Divine Kozha Sree Narasimha Swamy Temple
 Kozha, Kuravilangad, Kottayam

Kozha Sree Narasimhaswamy Temple is one of the most ancient and spiritually significant Vaishnavite temples located near Kuravilangad in Kottayam district. The main deity here is Lord Narasimha Swamy, the fourth incarnation of Lord Mahavishnu. It is believed to be the only Swayambhu (self manifested) Narasimha idol in Kerala. The Lord is worshipped here in the peaceful form of Lakshmi Narasimha rather than the fierce Ugra Narasimha form. Devotees visit this temple with deep faith, as it is known to offer spiritual peace and divine blessings. Built in the traditional Kerala temple architectural style, the temple is made even more beautiful by its serene natural surroundings. Through daily poojas, special offerings, and annual festivals, this temple continues to remain a major centre of devotion for devotees.
The history of Kozha Sree Narasimhaswamy Temple is ancient and significant. Although there are no exact records about the original founder of the temple, it is known as a centuries-old centre of faith. Before around 1752, this area was covered with dense forests and remained largely uninhabited. It was part of the Vadakkumkur Kingdom during that time. It is believed that the discovery of the idol of Lord Narasimha in this region led to the strengthening of worship here. Later, with the support of local people and regional rulers, the temple developed further. The temple is also believed to have connections with the Vadakkumkur royal family, and local kings are said to have contributed to its growth and protection. Today, the temple stands as an important center of faith and spiritual peace for devotees.
The legend associated with the temple is deeply devotional and fascinating. It is believed that in ancient times, this region was a deserted land filled with forests and hills. One day, a hunter who was passing through the forest experienced an unusual divine light and spiritual presence. On investigating, he discovered the self-manifested idol of Lord Narasimha. Another belief says that the hunter was not an ordinary man, but Lord Parameshwara (Shiva) himself, who appeared in the form of a hunter to reveal the divine presence. Following this, the local people began worship at that sacred spot, which later developed into the temple. It is believed that though Lord Narasimha is known for his fierce form, here he blesses devotees in the peaceful form of Lakshmi Narasimha.
From the outside, Kozha Sree Narasimhaswamy Temple appears graceful and majestic in the traditional Kerala temple style. Strong surrounding walls and the traditional entrance gateway reflect the temple’s ancient beauty. Instead of a tall Dravidian-style gopuram, the temple has a simple and elegant Kerala-style entrance structure filled with devotion and charm. Surrounded by lush greenery and a peaceful village atmosphere, the temple itself gives a feeling of calmness and divinity even before entering.
Upon entering the temple, one first sees the spacious courtyard along with the flag mast (Kodimaram), Balipeetam (sacrificial stone), and the Deepasthambham (lamp pillar). As one walks forward through the peaceful and devotional atmosphere, the Sreekovil (sanctum sanctorum), built in the traditional Kerala style, comes into view inside the Chuttambalam (inner courtyard structure). In front of the sanctum lies the Namaskara Mandapam, where devotees stand and offer prayers. Reaching this point, one can deeply feel the spiritual grandeur and divine presence of the temple.
The artistic beauty of the temple is most visible in the Sreekovil, Namaskara Mandapam, and Chuttambalam. The pillars, door frames, and inner portions of the roof are adorned with fine and beautiful wooden carvings. In some areas, simple mural-like artistic designs and symbolic patterns inspired by Puranic stories can also be seen. Rather than large colourful paintings, the temple’s main attraction lies in its calm wooden craftsmanship and elegant decorative style that reflect the simplicity and heritage of Kerala temple architecture. This sculptural beauty, where devotion, tradition, and art come together, gives the temple a special divine atmosphere.
The Sreekovil of the temple is a beautiful example of traditional Kerala temple architecture. Built on an elevated base, the sanctum attracts devotees with its simple yet majestic appearance. The sloping roof covered with copper sheets, the beauty of the wooden craftsmanship, and the intricate carvings on the doors and walls give the sanctum both antiquity and divinity. Even from the outside, one can feel its peaceful and spiritual presence.
The main deity, Lord Narasimha Swamy, is installed facing east. Rather than the fierce Ugra Narasimha form, the Lord is worshipped here in the calm and benevolent form of Lakshmi Narasimha. Standing before the sanctum and having darshan gives devotees a unique spiritual experience.
Sub-shrines for Lord Ganesha, Lord Shiva, Goddess Bhagavathy, and Naga Devatas (serpent deities) are also present within the temple premises. Lord Ganesha is usually installed near the sanctum, while the Naga idols are commonly placed under sacred trees or in specially designated areas. Lord Shiva and Bhagavathy are positioned within or near the Chuttambalam in separate spaces for worship. These sub-deities add to the spiritual completeness and divine grandeur of the temple. The festivals and special days of Kozha Sree Narasimhaswamy Temple fill the temple with spiritual energy throughout the year.
The most important among them is Narasimha Jayanthi, which commemorates the divine appearance of Lord Narasimha. This special day usually falls during the Malayalam months of Medam–Edavam (April–May). On this day, special abhishekams, Pushpanjali, decorated darshan, and Deeparadhana are conducted with great devotion.
The annual temple festival is another major celebration, usually held during the Malayalam months of Meenam or Medam (March–April). During festival days, the temple is beautifully decorated with lamps, and rituals like Seeveli, special poojas, and prasadam distribution create a deeply devotional atmosphere.
In addition to this, Ekadashi days every month are given special importance, especially Vaikuntha Ekadashi, which devotees observe with deep faith. Vishu on Medam 1 and Sree Krishna Jayanthi during the month of Chingam are also celebrated with special poojas. Each of these occasions transforms the temple into a living experience of devotion, peace, and divine grace.
The offerings (Vazhipadu) at the temple are spiritual expressions of devotion and surrender to the Lord. One of the most common offerings here is Pushpanjali, which devotees offer with faith for mental peace and the fulfillment of wishes. Sweet offerings like Palpayasam and Neypayasam are also highly significant. Abhishekams performed using milk, water, and sandal paste are done with great devotion by devotees. Deeparadhana and lamp offerings are made for family well-being and prosperity. Since this is a Narasimha temple, special prayers and offerings are also made for protection, removal of fear, and relief from enemy-related troubles. In addition, Archana, Bhagya Suktha Pushpanjali, and Sahasranama Archana are also performed as part of the devotees’ spiritual practices. The temple usually opens early in the morning. Around 5:00 AM, the temple opens with Nirmalya Darshan, allowing devotees to begin their worship. This is followed by Usha Pooja, Pantheeradi Pooja, and Ucha Pooja.
After the noon pooja, the temple closes around 11:00 AM to 11:30 AM. In the evening, the temple reopens around 5:00 PM. Evening rituals such as Deeparadhana and Athazha Pooja are then performed. After the Athazha Pooja, the temple usually closes around 8:00 PM. On festival days and special occasions, there may be slight changes in timing. Therefore, for special darshan or offerings, it is always more convenient to confirm the schedule with the temple in advance.

Sacred History & Spiritual Significance

This sacred temple stands as a testament to deep spiritual devotion, ancient architectural grandeur, and rich local cultural traditions.

Temple Sanctum & Architecture

The sanctum sanctorum houses the divine idol consecrated according to ancient Vedic traditions, surrounded by serene courtyards and traditional temple architecture.

Sacred Darshan Gallery