Varkala

Sarkara Devi Temple

Open Time : 4:30 am to 11:30am ; 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm

Entry : free

Address : Varkala, Kerala, India

Website : https://www.sarkaradevitemple.com/

Phone : 0470 264 3697

Why to visit Sarkara Devi Temple

Sarkara Devi Temple is a Hindu temple at Chirayinkeezhu near Varkala, located 7 kilometres from Varkala Railway Station. It is one of Varkala's most well-known temples.

The Sarkara Devi temple in Chirayinkeezhu is devoted to Goddess Bhadrakali and is one of the most important pilgrim destinations in South India. The Sarkara Devi Temple has a mythology related with it: Long ago, the area around this temple was sparsely populated. This location was visited by a party of molasses merchants. They came across a roadside shelter and decided to stop for a while. When they returned to their trek, they discovered that one of their pots was stuck. The pot split apart as they attempted to raise it, molasses poured out, and an idol appeared. After seeing the idol, an elderly woman informed the locals of the miracle. The villagers built a temple for the idol and consecrated it there. 

The sanctum sanctorum is a rectangular structure with two stories. Bronze is used to polish the roof. The goddess idol is in the direction of the north. The second level is adorned with several sculptures of Lord Krishna, Lord Rama, Durga, Lord Ganapathy, Lord Vishnu, Narasimhamoorthi, and other prominent deities. The Sarkaradevi Temple shares some common ground with the Nakramcode Devi Temple in Avanavanchery, Attingal. Before entering the temple, worshipers can wash their hands in the shrine's little pond. Near the temple, there is also a large compound where temple elephants are chained.

FAQ on Sarkara Devi Temple

What is the best time to visit the Sarkara Devi Temple?

The notable festivals observed in the temple include Meena Bharani in March/April and Sarkaradevi Pongala in mid-February. During the 10-day Meenabharani festival, the Goddess is carried to the Bhagavathy Palace atop five elephants in a procession. Therefore, it's the best time to visit.

How to reach Sarkara Devi Temple?

The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport, which is 88 kilometres distant from the temple. The nearest railway station is Ernakulam Jn (South) Railway Station, which is 6 kilometres distant from the Temple. Kerala is well connected to other major cities, and there are numerous direct buses that run to the temple.

What are the nearby places to visit in Sarkara Devi Temple?

Varkala Beach, Kilimanoor Palace and Santhigiri Ashram are the nearby places to visit.

Special Tip

The Meenabharani festival is the shrine of Sarkara Devi's second most important annual celebration. This event is generally held in conjunction with Attavishesham's yearly special puja, which takes place in the months of March and April. As a result, a huge number of tourists flock to the area at this time.

By Jasmine Kaur

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