Heritage & Culture • Thirunelly / Brahmagiri, Wayanad

Thirunelly Temple, Wayanad

Ancient Sanctuary of Lord Vishnu at the Foot of Brahmagiri

Tucked deep within the forested foothills of the Brahmagiri mountain range, Thirunelly Temple is a revered ancient pilgrimage shrine dedicated to Lord Maha Vishnu, known as the Kashi of the South.

Ancient Thirunelly Temple in the Brahmagiri hills of Wayanad
Thirunelly Temple — Thirunelly / Brahmagiri, Wayanad • Photo: RajeshUnuppally (CC0 / Public Domain)

Why Visit Thirunelly Temple?

  • ✓ Over a thousand years of documented temple history surrounded by wild forests
  • ✓ Unique classical architecture featuring 30 sculpted granite pillars and tiled roofs
  • ✓ Sacred mountain stream Papanasini, believed to wash away worldly sins
  • ✓ Remarkable ancient stone aqueduct constructed centuries ago to channel spring water

What to Expect

The temple is accessed via a serene winding drive through the Brahmagiri forest reserves. Stone pathways lead to the courtyard framed by granite pillars. A path through trees leads to Papanasini stream and the Panchatheertham pond.

Things to Do at Thirunelly Temple

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Admire the ancient granite pillar architecture and stone carving work

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Walk to the sacred forest spring of Papanasini

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Experience the calm, spiritual atmosphere deep in the valley

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Drive through the surrounding wildlife-rich forest road

Photo Gallery

Wayanad Stays

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