About Kalpathy Viswanatha Swamy Temple
The Kalpathy Viswanatha Swamy Temple is a 15th-century Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvathy (Visalakshi). Located on the banks of the Kalpathy River in Palakkad, it is considered the oldest Shiva temple in the Malabar region. The temple is renowned for its annual Kalpathi Ratholsavam (Chariot Festival) held in November and serves as the spiritual center of the Kalpathy Heritage Village.
Visitors guide
Visitors can explore an ancient quadrangular temple structure situated along the serene Kalpathy River. The temple features traditional architecture with intricate carvings and houses the principal deity Lord Shiva alongside Goddess Visalakshi. The surrounding Kalpathy Heritage Village showcases traditional Tamil Brahmin agraharam architecture. During the annual Ratholsavam festival in November, visitors witness elaborate chariot processions through the village streets.
Key highlights
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Oldest Shiva temple in the Malabar region dating back to 1425 AD
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Annual Kalpathi Ratholsavam (Chariot Festival) held every November
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Located on the banks of the Kalpathy River (Nila Nadhi)
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Traditional Tamil Brahmin heritage village setting
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Known as Dakshina Kashi by devotees
History of Kalpathy Viswanatha Swamy Temple
The temple was built around 1425 AD (Malayalam Era 600) by Kombi Achan (also known as Itty Kombi Achan), the then ruler of Palakkad. It is recognized as the oldest Shiva temple in the Malabar region of Kerala. A stone inscription at the temple documents its construction history.
Culture & Context
The temple is the focal point of the Kalpathy Heritage Village, Kerala's first designated heritage village. It holds deep significance in Tamil Brahmin culture and is revered across four agraharams. The annual Kalpathi Ratholsavam is one of Kerala's most famous temple festivals, attracting thousands of devotees who participate in pulling decorated temple chariots through the village.
Route
| By air |
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