Kizhthali Siva Temple Click to view images
The stepping stones and the Panchamuga basement.
The front area of the Garbhagriham.
Front view of the Kizhthali Shiva Temple.
Floor plan of Kizhthali Shiva Temple.
Elevation of Kizhthali Shiva Temple.
The oil lamp in the temple.
The outlet at the left side of deity.
Village : Methala
Taluk : Kodungalloor
District : Thrissur
Location : On the Paravur - Kodungalloor Road/ NH-17
According to Keralolpathi, this temple existed during the Perumal reign (B.C 113-AD 343.) During the time of the Chera dynasty, who were Shiva believers, the kings had many advisors and they were usually nambuthiris. These ministers or advisors habitually gathered at a Shiva temple called Thali. Among the many Shiva temples in and around this main temple were Melthali, Nediyathali and Chingapuram Thali.
This temple was first destroyed by the Portuguese and the Dutch. Then Tipu’s army destroyed it further, raising most of the temple to the ground, except the garbagriham, which still stands. In its original glory, the temple boasted of a Koothu Parambu, a Kalari Parambu and a Kalapura Parambu.
The temple was left in ruins after the attack of Tipu's army. Presently, it is maintained by the Department of Archaeology, while the religious functions are carried out by a private trust. The proposal to restore the temple seems to have been dropped. Further additions have been made by the use of steel pipes and metal sheet roofing. These ugly additions have to be replaced, as they affect the authenticity and integrity of the temple premises.
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