Tourist attractions
Rayiranellur Hills – A Land of Legends and Wonders
Rayiranellur Hills, located in the Palakkad district, is a highly renowned sacred destination steeped in the folklore and legends of Kerala. These hills are deeply intertwined with the tales of Naranath Bhranthan (the madman of Naranath), a prominent figure among the twelve offspring of the legendary Parayi Petta Panthirukulam. Situated at an altitude of approximately 500 feet above sea level, this region is blessed with both natural beauty and spiritual significance.
Geographical Location
The historically famous Rayiranellur Hill is located near Naduvattam on the Koppam - Valanchery route, close to Pattambi in the Palakkad district. This midland hill, rich in unique flora and fauna, stands between the villages of Vilayur and Thiruvegappura on the banks of the Bharathapuzha River.
The Legend of Naranath Bhranthan
Naranath Bhranthan was born as the son of Vararuchi, the famous astrologer in the court of King Vikramaditya. Having arrived in Thiruvegappura for his Vedic studies, he later chose Rayiranellur Hill as his primary abode.
- The Story of Rolling the Stone: His eccentric pastime involved laboriously rolling a massive boulder up the hill every morning, only to push it back down to the bottom upon reaching the summit, followed by a loud, clapping outburst of laughter. Through this act, he demonstrated a profound philosophy to the world: the transient nature of the ups and downs in human life and the ultimate futility of materialistic hard work.
Major Attractions
Rayiranellur Bhagavathy Temple
At the hilltop lies a rare Durga Bhagavathy temple where there is no idol. According to legend, the Goddess granted a vision (Darshan) to Naranath Bhranthan here on the first day of the Malayalam month of Thulam. Startled by his appearance, the Goddess is believed to have vanished into the earth, leaving behind her footprints on the rock. Worship is offered at these sacred footprints. The perennial water that continuously springs from one of these hollows is distributed to devotees as holy water (Theertham).
The Giant Statue of Naranath Bhranthan
Visitors reaching the hilltop are welcomed by a magnificent 20-foot-tall statue of Naranath Bhranthan. Sculpted by Surendra Krishnan in 1995, the monument depicts him holding a massive stone. The rock formations where he is believed to have rolled the boulders can also be seen nearby.
The Historic Rayiranellur Hill Climbing (Mala Kayattam)
The famous 'Rayiranellur Mala Kayattam' takes place every year on the first day of the Malayalam month of Thulam (around mid-October). Tens of thousands of devotees from various parts of Kerala and neighboring states climb the hill on this day. Navaratri, Thrikarthika, and the Karthika Vilakku in the month of Vrishchikam are the other major auspicious occasions celebrated at the temple.
Significance of the Thulam 1st Pilgrimage:
- Since this is the day the Goddess manifested, special pujas are conducted at the hilltop.
- Devotees consider it sacred to sprinkle their heads with the holy water (Theertham) from the perennial spring on the rock.
- Women constitute the majority of the pilgrims, visiting to pray for marital bliss and blessings for children.
The Water Wonder of the Hill
There are three natural depressions/hollows on top of the Rayiranellur Hill.
- One of these is believed to bear the footprint of the Goddess.
- Even during the scorching summer months, the water in these hollows never dries up.
- Since there are no other water sources on top of the hill, this remains a natural marvel.
How to Reach (Travel Route)
- By Road: Alight at 'Naduvattam' junction on the route from Pattambi to Valanchery (via Koppam). Autorickshaws are easily available from there to the base of the hill.
- By Train: The nearest major railway stations are Pattambi (12 km) and Kuttippuram (16 km).
- By Air: Calicut International Airport (Karipur) is the nearest airport, located about 55 km away.
Traveler Tips: Beautiful pathways and steps have been constructed for an easy climb to the hilltop. The summit offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the surrounding lush greenery and rural landscape.
Nearby Attractions: Visitors can also explore the Bhranthachalam Temple, located a short distance away, where Naranath Bhranthan is said to have been chained.
Rayiranellur Hill is a rare gem of Kerala Tourism—an absolute must-visit for anyone wishing to experience the enchanting charm of ancient legends combined with the serene tranquility of nature.