Built in the 15th century, Koodalmanikyam temple is devoted to Lord Bharatha and is truly a colossal beauty. The magnificent gateways, spherical sanctum sanctorum, the majestic koothambalam and the intricate carvings in wood and stone on the walls are some of the spectacular features of this sacred place. The murals on the walls on either side of the eastern entry to the Chuttambalam also deserve mention. The temple is enveloped in greenery and its walls are adorned with archaic paintings. Only three types of flowers are offered to the deity here – lotus, holy basil and West Indian Jasmine. Apart from that, only three poojas are performed (as against five) alongside three sheevelis (ceremonial procession of the idol on caparisoned elephants), in contrast to the customary practice across the temples in Kerala.
