Madavoorpara is a major tourist attraction at Kaattayikonam in the Thiruvananthapuram city, the state capital of Kerala. It stands 1800 feet above sea level and holds various archaeological and historical significances. Madavoorpara rock cut temple pertained to the 9th century is located at the mid-height of a huge rock. This cave temple dedicated to Lord Siva is believed to have been a Buddhist Shrine at one time. It is facing the South- West and has an oblong Shrine with a rock-cut linga, an Ardhamandapa and a pillared facade. On the left wall of the Ardhamandapa there engraved the figure of Ganapathy and on the right side, the figure of a local chieftain is also seen. This cave temple is of Sandhara type, there is a circumambulatory passage inside the Garbhagraha. The Department of Archaeology declared it as a protected monument in 1965.
The rock shrine has a pillar with inscriptions in Vattezhuthu, the ancient Malayalam script. The temple has attracted the attention of researchers and culture enthusiasts with its archaeological and historical significance.
Walk up to the hill through the Bamboo Bridge to spend some time in a serene and secluded space. The 100 m long Bamboo Bridge is a sight in itself. Besides the bridge, the bamboo huts atop the rock that bestows you with a panoramic view of the lush green surroundings stand apart as the main attraction of the place.
A park that awaits children with its swings and slides is yet another added attraction for the families. Atop this rugged hill, near a leafless white branched tree is the Ganga Theertham, an evergreen sacred pond.
Madavoorpara is known for its lush greenery, and it’s a serene place to escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The natural beauty of this region, along with its religious significance, makes it a place of cultural and ecological importance in Kerala. Visitors to Madavoorpara can enjoy the tranquility of the area and explore the natural wonders it has to offer.
