The temple built in Kerala architecture is said to have established by Parasurama. Another version is that it was established by Padmadar, a disciple of Adi Sankara. In popularity this temple ranks 3rd in Kerala, the first and second being Sabarimala Ayyappa temple and Guruvayur Sri Krishna temple. Its giant multi-tiered kalluvilaku (stone lamp) occupies number one position in India. This stone lamp can hold 1001 wicks.
The black granite idol in the sanctum sanctorum and a small idol at its base look smiling. In the outer courtyard there are several small shrines with different deities. A pampu-kavu (snake grove), a champakam tree and a black palm in the compound are also worshipped for different reasons. The devotees believe a Yakshi (female demon) dwells on the palm tree and other evil spirits on the champakam tree. The devotees, therefore, do not go to this area during noon time when, it is believed, devils are in striking mood. Temple tuskers are also not taken to this area for fear of haunting.
In Makaram (January-February) there is a 41-day festival. The main festival, however, is Kettukazhchas in Kumbam (February/March) during which there is a ritual called Kuthiyottam (a mock enactment of human sacrifice which was prevalent in ancient times). For both the festivals a sizeable crowd gathers.
