Pattanakkad Mahadeva temple

About Pattanakkad Mahadeva temple

Located along the Ernakulam-Cherthala route in Cherthala Taluk, Pattanakkad Mahadeva Temple stands as a historically significant shrine dedicated to Shiva in his Kirata Murti form, oriented toward the east. The temple's name has evolved over centuries, possibly from 'Pattinikkadu' (Forest of Poverty) to 'Pattanakkadu' (Forest of Town), with its current location along National Highway 66 reflecting this transformation. The sanctum houses a self-manifested Shiva lingam within a square shrine, adorned with a roof of palm fronds and copper plating. The temple complex includes a substantial sacrificial altar and an expansive elephant shed featuring large cylindrical pillars. The copper-cast flagstaff recalls the Taranallur tradition, suggesting historical administrative connections. The principal deity is accompanied by several subsidiary deities including Subrahmanya, Ganapathy, Sastha, Nagas, Bhagavathy, and Rakshas. The annual festival spans eight days following Mahashivratri in the month of Kumbham, with the Arattu ceremony performed on the fourth quarter of the new moon day, occasionally extending to a ninth day.

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