Thali Sree Mahaganapathi Temple, Ongallur

The Mahaganapathi Temple at Ongallur is one of the 32 Thali temples in Kerala. The date of origin of the temple is not known but it is widely regarded as one of the oldest temples in the state. A Thali temple is essentially a Shiva temple built under royal patronage. The Thali Mahaganapathi Temple (also known Ganapathian Kavu – shrine of Ganapathi) has two main deities – Lord Shiva and Lord Ganesha. While Shiva faces east, Ganesha faces south.

Thali Sree Mahaganapathi Temple, Ongallur

The inner sanctum is circular in shape. The huge temple complex is just a stone’s throw from Ongallur bus stand. Outside the sanctum sanctorum, the temple also houses a shrine dedicated to Lord Ayyappa. Just behind the Ayyappa shrine there is another shrine dedicated to Nagas (serpants). The Ayyappa shrine faces west. The temple pond is to the north.

Important days

Muppettu Velli (the first Friday of any Malayalam month) is very important and the temple receives hundreds of devotees on this day.  Neyyappam (rice cake deep fried in ghee) is the main offering here.

On the first Sunday of every month (Gregorian calendar), the temple organizes the recital of Narayaneeyam (an epic poem that praises Lord Krishna). The recital starts at 7.30 in the morning.

Since the last few years, the temple also organizes aanayoottu (the feeding of elephants) in the Malayalam month of Karkkidakam (July – August).

How to reach

Ongallur is between Pattambi and Shornur. It is only a few kilometers from Pattambi. The nearest railway station is Pattambi railway station.

Contact numbers: 8301992280