A temple older than memory
The ancient Chemmanthatta Sri Mahadeva temple is one of the 108 Shivalayams, set among the paddy fields of Chowannur panchayat in Thrissur district.
Tradition holds that sage Parashurama consecrated this east-facing shrine, where Lord Shiva — in the raudra bhava taken up after Sati's self-immolation — resides as a six-foot Maha Shivalinga inside a circular, Dravidian-style sanctum roofed in chembola. The Archaeological Survey of India has protected the site as a historic monument since 1982, preserving murals on the outer walls that date to the 17th and 18th centuries.
Read the full history & legendചെമ്മന്തട്ടപ്പാ ...
കർമ്മസാക്ഷി ആയിടുമെന്റെ
ചെമ്മന്തട്ടപ്പാ നിർമ്മലാംഗ രക്ഷിക്കേണമേ
Opening lines of the devotional song to Chemmanthattappan — read the full verse & listen
The deities of the sanctum
Shivan
The presiding deity, enshrined as a six-foot Maha Shivalinga facing east.
Narasimha Murthy
Worshipped in a separate sanctum to the northwest, with special poojas on Ashtami Rohini.
Ganapathy
Resides in the southern Thirumuttam; offerings of green karuka grass are considered special.
Support the temple's upkeep
Daily rituals, special poojas and abhisheka offerings to Shri Mahadev and the sub-devas are sustained by the generosity of devotees. Contributions can be made directly to the Devasom account.
View contribution detailscoming soon