The Oachira Temple, also known as the Ochira Parabrahma Temple, is an ancient pilgrimage center located in Oachira, Kollam district, Kerala, India. It is a unique temple unlike any other in the country.
Unique Features of Oachira Temple
- Universal Brahman Worship: Unlike most Hindu temples dedicated to a specific deity, the Oachira Temple reveres Parabrahmam, the universal consciousness or the formless Brahman. Oachira Temple, Kollam
- Open-air temple: There are no enclosed structures or buildings in the temple complex. Devotees worship under the shade of large trees, amidst nature.
Festivals of Oachira Temple
The temple is famous for its unique festivals:
Oachirakkali: This vibrant festival held in June features mock fights performed by traditional martial artists in muddy paddy fields.
Irupathattam Onam: Celebrated 28 days after Onam (the harvest festival of Kerala), this spectacular festival involves a parade of giant effigies of bulls, locally known as Eduppu Kala. These effigies are made of hay and cloth, and they are pulled on large platforms with wheels to the temple.
Other Interesting Sites in Oachira
- Oachira North Muslim Masjid: This historic mosque is located near the Oachira town.
Getting to Oachira Temple
- The temple is situated on the National Highway 66 (NH 66), 32 km away from Kollam city.
- The nearest railway station is Kayamkulam, which is 10 km from the temple.
- Cabs and buses are easily available to reach the temple from Kollam and nearby towns.