Sivagiri Mutt is an important pilgrim center in Kerala located in Varkala, a quiet coastal town. It is among the most sought after pilgrim centers in the state. Initiated by the great Sree Narayana Guru, this sacred place is nearly 3 kilometers away from Varkala Town. This is the place where Guru was enlightened. His Samadhi is also situated here. Gurudev has a lot of followers and they visit Sivagiri Mutt in order to pay homage to this illustrious social reformer and his wisdom and teachings.
A Great Social Reformer
Sree Narayana Guru was a spiritual giant and social reformer in Kerala. He worked for the benefit of people belonging to the lower caste and encouraged equality among fellow human beings. He believed in and spread “One Caste, One Religion, One God”. Guru constructed Sivagiri Mutt in 1904. He also envisaged a temple in 1912 for Goddess Saraswati and dedicated to her at the mutt. This shrine is very popular and unique in many ways. This great Hindu saint also established several temples after that in different areas of South India and even in Sri Lanka.
Varkala – A Peaceful Coastal Town Known For Spirituality
Set in a serene and peaceful coastal town known not only for the Sun, sea, surf, and sand but also for spirituality, visiting Sivigiri Mutt is an uplifting experience. Initiated and created by Sree Narayana Guru, it is also for the headquarters of the ‘Sree Narayana Dharma Sangham’, a social organization. This is the place where Guru got his salvation. Varkala is also a famous beach destination that draws many tourists. People who visit this destination do not forget to visit this sacred shrine. It spreads out the joy of spiritual contentment. Sivagiri Mutt certainly soothes the soul of visitors with its immense bliss.
Pilgrim Period
The followers of Sree Narayana Guru celebrate his birthday, Guru Deva Jayanthi, and his Samadhi fervently each year in the months of August and September respectively. These celebrations are very colorful with several programs such as cultural shows, vibrant processions, debates, seminars, and group weddings. Sivagiri Mutt is open throughout the year but the pilgrim period to this shrine runs from 30th December to 1st January every year. Many devotees visit this pilgrim center during this time in order to pay homage to the Guru and pray to him.
Tourism Possibilities
Sree Narayana Guru himself designed the Sivagiri Mutt which has a unique octagonal shape. This design has a futuristic approach that each visitor should admire. Varkala is a beach destination blessed with a calm and serene atmosphere. The tourism industry of the state has understood the possibilities of this place. So, they provide all the facilities to attract tourists to this beach destination. Varkala is a popular pilgrim center in the state. Besides, there are many good Ayurvedic spas and resorts in this region. It is an ideal place for travelers who refresh and rejuvenate their body and soul.
Varkala is the nearest railway station to Sivagiri Mutt which is almost 3 kilometers away. Thiruvananthapuram International Airport is the nearest airport which is about 51 kilometers from this shrine. Experience the spiritual bliss by visiting the Sivagiri Mutt during your beach holidays in Varkala.
