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The Kappil Bhagavathy Temple located in the quaint village of Kappil, 8 kilometers from Varkala, in the Thiruvananthapuram district of Kerala is a revered Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Bhagavathy, also known as Parvati or Durga, the consort of Lord Shiva. This temple is believed to be more than 1000 years old and is one of the 108 Durga temples in Kerala.
The Serene Ambiance and Unique Rituals
Surrounded by coconut trees and lush greenery, the temple complex comprises the main shrine of Bhagavathy, a sub-shrine of Lord Ganesh, a pond, a gopuram (tower), and a mandapam (hall). The temple is situated on the banks of Kappil Lake, which connects to the Arabian Sea by a narrow channel, creating a serene atmosphere for worship.
Kappil Bhagavathy Temple also offers unique rituals and offerings such as the Thalappoli, performed by young girls carrying lamps and rice in their hands and walking around the temple to seek blessings from the Goddess for marriage and prosperity. Another ritual is the Thulabharam, a practice of weighing oneself against commodities such as rice, sugar, or gold and donating it to the temple to fulfill vows or express gratitude to the Goddess.
The temple hosts a festival called Meena Bharani every year. This festival is celebrated in the Malayalam month of Meenam (March-April) and is considered to be one of the most important festivals in the region. During the festival, the presiding deity is taken out in a procession and devotees offer prayers and offerings to the goddess.
Plan Your Visit
The temple is open to visitors of all religions or castes from 5 AM to 11 AM and from 5 PM to 8 PM. The best time to visit the temple is during the festival season or on Tuesdays and Fridays, which are auspicious days for the Goddess. Visitors can reach the temple by road or by boat from Varkala, and buses and taxis are available from nearby towns. The Kappil Shiva Temple is located just 500 meters away from the Kappil Bhagavathy Temple.
Kappil Bhagavathy Temple is a sacred pilgrimage for devotees seeking peace, prosperity, and protection from the Goddess, offering a glimpse into the rich culture and heritage of Kerala and its people. Anyone who wishes to experience the divine grace and beauty of Bhagavathy must visit this temple.
