അലപ്പുഴയിലെ ആടിമൂലം വെറ്റിക്കോട് ശ്രീ നാഗരാജ സ്വാമി ക്ഷേത്രത്തിലെ ആയില്യം, വിപുലമായ പൂജകളും ശോഭയാത്രകളും ശക്തിയുള്ള സര്പ്ബബലിയും ഉൾക്കൊള്ളുന്ന വിശുദ്ധമായ നാഗാരാധനോത്സവമാണ്.
ആയില്യം ആടിമൂലം വെറ്റിക്കോട് ശ്രീ നാഗരാജ സ്വാമി ക്ഷേത്രം അലപ്പുഴ | Ayilyam Aadimoolam Vetticode Sree Nagaraja Swami Temple Alappuzha
Ayilyam at the Aadimoolam Vetticode Sree Nagaraja Swami Temple in Alappuzha is one of Kerala’s most spiritually significant serpent worship festivals, celebrated with great devotion, ancient customs, and deeply rooted cultural traditions. The temple, renowned for its sanctity and powerful serpent deities Nagaraja and Nagayakshi becomes a vibrant center of rituals, music, and spiritual energy during this auspicious occasion. Falling on the Ayilyam star in the Malayalam month of Kanni (September–October), the festival is considered the divine birthday of the presiding deities, and thousands of devotees gather to witness the sacred ceremonies and receive blessings.
The annual festival is observed in the Malayalam month of
makaram (January/February). There is a flag hoisting
ceremony marking the beginning of the festival. The shrine
is traditionally decorated with plantain, coconut leaves,
flowers, leaves, traditional lamps and lights. There are
special poojas and offerings during the festival period.
Ayilyam | Aadimoolam Vetticode Sree Nagaraja Swami Temple Alappuzha
The festivities begin seven days before Ayilyam, with special pujas, temple decorations, and traditional offerings. On Pooyam day, devotees consider it a spiritual fortune to witness the Deeparadhana, where Nagaraja and Nagayakshi are adorned with magnificent ornaments and worshipped through lamps and hymns. After the rituals, traditional musical instruments are played as offerings, adding to the divine atmosphere of the temple. Kathakali performances outside the Kavu continue the cultural richness of the festival. On Ayilyam day, the temple opens early for Nirmalya Darshan, followed by Abhishekam, Usha Puja, Ucha Puja, and the offering of “Noorum Palum,” a traditional serpent-worship ritual. By noon, the fully adorned deities are taken in a grand procession to the Illam, and it is widely believed that those who witness this procession are protected from venom and fear for an entire year. Later, accompanied by the sacred hymns of the Pulluvans, the deities are ceremoniously brought back to the sanctum.
As dusk approaches, the most important ritual Sarpa Bali is performed. Known for its spiritual potency, this ritual is believed to remove serpent-related doshas, ancestral obstacles, and negative energies. The festival concludes on Makam day with the holy Ilaneerabhishekam, marking the end of the divine celebrations. Ayilyam at Vetticode stands as a timeless symbol of Kerala’s serpent worship tradition, drawing devotees seeking blessings, protection, and spiritual upliftment.
EVENTS/PROGRAMS
• Deeparadhana of Nagaraja & Nagayakshi
• Ornament Adornment (Alankaram)
• Traditional Instrument Offering
• Kathakali Performance (Night)
• Sarpa Bali
• Ilaneerabhishekam
Temple Location
📍 Aadimoolam Vetticode Sree Nagaraja Swami Temple, Pallickal, Bharanikkavu, Alappuzha, Kerala 690503
Accessibility
🏙️ Nearest Town/ Landmark/ Junction: Kayamkulam Town - 8 Km
🚌 Nearest Bus Station: Pallickal Junction Bus Stop - 1 Km
🚂 Nearest Railway Station: Kayamkulam Railway Station - 9 Km
✈️ Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport - 80 Km
CONTACT
📞 0479 233 9933
