Kailasapara Cave Temple

Kailasappara Mahadeva Temple, is expected to be one of the oldest ‘Natural Stone Temples’ of Idukki district. It is located at a height of 2000 metres in western ghats. The exact location of the temple is in the North east direction, at a distance of 2 km from Nedumkandam Town.nnHistory, location, natural beauty and myths connected to Kailasappara Mahadeva Temple, makes it very special in several aspects. It is believed that this area was used to be a haven of saints and was used for meditation and sitting in penance from the time immemorial.nnThe main temple is a natural stone temple which is covered in the top and sides by huge rocks. Huge sheaths of stones create a feeling of a building constructed by nature.nnLocation around this temple is a real feast for eyes, owing to the beautiful natural forest, rich in biodiversity, surrounding it. Rare plants and trees give shelter to beautiful birds and not so common insects..nnWe can see rare trees like ‘Kattu Koovalam’ – Wild Aegle Marmalos – which is very much connected to lord Siva through so many myths. Incidently, Wild Aegle Marmalos is known to have Analgesic, Anti inflammatory and Antipyretic capabilities.It is believed that Pandavas in Dwapara yug and Lord Rama and Lakshmana in Threta Yug stayed here during their exile. The rock surfaces are having some special series of markings which are believed to be created by the movement of chariot wheels of Pandavas.On one side of the path to the temple, you can see huge stones structured as a stone wall and is named after Bhima Sena – the strongest of the Pandavas. People believe that this stone structure was constructed by Beema Sena.nAnother speciality is a huge ball shaped rock which gives us a feeling that it is used to close a huge cave.Apart from the myths connected to Kailasappara Mahadeva Temple, there are certain things which can astonish you around the temple. One of such speciality is a Chempaka Tree standing in a bed rock and giving flowers daily irrespective of the climatic conditions.nnA small holy pond in the rock at the top of the hill is also filled of water even though entire locality is having water scarcity.nnThe temple is having worship only on a single day in a year in connection with Siva Rathri, which is celebrated in a grand way. The calm and serine atmosphere of the temple is suitable for meditation and rejuvenating your mind and body.Jeeps can be hired from SNDP Junction of Nedumkandam to reach the temple. And the journey itself is really enjoyable as the vehicle will take you through steep hills and sharp curves. Further more, the view of Nedumkandam town and adjacent areas from the top of the hill is also a mesmerising sight.

Nice place to visit

This temple is very famous for its culture. It is situated on Kumily - Munnar Highway. Nearer town is Nedumkandam ( Just 7 kilometres). It is better to drive 4x4 vehicles as it reaches nearer to Kailasappara, roads are somewhat steepy like and narrow. Greenery hills and cool breeze releases a calm atmosphere as it's a better place for relaxation. This cave temple is highly known for the footprint found near it. It is believed that these footprint belongs to Lord Shiva. As like other, this temple haven't any puja or karma frequently. Occasions like Shivaratri are celebrated like big festivals and devotees from farther reach to worship.

Calm

My native