Haripad
Temples of Kerala

Haripad is located north of Kollam and is home to the Subramanya temple. The other well known shrine dedicated to Subramanya in Kerala is at Udayanapuram. Also near Haripad is Mannarsala, where a serpent grove is held in great reverence.

This temple enshrines an imposing image of Subramanya said to have been worshipped by Parasurama. Much of the temple is a result of renovations carried out in the 20th century.

This temple celebrates annual festivals in the tamil months of Aavani (Aug-Sep), Maargazhi (Dec - Jan), Chittirai (Apr-May). Kaartikai Deepam and Thai Poosam are also celebrated here. Kaavadi dances are offered in this temple as with Murugan temples in Tamilnadu.

The annual festival commences on the first day of the malayala new year Vishu. Paraphernalia for Vishu celebrations here are brought from the Kalarickal temple at Karuvatta near Mavelikara, and gifts from the Haripad temple are reciprocated.