Nestled in the serene town of Kannur, Sree Sundharashwara Temple stands as a beacon of spirituality, heritage, and tranquility. Revered by devotees and admired by travelers, the temple is a powerful symbol of devotion to Lord Shiva and a place where tradition gracefully meets peace.
Whether you’re seeking spiritual fulfillment, architectural beauty, or cultural immersion, a visit to Sree Sundharashwara Temple offers all this and more. And if you’re staying at Bloom Fort Villa, a highly-rated homestay just 2 minutes away, you’re perfectly placed to enjoy this sacred site and other nearby treasures.
🕉️ A Sanctuary of Lord Shiva
Sree Sundharashwara Temple is one of the most important Shiva temples in Kannur and holds deep historical and spiritual value. Located in Talap, a calm residential area of the city, the temple is known for its daily rituals, architectural grace, and the deep sense of devotion that permeates its atmosphere.
Dedicated to Lord Sundareswara (a beautiful form of Lord Shiva), the temple was established under the guidance of Sree Narayana Guru, one of Kerala’s greatest spiritual reformers and social visionaries. It remains one of the few Shiva temples in Kerala founded by him.
🕍 History and Spiritual Significance
The temple’s founding marks a significant chapter in Kerala’s spiritual reform movement. In the early 20th century, Sree Narayana Guru sought to create an inclusive spiritual space where people of all castes could worship. Sree Sundharashwara Temple was built with this vision in mind — and continues to promote equality, peace, and community devotion.
✨ Key Spiritual Aspects:
• Main Deity: Lord Shiva in the form of Sundareswara (the graceful one).
• Founding Guru: Sree Narayana Guru, a champion of spiritual equality and social reform.
• Philosophy: “One Caste, One Religion, One God for Mankind” – the motto of Guru’s teachings, visible in every ritual and celebration here.
🏛️ Temple Architecture and Ambience
The temple showcases Kerala-style architecture with sloping tiled roofs, carved wooden interiors, and a serene central sanctum (Sreekovil). The temple grounds are immaculately maintained, offering a quiet escape from the city’s buzz.
🧱 Notable Features:
• Nadappura (Prayer Hall): Where devotees gather for rituals and bhajans.
• Flag Mast (Kodimaram): Gold-plated and used during festivals.
• Open Courtyard: For pradakshina (circumambulation) and silent meditation.
• Pond (Ambalakkulam): Located nearby for traditional purification rituals.
The overall ambiance is peaceful, welcoming, and spiritually uplifting — making it ideal for both the devout and the curious traveler.
🌅 Daily Rituals and Timings
Sree Sundharashwara Temple conducts daily poojas (rituals) and seasonal festivals with discipline and devotion.
🕰️ Daily Schedule:
• Morning Poojas: 5:30 AM – 8:00 AM
• Evening Poojas: 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM
• Temple Open: 5:00 AM – 11:00 AM, 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Visitors are welcome to witness the aarti (lamp ceremony), abhishekam (ritual bathing), and chanting of Vedic mantras.
🎉 Major Festivals Celebrated
The temple comes alive during its annual festivals, attracting thousands of devotees from across Kerala.
🪔 Mahashivaratri
The most important celebration, filled with night-long bhajans, rituals, and spiritual talks.
🎊 Prathishta Dinam (Consecration Day)
Marks the day the idol was installed by Sree Narayana Guru. Celebrated with cultural events and community feasts.
🌾 Vishu and Onam
Seasonal harvest festivals celebrated with flower decorations, lamps, and offerings.
📸 Photography & Visitor Tips
• 📷 Photography is allowed only in the outer areas. Avoid using flash near devotees or during rituals.
• 🙏 Dress modestly (traditional wear is appreciated).
• 💬 Maintain silence in prayer zones and switch off mobile phones inside the temple.
🗺️ Nearby Attractions
Once you’ve visited the temple, there are several other interesting spots within a 5–10 km radius:
• Payyambalam Beach – Peaceful shoreline for relaxation and sunsets.
• St. Angelo Fort – Historic sea-facing Portuguese fort.
• Arakkal Museum – Dive into the history of Kerala’s only Muslim royal family.
• Kannur Lighthouse – For a panoramic view of the Arabian Sea.
All these are conveniently accessible when you stay at Bloom Fort Villa.
🛌 Stay Nearby at Bloom Fort Villa – Peace, Comfort, and Easy Access
Located just a short drive from Sree Sundharashwara Temple, Bloom Fort Villa is one of the most welcoming and highly rated stays in Kannur. If you’re here for spiritual travel, cultural tourism, or just a peaceful retreat, Bloom Fort Villa offers the perfect base for your journey.
🌿 Why Stay at Bloom Fort Villa?
✅ Proximity to Temple
Only 2–3 minutes walking distance from Sree Sundharashwara Temple. Early morning or evening darshan is easy and stress-free.
✅ Spiritual Ambience
With a calm and quiet setting, Bloom Fort Villa aligns with the peaceful energy of temple travel.
✅ Comfortable Rooms
Airy, well-furnished rooms that provide rest after your spiritual outings.
✅ Local Hospitality
Warm hosts who can help you find local pooja timings, arrange autos, or recommend hidden gems.
✅ Ideal for All Travelers
Whether you’re a solo pilgrim, couple, or family group, Bloom Fort Villa welcomes you with sincerity and smiles.
🛏️ “A visit to Sundharashwara Temple becomes even more meaningful when you begin and end your day at Bloom Fort Villa — where comfort meets the divine.”