) – Performed at sunrise to invoke divine blessings.
Noon Pooja – Conducted around midday for prosperity and protection.
Athazha Pooja (Evening Pooja) – Rituals with lamps and offerings at dusk.
Special Rudrabhishekam – Performed on auspicious days for spiritual cleansing.
Devotees also conduct personal offerings like archana, abhishekam, and oil-lamp lighting as acts of devotion.
Special Days and Festivals
Maha Shivaratri – The most significant festival, attracting thousands of devotees for all-night prayers and special poojas.
Pradosham – Bi-monthly evening prayers dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Karthika Deepam – A festival of lights celebrated with grandeur.
Annual temple festival with traditional art forms and processions.
Plan your visit with SouthGuru Holidays
If you’re planning a temple tour in Kerala, include Chenkal Mahadeva Temple along with other famous Shiva temples in Trivandrum like Aazhimala Siva Temple and Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple. SouthGuru Holidays offers customized Kerala temple tours, day trips, and heritage experiences with comfortable car rentals, guided visits, and local insights.
📞 Contact SouthGuru Holidays
📧 Email: sales@southguru.in
🌐 Website: www.southguruholidays.com
📞 Call: +91-73565 07555
