Aranmula Parthasarathy Temple, Mallappuzhassery

Overview

Aranmula Parthasarathy Temple, located on the banks of the Pamba River in Mallappuzhassery, is one of Kerala’s most ancient and revered Vishnu temples. It is one of the 108 Divyadesams glorified in the Nalayira Divya Prabandham by the Alwars. The presiding deity, Lord Krishna, is worshipped here as Parthasarathy, meaning the divine charioteer of Arjuna.

Aranmula Parthasarathy Temple is famous not only for its religious significance but also for its cultural heritage — especially the legendary Aranmula Vallamkali (Snake Boat Race) and the Aranmula Mirror (Kannadi), a unique metal mirror handmade by traditional artisans.

Mythological Significance

According to Hindu mythology, this temple was established by Arjuna, one of the Pandava brothers, after the Mahabharata war. Arjuna installed an idol of Lord Krishna (Parthasarathy) here to atone for the sin of killing his relatives and to express gratitude for Krishna’s guidance during the war.

It is also said that Lord Vishnu appeared before Arjuna in this place to bless him. Hence, Aranmula is considered one of the five Pandava temples in Kerala —

• Thrichittatt (Yudhishthira)
• Thiruppuliyur (Bheema)
• Thiruvanvandoor (Nakula)
• Thrikodithanam (Sahadeva)
• Aranmula (Arjuna)

Aranmula Parthasarathy Temple Timings

• Morning: 4:00 AM – 11:00 AM
• Evening: 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
• (Timings may vary during festival days.)

Major Festivals

• Aranmula Uthrittathi Boat Race (Vallamkali) : A world-famous event held during Onam, symbolizing unity and devotion.
• Thiruvonam & Ashtami Rohini : Celebrated with grandeur, featuring traditional music, rituals, and offerings.
• Annual Temple Festival : Conducted in the Malayalam month of Makaram (Jan–Feb).

Nearby Temples & Attractions:

• Thiruvanvandoor Divyadesam : 10 km
• Thirupuliyoor Divyadesam : 15 km
• Sabarimala Temple : 75 km
• Pandalam Palace
• Aranmula Mirror Craft Village : 1 km

How to Reach:

• Nearest Town : Chengannur - 12 KM
• Nearest Railway Station : Chengannur Railway Station (12 km)
• Nearest Airport : Cochin International Airport (125 km) or Trivandrum Airport (130 km)
• By Road : Regular buses and taxis connect Aranmula to Chengannur, Pathanamthitta, and Pandalam.