Sree Vallabha Kshetram- Tiruvalla

Sree Vallabha Kshetram in Tiruvalla, Kerala is a temple dedicated to Maha Vishnu  and is one among the 108 divyadesams , a temple which has captivated my interest very much, in recent times.  Sree meaning Mahalakshmi and Vallabha means Her husband, hence the deity here known as Sree Vallabha. The temple is constructed in typical Kerala architecture .  Set in picturesque surroundings, the temple has exquisite carvings and murals.  The flag mast here is 50 feet tall,  carved out of a single rock with Garuda's image atop and  is believed to have been created by the legendary craftsman Perumthachan.  This temple has something additional than the flag mast,a Garudathara , which is unique and appeared magnificent. This also has a Garuda's image atop.There are sub shrines around the temple for Ayyapa , Karuppaya swamy etc.

Interesting facts-
The flag mast is believed to touch the underground water level.
Also known among divyadesam as Tiruvalavazh- Vishnu, Kolapira Perumal,
Moolasthanam is outside the West gopuram.
Kathakali is performed here almost  everyday in the evenings.

 How to reach-This temple is situated in Pathanamthitta District. There is a rail station in Tiruvalla and this temple is 2 1/2 Kms. from the town. The nearest airports are Trivandrum/ Kochi . the former being a little closer to Tiruvalla.


Accommodation- recommend either stay in Trivandrum or Kochi as  one gets  plenty of choices.


Photos
https://photos.google.com/album/AF1QipMcTw1h__aaDVaz2k8TQ4O1gRQ_BYlsOEHLy0bx