The ancient Chowalloor Siva Kshethra or Mahadeva Temple, as it is called is famed to be over centuries old. Located `approximately three kilometers towards east from the world famous pilgrims paradise Guruvayur Sree Krishna Temple is yet another significant pilgrim centre for saints and God seekers alike. Considered to be one of the oldest 108 sivalayas consecrated by Lord Parasurama, the fascinating legends linked to the Chowalloor Siva Temple bear testimony to the ancestry and age of this Temple.
History
Lord Siva, the deity of Thrissur Sree Vadakunnatha Temple is said to have manifested himself on an umbrella carried by one of his beloved devotees, a pious old Namboothiri from Chowalloor Mazhavannoor Mana (Illam of Namboothiri), who used to walk all the way to Thrissur to have daily Darshan of the Lord. When his devotee become too old to walk and worship him regularly, the Lord is said to have accompanied him to his native home in Chowalloor. Later a temple was constructed at the very place where the Lord appeared to his devotee.
Unique Features
The devotees have the good fortune to worship Siva family a rare phenomenon (Lord Siva, Sree Parvathy, Sree Ganesh, Sree Subrahmanian (Murukan), Sree Ayyappa and Sree Anjaneya) Which is not seen else where in kerala. (if not in too many Temples in Kerala).
In the TWO TIERED round Sreekovil or Sanctum Sanctorum, the Swayambhoo idol of lord Siva is seen facing west and that of his consort Sreeparvathy facing east affectionately showering blessings in all directions. The Sapthamathrukkal, precious black stone idols symbolizing the seven divine Mothers are also worshipped in the Temple in the form of Bimbas made of Krishnasila, yet another rare phenomenon.
