Discovering the Sree Mangala Devi Kannaki Temple
Explore the historic Sree Mangala Devi Kannaki Temple, open once a year amid Periyar’s wild beauty. A journey of faith and legend.
Tucked deep within the Periyar Tiger Reserve in the Western Ghats lies the Sree Mangala Devi Kannaki Temple, a sacred site steeped in legend, heritage, and spiritual mystique. Located near the Kerala-Tamil Nadu border, this ancient temple is accessible only once a year—making it not just a pilgrimage, but an unforgettable journey into history, devotion, and nature.
A Temple Rooted in Legend
The temple, believed to be over a thousand years old, is dedicated to Kannaki, a revered figure in South Indian mythology. Her story, immortalized in the Tamil epic Silappathikaram, narrates the tale of a virtuous woman who, after suffering betrayal and injustice, was deified as Mangaladevi. Her transformation into a divine figure and the reverence she commands are central to the temple’s spiritual significance.
Constructed by the ancient Chera king Chenguttuvan, the Sree Mangala Devi Kannaki Temple showcases traditional Pandyan architecture. Built using finely stacked black stones, the structure stands resilient, though weathered by time. Remnants of its original form still speak of its grandeur. The temple complex also includes shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva, Lord Ganapathy, and Karuppuswamy—adding layers of devotion and symbolism.
Open Only Once a Year: Chitra Pournami
One of the most unique aspects of the temple is that it opens to the public only once a year—during the Chitra Pournami festival. Celebrated on the full moon day of the Tamil month Chithirai (April–May), this event draws thousands of devotees and travelers. In 2025, the temple will be open on May 12, the designated Chitra Pournami day.
On this special occasion, both Kerala and Tamil Nadu governments collaborate to organize rituals and manage access. Priests from both states come together to conduct the sacred ceremonies, highlighting the temple’s role as a shared cultural and religious landmark. Since the original idol remains safeguarded, a panchaloha (five-metal) idol is brought to the site for the rituals.
The Sacred Pilgrimage Trail
Reaching the Sree Mangala Devi Kannaki Temple is no ordinary trip—it’s an expedition through untamed wilderness. Situated at an altitude of 1,337 meters above sea level, the temple lies about 15 kilometers from Thekkady in Kerala and 7 kilometers from Pazhiyankudi in Tamil Nadu. The journey starts from Kumily, and the forest route spans approximately 13 kilometers.
Due to the temple’s location inside the Periyar Tiger Reserve, access is regulated. Special jeep safaris, arranged by forest authorities, are available from Kumily. These jeeps take visitors part of the way; the final stretch must be covered on foot. The trail winds through grasslands, thick forest canopies, and panoramic viewpoints, offering not just a spiritual trek but also a breathtaking nature experience.
A Celebration of Culture and Conservation
The temple’s annual opening is more than a religious event—it’s a model of inter-state cooperation and environmental stewardship. Entry is permitted only after securing passes from forest departments, and plastic or other non-biodegradable materials are strictly banned. These measures help protect the fragile ecosystem while still allowing devotees to honor tradition.
Forest officers and temple authorities work hand in hand to manage crowd flow, safety, and environmental compliance, ensuring the site retains its sanctity and ecological balance.
The Spirit of Kannaki Lives On
For believers, the Sree Mangala Devi Kannaki Temple is more than an ancient relic—it’s a symbol of divine justice, endurance, and feminine strength. The story of Kannaki resonates through generations, offering inspiration and moral reflection. For historians, the temple is a bridge to the ancient Tamil kingdoms and their religious practices. And for nature lovers, the surrounding reserve is a sanctuary of beauty and biodiversity.
Final Thoughts
The allure of the Sree Mangala Devi Kannaki Temple lies in its unique blend of mythology, history, and nature. Whether you’re a devotee, a trekker, or a cultural explorer, this once-a-year opportunity offers something rare—an encounter with a legend in the very land where it lives on. As you trek through the wild and stand before the ancient stone shrine, it becomes clear: this temple is not just built of rock, but of story, spirit, and centuries of reverence.
If you’re planning a visit, mark your calendars for May, and prepare for a pilgrimage that touches both soul and soil.