Kaviyoor Rock Cut Temple

Overview

Trikkukkudi Rock-Cut Temple located near Kaviyoor is an 8th century Rock-Cut temple built in Pallava style of architecture and a place of great archeological importance. Dedicated to Lord Siva, this temple is one of the three rock-cut temples in Kerala and one of the rare specimens of rock-cut temples in Kerala. It is preserved as a monument by the Archaeological Department. Lord Siva represented in the form of 3 feet high Siva Linga and is enshrined in a square cave. The shrine also contains idols of Ganapathy, Maharshi and Dwarapalakas. This temple is situated on the banks of the River Manimala. The architecture & sculptures of the temple are unique and famous. This place is connected by Bus with Thiruvalla town, but hiring a private vehicle from Thiruvalla is the most convenient way to visit this place.

About The Temple

The south facing Thrikkakudi rock cut cave consists of a facade, a rectangular mukha-mandapam and a sanctum. It is very skillfully cut into dome shaped roof. The plinth is plain and the cave floor little higher in level from the ground floor. A flight of four steps leads to the mukha-mandapam. The facade consists of two massive pillars in the middle and pilaster on both ends with the features of square, octagonal kattu and square. The walls are simple and plain with six foot high floor. The rough rock brow is bereft of any curved cornice moulding called 'kapota' (overhanging cornice) or drip line for rainwater.

The temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The ten foot high and seven-foot square sanctum houses 3 feet tall Shiva lingam. The bas relief image at the door way represents Bhima, the Pandava prince of Mahabharatha. Also there are bas relifs of Lord Ganapathi and the sage. The sanctum is guarded by imposing bas relief images of Dwarapalakas. The niches, on the outer wall on either side of the entrance of the sanctum, houses these Dwarapalakas.. It is inferred by scholars that this cave temple was constructed in the Pallava architectural style and may be datable to 8th century. The natural pond amidst two rocks is another attraction. The rock-cut monument is protected by the Archaeological Department.

Legend and Stories

Legend has it that the cave temple was constructed by demons in one night. It says that Lord Siva and Anjaneya, presiding deities at the centuries’ old Mahadevar Temple at Kaviyur, interrupted the work and the demons had to flee for their lives.

Another legend says that the rock-cut structure was a dwelling place of the great Pandavas of Mahabharatha during their exile in the forests.

It is beyond doubt that a unique Dravidian culture and civilization flourished in the area and extensive survey and excavation may lead to unearthing of a past culture and civilization hitherto unknown to the modern world.

How To Reach Kaviyoor rock cut temple

Six kilometres from Thiruvalla town is well connected by other major cities by road and rail. Both the State run KSRTC and Private Luxury Bus operators connect Pathanamthitta to other cities. The nearest railway station is Thiruvalla Railway Station. The nearest airport is in Trivandrum.

Temple Address