Thirunelli Temple (also spelled Tirunelli) is an ancient and revered shrine dedicated to Lord Maha Vishnu, nestled on the side of Brahmagiri Hill in Wayanad district, Kerala, near the Karnataka border. Located at an altitude of about 900 meters (approx. 3000 feet) above sea level, the temple is surrounded by dense forests and mist-covered hills, forming a serene and sacred valley. It lies about 32 km from Manantha Ady, one of the main towns in Wayanad.
Historical and Mythological Significance
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| ThirunelliVishnu temple,Kerala thehindu.com |
According to legend, Lord Brahma, while traveling on his divine swan (hamsa), was enchanted by the beauty of the Brahmagiri range. He descended and discovered an idol of Vishnu beneath an Amla (Indian gooseberry) tree, which he identified as a divine manifestation. Recognizing the sanctity of the site, Brahma is said to have consecrated the idol and conducted the first pooja. The name "Thirunelli" is derived from "nelli", the Tamil/Malayalam word for the Amla tree.
Architecture and Rituals
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| Ancient structure, Thirunelli KE .serenevalleyresort.com/ |
The temple is constructed in traditional Kerala style, with granite stone architecture, a square sanctum- Sree kovil and a tile-roofed Namaskara Mandapam. Despite its remote location, the temple has remained a significant pilgrimage center for centuries. It lacks a kodimaram (flagstaff), but the sanctity of its rituals remains deeply rooted in Vedic tradition.
One of the temple’s most sacred features is the Papanasini stream, which flows down from Brahmagiri. The name Papanasini literally means “that which destroys sins.” Devotees bathe in its waters as part of ancestral rites and purification rituals. The stream joins the river Kalindi (a tributary of the Kabini River), reinforcing the spiritual belief that Thirunelli is a karmic cleansing site.
Unique Practices
A key feature of the temple is its association with pitru tarpanam (rituals for ancestors). Many visit the temple to perform bali tharpanam, especially during new moon days and annual Karkidaka Vavu. It is believed that rituals performed here ensure moksha (liberation) for departed souls of forefathers, as Lord Vishnu himself is believed to preside over them.
Another notable structure near the temple is the ancient Guna Nadi tank, said to have healing properties and believed to be connected with ancient yagnas and rituals. The temple once had links to the Kottiyoor Temple and other ancient shrines in the region.
Present Status
Despite being remote, Thirunelli Temple continues to attract thousands of pilgrims from Kerala and Karnataka. The temple is managed by the Malabar Devaswom Board. While modern roads and eco-tourism efforts have improved access, the temple retains its ancient aura and tranquility. The recent renovation by the Tourism Department generated widespread protests and debate that culminated in court interference.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thirunelli_Temple
