Janardhanaswamy Temple, Kerala

Janardhanaswamy temple is positioned in Varkala, Thiruvananthapuram district in the state of Kerala, India. This temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The temple is situated near the Arabian sea shore and is referred to as Dakshin Kasi.

Janardhanaswamy Temple, Varkala,Kerala

History
Puja Timings
Festivals
Special Rituals
How to Reach
Videos

The history says that Lord Vishnu once followed the divine sage Narada, mesmerized by his music. He reached Brahmaloka. When Lord Vishnu realized that he had been following Brahma’s own son, he disappeared suddenly to get rid of the awkward situation. Brahma, without knowing this, paid salutations to Lord Vishnu. When he lifted his head up, his son, Sage Narada was standing in front of him instead of Lord Vishnu. Devas who laughed at the situation were cursed by Lord Brahma. The curse was that the Devas would be reborn as humans and face all the difficulties as the same. To get relieved from the curse, all the Devas performed penance, according to the advice given. They were supposed to perform the penance in the place where Sage Narada’s Vastra falls. Sage Narada’s vastra finally fell in Varkala and the devas performed their penance. The significant feature of the temple is the huge old bell which is believed to be offered as an oblation to the temple.

The temple is open for devotees from 4 AM to 12 PM and from 5 PM to 8 PM.

A ten day festival with Arattu is celebrated on the Malayalam month of Meenam on the day of Uthram. The procession of the deity and other various dance performances take place during the festival. Other festivals related to Lord Vishnu are celebrated in this temple as well.

The ritual of offering obeisance to the departed souls and forefathers is performed here. Four other main poojas are performed regularly in the temple.

Info on the deity – Specific to the temple deity

The presiding deity of the temple is Lord Janardhanaswamy, a form of Lord Vishnu. The deity is found in the standing position, facing east. Other deities in the temple include Lord Ganesha, Lord Ananthan, Lord Chandikesa and Lord Hanuman.

By Road

The temple is 4 kms from Cherukunnam. Buses, auto-rickshaws, and taxis are available almost all the time to reach the temple.

By Rail

The nearest railhead is the Varkala Railway station at a distance of 3 kms from the temple.

By Air

The nearest airport is the Thiruvananthapuram International Airport at a distance of 55 kms from the temple.