Sri
Rameswaram Mahadeva Temple – Kollam’s Sacred Shiva Shrine
Introduction
The
Sri Rameswaram Mahadeva Temple, located in Kollam city, Kerala,
is one of the most revered temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. Counted among the 108
Shiva temples of Kerala, this shrine holds immense spiritual significance
and is deeply rooted in local legends and traditions.
History
& Legends
- The temple is
built in the Kerala style of architecture, showcasing traditional
woodwork and stone carvings.
- It is one of
the two Rameswaram temples among the 108 Shiva temples, the other
being at Amaravila in Trivandrum district.
- Local belief
holds that Lord Rama himself worshipped Lord Mahadeva here, making
the temple a sacred site linked to the Ramayana.
- Over
centuries, the temple has remained a spiritual center for devotees seeking
blessings of Lord Shiva.
Deities
Worshipped
- Main Deity:
Lord Mahadeva (Shiva)
- Other deities
present in the temple premises:
- Lord Ganesh
- Lord Sastha
- Lord
Subramanya
- Lord
Parasurama
- Lord
Dakshinamoorthy
- Nagadevata
- Goddess
Bhagavathy
Festivals
- The temple
hosts an 8-day-long annual festival during January–February,
attracting devotees from across Kerala.
- Rituals,
cultural programs, and traditional celebrations mark the grandeur of this
festival.
Temple
Timings
- Morning:
7:00 am – 11:45 am
- Evening:
5:00 pm – 8:00 pm
How
to Reach
- 3 km
from Kollam Bus Station
- 80 km
from Trivandrum
- Easily
accessible by local transport, taxis, and buses.
Tips
for Visitors
- Dress Code:
Wear traditional attire when visiting. Men are advised to wear a mundu,
and women should opt for saree or traditional Kerala dress.
- Best Time to
Visit: Early mornings (around 7 am) are
ideal for peaceful darshan. The temple is less crowded and rituals are
performed with devotion.
- Festival
Experience: If possible, plan your visit during
the 8-day annual festival (Jan–Feb) to witness vibrant rituals,
cultural programs, and temple celebrations.
- Nearby
Exploration: Combine your visit with nearby
temples like Anandavalleeswaram Temple (400 m) and Sri Maha
Vishnu Temple, Thirumullavaram (2 km) for a spiritual circuit.
- Accessibility:
The temple is just 3 km from Kollam Bus Station, so local
auto-rickshaws or buses are convenient.
- Photography:
Respect temple rules—avoid photography inside the sanctum. Capture the
Kerala-style architecture from outside.
- Offerings:
Traditional offerings like coconut, flowers, and ghee lamps are commonly
accepted. Check with the temple counter for specific pooja options.
- Travel Tip:
If traveling from Trivandrum (80 km away), plan for at least half a day to
cover the temple and nearby shrines comfortably.
Nearby
Temples
- Anandavalleeswaram
Temple, Kollam – 400 meters
- Sri Maha
Vishnu Temple, Thirumullavaram – 2 km
- Manikanteswaran
Temple, Kottarakkara – 28 km
Conclusion
The
Sri Rameswaram Mahadeva Temple in Kollam is not just a place of worship
but a living testimony to Kerala’s spiritual heritage. With its connection to
Lord Rama, its place among the 108 Shiva temples, and its vibrant annual
festival, the temple continues to inspire devotion and faith among thousands of
devotees.