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A Mystical Journey into Kerala’s Serpent Sanctuary
Mannarasala Sree Nagaraja Temple
The Mannarasala Sree Nagaraja Temple, located near Haripad in Alappuzha, is a sacred haven enveloped by a tranquil forest, home to countless sacred snake groves. Devotees flock here seeking prosperity and relief from snake bites, guided by the temple’s unique matriarchal leadership under Mannarasala Amma. Its ancient stone architecture and intricate carvings reflect Kerala’s heritage, while the Noorum Palum ritual, using rice flour and milk, is a distinctive offering. The temple hosts the grand Aardra Festival in late December, drawing pilgrims with elaborate ceremonies and traditional music, celebrating the divine presence of Nagaraja amidst a mystical ambiance.
Description:
Mannarasala Sree Nagaraja Temple, located near Haripad in Alappuzha district, Kerala, is an ancient and internationally renowned pilgrimage center dedicated to the serpent god Nagaraja. Nestled amidst a lush, dense forest grove, the temple exudes a serene and eco-friendly ambiance, featuring over 30,000 stone idols of snakes along its pathways and among the trees, making it the largest serpent worship temple in Kerala. The temple's unique tradition is overseen by a priestess, affectionately known as Mannarasala Amma, from a Brahmin family, a rare practice in Kerala temples. Devotees, especially childless couples seeking fertility blessings, visit to perform rituals like Uruli Kamazhthal, where a bell metal vessel is offered, and receive a special turmeric paste believed to have curative powers. The temple's history is linked to Lord Parasurama, the creator of Kerala, and its major festival, Mannarasala Ayilyam, celebrated in September-October, features a grand procession of serpent idols to the ancestral Illom. Spanning 16 acres, the temple offers a tranquil spiritual retreat with picturesque surroundings, including ponds and a sacred grove
Our Speciality
At Alleppey Boating, our specialty is delivering an extraordinary visit to the Mannarasala Sree Nagaraja Temple, a mystical serpent sanctuary near Haripad, Alappuzha. We provide guided tours with expert local guides who unveil the temple’s rich history, unique matriarchal leadership under Mannarasala Amma, and sacred rituals like Noorum Palum and Uruli Kamazhthal, complete with supplied pooja materials. Enjoy seamless transportation to and from Alappuzha, access to seasonal festivals such as Mannarasala Ayilyam, and the serene Mandaram Guest House for accommodation. Guests can savor the temple’s curative turmeric paste (if available) and benefit from a tranquil rest area. Our commitment to safety includes first aid support, while we assist with traditional attire and cultural immersion, ensuring a deeply spiritual and memorable experience.
