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Kallil Bhagavathi Temple is a remarkable rock-cut temple located in Methala near Odakali, approximately 10 kilometers from Perumbavoor in Kerala’s Ernakulam district. One of the oldest Jain temples in Kerala, it is believed to date back to the 3rd century BCE. Today, the temple is a rare fusion of Jain and Hindu traditions, drawing thousands of devotees and heritage enthusiasts each year.
Managed by the Kallil Pisharody family, the temple sits amidst a serene 28-acre forest and is carved into a massive monolithic rock that astonishingly appears suspended without touching the ground. The temple’s unique structure, along with its tranquil spiritual atmosphere, has earned it the status of a protected monument under the Archaeological Survey of India.
An Ancient Rock-Cut Wonder with Deep Spiritual Roots
The centerpiece of the Kallil Bhagavathi Temple is the majestic rock, measuring around 75 feet in length, 45 feet in width, and 25 feet in height. This natural marvel forms the roof of the shrine where Bhagavathi is enshrined just to the right of the sanctum door, adorned in resplendent jewels. Her divine presence is said to invoke an enduring sense of bliss in every visitor. Originally a Jain temple, the site still features rock-carved images of Jain Tirthankaras such as Mahavira and Parshvanatha. Over time, it evolved into a Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Padmavati, worshipped locally as Bhagavathi.
The temple can be reached by ascending 120 stone steps that lead to a hillock. The architecture features a traditional Balikkallu in front of the Sreekovil, a stone-roofed elephant shed, a temple pond, and a stone-built oottupura (dining hall). These structures, combined with the surrounding natural beauty, create an atmosphere that is both spiritually uplifting and historically rich.
The temple’s most significant celebration is the Thrikarthika Mahotsavam, observed each year in November or December, coinciding with the Malayalam month of Vrischikam. This vibrant eight-day festival features traditional rituals such as Ulsavabali, Valiyavilakku, Idithozhal, and the spectacular Lakshadeepam, where 100,000 lamps are lit.
Visitor Information
Kallil Temple is located near Odakali in Methala, within Kerala’s Ernakulam district, and is easily accessible from nearby towns such as Pulluvazhi, Keezhillam, Kuruppadi, and Odakali via the MC Road and Aluva-Munnar Road. The temple is situated just 10 kilometers from Perumbavoor and is easily accessible by road. The nearest railway station is Aluva, located approximately 25 kilometers away, while Cochin International Airport is also about 25 kilometers from the temple, making it convenient for both domestic and international visitors.
The temple, set beneath a massive overhanging rock, is reached by climbing 120 stone steps and houses Goddess Bhagavathi in a sacred cave surrounded by ancient inscriptions and relics. It is open daily with flexible morning and evening hours, and no reservations are required—visitors typically experience little to no wait time, even on weekends.
