Seetha Lava Kusha Temple

About this event

The Seetha Devi Lava Kusha Temple at Pulpally in Wayanad is a distinctive centre of worship associated with the Ramayana and the regional traditions surrounding Goddess Seetha and her sons, Lava and Kusha. Kerala Tourism identifies it as one of the very few temples dedicated to Lava and Kusha, whose idols are installed together in the same sanctum, while Goddess Seetha is the principal deity. Local traditions connect the temple and its surrounding landscape with the period when Seetha is believed to have lived in the forest under the protection of Sage Valmiki after her separation from Lord Rama. Pulpally and nearby places are traditionally associated with episodes from the Ramayana, including the belief that Lava and Kusha were raised in this region. The temple is also linked by local tradition with Pazhassi Raja, who is believed to have constructed the present shrine in the 18th century. A large temple pond forms another notable feature of the complex. The temple’s cultural identity is further enriched by traditions concerning the absence of leeches around the shrine, attributed in local belief to a curse by Seetha after leeches troubled Lava and Kusha. The annual temple festival, held in the first week of January, is regarded as an important regional celebration and attracts devotees from Wayanad and neighbouring areas. The Chuttuvilakku Aarattu Mahotsavam is observed over several days and includes traditional rituals and ceremonial activities, with the Chuttuvilakku, in which devotees illuminate the temple surroundings with oil lamps, forming a prominent part of the celebrations. Other festival observances can include processions, offerings and community participation. The temple also has significance as a place where religious tradition, local folklore and the cultural memory of the Ramayana intersect. Kerala Tourism notes that devotees of all faiths are permitted to enter the temple. Set within the green landscape of Pulpally, the shrine offers visitors an opportunity to experience one of Wayanad’s important religious and cultural landmarks while learning about the legends that have shaped the identity of the region.

🚆 Railway: Kozhikode Railway Station, approximately 102 km from the temple.

✈️ Airport: Calicut International Airport, approximately 111 km from the temple.

🚌 Bus: Pulpally Bus Stand is approximately 300 metres from the temple; Pulpally is connected by road and bus services with other parts of Wayanad.

🏨 Stay: Accommodation is available in and around Sulthan Bathery, including hotels, resorts and homestays listed by Kerala Tourism. Hotel Pepper Grove (KTDC) is one verified accommodation option in Sulthan Bathery.

✅ Notes: The annual temple festival is held in the first week of January and is an eight-day celebration according to Kerala Tourism’s festival information. The Chuttuvilakku Aarattu Mahotsavam is a major regional observance. Visitors should follow temple customs and instructions in force during worship and festival periods.