Chengannur Mahadeva Temple - 1 of Sakthi Peedam

Believed to be constructed in 300 AD, Chengannur Mahadeva Temple is unique with its special rituals and eye catching architecture. Even if the shrine is popularly known as the Mahadeva temple, lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati hold equal importance. It is a must visit temple in the state for its exquisite woodwork and fabulous mural paintings. The temple was ruined by fire sometime and most of the wooden artwork got damaged. It was renovated in the 18th Century, restoring some amazing paintings and murals. The Mukha Mandapam and other mandapams of this temple have outstanding woodwork. The temple was constructed in 6 acres of land. The image of the deity is made in Panchaloha (a combination of five metals).

The specialty of this temple is that the deity gets a menstrual period, a unique phenomenon not found in any other temple. Legend says that Shiva and Parvati came to reside at this place during the Goddess's menstrual period. ‘Thrip Tharattu’ is a unique festival of this shrine based on an interesting belief. The festival is a symbol of fertility and is connected with the menstruation ceremony. Maha Shivaratri is usually celebrated in grand. The temple is considered as the Sakthi Peedam because of the menstruation symptoms observed periodically with the idol of Goddess Parvati in this shrine. Apart from this festival, the temple has a 28 days long annual festival which is conducted during the months of December and January.