Janardhana Swami Temple

Janardhana Swami temple is a 2000 year old temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu; the only shrine dedicated to Vishnu in the name of Janardhana in this part of the country. The temple follows and echoes the aesthetics of traditional South-Indian architecture. Though non-Hindus are not allowed to enter the temple’s inner sanctum, but one can walk around outside and get a view of the huge banyan tree. Of the many festivals and rituals performed here, ‘Vavubali’ performed on the new moon day of Karkkidakam month in the Malayalam calendar is quite popular. The part of the Papanasam beach facing the temple is used by the devotees to take a dip, as the sacred water washes way their sins according to their beliefs. The Arattu festival at this temple is celebrated every year in Meenam (March-April) commencing with Kodiyattem (Flag hoisting) of Krithika day ending with Arattu on Uthram day. A colourful procession led by adorned elephants is one of the prominent features of the fe