The tranquil town of Vaikom in Kottayam district, Kerala, the Vaikom Mahadeva Temple is one of the oldest and most sacred temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. Known for its historical importance, architectural beauty, and spiritual significance, the temple is a major pilgrimage destination in South India. This guide offers a detailed overview of the temple’s features, travel tips, facilities, and nearby attractions.
Temple About
Vaikom Mahadeva Temple is one of the oldest and most significant temples dedicated to Lord Shiva in Kerala. It is revered as part of the three powerful Shiva temples in Kerala, along with Ettumanoor and Kaduthuruthy.
Temple Description
Vaikom Mahadeva Temple is known for its ancient Dravidian architecture with a large courtyard, intricately carved stone sculptures, and a majestic sanctum sanctorum. The temple's main deity is Lord Shiva, known here as Vaikkathappan. The temple spans several acres and includes shrines for deities like Lord Ganesha, Goddess Parvati, and Lord Ayyappa.
Temple Specialty
One of the few temples where Lord Shiva is worshipped in the form of a linga believed to be self-manifested (Swayambhu)
Hosts the famous Vaikathashtami festival, celebrated in the Malayalam month of Vrischikam (Nov-Dec)
Believed to be around 1600 years old, making it one of Kerala’s oldest temples
Temple Address
Vaikom Mahadeva Temple, Temple Road, Vaikom, Kottayam District, Kerala - 686141, India.
Temple Location (Longitude & Latitude)
9.7511° N, 76.3966° E
Temple Timings
Morning: 4:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Evening: 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Temple Sevas
Usha Pooja
Ucha Pooja
Deeparadhana
Ashtabhishekam
Sahasranama Archana
Special poojas during Vaikathashtami and Pradosham
Traveling Facilities
Well-connected by road, rail, and air
Buses and taxis are readily available from Kottayam and Ernakulam
Local autos and cabs available within Vaikom
Food Facilities
Free Annadanam (community meals) provided daily
Vegetarian restaurants around the temple
Stay Facilities
Temple guest houses available
Budget hotels and lodges in Vaikom
More options in Kottayam and Ernakulam
Nearby Railway Station
Vaikom Road Railway Station – ~3 km
Kottayam Railway Station – ~30 km
Nearby Airport
Cochin International Airport (COK) – ~60 km
Nearby Bus Station
Vaikom Bus Stand – ~1 km from the temple
Bus Routes to Temple
KSRTC and private buses from Kottayam, Ernakulam, Alappuzha, Thrissur
Train Routes to Temple
Major trains to Kottayam or Ernakulam
Local trains to Vaikom Road, then road transport
Air Ways to Temple
Fly to Cochin International Airport
Then take a taxi or bus to Vaikom (~1.5 hours)
Nearby Cities to Temple
Kottayam – 30 km
Ernakulam (Kochi) – 40 km
Alappuzha – 50 km
Nearby Visiting Temples and Other Places
Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple
Kaduthuruthy Mahadeva Temple
Thirunakkara Mahadeva Temple (Kottayam)
Kumarakom Backwaters
Vembanad Lake
Preferable Visiting Season
October to March – pleasant climate and major temple festivals
Shopping Famous For?
Kerala handicrafts
Brass/bronze lamps
Kasavu sarees, spices, banana chips
Vaikom Mahadeva Temple is not just a place of worship, but a spiritual landmark that embodies Kerala’s religious, cultural, and architectural heritage. A visit to this ancient shrine offers divine blessings and a glimpse into centuries-old traditions. Whether you are a devotee or a traveler seeking serenity, the temple and its surroundings offer a memorable experience.
