Thrikkunnathu Mahadeva Temple, located in
Kanjany in the Thrissur district of Kerala, is a classic example of Dravidian-style architecture. Situated near the Karuvannur River, the temple is dedicated
to Lord Shiva and is housed in the main sanctum sanctorum facing east. According to
folklore, the sage Parasurama installed the idol. This temple is one of the 108
famous Shiva temples in Kerala. Besides its religious significance, the temple,
set on a 2-acre compound, is known for its exquisite surroundings. Separate
temple complexes have been constructed for Sri Mahadeva (Lord Shiva) and Lord
Vishnu, both designed in the Kerala-Dravidian style of architecture. The Shiva temple's
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sanctum sanctorum (Sreekovil) is round (Vatta Sreekovil),
roofed with copper sheets and contains two inner chambers. The sanctum sanctorum
of the Vishnu Temple is square (Chatura Sreekovil), roofed with tiles, and
faces west. The temple lacks a flag mast, so no festivals are celebrated
solely at the temple of Lord Shiva; instead, festivals are observed at both the
Shiva and Vishnu temples. The annual temple festival falls in the Malayalam
month of Dhanu.