Shiva Temple
The temple is located on Cross Road in the city. The name Ernakulam is derived from the pond of this temple. The temple pond is known as Rishinagakulam. Probably Rishinaga was softened to Erna and when the kulam (pond) joined to it, the name Ernakulam was born.
The Shiva here is in Virata avatar, that is, primordial hunter posture.
There is 8-day long festival. During the 7th day time pooram (festival) the deity is taken out on caparisoned elephant in procession accompanied by more caparisoned elephants and percussion music such as Panchavadyam and Pandimelam. The finale is marked by fireworks.
