Why You Must Visit This 8th-century Cave Temple On Your Next Kerala Trip

Kaviyoor Thrikkakkudi Cave Temple was constructed in the 8th century during the Pallava dynasty keeping in mind the Pallava ratha style, a rock-cut tradition of monolithic style. According to Local 18 Kerala, this temple is carved out of a single rock and its sanctum has a Shivalinga. This symbolises the presence of Lord Shiva in this ancient place. The stone carvings in the temple are among the earliest examples of stone sculpture in Kerala. This offers a unique glimpse into the region’s rich past. This temple is built on one of the two cliffs facing each other in an area of about five and a half acres.

This cliff is one and a half kilometres north of Thrikkaviyoor Mahadeva Temple or Kaviyoor Mahadeva Temple in Pathanamthitta district. Kaviyoor Thrikkakkudi Cave Temple stands as one of the oldest cave temples in Kerala dating back to the 8th century. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is a marvel of Pallava-style architecture, making it a must-visit place for history enthusiasts and devotees alike.

Kaviyoor Thrikkakkudi Cave Temple has an interesting mythological aspect, i.e.- it is linked to the Pandava exile. It implies that the Pandavas from Mahabharatha lived in this cave while they were banished into the forests. It is said that they built the temple for daily prayers and installed a Shiva lingam here.

The temple remains incomplete which adds to the mystery of its already intriguing history. Apart from its spiritual importance, Kaviyoor Thrikkakkudi Cave Temple is a centre for historians, scholars and tourists. They arrive here to study its intricate carvings and architectural features. The Travancore Devaswom Board, which maintains the temple, is working with the Department of Archeology to preserve these ancient treasures for future generations.

Kaviyoor Thrikkakkudi Cave Temple is convenient to reach as Thiruvalla Railway Station is 4 kilometres away from it. Meanwhile, Cochin International Airport is 121 km away. This accessibility ensures that domestic and international tourists can easily explore this ancient temple.

This temple is also known as the Rock Cut Cave Temple. It also has a verandah with a sculpture of Lord Ganesh carved into the wall. The impressions here are among the ancient specimens of stone sculptures in Kerala.