Aazhimala Shiva Temple: Kerala’s Tallest Gangadhareshwara Statue and Sacred Coastal Shrine

Aazhimala Shiva Temple: Kerala’s Tallest Gangadhareshwara Statue and Sacred Coastal Shrine (image: canva)

Aazhimala Shiva Temple: The Shiva Temple in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala is a sacred coastal shrine known for its 18-metre Gangadhareshwara sculpture, traditional Dravidian architecture and strong spiritual significance. Located along the Arabian Sea, the temple attracts devotees and tourists seeking divine blessings, stunning sea views and a deep connection to Lord Shiva.

Aazhimala Shiva Temple: Location and Significance

The temple is situated in Pulinkudi near Vizhinjam, just off the Vizhinjam - Poovar road. Perched beside a rocky cliff overlooking the Arabian Sea, Aazhimala Shiva Temple stands as one of Kerala’s most scenic and spiritually powerful Shiva temples. Managed by the Aazhimala Shiva Temple Devaswom Trust, the shrine serves as an important spiritual centre for local devotees and visitors.

Aazhimala Temple: Administration and more

The temple’s administration is overseen by the Aazhimala Shiva Temple Devaswom Trust, which manages daily rituals, upkeep and festival arrangements. The trust also organizes the annual Utsavam held in the Malayalam month of Makaram and ensures smooth functioning of all temple activities.

Architectural Style and Design

Aazhimala Shiva Temple reflects Dravidian architecture, showing strong similarities to Tamil Nadu’s temple designs.

• The outer walls and gopuram are decorated with colourful sculptures of deities such as Ganesha, Vishnu, Kartikeya, Ayyappan and Hanuman.
• The sanctum and surrounding shrines feature vibrant murals, carvings, and traditional decorative elements.
• This blend of colour and craftsmanship makes the temple a visual and cultural landmark.

One of the greatest attractions of the temple is the towering 18-metre (58-ft) sculpture of Lord Shiva in the form of Gangadhareshwara.

• Sculpted by P. S. Devadathan (a native of Aazhimala), the structure took several years to complete, beginning in 2014 and opening to the public in 2020.
• It is the tallest Gangadhareshwara sculpture in India and the tallest Shiva sculpture in Kerala.
• The statue depicts Shiva seated in a serene posture holding the damaru, trishula, and blessing devotees, with the river Ganga emerging from his jaṭā (dreadlocks).
• Mounted on a natural rock platform, the sculpture stands against the majestic backdrop of the Arabian Sea, creating a breathtaking spiritual view.

The temple celebrates its main festival, Utsavam, in Makaram (January–February). Maha Shivaratri is also observed with great devotion. Tuesdays witness the highest footfall as devotees believe it to be a highly auspicious day to seek Lord Shiva’s blessings.