Thirunelli Temple

Thirunelli Temple is a Hindu temple in Wayanad district, India, standing on the slope of Brahmagiri hill at roughly 900 meters (2,950 feet) elevation. The complex consists of stone structures with carved pillars and wall paintings, through which mountain water flows via an old aqueduct system.

The shrine was built in the 8th century and shows features of traditional Kerala architecture with wood carvings and stonework. Inscriptions and building forms point to connections with the ruling dynasty of the region at that time.

The site is also called Sahya-Mala-Kshetram and sits in a forested valley between mountains, where pilgrims come to perform rituals for the deceased along the river. The flowing water is considered purifying, and many families carry out ceremonies here that have been passed down through generations.

You reach the site via roads that run through three wildlife reserves, so expect checkpoints and slower travel. Visitors do best arriving early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid heat and crowds.

The cold mountain water that flows through the stone channel system stays cool even in hot months and is used by visitors for drinking. The carved pillars supporting the channels show scenes from old texts and remain clearly visible after centuries.