Standing the test of time

The temples of Kerala are known for their architectural excellence and the history attached to them. Even though most of the temples found in the state are relatively large with multiple corridors and courtyards, there are a few cave temples, which are not famous but can undoubtedly be termed as the marvels of a bygone era.

One of them is the Kottukal Cave Temple in Kollam. Carved out of gigantic rocks, legend has it that the temple, which is in the middle of a paddy field, gives the impression of a sleeping elephant from a distance.

The main deity of the temple, which is believed to have been built during the Pallava period, is a ShivLinga flanked by Nandi. A deity of Hanuman is also found in another chamber of this rock-cut temple. It is also believed that no other temple across India has such a combination.