Don't miss the Sivarathri celebrations at these places

Sivarathri is one of the 'holiest of nights' for the Hindus. The customs change so do the rituals as you travel from state to state. In Kerala, it is celebrated across all the major Siva temples. However, we bring you three places in Kerala where the festivities are not just about following the set rituals. 

The gathering at Aluva

Thousands gather – from far and away – for the Sivarathri celebrations at the famous Aluva Siva temple. Temporary sheds and shelters are built on the temple grounds for the devotees who come to offer prayers. In addition to the prayers at fixed times through 24 hours, thousands gather here to offer prayers to their ancestors. The banks of the Periyar, where the festival is celebrated, transform to one busy hub of activity during these days. 

Reaching Aluva

Aluva Railway Station is just a hop, skip and jump away. Aluva KSRTC Bus Stand is just 1.1 km away. Nearest Airport is Cochin International Airport 13 km away

Worshiping nature at Attappadi

Attappadi, on the north-eastern of Palakkad district, is one of the largest tribal settlements in the State. It is home to the Irulas, the Mudugas, and the Kururmbar communities. And you can see the Malleswara Mudi, the highest peak of the Attapadi hills from a distance. On Sivarathri day, the tribal chieftains and a select few climb the peak, light a fire, which, can be seen from as far away as Coimbatore. 

Reaching Attappadi:

Nearest railway station: Palakkad about 40 km from Mannarkkad and Coimbatore in the neighboring state of Tamilnadu, about 50 km from Agali Nearest airport: Coimbatore in neighboring State of Tamilnadu about 55 km from Palakkad

Ponnumthuruthu for golden memories

Situated 12 kms south of Varkala, Ponnumthuruthu Island is a well-kept secret. A trip across the waters is the only way to reach this island which is home to an ancient Siva temple, which many say is about a 100 years old. The Valiyapurackal family owns the island and the temple, which makes it very unique. On Sivarathri day, thousands travel across the lake to worship here. The island is a quiet place on other days and is a bird watchers paradise. 

Reaching Ponnumthuruthu

Nearest railway station: Varkala, about 5 km away

Nearest airport: Trivandrum International Airport, about 30 km away