Thrikkakara Temple, Hindu temple in Ernakulam district, India

Thrikkakara Temple is a Hindu temple in the Ernakulam district of Kerala, dedicated to the dwarf avatar Vamana. The inner chamber is surrounded by several concentric rows of brass lamps arranged in Dravidian tradition.

The temple origins go back over two millennia and belong among the oldest religious sites in Kerala. An inscription from the 9th century already mentions harvest celebrations at this location.

The name Vamana recalls the fifth avatar of Vishnu, who appeared in dwarf form. Worshippers from different faiths join the processions that take place during the harvest season.

Visitors should wear long clothing, men need full trousers and a shirt. The complex is accessible during daytime, with early morning hours being particularly quiet.

The sanctum's Vamana icon shows him about to place his foot on King Mahabali, and the temple keeps records mentioning Onam celebrations as early as 861 CE. Malayalam tradition also holds that the Onam feast was once organised here by 61 local rulers under the Maharaja of Travancore.