Trichakrapuram Sree Krishna Swamy Temple, also known as Para Kovil Thirumala, is a historic temple located in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala. This temple has a rich history dating back approximately 5000 years, believed to have been built by the Pandavas. The term "Para Kovil" denotes a temple constructed on and by rocks. Constructed primarily by Bheema, the temple holds a special significance as it was built in just one night for Droupathi to worship Lord Krishna. Despite the impressive speed of construction, when the sun rose, the Pandavas had only completed three doors of the temple, leaving one door unfinished for the
more past 5000 years. Situated on a rock, Para Kovil Thirumala offers a breathtaking view of Thiruvananthapuram city from its vantage point. Accessible by approximately 110 well-paved steps, the ascent is not overly challenging, and the positive vibes at the top, coupled with the panoramic city view, make the journey worthwhile. If timed right, visitors might even witness a stunning sunrise. Adjacent to the temple is the notable "Mani Para" or Bell Rock.According to legend, Bheema acquired this rock from his dish while eating, and it is said to have appeared after the Pandavas set up their fireplace. Mani Para is believed to contain hidden treasures, including gold and diamonds. The name "Mani Para" is derived from the intriguing phenomenon that occurs when you knock the rock with another stone - it produces a bell-like sound. However, climbing to the top of Mani Para is considered a risky and cumbersome task. Despite the challenges, the temple and its surroundings are imbued with historical and cultural significance, offering visitors a unique and enriching experience. Additionally, folklore suggests the existence of a tunnel connecting Para Kovil Thirumala to the renowned Sree Padmanabha Swamy Temple, adding to the mystique of this ancient site.Para kovil Thirumala was built before Sree Padmanabha Swami Temple around 5000 years ago by the Pandavas. Para kovil refers to Temple built on a rock and by the rocks. It is believed to be constructed mainly by Bheema. The temple was said to be constructed in just one night for Droupathi for worshipping Lord Krishna. Para Kovil Thirumala( hrichakrapuram Sree Krishna Swamy Temple) is a small temple and gives a good view of the Trivandrum city from the top. As we mentioned earlier, the temple was built by Pandavas around 5000 years ago. The built it within a time span of 1 night for Droupathi (Panchali) to worship Lord Krishna. When the sun rose, the Pandavas could only complete 3 doors of the temple and 1 door still remains incomplete as it was left 5000 years back! Also, it is said that there is a tunnel to the Sree Padmanabha swamy temple from the Para Kovil. There are around 110 steps to reach the temple from the road. It is not very difficult as the steps are nicely paved. The best thing is the positive vibes when you reach the top and the entire view of the Trivandrum city. We were lucky enough to witness the sunrise as well. You can find a Big Rock near by the temple “Mani Para” (Bell Rock) They say that it was a stone Bheema got it from his dish while he was eating. And also, it says that the stone came after the Pandavas set up their fire place.Mani para contains treasure inside in it with Gold and diamonds. The name Mani para came because if you knock the rock with some other stone, keeping your ears on the Mani para, a bell sound is produced by the rock. Climbing on top of the Manipara is a risky and cumbersome task.