The sanctum sanctorum of the Kottayi Keezhthoor Ayyappa Temple enshrines the Devi's hands, making it the only temple in India with such unique idols.
Devotees visit the Kottayi Keezhthoor Ayyappa Temple to offer prayers, perform rituals, and seek divine intervention for various aspects of their lives.
Festivals
The Temple has a number of festivals. The important ones are :
Mandala Pooja and Makaravilakku
Mandala Pooja marks the culmination of the Mandalam season, a 41-day period of penance observed by Ayyappa devotees. It typically falls in the Malayalam month of Vrischikam (November-December). The festival concludes with the auspicious Makaravilakku, celebrated on the day of Makara Sankranti, where a divine light, known as Makarajyothi, is witnessed at the Sabarimala Temple.
Thiruvonam
Thiruvonam is another significant festival celebrated at the Kottayi Keezhthoor Ayyappa Temple. It typically falls in the Malayalam month of Chingam (August-September) and marks the grand culmination of the traditional Onam celebrations in Kerala. Devotees offer prayers and participate in various rituals to seek the blessings of Lord Ayyappa on this auspicious day.
Contact Address: Kottayi Keezhthoor Ayyappa Temple, Palakkad, Kerala
