The dense forests of the Brahmagiri Hills in Wayanad, Kerala, Thirunelli Temple stands as one of the most sacred and ancient shrines dedicated to Lord Maha Vishnu. Known as the Dakshina Kashi (Kashi of the South), the temple is renowned for its serene setting, spiritual energy, and its significance in performing ancestral rites. It attracts pilgrims and nature lovers alike due to its unique blend of religious importance and natural beauty.
Temple About:
Thirunelli Temple is an ancient and revered Hindu temple known for its historical and spiritual significance. It is believed to be over a thousand years old and holds a divine aura enhanced by its tranquil environment.
Temple Description:
Set in a picturesque valley surrounded by the Brahmagiri mountains, the temple’s architecture is a reflection of traditional Kerala style. The sacred Papanasini stream, which flows nearby, adds to the temple's spiritual ambience, believed to cleanse one of sins.
Temple Specialty:
Papanasini stream for spiritual cleansingRituals for ancestors similar to those at GayaIdol installed by Lord Brahma (as per legend)Popular site for Bali Tharpanam (ancestral offerings)
Temple Address:
Thirunelli Temple, Thirunelly, Mananthavady Taluk,
Wayanad District, Kerala – 670646, India
Temple Location (Latitude & Longitude):
11.9591° N, 75.9945° E
Temple Timings:
Morning: 5:30 AM – 12:00 PM
Evening: 5:30 PM – 8:00 PM
Temple Sevas:
Nithya Pooja
Pitru Tarpanam
Bali Tharpanam
Homams and special Archana
Vishnu Sahasranama recital
Traveling Facilities:
Accessible by road from Mananthavady, Kalpetta, Kattikkulam
Jeeps and buses operate regularly from nearby towns
Food Facilities:
Temple provides prasadam
Local eateries offer simple Kerala-style vegetarian meals
Stay Facilities:
Devotee lodges near the temple
Budget accommodations available at Kattikkulam and Mananthavady
Nearby Railway Station:
Mysore Junction – 115 km
Kozhikode (Calicut) – 125 km
Nearby Airport:
Kannur International Airport (CNN) – 115 km
Calicut International Airport (CCJ) – 140 km
Nearby Bus Station:
Kattikkulam Bus Stand – 13 km
Mananthavady KSRTC Bus Station – 30 km
Bus Routes to Temple:
KSRTC and private buses from Kozhikode, Kalpetta, and Mananthavady to
Kattikkulam ,From Kattikkulam, jeeps/buses to Thirunelli
Train Routes to Temple:
Reach Mysore or Kozhikode by train
Then proceed by road to Mananthavady → Kattikkulam → Thirunelli
Air Ways to Temple:
Land at Kannur or Calicut Airport
Travel by taxi/bus to Kattikkulam → Thirunelli
Nearby Cities to Temple:
Mananthavady – 30 km
Kalpetta – 65 km
Kannur – 100 km
Kozhikode – 125 km
Mysore – 115 km
Nearby Visiting Temples and Places:
Papanasini stream
Gunnika Cave Temple
Kuruva Island
Pakshipathalam Caves
Banasura Sagar Dam
Edakkal Caves
Preferable Visiting Season:
October to March – Ideal for pleasant weather and spiritual rituals
Shopping Famous For:
Tribal handicrafts and bamboo items
Forest honey
Spices like pepper, cardamom
Ayurvedic herbs and oils
Thirunelli Temple is not just a spiritual destination, but also a harmonious blend of divinity and nature. Whether for performing sacred ancestral rituals or experiencing the divine calm of the Western Ghats, a visit to Thirunelli offers a truly transformative experience. Its historical roots, serene landscape, and cultural depth make it a must-visit temple in Kerala for pilgrims and travelers alike.
