Overview.

Sree Lakshmana Perumal Temple, also known as Thirumoozhikulam Temple, holds great significance in Hindu mythology and history. Situated in the Ernakulam district of Kerala, this ancient temple is renowned for its association with Lord Rama, Goddess Sita, and Lakshmana during their exile from the Kingdom of Ayodhya.

According to legend, Chitrakoodam was the sacred land where Lord Rama, Goddess Sita, and Lakshmana resided during their fourteen-year exile. Bharatha, Lord Rama's younger brother, learned about their painful exile and was deeply grieved. He hastened to Chitrakoodam to meet his beloved brother and implored him to return to Ayodhya. However, upon Bharatha's unexpected arrival, Lakshmana, who was always vigilant, stood ready to protect Lord Rama and even prepared to confront his own brother. But witnessing the boundless affection between the two brothers, Lakshmana felt guilty for his thoughts and sought to absolve himself of any wrongdoing by coming to this sacred land.

Another legend is connected to Sage Haritha, who performed severe penance and prayed to Lord Vishnu on the same sacred land. Pleased with the sage's devotion, Lord Vishnu appeared before him. The compassionate Lord advised Sage Haritha on the path to salvation during the era of Kaliyuga. He emphasized following Varnashrama Dharma, the righteous path, and engaging in selfless worship to attain salvation. Lord Vishnu also imparted the essence of Veda and Vendanga (Sri Suktham) to the sage, which came to be known as "thiru mozhi" or sacred words. This led to the place being named "thirumozhi kalam," which later became Thirumoozhikkulam.

In the temple, there is no separate shrine for Thaayar (Goddess Sita). Only the Bhagavadhi Amman sannadhi is found. Near the temple, the Aalvaai River flows, adding to the sacred atmosphere. During the pooja (ritual worship) for the Perumal (Lord Vishnu), no musical instruments are played, which is a unique feature of this temple.

The temple's architecture is said to have been constructed by Lakshmanan, Lord Rama's brother. He rendered various services to the temple, contributing to its grandeur. Inscriptions from the 11th century CE, during the rule of Bhaskara Ravivarman, can be found in the temple, attesting to its historical significance.

The temple's importance is evident from its status as a commanding center over other local temples, attracting numerous Tamil Vaishnavite pilgrims who visited ancient Kerala. The temple had a bylaw called 'Moozhikkulam katcha,' which applied to all other temples in Kerala.

Unfortunately, the temple suffered during the invasion by Tipu Sultan, like many other temples in the region. The image of the presiding deity, Lord Vishnu, was damaged. In response, a silver kavacham (armour) was made to cover the image. However, an attempt to steal it occurred shortly after its installation. A Devaprasnam (divine consultation) was conducted, revealing that the Perumal (Lord Vishnu) wished to remain in the damaged state. He did not want to hide the damage or replace the original idol, and since then, it has remained so.

Apart from the presiding deity, the temple houses other significant idols, including Shiva as Dakshinamoorthy, Ganapati, Hanuman, Ayyappa, Sree Krishna (as Goshala Krishnan), and Bhagavathy.

The Thirumoozhikkulam Lekshmana Perumal Temple holds a special place in the hearts of devotees and is one of the four temples that are part of the Nalambalam Yatra - a pilgrimage that includes visits to temples dedicated to Lord Rama at Thriprayar, Bharata at Irinjalakuda, Lakshmana at Moozhikkulam and Shathrughna at Payammal.

Sree Lakshmana Perumal Temple, or Thirumoozhikulam Temple, is a place steeped in mythology, history, and religious significance. Its association with Lord Rama and his loyal brother Lakshmana during their exile, as well as its connection to the sage Haritha and Lord Vishnu's teachings, make it a revered site for pilgrims and devotees. The temple's unique features, such as the absence of musical instruments during worship and its commanding status over other local temples, further add to its allure. Despite facing challenges over the centuries, the temple stands as a symbol of devotion and spirituality, continuing to attract visitors and preserve its rich heritage.

5:00AM - 11:00AM, 5:00PM - 8:00PM