Nestled amidst the verdant hills of the Western Ghats in Kerala, the Mangala Devi Temple is an ancient place of worship that dates back to over a thousand years. This temple, located near Thekkady and Periyar Tiger Reserve, is dedicated to Goddess Mangala and has been a significant pillar of religious importance in the region, attracting devotees and tourists from different parts of India and the world.
The history of tourism at the Mangala Devi Temple is intertwined with its mythological and historical roots. Legend has it that Kannaki, a woman of exceptional virtue, after proving the innocence of her husband at the court of the Pandya king, moved to the location where the temple stands today and attained salvation. With time, a temple was built to worship her as the goddess Mangala, immortalizing her as a symbol of moral strength and marital fidelity.
Founded in the 9th century by the Chera dynasty, the temple features Pandyan style of architecture which reflects the historical intermingling of different South Indian dynasties. The temple's importance was highlighted during the Chithirai Festival when thousands of pilgrims used to visit the shrine to seek blessings.
Access to the temple was traditionally on foot through dense forests, making it an annual pilgrimage during the Chithirai Festival. In recent years, vehicular access has been made available for this festival period, subject to restrictions by the Forest Department due to the temple's proximity to the Periyar Tiger Reserve.
The location of the Mangala Devi Temple, close to Thekkady, a popular tourist destination known for its wildlife sanctuary, scenic beauty, and spice gardens, has contributed to the increase in visitors. Tourism trends in the area have seen a shift with an emphasis on eco-tourism and responsible travel practices, fitting well with the temple's serene and natural surroundings.
In recent years, the state's tourism department has been promoting temples and spiritual heritage sites as part of a holistic experience, merging religious travel with nature and wildlife tourism.
The best time to visit the Mangala Devi Temple is during the Chithirai Festival, which usually falls in April or May. This is when the temple is open to the public and hosts special pujas and rituals. However, visitors must be aware that access to the temple is restricted due to its location within the protected forest area and may require special permission from the Forest Department.
Due to its cultural significance and unique location, the Mangala Devi Temple remains one of Kerala's less-explored gems, offering a mix of history, spirituality, and nature to those who venture to its ancient stone steps.
Efforts are continuously being made to ensure the preservation of the temple and its surrounding ecosystem. Sustainable tourism practices are encouraged to minimize the impact on the environment, with a strict “leave no trace†policy in effect for visitors.
As the Mangala Devi Temple becomes more integrated into Kerala's heritage tourism circuit, the balance between accessibility and conservation remains a key priority for the preservation of this historic site for future generations.
