Mannarassala Sree Nagaraja Temple is a primeval and globally renowned pilgrimage center for the devotees of serpent Gods. It is situated around 4 km to the south-east from the bus station in N.H.47 at Haripad, in Alleppey district of Kerala.Haripad, a culturally popular old town, plays an important role in the history Central Travancore. This ancient town is rich with lush green paddy fields, palm trees and tranquil surroundings. This town of Alleppey district has now become well established with the existence of almost all the modern day facilities like hospitals, excellent hotels, educational institutes and shopping complexes.
History and Its Legends
Even though the legends related with the temple cannot be recorded as the history of the temple, the story on the development of Mannarasala Sri Nagaraja Temple as an significant place for the worship of serpent Gods is connected with Parasurama, who is also known as the architect of Kerala. Another legend related to this temple is that the initial priests of Mannarasala gave birth to five headed snake, which is believed to have resided at this temple to protect the family. There is also has a tradition of offering bronze vessel at this holy place by the couples who are childless. The couples are believed to be blessed with children after their offerings to the temple. Also that, a special turmeric paste found at the shrine of this temple is considered to cure leprosy. Festivals
Mannarassala Sree Nagaraja Temple, located to the north-west of Sri Subramanyaswamy temple, Haripad, is the largest of its kind in Kerala. One of the extraordinary features about this temple is that it holds around 30,000 images of serpent Gods. The most important festival celebrated on this temple is Ayilliam, which falls in the months of Kanni, Kumbham and Thulam according to the Malayalam calendar. According to the Georgian calendar the festival falls in the months of September and October. Ayilyam in Kanni, is supposed to be the birthday of Nagaraja. On this day all the serpent idols in the grove and the temple are taken out in procession to the family linked with this temple. After which offerings are made of Nurum Palum (rice flour and milk), kuruthi (a red liquid made of turmeric and lime) and cooked rice. During this procession the idol of Nagaraja is carried by the oldest female member of the family. It is believed the eldest female member of the family has to lead a life of asceticism even if she is married, after becoming the eldest female in the family. The procession is conducted with great joy and vigor and thousands of devotees gather at Mannarasala during the days of this festival, to worship and satisfy the serpent Gods. The offerings during this festival include coins and small statues made of gold, silver, copper, sandalwood etc. During this festival, one can also witness the Pulluvans sing and dance either to celebrate or for payment. Another chief festival celebrated at this popular temple of Kerala is Mahasivarathri, which is also celebrated with great grandeur. Best Time to Visit
There is no specific season to visit this temple as tourists and devotees can visit Mannarasala Sri Nagaraja Temple throughout the year.How to Reach
By Road: The nearest place to reach this temple through road is Haripad KSRTC Bus station, located at a distance of about 4 km.
By Rail: The nearest railway stations to this temple are in Haripad, about 4 km and in Mavelikkara, about 16 km from the place.
By Air: The nearest airport to this temple is Cochin International Airport, located at a distance of about115 km.
