Sivagiri Temple is situated in the coastal town of Varkala in Thiruvananthapuram District. It is located 50 kilometers North West of Thiruvananthapuram city centre and 37 kilometers south west of Kollam city centre. The nearest railway station is Varkala and the nearest Airport is Thiruvananthapuram International Airport which is 55 kilometers away. This temple is well connected by road from all the cities in the state.
Pilgrim
Sivagiri Mutt
About Sivagiri Mutt
Sivagiri Sarada Mutt is a temple with a difference and it was planned and designed by the Guru himself. Unlike other sanctum in temples, Sarada Mutt is octagonal in shape and has lots of windows. Here there are no nivediyam or abhishekam offerings to the deity. Devotees worship here by chanting hymns of the goddess. The deity is placed on white lotus which is the symbol of knowledge blossoming on whiteness or purity and high standards of hygiene is maintained in this temple. Sivagiri Sarada Mutt has become an important pilgrim centre in the state. The birthday and the Samadhi day of Sree Narayana Guru are celebrated every year. During these festivals colorful processions, seminars, public meetings, cultural shows, community feasts and special rituals are held. During the end of the year devotees donned in yellow attire visit this temple on a pilgrimage of enlightenment. Sree Narayana Guru Samadhi also attracts lots of tourists and devotees.
History or Myth
Sivagiri Temple is a well known pilgrim centre located in Varkala of Thiruvananthapuram District. The tomb of Sree Narayana Guru who was a sage and social reformer is located in this temple. This is the final resting place where Sree Narayana Guru was enlightened and received salvation. The Samadhi of this Guru attracts thousands of devotees from all over the state. The remarkable Sharada temple dedicated to Goddess Saraswathi or goddess of knowledge was consecrated by the Guru in 1912 and ranks high among his consecration of temple deities and occupies a place in history.
Tips or precaution
- Since this temple is different from other traditional temples in India, strictly follow the rules and regulation of this temple.
- If you are new to Thiruvananthapuram city ensure that you take directions from a police aid post or tourism centre to reach the temple.
How to reach
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BY AIR
Sivagiri Mutt is only 44 Kilometres away from the Trivandrum International airport. -
BY TRAIN
You can reach by train from any part of India. If you are coming by train get down at Varkala station and take a bus or auto directly to the temple. -
BY ROAD
Bus service is available from all the places in Kerala and luxury buses are available from most of the South Indian cities.
Highlights or specialities
- Birthday and the Samadhi day of Sree Narayana Guru.
- Colorful processions, seminars, public meetings, cultural shows, community feasts and special rituals.