Ameda Temple is an old temple, about 20 km south of Ernakulam, on the Tripunithura-Vaikom route. It is exclusive in its devotion to Sapthamatrikas-the seven mother goddesses. In most parts of India, Sapthamatrikas temples are so scarce that one would hardly find many of them. It is exquisite and sacred because of its prominence. The location is on the outskirts close to Vembanad Lake, which infuses an abundant spread of foliage around it, giving a sense of serenity and peace.
For devotees and visitors, Ameda Temple is more than just a religious spot—it’s a journey into Kerala’s ancient traditions, temple architecture, and powerful rituals. If you’re looking for peace, blessings, or just a quiet escape from the busy world, this temple is a perfect place to visit.
The Story and Legends Behind Ameda Temple
Ameda Temple has a good history, connected with the legend Parasurama, who was an avatar of Lord Vishnu. Ancient mythologies tell us that Parasurama threw away his battle axe into the sea to reclaim land for Kerala from the sea. After forming this land, Parasurama went on to erect several temples there to safeguard them and to grant blessings to their people. Ameda Temple is believed to be one of those temples, dedicated to the Sapthamatrikas.
But who are these Sapthamatrikas? They are seven powerful goddesses who represent different forms of energy and protect the world from evil. Each of them is associated with a major god and symbolizes a unique aspect of life:
- Brahmani – The female form of Lord Brahma, representing creation and knowledge.
- Maheshwari – The power of Lord Shiva, symbolizing strength and protection from evil.
- Kaumari – Related to Lord Kartikeya, which denotes bravery and valor.
- Vaishnavi – The female aspect of Lord Vishnu, representing preservation and protection.
- Varahi – Related to Varaha, the boar avatar of Lord Vishnu, representing prosperity and fertility.
- Indrani – Consort of Lord Indra, symbolizing authority and royal power.
- Chamundi – A fierce form of Goddess Durga, which is popular for destroying all evil forces and protecting her followers.
- The temple also houses idols of Veerabhadra, a fierce form of Lord Shiva, and Lord Ganapathy (Ganesha), who is worshipped for removing obstacles and bringing success.
Ameda Temple Architecture and Design
Ameda Temple is constructed based on the typical Kerala style architecture, which involves sloping tiled roofs, carved wooden designs, and simple, yet elegant structure. The Sreekovil or the sanctum sanctorum is quite small but effective as it is the place of the Sapthamatrikas idols. All the other adjacent structures are the Nalambalam (the inner corridor), Balikkal Pura (sacrificial altar), and Koothambalam (a traditional performance hall).
A soothing feature of this temple is its peaceful background at the Vembanad Lake. The still waters and greenery liven up the right atmosphere for meditation and prayer. Many devotees reported that they get a deep sense of peace and convergence when visiting the temple.
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Temple Timings and Daily Rituals
The Ameda Temple follows a strata schedule in the practice of rituals and poojas, ensuring that the ancient traditions are preserved. The temple is open in the morning hours and closes at the end of the evening prayer.
Timings of Temple
Morning: 4:30 AM to 12:00 PM
Evening: 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Daily Poojas and Rituals
Usha Pooja, Morning Worship: At 6:00 AM to awaken the deities and to begin the day.
Pantheeradi Pooja: A mid-morning ritual at 9:00 AM.
Deeparadhana (Evening Ritual): The lamp is lit at 6:30 PM, which lights up the temple with a warm, divine glow.
Athazha Pooja (Night Pooja): Closing pooja of the day before the temple closes.
On special days like Tuesdays, Fridays, and Ashtami, it hosts various rituals for the Sapthamatrikas, which attracts huge numbers of devotees.
Festivals Celebrated at Ameda Temple
Festivals at Ameda Temple are vibrant and replete with traditional rituals, music, and devotional activities. The festival takes place in the Meenam month of the Malayalam calendar during the period of March-April. It starts with the Kodiyettu ceremony, and ends with the Aarattu ritual, which is collectively performed by devotees from all over. The whole temple is adorned and filled with the sound of traditional drums and the chanting in the air.
Also read: Banke Bihari Temple: History, Festivals, and Timings in Vrindavan
Festival Highlights
Kodiyettu (Flag Hoisting)
The festival begins with the Kodiyettu ritual, which is the formal commencement of the celebration. It is performed by the Thanthri, who could be the senior-most member of the Ameda Mangalam family or the Vadakkan Puliyannur Namboodiri. It is done in the night.
Aayilya Darshanam
This day falls on the Aayilyam star and is considered very sacred for devotees to get blessings from God.
Uthsava Bali
It is on the Makam star that Uthsava Bali, with all kinds of ceremonial offerings and traditional rites, add on to the festival.
Valiya Vilakku and Pallivetta
On the Pooram star, there is the sacred hunting ritual Valiya Vilakku, an important event as it depicts good over evil and is part of the temple festival.
Aarattu or Holy Bathing Ritual
Aarattu is held every morning throughout the festival. The major Aarattu is conducted at the temple pond on the day of Uthram star, after the performance of Usha Pooja. This function is special in that all three doors of the sanctum sanctorum are opened; such an event takes place only once in six months.
Special Tradition of the Sreekovil Doors
Three doors of the sanctum sanctorum open only twice in a year
Day 41 of Guruthy Pooja
Uthram Star Aarattu Day of the Principal Festival
Two doors of Sreekovil open on all days. Other temple customs poojas are done on all days.
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Why Visit Ameda Temple?
Ameda Temple is more than a place of worship. Here is why you should visit:
Unique worship of Sapthamatrikas: There are very few temples in India where all seven mother goddesses are worshiped together.
Peaceful location: Being adjacent to Vembanad Lake, this is a very suitable place for meditation and rest.
Ancient Traditions: See Kerala’s ancient temple rituals and architecture.
Festivals and Culture: Be a witness to grand festivals and traditional Kerala art forms on special occasions.
How to reach Ameda Temple
Ameda Temple can easily be accessed from the adjacent towns and cities.
By Road:
The temple is more accessible via roads and approaches on the route of Tripunithura-Vaikom. It’s about 20 km from Ernakulam and 12 km from Vaikom. Buses as well as taxi services are frequently available.
By Train:
Ernakulam Junction is the nearest railway station, and it is about 18 km from the temple. The taxi or bus service would be easily accessible at the railway station.
By Air:
The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport, 35 km from the temple. You can reach the temple from the airport either by taxi or bus.
Nearby Attractions
Other places to visit near Ameda Temple are:
- Vembanad Lake: Perfect for a houseboat ride or a silent walk through the backwaters.
- Vaikom Mahadeva Temple: It is a well-known Shiva temple, located around 12 km from here.
- Tripunithura Hill Palace: It is a museum of Kerala’s royal past.
- Chottanikkara Temple: It is a prominent temple dedicated to Goddess Bhagavathy, about 25 km away.
Conclusion
Ameda Temple is one of those sacred shrines that are unique in having their own spirituality. Dedicated to the Sapthamatrikas, with serenity surrounding its precincts that are near to Vembanad Lake and rich cultural heritage, this surely is one of the temples in Kerala that is not to be missed. From a devotee seeking your blessing to even the tourist discovering Kerala’s unknown treasure, Ameda Temple shall surely rejuvenate, bless, and inspire you.
FAQs
What is Ameda Temple famous for?
Ameda Temple is one of the few temples in India that is dedicated to Sapthamatrikas-the seven mother goddesses. It is also popular for its peaceful location near Vembanad Lake and its ancient rituals and festivals.
Who are the Sapthamatrikas worshipped at Ameda Temple?
The Sapthamatrikas include Brahmani, Maheshwari, Kaumari, Vaishnavi, Varahi, Indrani, and Chamundi. These goddesses are related to major Hindu gods such as Brahma, Shiva, Vishnu, and Durga. They represent various forms of power and protection.
What are the temple timings at Ameda Temple?
The temple opens from 5:00 AM to 11:00 AM in the morning and from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM in the evening. On Tuesdays, Fridays, and during Navaratri and Maha Shivaratri, special rituals are performed.
How to Reach Ameda Temple?
Ameda Temple is on the Tripunithura-Vaikom route, 20 km south of Ernakulam. The nearest railway station is Ernakulam Junction, and Cochin International Airport is about 35 km away. One can reach this temple by any road, train, or even from an airplane; taxis as well as buses can be used.
