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An ancient Vishnu temple in Wayanad's Brahmagiri hills, famous for ancestral rites at the Papanasini stream and its unique forest setting.
Discover what makes this destination truly special
Thirunelli Temple is an ancient place of worship dedicated to Lord Vishnu, located on the side of the Brahmagiri Hills in Wayanad. Surrounded by dense forest and mountains, the temple has a distinct atmosphere of old-world reverence. The structure itself is a classic example of Kerala temple architecture, featuring granite pillars, a tiled roof, and an open-air design that complements its natural surroundings. A notable feature is an ancient stone aqueduct that brings water to the temple from the hills.
Plan your trip around the ideal season for the best experience
Weekends, public holidays, and during the Malayalam month of Karkidakam (July-August) for Bali Tharpanam.
September to March on weekdays.
Weekday afternoons during the non-pilgrimage season and during the heavy monsoon months of June and July.
Plan ahead with accurate pricing and visiting hours
Indian Visitors
Free
No entry fee
Opening Hours
5:30 AM — 7:30 PM
The temple is open daily but closes for a break in the afternoon, typically between 13:00 and 15:30. Last entry for rituals may be earlier. Timings can change during festivals, so a local check is advised.
Entry to the temple is free for all visitors. However, there are specific fees for conducting various poojas and rituals. Parking fees may apply.
Find your way to this destination with ease
Address
Thirunelly Temple Road, Thirunelly, Wayanad, Kerala 670646
Coordinates
11.9083, 75.9964
Nearest City
Wayanad
Multiple ways to get to this destination conveniently
Kannur International Airport (CNN) is the closest at approximately 95 km (3-4 hours by car). Kozhikode International Airport (CCJ) is about 135 km away (4-5 hou...
The nearest major railway stations are Kozhikode (CLT) and Thalassery (TLY), located around 130 km and 100 km away respectively. From the station, you must hire...
The temple is accessible via road from Mananthavady (30 km), Kalpetta (65 km), and Sulthan Bathery (70 km). The final stretch of the road passes through the Way...
Local KSRTC buses run from Mananthavady to Thirunelli, but with limited frequency. Hiring a jeep or a taxi is the most reliable way to get here. App-based taxi ...
Learn about the story and cultural importance of this destination
Thirunelli Temple's origins are ancient, with mentions in Puranas and historical texts, though its exact date of construction is unknown. Legend attributes its establishment to Lord Brahma, who is said to have found an idol of Vishnu under an amla (gooseberry) tree and consecrated it here. The name ...
Thirunelli Temple's primary significance is as a major pilgrimage site for performing ancestral rites. It is often called 'Dakshina Kashi' (Kashi of the South) because it is believed that performing rituals at the Papanasini stream here has the same effect as doing so in the holy city of Varanasi. T...
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