Rajarajeswara Temple

If you are planning to visit Kerala, then you must not miss visiting the Rajarajeshwara Temple (also called the Brihadeshwara Temple) in Kerala. Located at Taliparamba in the Kannur district, this beautiful Shiva temple is a perfect example of Chola architecture.
The Rajarajeswara Temple is regarded as one of the 108 ancient Shiva temples of Kerala and has a prominent place amongst the numerous Shiva temples in South India.

The Rajarajeswara Temple includes a 180 ft long vimana and consists of a quadrangular sanctum with a two tiered pyramidal roof. In front of the sanctum is the namaskara mandapam. The temple has no kodi maram (flagstaff) as opposed to other temples in Kerala.

There is a legend associated with this Temple. It is said that the head of Sati fell here after Shiva's tandavam following Sati's self-immolation. The Shiva linga inside this temple is thousand years old and is believed to be installed by sage Maandhata who after immense searching found Taliparamba the most sacred spot to install this linga. It is even believed that Sri Rama during his victorious return from Lanka stopped here to offer worship to Lord Shiva. And, in honor of his presence, devotees are not allowed into the namaskara mandapam even today.

The Rajarajeswara Temple is considered as most sacred for performing Koodiyattam and Chakyar Koothu. Whenever a new Koodiyattam is being directed, first, it is usually performed at this temple. One of the greatest appreciation or award that an artist or scholar can get, is the "Veerashringhala" (V?rasringhala) Golden Bracelet, from the temple, given by the unanimous approval of the scholar body of the temple.

You can simply visit the Rajarajeswara Temple to view the Dravidian style of architecture. It's a holy pilgrimage in India and you will find absolute bliss of mind and happiness once you come to this place.