Trichambaram Temple is a Sree Krishna temple in Taliparamba, Kerala. The principal deity is Krishna in Raudra bhavam signifying his mood after destroying Kamsa.
Other Deities in Trichambaram Temple
A shrine dedicated to Durga is in the middle of a small pond within the temple complex. It is one of the 108 Durgalayas of ancient Kerala. Separate shrines are present for Durga, Sastha, Ganapathi, Vishvaksena and Naga Devathas.
Architecture of the Temple
The temple is in traditional Kerala architectural style. Visitors will notice the liberal use of wood and laterite stone in the construction. A copper-covered roof surmounts the round, two-storied sreekovil. The laterite walls have intricate carvings. Murals decorate the inner walls.
History
The belief is that the temple’s name originated from Thiru Shambara, named after Maharishi Shambara, who performed penance here to attain the blessings of Mahavishnu. The eleventh century CE Sanskrit kavyam Mūṣikavaṃśa makes a mention of the temple. Carvings and murals from the 15th and 16th centuries adorn the sanctum.
The Trichambaram temple has granite inscriptions from the eleventh century. The inscriptions are linked to the Mushika dynasty, former rulers of Kolathunadu. The temple was a political and religious hub for the rulers of the Kolathunadu kingdom.
A unique custom is that the naivedyam is proffered to the deity as soon as the sanctum opens, symbolising Krishna seeking food from his mother Devaki after the Kamsa event.
According to a legend, a royal elephant named Kuvalayapida attacked Krishna and Balarama. Consequently the temple ruled that elephants are not allowed inside the temple grounds.
Trichambaram Utsavam
The annual 14-day festival in Trichambaram Temple is well-known for Thidambu Nritham. The utsavam begins on the 22nd day of Kumbha Masam with the kodiyettam (ceremonial flag hoisting). It ends with Koodipirial ritual on the sixth day of Meenam month in Malayalam calendar. Trichambaram Utsavam of 2026 will be from 6 March to 20 March. Thidambu Nriththam, a form of dance with the idols of Krishna and Balarama, is held at Pookoth Nada (1 km from Trichambaram temple).
Offerings
Even though there are many offerings to Lord Krishna, the most important offering is Unniappam. Women from Namboothiri families prepare the Unniappam in the Agrasala and dedicate it to the deity.
Administration
TTK Devaswom (Taliparamba, Thrichambaram, Kanjirangad Devasom) is a major devaswom board administering around 15 temples in Kannur District.
Getting There
The closest airport is Kannur International Airport (CNN) at 35.4 km (54 min) via Mattannur-Iritty road. Kannur Railway station is a drive of 21.3 km (40 min) via NH 66. Raja Rajeswara Temple can be reached in 10 min by car (4 km).
Dress Code
Men must wear the traditional Kerala mundu. They have to remove the shirt and hang it outside the shrine. Women can wear the traditional dress.
Temple Timings
Trichambaram Temple remains open from 5:00 am to 12:00 noon and 5:00 to 8:00 pm on all days. The temple remains open all round the year but the best months to visit are September to February.
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