Udayanapuram Sree Subrahmanya Swamy Temple – History, Festivals, Rituals & Travel Guide

Location: 2 km from Vaikom Mahadeva Temple, along the Vaikom–Ernakulam State Highway, Kerala
Administration: Travancore Devaswom Board (formerly under Travancore Kingdom)
Tantris: Mekkad Tantri & Bhadrakali Mattappali Tantri

History & Legends

Originally known as Udayanayakipuram, the temple was built for Goddess Kannaki.
When another temple for Lord Subrahmanyan was being constructed near Kottayam, Kannaki chose Udayanayakipuram as her abode, declaring it “not for Kumaran.”
This led to the name Kumaranalloor (“this place is not for Kumaran”).
Eventually, Udayanayakipuram transformed into a shrine for Lord Subrahmanyan, becoming Udayanapuram Temple.
Even today, Bhagwati Sewa is performed daily before Deeparadhana, honoring Kumaranalloor Bhagawati.

Deities

Main Deity: Lord Subrahmanya (Murugan/Kumaran)
Other Deities: Ganapathy, Dakshinamurthy

Major Festivals

Thrikodiyettu & Thrikarthika (Vrishchikam – Nov/Dec)
Thaipooyam (Makaram – Jan/Feb)
Udayanathappan Chirappu
Vaikathashtami Purappadu – marks the divine reunion of Father Vaikathappan (Lord Shiva of Vaikom) and Son Udayanapurathappan (Lord Subrahmanya).

Rituals & Offerings

Daily Rituals: Bhagwati Sewa before Deeparadhana
Main Offerings:

Olan Nivedhyam
Muzhukappu
Ksheera Dhara
Prathal
Panchamritham

Temple Hours

Morning: 5 AM – 11 AM

Evening: 5 PM – 8 PM

How to Reach

By Air: Kochi International Airport – 54.1 km
By Rail: Vaikom Road Railway Station – 13.6 km
By Road: Vaikom KSRTC Bus Stand – 2.5 km

Tips

Morning hours are ideal for darshan, as the temple atmosphere is serene and rituals are performed with devotion.
During festivals like Vaikathashtami or Thaipooyam, expect large crowds—arrive early to secure a good spot for viewing processions.

If you wish to offer Olan Nivedhyam, Muzhukappu, or Ksheera Dhara, check with the temple office in advance for booking procedures.

Vaikathashtami Purappadu is a highlight, symbolizing the reunion of Father (Vaikom Mahadeva) and Son (Udayanapurathappan). Witnessing this adds deep cultural value.
Thrikarthika evenings are magical with rows of lamps illuminating the temple surroundings.

Combine your visit with Vaikom Mahadeva Temple, just 2 km away, to experience the spiritual bond between the two shrines.
Local auto-rickshaws and buses are easily available from Vaikom town.