Vettikulangara Devi Temple Cheppad – History, Festivals & Travel Guide

 

Location

The temple is located at Cheppad near Harippad, Alappuzha district, Kerala. It is one of the oldest temples in Kerala, surrounded by cultural heritage and devotion.

Deities

  • Durga Devi (Karthyayani Devi) – the presiding deity.
  • Other deities worshipped here include Lord Mahadeva, Lord Ganesh, Lord Ayyappan, Nagaraja, and Nagayakshi.

Temple Significance

  • The temple is dedicated to Sri Karthyayani Devi, revered as Adi Parashakti, the mother of mercy and giver of vitality.
  • The name Vettikulangara originated when the idol of Devi was discovered in a pond during digging, symbolizing divine presence.
  • The pond where the idol was found is preserved even today, maintaining its sanctity.

History & Legends

  • In ancient times, people worshipped Lord Mahadeva here.
  • A Brahmin scholar, Thampuran from Pazhore Padippura, brought the idol of Devi to this region.
  • During his journey, the idol fell into a pond at Kannirasi due to divine intervention. Despite efforts, it could not be retrieved.
  • Years later, members of the Naluveettil family rediscovered the idol while digging the pond. Blood oozed from the idol when struck, affirming its divine vitality.
  • Devotees began worshipping the idol, and the temple was established as Vettikulangara Devi Temple.

Rituals & Festivals

Major festivals celebrated here include:

  • Koottamkottu during Utsav
  • Navaham (Kanni)
  • Sapthaham (Vrischikam)
  • Thrikarthika Maholsavam (Vrischikam)
  • Para Ezhunnallathu (Makaram)
  • Thiru Utsavam (Kumbham)

Beliefs

Devotees believe that Sri Karthyayani Devi showers blessings on those who approach her with devotion and aching hearts, granting vitality, mercy, and prosperity.

Temple Hours

  • Morning: 5:00 AM – 11:00 AM
  • Evening: 5:00 PM – 7:30 PM
    (Timings may vary during festivals.)

Getting Here

  • By Road:
    • 1 km from Cheppad bus stop
    • 6 km from Haripad KSRTC bus stand
    • 12 km from Kayamkulam KSRTC bus stand
    • 3 km from Nangiarkulangara bus stop
  • By Rail:
    • Cheppad station – 1.5 km
    • Haripad station – 6 km
    • Kayamkulam station – 12 km

Tips for Devotees

  • Visit during Thrikarthika Maholsavam or Thiru Utsavam for vibrant celebrations.
  • Carry essentials like water and light snacks, as facilities may be limited nearby.
  • Early morning darshan offers a peaceful spiritual experience.
  • Combine your visit with nearby Harippad and Kayamkulam temples for a cultural pilgrimage.

Q&A

Q: Where is Vettikulangara Devi Temple located?
A: The temple is situated at Cheppad near Harippad, Alappuzha district, Kerala, about 6 km from Haripad and 12 km from Kayamkulam.

Q: Who is the presiding deity of the temple?
A: The temple is dedicated to Durga Devi, worshipped here as Sri Karthyayani Devi (Adi Parashakti).

Q: Are there other deities worshipped here?
A: Yes, the temple also houses shrines for Lord Mahadeva, Lord Ganesh, Lord Ayyappan, Nagaraja, and Nagayakshi.

Q: What is the historical legend behind the temple?
A: A Brahmin scholar named Thampuran from Pazhore Padippura brought the idol of Devi to this region. The idol fell into a pond at Kannirasi and was later rediscovered by the Naluveettil family while digging. Blood oozed from the idol when struck, affirming its divine power. The temple was then established, and the pond preserved as sacred.

Q: What are the major festivals celebrated here?
A: Important festivals include:

  • Koottamkottu during Utsav
  • Navaham (Kanni)
  • Sapthaham (Vrischikam)
  • Thrikarthika Maholsavam (Vrischikam)
  • Para Ezhunnallathu (Makaram)
  • Thiru Utsavam (Kumbham)

Q: What do devotees believe about Sri Karthyayani Devi?
A: Devotees believe she blesses those who approach her with devotion, granting vitality, mercy, and prosperity.

Q: What are the temple timings?
A: The temple is open from 6:00 AM – 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM.

Q: How can one reach the temple?
A:

  • By Road: 1 km from Cheppad bus stop, 6 km from Haripad KSRTC bus stand, 12 km from Kayamkulam KSRTC bus stand, 3 km from Nangiarkulangara bus stop.
  • By Rail: Cheppad station (1.5 km), Haripad station (6 km), Kayamkulam station (12 km).

Q: When is the best time to visit?
A: During Thrikarthika Maholsavam or Thiru Utsavam, when the temple is vibrant with rituals, processions, and cultural celebrations.

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