Ambalappuzha Sri Krishna Temple Kerala

Constructed in typical Kerala Style, Ambalappuzha Sri Krishna Temple is a Hindu temple in Alappuzha district of Kerala. It is believed to have been built during 15th-17thAD by the local ruler Chembakassery Pooradam Thirunal-Devanarayanan Thampuran. Tourists can witness the idol of this temple which is equated to Parthasarthi holding whip in the right hand and a sacred conch in the other hand. The temple is linked to the Guruvayoor Sri Krishna Temple.

It is believed during the invasion of Tipu Sultan in the year 1789, Sri Krishna idol was brought from the Guruvayoor Temple to the Ambalappuzha Temple for security. The Payasam served here is extremely admired and popular among devotees as it's a sweet pudding which is made of rice and milk. There is an interesting legend behind making this pudding as it is believed that Guruvayoorappan reaches daily at this temple to have Palpayasa Nedyam.

Legend

It is believed that once upon a time Lord Krishna appeared in the form of sage in front of the king who ruled during that time and challenged him to play chess. Being a chess enthusiast, King accepted the challenge of god. Before playing the game, Sage asked the king to offer him a grain of rice if he won the game and each square would double the grain of rice. King was agreed with it happily and at last, Lord Krishna won the game and the king was happy to give the grain of rice but soon he understood the reason of asking to double the grain of rice on each square and then he doubled the grain of 20th square and he understood his realm has run out of the rice.

After seeing all these, Lord Krishna gave an option to pay him partly and told that he will serve paal payasam until and unless his debt is clear and king agreed with his option.

Architecture of the Temple

Designed in Kerala style, the architecture and construction of the temple is wondrous. A beautiful painting of ten avatars of Lord Vishnu in the temple premises is the main attraction for devotees. Above all, Ambalappuzha Sri Krishna Temple is famous for its magicians and Ottanthullal that is performed once in a year.

Festivals

Chambakulam Moolam Festival is major festival of this shrine which is celebrated on the Moolam Day every year. A number of pilgrims and tourists flock this place and take blessings from Lord Krishna. The Aaraattu festival is also celebrated here which starts in the months of March and April. This festival starts with the hosting of flag on the Atham star. Another festival like Pallipana is also celebrated here once in every 12 years.