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

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Ideal weather for exploration

Thirunelli Temple Wayanad
Best Time
Ideal weather for exploration

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ancient Maha Vishnu temple on Brahmagiri hills, renowned for ancestral rituals and serene forest surroundings.
"A timeless spiritual experience blending natural beauty, divine energy, and cultural legacy."

🎯 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.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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

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

Brahmagiri Hills
Surrounding area
Majestic hills offering a scenic backdrop and a sense of spiritual elevation, perfect for nature lovers.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Serenity
Respectful Attire and Customs
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 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.
🙏 Modest Dress Code
Dress modestly to respect the sacredness of the temple. Avoid revealing attire.
💧 Holy Dip in Papanasini
Experience the spiritual cleansing by taking a dip in the Papanasini River.
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.
🚗 Scenic Drive
Enjoy the beautiful forest drive to the temple; roads are well-maintained.
🙏 Modest Dress Code
Dress modestly to respect the sacredness of the temple. Avoid revealing attire.
💧 Holy Dip in Papanasini
Experience the spiritual cleansing by taking a dip in the Papanasini River.
🍲 Free Meals (Annadanam)
Devotees can partake in free meals served at the Devaswom dining hall.
📸 Photography Tips
Capture the architectural beauty and serene surroundings, but be mindful of temple rules.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
The closest railway stations are Kozhikode and Vadakara, both of which have connections to Mananthavady. From there, you can take a bus or taxi.
Yes, there are spacious vehicle parking facilities available at the temple premises.
Taxis are available from Mananthavady and other nearby towns. It's a good option if you prefer a direct and comfortable journey.
The roads leading to the temple are generally well-maintained, offering a pleasant drive through the forest.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no entry fee to visit Thirunelli Temple.
The temple is typically open from 5:30 AM to 12 PM and again from 5:30 PM to 8 PM.
No, entry to the main temple premises is restricted to Hindus only.
For ancestral rituals like Bali Tharpanam, it's best to arrive early in the morning, as they are conducted until around 12:15 PM.
Yes, visitors are expected to dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, out of respect for the sacred site.
🎫 🧭 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.
The temple is renowned for performing after-death rituals like Sradham and Bali Tharpanam in the Papanasini River.
Yes, the temple is undergoing phased renovations from 2024 onwards, but this does not significantly impact the visitor experience or rituals.
It's a sacred river originating from the Brahmagiri hills, flowing past the temple, believed to cleanse sins.
Nearby attractions include the Panchatheertham pond, Gundika Sivan cave temple, and the serene Brahmagiri hills.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the temple provides Annadanam (free meals) to devotees, with breakfast and lunch served at the Devaswom dining hall.
You can contribute to the Annadanam service, allowing you to support this charitable offering.
Local restaurants and eateries are available in the vicinity, offering regional cuisine.
Expect traditional South Indian vegetarian meals, especially at the temple's dining hall.
While the Annadanam is generally standard, local restaurants might offer more variety. It's advisable to inquire locally.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted in the outer areas and courtyard, but check for specific restrictions inside the sanctum.
The intricately carved pillars, the temple architecture, the Papanasini River, and the surrounding Brahmagiri hills offer great photographic opportunities.
Early morning or late afternoon light can be ideal for capturing the temple's beauty and the natural surroundings.
It's highly unlikely that drone photography is permitted within the temple premises or its immediate surroundings due to security and sanctity.
It's best to avoid photographing during active prayer or ritual ceremonies out of respect for devotees and the sanctity of the event.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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.
🙏 Devotees Performing Rituals
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.
🌿 Nature Lovers & Photographers
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.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Spiritual Significance of Thirunelli
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.
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.
Navigating the Journey and Facilities
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.
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.
Exploring Beyond the Temple
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.
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.


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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit