Thenari, in Elappully Panchayath in Palaghat District, was once a pilgrim centre. The Sreerama Theertha Kshethram there was renovated after it had remained neglected for a long time. The renovation was done under the guidance of Kanipayyoor Krishnan Namboothiri. Close to this is the Madhyaranya Kshethram. This is one of the 108 Shiva idols consecrated by Parasurama. The name comes from the fact that it is situated in the middle of a forest. It is believed that Brahmadeva, after being cursed by Mahadeva, was worshipped here to be freed from the curse. The lotus pond that Brahmadeva made on the left side of the temple is more still there and is known as Brahmakundam. While searching for Seetha, Rama and Lakshmana are believed to have stayed in Madhyaranya for some time. They performed the rites for the departed ancestors there and so it is believed that offering such rites there will ensure the blessings of the ancestors. It was this place that later developed into the Sreerama Theertha Kshethram. Devotees come in large numbers to offer the rites for the departed souls on the new moon day. Another legend says that the planet Saturn has deputed his vehicle to be present at the pond here as he felt repentant that he was responsible for all the troubles that Sree Ramachandra had to face in life. This was because it was under the influence of Saturn that King Dasharatha received the curse of losing his son. Hence it is believed that those who take a bath in this pond will escape the bad effects caused by Saturn. Evidence of the stay of Rama and Lakshmana with the monkeys at this place can still be seen there. There are remnants of the hearth, the well for drawing water, the holes where they offered prayers in the morning and evening as well as images of the conch and the wheel on the rocks. The pond that Lakshmana is believed to have made with his arrow is now known as Lakshmana Theertham. Many people from Kerala and Tamil Nadu come to the Thenari Sree Rama Theertha temple for offering obeisance to the departed ancestors on the new moon day. A lot of work has been undertaken for the development of this temple which has been blessed by the presence of Lord Sree Rama. There is a Temple committee headed by A. Gopalakrishnan as Chairman to manage the festivals and administration of the temple.