Attukal Bhagavathy Temple

Attukal Bhagavathy Temple, located in the heart of Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, is a revered shrine dedicated to Goddess Kannaki, an incarnation of the Divine Mother. Known globally for hosting the world’s largest annual gathering of women during the Attukal Pongala festival, the temple is a symbol of feminine power, devotion, and cultural unity.

Often referred to as the "Sabarimala of Women", Attukal Temple is deeply rooted in the legend of Kannaki, the central character of the Tamil epic 'Silappathikaram'. The temple's sanctum houses a majestic idol of the goddess in a fierce yet compassionate form, signifying protection, justice, and maternal strength.

The annual Attukal Pongala festival, held in the Malayalam month of Kumbham (February–March), witnesses millions of women devotees offering pongala (a sweet dish made of rice and jaggery) in earthen pots along the streets of Thiruvananthapuram. It has earned a place in the Guinness Book of World Records as the largest congregation of women for a religious activity.

The temple follows traditional Kerala temple architecture, with its intricate carvings, sloping tiled roofs, and vibrant murals. Regular rituals and special poojas are performed to honor the goddess, attracting devotees from across Kerala and beyond. The temple stands as a cultural and spiritual landmark, celebrating womanhood, devotion, and the enduring power of faith.

🚗 How to Reach

By Road: Located in the heart of Thiruvananthapuram city, around 2.5 km from Trivandrum Central Bus Station

By Train: Trivandrum Central Railway Station is about 2.5 km from the temple

By Air: Trivandrum International Airport is around 6 km away

🛕 Visitor Information

Temple Timings:
-> Morning: 4:30 AM – 12:30 PM

-> Evening: 5:00 PM – 8:30 PM

Unique Rituals:
- Pongala Festival: Lakhs of women prepare a divine offering of rice in earthen pots

- Deeparadhana and Sahasranama Archana performed daily

- Trikala Pooja and other traditional Devi worship rituals

🎉 Main Festivals

-> Attukal Pongala (Feb–Mar): World’s largest religious gathering of women, celebrated with immense devotion and grandeur

-> Mandala Vratham: Special worship during the Sabarimala season

-> Vinayaka Chathurthi: Celebrated with pujas and cultural programs

-> Navaratri Festival: Nine days of Devi worship, music, and cultural events