Situated near East Fort in Thiruvananthapuram, Pazhavangadi Ganapathy Temple is a major pilgrimage destination, especially for those starting new ventures. Managed by the Indian Army, this temple is known for its discipline, cleanliness, and spiritual power. The presiding deity, Lord Vinayaka (Ganesha), is worshipped for removing obstacles and granting success.
Noteworthy Attractions
Idol of Lord Ganapathy
The goddess is worshipped as Saraswati in the morning, Lakshmi at noon, and Durga in the evening.
Managed by Indian Army
A unique ritual conducted at night at the Keezhu Kavu Temple, believed to ward off negative energies and provide spiritual healing.
Modakam Offerings
The temple’s grand annual festival, where thousands gather to witness the darshan of the goddess and seek her divine grace.
History & Culture
Origins & Legacy
The temple was originally located in Pazhavangadi, Nagercoil, and later shifted to Trivandrum by the Travancore Army. It has since become one of the most prominent Ganesha temples in Kerala, known for its vibrant energy and historic association with military discipline and devotion.
Sacred Importance
Lord Ganapathy is the remover of obstacles, lord of beginnings, and bestower of wisdom. Devotees—especially students, entrepreneurs, and travelers—frequent this temple for blessings before important events.
Rituals & Traditions
- Ganapathy Homam: A fire ritual performed to invoke divine blessings and ward off negativities.
- Modakam Nivedyam: Devotees offer 21 or 108 modakams to fulfill vows.
- Coconut Breaking: Symbolic act of breaking ego and seeking success.
- Chanting & Bhajans: Devotional chants and Ganapati Atharvashirsha recitations.
- Annadanam: Free meal offerings on auspicious days.
Practical Guidance
When to Go
Ideal during Vinayaka Chaturthi (August-September), Navaratri (September-October), and on Tuesdays and Fridays, which are special days for Ganesha worship. Mornings are best for darshan.
Respect & Reverence
Guidelines
- Devotees should wear traditional attire
- Men in dhotis.
- Women in sarees or salwar-kameez.
- Maintaining silence and following temple customs is essential.
Restrictions
- Footwear
- Mobile phones
- Photography inside the sanctum are strictly prohibited.
- Non-vegetarian food and alcohol consumption before visiting are discouraged.
Arriving Here
By Air
The nearest airport is Trivandrum International Airport (6 km).
By Rail
Thiruvananthapuram Central Railway Station (1 km) is within walking distance.
By Road
Easily accessible via local buses, autos, and cabs. Located close to Padmanabhaswamy Temple and East Fort.
Immersive Experiences
Spiritual Practices
Participate in Ganapathy Homam and chanting of Ganapati mantras.
Local Rituals
Break coconuts and offer modakams for new beginnings and fulfilled wishes.
Closing Reflection
Pazhavangadi Ganapathy Temple is more than a city shrine—it is a divine anchor for new beginnings and spiritual strength. With faith, discipline, and devotion, every visit offers peace, blessings, and purpose.
Start Your Journey Right : Seek Ganapathy’s Grace at Pazhavangadi Temple!
Explore Other Spiritual Places
A sacred abode of Lord Vishnu, the Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple is renowned for its opulent sanctum, deep-rooted traditions, and mystical treasure vaults, drawing pilgrims worldwide.
Dedicated to Lord Ardhanareswara, a unique fusion of Shiva and Shakti, this rare temple in Varkala, Kerala, symbolizes the cosmic equilibrium between masculinity and femininity, attracting devotees seeking balance, harmony, and blessings.
Sivagiri Mutt, founded by Sree Narayana Guru, is a revered pilgrimage site promoting spiritual upliftment, social equality, and education. Devotees visit to honor the Guru’s teachings and experience the serene atmosphere.
Janardanaswamy Temple, a 2,000-year-old shrine dedicated to Lord Vishnu, is a revered spiritual landmark known for its unique Pithru Tharpanam (ancestral offerings) and its stunning location near Varkala Beach.
Sabarimala Temple, dedicated to Lord Ayyappa, is one of the most revered Hindu pilgrimage sites, drawing millions of devotees who undertake a rigorous 41-day penance before visiting the sacred shrine.
Guruvayur Temple, dedicated to Lord Krishna, is a revered pilgrimage center known for its divine aura, rich traditions, and ancient rituals that connect devotees to eternal spirituality.
Chottanikkara Devi Temple, dedicated to Goddess Bhagavathy, is one of Kerala’s most powerful spiritual centers, revered for its healing energy, grand rituals, and ancient traditions.
A sacred abode of Lord Vishnu, the Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple is renowned for its opulent sanctum, deep-rooted traditions, and mystical treasure vaults, drawing pilgrims worldwide.
Attukal Bhagavathy Temple, known as the Sabarimala of Women, is a powerful Shakti Peetha dedicated to Goddess Bhagavathy. It is famous for hosting the Guinness World Record-holding Attukal Pongala festival, where millions of women gather to offer sacred Pongala.