- The Garuda Temple boasts a rich history, believed to be around 1800 years old.
- Devotees visit this temple seeking blessings for overall well-being and relief from ailments, particularly those associated with serpent venoms.
- Sundays hold particular significance, with the 41-day Mandalakalam period, falling between November 16th and December 28th, attracting a surge in devotees.
A Unique Practice: Releasing Snakes
The Garuda Temple adheres to a rare ecological practice. Devotees seeking protection from snake-related issues bring live, captured snakes in earthen pots. Upon the temple opening its gopura (gateway), the pot is offered. Interestingly, the snake is said to exhibit a defensive posture after release. The temple priest (Shanthi) then anoints the snake with a holy water offering (Garuda Panchaksari manthra theertha). Following this, the snake is observed to slither southwards and disappear. Devotees believe this signifies the snake becoming an offering to Lord Garuda.
Despite this unusual practice, the temple and its surroundings haven't witnessed any significant snake infestations, nor have there been reports of snakebites within the temple for centuries.
Temple's Unique Offering: Yellow Payasam and Garuda Panchakshari Oil
This temple boasts a one-of-a-kind yellow payasam, a sweet dish, not found anywhere else in Kerala. Its key ingredient, manjal, is believed to hold significant healing properties, even by modern science. The payasam is offered for the family's overall well-being and to alleviate any ailments they may be facing.
Another unique prasadam (blessed offering) is Garuda Panchakshari oil. Devotees apply it to their skin for relief from skin conditions. Incredibly, consuming the oil for 12 days is said to be highly effective in eliminating internal poisoning.