About Madavoorpara
Madavoorpara is a hilltop heritage site in Kaattayikonam, Thiruvananthapuram, perched approximately 300 feet above sea level. It features a 9th-century rock-cut Shiva temple carved from a single rock, protected by the Department of Archaeology. The site includes a 100-meter Bamboo Bridge, children's park, and offers panoramic views of the city and Arabian Sea.
Visitors guide
Visitors can explore an ancient rock-cut cave temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, walk across a 100-meter Bamboo Bridge leading to the hilltop, and enjoy panoramic sunset views. The site features a children's park with swings and slides, bamboo huts for resting, and a sacred pond called Ganga Theertham. Access requires climbing approximately 200 meters via rock-carved steps through a narrow passage.
Key highlights
- 01
9th-century rock-cut Shiva temple with Vattezhuthu inscriptions
- 02
100-meter Bamboo Bridge connecting to the hilltop
- 03
Panoramic views of Thiruvananthapuram city and Arabian Sea
- 04
Children's park with play facilities
- 05
Ganga Theertham sacred pond
- 06
Bamboo huts for relaxation
History of Madavoorpara
The rock-cut Shiva temple dates back to the 9th century CE and is one of the rarest rock-cut temples in Kerala. It features pillars with inscriptions in Vattezhuthu, an ancient Malayalam script. The temple is currently under the protection of the State Department of Archaeology. The site was officially opened for visitors on October 20, 2016.
Culture & Context
The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and maintains regular religious rituals and festivities. It holds archaeological importance as one of Kerala's few surviving rock-cut cave temples, representing early temple architecture in the region.
Route
| By air | Nearest airport is Trivandrum International Airport, approximately 20-24 km away via NH 66 |
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