Thirunelli Temple, Wayanad, Kerala India

 Thirunelli is wellknown for the ancient temple located on the side of Brahmagiri hill in Wayanad and dedicated to Lord Vishnu. According to legend, Lord Brahma was attracted by the beauty of the area around the Brahmagiri Hill. Descending upon the spot, Brahma noticed an idol of Lord Vishnu on an Amla tree and installed the idol there. At Brahma's request Vishnu promised that the waters of the area would have the power to wash away all sins. The river near the temple is called Papanasini, which means the cleansing of sins.

Thirunelli temple is the holy emotion of Wayanad. It is also known as Amalaka temple, Northern Kasi and Southern Gaya. Each day, many pilgrim's reach the spot seeking deliverance and for 'balitharpanam' here.

Thirunelli temple situates 31 km distance from Mananthavady, in the lap of Brahmagiri hills in the Karnataka border, adjacent to Kodagu mountains. In Mysore road turn left of Kattikulam, Thettu road junction, the route to Thirunelli begins there.

 The Temple is located at an altitude of about 900 mts in north Wayanad in a valley surrounded by mountains and beautiful forests. The temple faces east where sun rises over the Udayagiri range. At the north is the formidable Brahmagiri Range which appears so close to the temple. You can see the trees and the undulating grass slopes of Brahmagiri from the temple compound. At the west and south are Karimala and Narinirangimala respectively.

The temple is believed to be 1500 years old. Mainly importance is being given to four occasions like Karkadakavavu, Thulavavu, Kumbhavavu and Vaisakavavu in Thirunelli temple.