Situated amidst the picturesque Brahmagiri hills and surrounded by lush green forests, the temple holds great significance for devotees and tourists alike.
The Thirunelli Temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is believed to have been built thousands of years ago. It is considered one of the most important Vishnu temples in South India. The architecture of the temple reflects the traditional Kerala style, with a square-shaped sanctum sanctorum (srikovil) and a tiered roof made of copper plates.
One of the unique aspects of Thirunelli Temple is the presence of a sacred mountain stream called Papanasini. It is believed that a dip in this stream can absolve one's sins. The temple complex also includes a holy pond called Panchatheertham, where devotees perform ritual ablutions.
Another notable feature of the temple is the presence of the ancient tree known as Punnathana. According to legends, Lord Brahma himself planted this tree, and it is considered sacred. Devotees often tie pieces of cloth on its branches as a form of prayer.
Thirunelli Temple is also known for its association with rituals related to ancestral worship. It is believed that performing ancestral rites at this temple can help in the salvation of departed souls.
The temple attracts a large number of devotees, especially during special occasions like Vishu and Sreekrishna Jayanthi. The natural beauty surrounding the temple, with its hills, forests, and streams, adds to the spiritual experience for visitors.
Thirunelli Temple is a place of religious significance and natural beauty, making it a popular destination for devotees, pilgrims, and tourists who visit Wayanad district in Kerala.
