Located in Idukki, Kerala, the Vandanmedu Mahaganapathi Temple is a renowned shrine dedicated to Lord Ganesh. The idol was first discovered in 1960 by a forester from the Forest Department, who built a small shed over it and lit a lamp in reverence. A modest temple was later constructed at the site. In earlier times, Vandanmedu was a dense forest inhabited by tribal communities. According to legend, two tribal hunters once came across an idol resting on a small rock, mysteriously guarded by a hooded serpent. When they passed the same spot on their return, the scene remained unchanged. They reported the unusual sighting to their more tribal leader, the Ooru Mooppan. Under his instructions, the hunters managed to drive away the serpents with great effort and brought the idol back to their leader. However, soon after bringing the idol home, the Mooppan’s residence was surrounded by a gathering of elephants and serpents, causing great fear to him and his wife. Alarmed, the Mooppan ordered the hunters to return the idol to its original place. Once the idol was restored, the elephants and serpents vanished without a trace. Until the early 1990s, a descendant of the Mooppan would visit the site every year on Trikkarthika day to light a ceremonial lamp and offer Vazhipads (ritual offerings), honouring the origins of this sacred temple.