Parasurama Temple

This 2000-year-old temple on the bank of river Karamana, in Thiruvallam and is the only one in Kerala dedicated to Sree Parasurama, the mythological creator of Kerala. This temple is a venue for ancestor worship. The temple is situated 7 kms from Thiruvananthapuram. As part of ancestor worship bali tharpan, devotees make offerings to the souls of the departed, after taking a dip in the holy water. The temple is a clusters of shrines enclosed on all sides by high stones walls. It has shrines dedicated to Siva, Ganapathi, Krishna, Matsya murthi, Brahma and Parasurama. The images of Parasurama, Brahma, and Siva are in a row, on the south side from west to east. The idol of Parasurama facing the north is built entirely of granite, from the foundation to the ceiling. A row of Bhuthaganas, lions, elephants, floral patterns, and bearded faces adorn the top. The shrine is round and has a rectangle mandapa in front. There is not much of sculpture or ornamentation. The idol of Parasurama has four hands, in two of which the conch and discus are held. On the other hands are the weapons Parasu and hala. The shrine of Brahma also facing the north is built of dressed granite. The image of Brahama has four heads and four hands. The idol is seated in the padmanasa on the lotus pedestal. This temple with two dhwajasthambas has another legend attached to it. It is believed that Lord Vishnu appeared before Vilwamangalam with all serenity and splendor, in a recumbent posture on Adisesha with his head resting at Thiruvallam, his middle at Thiruvananthapuram and his feet at Truppappur.