Parassala Mahadeva Temple

Parassala Sree Mahadeva Temple stands in the small village of Parassala on the Kerala–Tamil Nadu border and is one of the foremost places of worship in south Kerala. Here Shiva faces west, which is rare, while Parvati faces east behind him; Parvati and Vighneswara are the subsidiary deities. The temple was built by Mallen Chembakaraman Delava of the Venad royal family and is centuries old, in an unusual stone architecture.

The temple is known for its rare rites, and from early times it has been open to all regardless of caste or creed. Notably, the Arayas, a backward community, have long had the privilege of taking part in starting its important rituals, and Parassala is known for communal harmony. Devotees come from far afield to worship here.