Pazhavangadi Sree Maha Ganapathy Temple Festival

About this event

Pazhavangadi Sree Maha Ganapathy Temple, located at East Fort in the heart of Thiruvananthapuram, is a prominent shrine dedicated to Sri Maha Ganapathy. The temple’s principal deity is depicted in a seated posture with the right leg folded, while the complex also houses shrines dedicated to Dharmasastha, Goddess Durga and Nagaraja. Its sculptures include representations of 32 forms of Lord Ganesha, adding to the temple’s religious and artistic character. The shrine has a long association with the military history of Travancore. According to Kerala Tourism, the original idol was worshipped by soldiers of the Travancore army at Padmanabhapuram and was moved to Thiruvananthapuram in 1795 when the capital was shifted. The present temple structure was built in 1860 during the reign of Maharaja Ayilyam Thirunal, and the shrine continues to have an association with the Indian Army. The temple’s principal vazhipadu, or offering, is the breaking of coconuts, a practice closely associated with prayers to Lord Ganesha for the removal of obstacles. Devotees also make offerings such as Ganapathy Homam, Appam and Modakam. Vinayaka Chathurthi is among the major festivals observed here, along with Virad Chathurthi and Sankashti Chathurthi, while special poojas are conducted on several other important Hindu festival days. The annual Vinayaka Chathurthi observance brings a heightened devotional atmosphere to the temple, with special worship and offerings forming an important part of the celebrations. For 2026, the temple’s official website lists Vinayaka Chathurthi on 14 September. The temple follows established worship schedules and customs, with daily rituals beginning early in the morning and evening worship continuing until night. Visitors should respect the temple’s religious character and follow the dress and entry practices in force at the time of their visit. Beyond its devotional importance, Pazhavangadi Ganapathy Temple forms part of the historic East Fort area and lies close to other important heritage and religious landmarks of Thiruvananthapuram, making it a significant part of the city’s cultural landscape.

🚆 Railway: Thiruvananthapuram Central Railway Station — approximately 0.5 km from the temple.

✈️ Airport: Thiruvananthapuram International Airport — approximately 8 km.

🚌 Bus: East Fort (Kizhakkekotta) is the nearest city bus access point; Thiruvananthapuram Central Bus Terminal also serves the city.

🏨 Stay: Kerala Tourism lists accommodation in and around East Fort, including Rangamaalika, Hotel Indraprastha, Hotel Samrat and the KTDC Hotel Chaithram.

✅ Notes: The temple’s official website lists Vinayaka Chathurthi 2026 for 14 September. Regular temple hours currently listed are 4:30–11:30 am and 5:00–8:30 pm, although festival-day timings may differ. Follow the temple’s applicable dress and worship customs and any crowd-management instructions during festival periods.