Thiruvallam Sree Parasurama Swami Temple is one of the most ancient temples of South India situated on the banks of Karamana River near Thiruvallam, Thiruvananthapuram. It is the only temple in Kerala dedicated to Lord Parasurama. The temple is 6 km from Kovalam beach and 5 km from Trivandrum Airport and 3 km from Trivandrum city.
History says that the temple was built during the 12th and 13th centuries. The temple is considered a protected monument by the Archaeology Department of Kerala. The temple is managed by the Travancore Devaswom Board and it is famous for the ritual of Balitharpanam.
Legend has it that Lord Parasurama is the creator of Kerala, and the temple is dedicated to him and is considered as a holy place for his devotees. During the karkidaka vavu day (a holiday in the Malayalam month of karkidakam) as part of the bali or tribute (a religious ritual), devotees pay homage to the departed souls of forefathers, after taking a dip in the holy water.
