Overview
Veliyam Anchumoorthy Temple is an ancient and culturally significant Hindu temple located in Veliyam, near Kottarakkara in Kollam district, Kerala. The temple is unique because it enshrines five deities (Anchumoorthikal) within a single complex, symbolising the unity of divine forces in Kerala’s spiritual tradition. It is a peaceful, lesser-known temple with strong local devotion, traditional Kerala architecture and a serene rural environment.
Quick Facts
Location: Veliyam, Kollam District, Kerala
Main Deities: Five deities (Anchumoorthikal)
Temple Type: Multi-deity Kerala temple
Best Time to Visit: November to February
Speciality: Ritual significance of the five deities, rural temple atmosphere
Origin and History
Origin / Sthala Purana
The temple’s name “Anchumoorthy” refers to the presence of five presiding deities within the same sacred complex. According to tradition, the temple was established by local chieftains and spiritual leaders who sought to unify worship practices under one temple roof. This made Veliyam an important spiritual centre for surrounding villages.
Historical Background
- The temple is believed to be several centuries old.
- It served as a common worship space for nearby communities during earlier times.
- Renovations have preserved the traditional Kerala-style structures.
- The temple played a role in local festivals, rituals and agricultural prosperity prayers.
Architecture and Shrines
Architecture
Veliyam Anchumoorthy Temple is built in the classical Kerala style with tiled roofs, wooden structures and a simple, harmonious layout. The temple has a sacred courtyard, an inner shrine area and traditional lamps.
Sub-shrines and the Five Deities
The temple houses five primary deities, traditionally believed to include:
- Lord Shiva
- Lord Vishnu
- Goddess Bhagavathy
- Lord Subrahmanya
- Lord Ganapathy
The presence of these five deities makes the temple spiritually inclusive, allowing devotees to offer prayers based on family tradition and personal devotion.
Deities and Daily Rituals
Main Deities
The Anchumoorthikal (five deities) represent harmony among major Hindu traditions — Shaiva, Vaishnava, Shakta and Ganapatya worship systems. Each deity has a designated shrine and receives daily rituals.
Daily Pooja Schedule
Typical Kerala temple rituals include:
- Nirmalyam (early morning)
- Abhishekam
- Morning Poojas
- Midday offerings
- Evening Deeparadhana
- Night pooja
Timings may vary, and festival days include additional rituals.
Dress Code and Temple Rules
Devotees are expected to dress modestly. Footwear must be left outside the temple premises. Photography restrictions may apply inside the inner shrine.
Festivals
Major Festivals
The temple celebrates:
- Annual temple festival (Utsavam), usually lasting several days
- Vishu
- Navaratri
- Shivaratri
These festivals involve special poojas, lighting of lamps, chenda melam and traditional rituals.
Local Festive Traditions
The temple often serves as a social and cultural gathering place during festive seasons, attracting families from Veliyam and neighbouring villages.
Timings
General opening hours:
Morning: Approximately 5:00 AM to 11:00 AM
Evening: Approximately 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Timings may vary on special days.
How to Reach
Location
The temple is located in Veliyam, about 10–12 km from Kottarakkara and around 30–35 km from Kollam city.
Nearest Airport
Thiruvananthapuram International Airport – about 70 km away.
Nearest Railway Stations
Kottarakkara Railway Station – nearest major access point.
Kollam Junction – another major station for long-distance trains.
Nearest Bus Stand
Veliyam and Kottarakkara bus stands serve frequent KSRTC and private buses.
Road Connectivity
Veliyam is well connected by local roads to Kottarakkara, Ayoor, Kundara and Kollam, with easy access via taxi, auto or bus.
Accommodation
Nearby accommodation options include:
- Budget lodges and family stays in Kottarakkara
- Mid-range and business hotels in Kollam
- Small local homestays around Veliyam
For Sabarimala season, additional temporary lodging options may be available.
Food and Vegetarian Options
Veliyam and nearby towns offer several vegetarian eateries, tea shops and Kerala-style meal restaurants. Kottarakkara and Ayoor also have small hotels serving tiffin and meals. Devotees can also find prasadam offerings during festival days.
Visitor Tips
- Early morning and evening are quieter times for darshan.
- Festival periods may be crowded; plan accordingly.
- Simple traditional dress is recommended.
- Carry minimal belongings inside.
- Elderly visitors may prefer early morning visits to avoid heat.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why is it called Anchumoorthy Temple?
Because the temple houses five principal deities within the same complex.
2. Which is the main deity?
All five deities are equally important, though families may have personal traditions of worship.
3. What is the temple famous for?
Its unique multi-deity structure, calm ambience and local cultural importance.
4. Are non-Hindus allowed?
Generally, entry rules follow standard Kerala temple customs. It is best to check locally.
5. Is it an important stop for Sabarimala pilgrims?
Not a primary stop, but some local pilgrims may visit before their journey.
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