Mahadeva Temple, Kalanjoor
Mahadeva Temple, popularly known as Thrikkalanjoor Sree Mahadeva Temple, is a Hindu temple. It is 80 kilometers to the south-west of the Sabarimala temple on the Punalur-Muvattupuzha highway in Pathanamthitta district, Kerala, India. A banyan tree, flanked by an altar, is visible from a distance for any traveler on the main road, announcing the presence of the temple.
A Mandapa artistically etched with magnificent mural paintings announcing the prowess of artists and artisans of yore surrounds the banyan tree. Inside the Mandapam there is an idol of Nataraja, the dancing manifestation of Shiva, facing the east. From this Mandapam towards the west, a 60 feet high Gopuram could be seen on the eastern side. The 18 ascending steps from the Gopuram lead to the sacred idols of Indiliyappan and the Mahasiva idol, which is the presiding deity of the temple.
Due to the presence of Mahadeva and Sastha idols in the temple, there are two Dhwajas adjacent to each other which is a rare spectacle seldom seen in other temples. The Mahasiva idol and the Sastha idols are installed facing each other in this temple.