Kottarakkara Mahaganapathi temple കൊട്ടാരക്കര ശ്രീ മഹാഗണപതി ക്ഷേത്രം.

Описание: 1. The Main Deity
​While the temple is officially the Manikanteswaram Mahadeva Temple (dedicated to Lord Shiva), the idol of Ganesha (Ganapathi) is the most popular. Legend says the idol was carved from a jackfruit tree root by the master craftsman Perumthachan.
​2. The Iconic Offering: Unniyappam
​The most famous ritual at this temple is the Udayastamana Unniyappam (a sweet fried dumpling made of rice, jaggery, banana, and ghee).
​It is prepared fresh in the temple kitchen throughout the day.
​It is considered highly auspicious to offer these to the Lord to remove obstacles in life.
​3. Key Features
​Architecture: The temple follows the traditional Kerala style of architecture, with tiled roofs and wooden carvings.
​Other Deities: Besides Shiva and Ganesha, the temple houses shrines for Parvati, Murugan, Ayyappan, and Nagaraja.
​No Discrimination: Historically, the temple is known for its welcoming atmosphere and is a major pilgrimage stop for devotees heading to Sabarimala.
​4. Important Festivals
​Vinayaka Chathurthi: The birthday of Lord Ganesha is celebrated with great pomp, featuring special pujas and elephant processions.
​Maha Shivaratri: As a Shiva temple, this is also a major day of celebration.
​Visitor Information
​Location: About 25 km from Kollam city and 70 km from Thiruvananthapuram.
​Dress Code: Traditional Kerala attire is strictly followed. Men must wear a mundu (dhoti) and remain bare-chested; women usually wear sarees or long skirts (set-mundu).
​Timing: Usually open from 4:00 AM to 11:30 AM and 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM (times may vary during festivals).