Have you ever wished to stand at a place where the massive, loud sea meets a quiet spiritual place? It is what the Azhimala Shiva Temple in Kerala provides. The temple stands upon a rugged shore off Trivandrum and does not merely provide a location to pray but an entire experience to feel. The massive Azhimala Shiva statue looks over the Arabian Sea, and the temple is located on a hill providing stunning views. The whole scene feels unreal.
Imagine standing on rocks, listening to the waves, and praying to no other Lord than Shiva. The emotion here is strong, and even strangers feel a part of it. This is one of the temples to be included in your list in case you want to visit Kerala through our Kerala tour package. Stay tuned as the guide will let you know all the details you need to know about this temple.
Essential Information About Azhimala Shiva Temple
The Azhimala Shiva Temple is devoted to Lord Shiva, who is considered the destroyer and transformer as per Hindu mythology. The beautiful sea view and tall Azhimala Shiva statue are some of the features of this temple that make it a landmark of spirit and art in Kerala.
The temple itself is constructed in the traditional Kerala style, but is simple and elegant and one of the best places to visit in Kerala. The actual beauty is the fact that it is situated on a cliff and faces the vast Arabian Sea. The temple bells and the waves combine harmoniously to produce a calm atmosphere.
Azhimala Shiva Temple Timings: 5:00 AM-12:00 PM and 5:00 PM-8:00 PM.
Azhimala Temple Location: Vizhinjam, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala.
Azhimala Temple Distance: The Azhimala Temple is built around 21 km away from Trivandrum city.
Discover What Makes Azhimala Shiva Temple So Special
The Azhimala temple is not ordinary, but it is the place where religion and nature collide. It is a magical place since it comes with spiritual and natural beauty. Most of the temples are located in the interior, whereas this temple is located on a cliff overlooking the Arabian Sea. The highlight of this temple is the 58-foot-tall Azhimala Shiva statue, which is one of the tallest and most beautiful Shiva statues in South India. Lord Shiva in the statue is in a peaceful yet powerful posture, and he is sitting by the ocean, the sight of which remains with you eternally, and visiting this temple is one of the top things to do in Kerala. Here are some of the reasons why it stands out:
1. The Shiva Statue
The most important attraction of the temple is the 58-foot-tall statue of Shiva. It depicts Shiva in a meditative posture and has flowing hair, and is one of the tallest Shiva statues in the South Indian region.
2. Seaside Location
The temple has been placed on a rocky cliff, and it provides extensive views of the Arabian Sea. It is a combination of nature and spirituality.
3. Peaceful Vibes
The temple is not located in the middle of traffic and noise, and so it can serve well in meditation, prayer and silent retreats.
4. Cultural Importance
The Temple is significant to worshippers who believe that Lord Shiva is blessing those who may want to experience a spiritual awakening here.
Best Time to Visit Azhimala Shiva Temple
Azhimala Shiva Temple is located in Kerala, and the best time to visit Kerala is in winter, i.e., between October and March, as it is the best season. It is pleasant, and the sea is calm. Mornings and evenings are particularly beautiful with the sunrise and sunset in the background of the Shiva statue.
During the summer (April to June): The time of the year should be avoided. The weather is humid and hot, and travelling is exhausting.
Monsoon (July to September): Another season to avoid is the monsoon season. The sea waves are more powerful and may be dangerous, but the landscape is stunning.
Hint: Come in the early morning when you can attend the darshans and have a noise-free environment with a lesser amount of crowd.
How to Reach Azhimala Shiva Temple
The temple is located near Trivandrum, and it is very easy to get there.
By Air
The closest airport is the Trivandrum International Airport, only 19 km distant. From there, take a taxi or cab.
By Train
The nearest major station is Trissandrum Central Railway Station, approximately 21 km away. There is easy accessibility in the form of local taxis and autos.
By Road
Some regular buses and cabs connect Trivandrum to Vizhinjam, where the temple is situated.
Places to Visit Near Azhimala Shiva Temple
While the Azhimala Temple is a pleasant sight in itself, it is better to know about the nearby places to plan a complete day filled with spirituality and fun. The top 5 places near the Azhimala temple are:
1. Kovalam Beach
The temple is located within a short distance of the Kovalam Beach, which is a famous beach in Kerala. It has a crescent shoreline, golden sand and still water, which are good for swimming, sunbathing and fresh seafood. Ayurvedic massage centres are numerous, and therefore, one can have some rest after visiting the temple.
Location: Kovalam, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala.
Things to do: Swimming, water sports, sunbathing, and Ayurvedic treatment.
2. Vizhinjam Rock Cut Cave Temple
Vizhinjam Rock Cut Cave Temple is a tiny historic temple which is carved out of a rock in the 8th century. It consists of stone sculptures of Goddess Parvati and Lord Shiva. It is very simple but very significant archaeologically and is indicative of the culture of Kerala.
Location: Vizhinjam, Azhimala, Kerala.
Things to do: Visit carvings, take pictures, and study history.
3. Vellayani Lake
The largest freshwater lake in Trivandrum is Vellayani Lake, which is a peaceful and beautiful lake near the temple. It has a lot of green trees around it and is an excellent place to take a stroll in the evening, ride a boat and also feed the birds. During festivals, boats are used to race around the lake, which is a cultural experience.
Location: Vellayani, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala.
Things to do: Go boating, walk in nature, and take photographs.
4. Lighthouse Beach
Lighthouse Beach is nearby to Kovalam and is equipped with a red-and-white-striped lighthouse. The panoramic shots of the Arabian Sea at the top will leave you stunned. The beach is decent to take long walks, taste the local seafood, and experience the evening sea wind.
Location: Vizhinjam Lighthouse Road, Kovalam, Kerala
Things to do: Climb the lighthouse, take a walk along the beach, and taste the authentic seafood.
5. Padmanabhaswamy Temple
Padmanabhaswamy Temple is located in Trivandrum city. It is one of the richest and most popular temples. It is devoted to Lord Vishnu and reflects the traditional Kerala and Dravidian architecture. The temple is very large with a gopuram and spiritual atmosphere; it is something you cannot afford not to visit.
Location: East Fort, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala
Things to do: Go for darshan, observe the beautiful architecture, and attend evening prayers.
Conclusion
The Azhimala Shiva Temple is a special point where faith and nature merge. It contains a statue of Shiva, peaceful sea wind, and a religious atmosphere. It is not just a temple; it is an experience in life. You need to see this temple, whether you are a devotee or a traveller who seeks peace. Plan your trip to this beautiful temple today, experience the serene and spiritual atmosphere, and take home unforgettable memories.
View on Map
(+91) 8287636079