Mangala Devi Kannagi Temple

Mangala Devi Kannagi Temple is a historic Hindu temple located deep within the Periyar Tiger Reserve on the Kerala-Tamil Nadu border. Dedicated to Goddess Mangaladevi (Kannagi), the temple is believed to have been built by Chera King Cheran Senguttuvan around 2,000 years ago. Situated at an altitude of 1,337 meters, it features Pandyan-style architecture and remains closed for most of the year, opening only during the annual Chitra Pournami festival.

Visitors can expect a challenging journey through dense forests and high-altitude grasslands to reach this ancient hilltop temple. The site offers panoramic views of the Western Ghats and surrounding Tamil Nadu villages. During the annual Chitra Pournami festival, devotees witness traditional rituals conducted by priests from both Kerala and Tamil Nadu. The temple complex includes shrines dedicated to Karuppa Swamy, Lord Shiva, and Lord Ganapathy amidst stone ruins.

Believed to have been built by Chera King Cheran Senguttuvan around 2,000 years ago. The temple is associated with Kannagi, the heroine of the ancient Tamil epic Silappadikaram. According to legend, after burning Madurai in protest of her husband's unjust execution, Kannagi traveled to this region. The installation ceremony was reportedly attended by Sri Lankan King Gajabahu (c. 114-136 CE).

The temple holds immense cultural significance as a symbol of moral power and justice embodied by Kannagi. It serves as a sacred site for devotees from both Kerala and Tamil Nadu. During Chitra Pournami, women devotees have their thali (wedding necklace) and glass bangles blessed, and offer pongala (sweet rice dish) to the goddess.