Location
- Situated in Cherpu, about 10
km south of Thrissur town, on the Thrissur–Irinjalakuda route
- Nestled amidst serene greenery, the
temple was once surrounded by dense forest, adding to its mystical aura
Presiding Deity
- Lord Dharma Sastha (Sasthavu)
in standing posture, holding a bow and arch
- Worshipped here as Vedamoorthi and
Vidyamoorthi—the divine embodiment of knowledge and wisdom
- Unlike the fierce protector form seen
in other Sastha temples, here He is revered as the God of Learning and
Benevolence
Sub Shrines &
Offerings
- While the temple is primarily
dedicated to Lord Sastha, it also features:
- Saraswatha Pushpanjali:
Offered for academic excellence
- Naavu and Narayam:
Symbolic offerings representing speech and writing tools for children
- Pushpanjalis
like Bhagyasooktha, Purushasooktha, and Sarvaiswarya
for prosperity and clarity
Temple Highlights
- Vidyarambham (Ezhuthiniruthal):
- Thousands of children are initiated
into learning here, especially on Vijayadasami, the final day of Navaratri
- Belief: A child who begins writing
at Thiruvullakkavu is destined for scholarly success
- Navaratri Festival:
- The most celebrated event, drawing
artists, scholars, and families from across Kerala
- Cultural performances and spiritual
rituals mark the occasion
- Grama Bali Ritual:
- On Atham star in Meenam month,
Lord Sastha symbolically visits His people as part of Peruvanam
Arattupuzha Pooram
- Accommodation:
- Full-fledged facilities available
for pilgrims and families visiting from outside
Historical Background
- The temple is located in Cherpu,
Thrissur district, Kerala, and is believed to be centuries old,
originally nestled in a dense forest that gave it a mystical aura.
- Historically associated with Pandya
rulers of the 16th century, especially King Nedunchezhiyan, who
is said to have donated land for its upkeep.
- Some accounts also link its origins
to the Chera dynasty, suggesting a medieval foundation rooted in
royal patronage.
- The temple architecture follows traditional
Kerala style, emphasizing simplicity and spiritual focus—no elaborate
gopurams or complex structures.
Spiritual Significance
- The presiding deity, Lord Dharma
Sastha, is worshipped here as the embodiment of wisdom and
protection. Unlike the fierce hunter form seen in other Sastha
temples, here He is revered as a benevolent guide and teacher.
Rituals & Festivals
Daily Rituals
- Nithya Pooja / Nivedya Pooja:
- Regular Days:
6:30 AM – 7:00 AM
- Mandala Season:
6:00 AM – 7:00 AM
- Trippuka (Evening Ritual):
- 7:30 PM – 7:45 PM
- Thanthri Pooja:
- Performed on special days like Muppattu
(30th day of Mandala Vratham)
Major Festivals
- Vidyarambham (Ezhuthiniruthal)
– Vijayadasami:
- Thousands of children begin their
learning journey here
- Special poojas like Saraswatha
Pushpanjali, Naavu-Narayam offerings
- Vidya Saraswathi Archana
– Second week of February:
- 7-day festival culminating in Yearly
Prasada Oottu
- Gramabali & Para Vazhipadu
– Uthram naal of Meenam:
- Symbolic village offering and
procession
- Thiruvullakkavu Pooram
– Medam month (April–May):
- Celebrated with cultural
performances and temple rituals
- Other Celebrations:
- Vishu,
Makaravilakku, Mahashivaratri, Thiruvonam
Temple Hours
|
Season |
Morning Hours |
Evening Hours |
|
Regular Days |
5:00 AM – 10:45 AM |
5:00 PM – 8:00 PM |
|
Mandala Maasam |
4:30 AM – 10:45 AM |
5:00 PM – 8:00 PM |
Getting There
- Location:
Cherpu, Thrissur District, Kerala
- Nearest Railway Station:
Thrissur Junction (~10 km)
- Nearest Airport:
Cochin International Airport (~55 km)
- By Road:
Accessible via Thrissur–Irinjalakuda route; local buses and taxis
available
Tips
- Dress Code:
- Men: Dhoti/Lungi (no shirts inside
sanctum)
- Women: Saree or traditional attire
- Best Time to Visit:
- Vijayadasami
for Vidyarambham
- Mandala season
for spiritual ambiance
- Early morning hours
for peaceful darshan
- Offerings to Consider:
- Saraswatha Pushpanjali, Bhagyasooktha, Naavu-Narayam, Ganapathi Homam, Appam packets, Prasada Oottu
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