The Vishwanatha Swamy shrine, the oldest Shiva temple is situated 3 kms from Palakkad. The annual 'Ratholsavam' or Chariot Festival celebrated at the temple is a treasured event. Thousands of devotees haul the city to witness the massive, elaborately carved temple chariots through the streets. The festival continues for seven days.
On the last three days of the festival, brilliantly bejeweled temple chariots are majestically drawn through the streets by thousands of devotees. Each of the chariots is bedecked with flowers, flags and sanctified by the aura of Lord Shiva.
Pulling the chariots is considered as an honor. Swarming crowd of devotees try to be the privileged ones drawing the chariots, as they progress in their stately grandeur. The soul stirring hymns of the devotees ricochet all through the air.
The Vishwanatha Swamy shrine, the oldest Shiva temple is situated 3 kms from Palakkad. The annual 'Ratholsavam' or Chariot Festival celebrated at the temple is a treasured event. Thousands of devotees haul the city to witness the massive, elaborately carved temple chariots through the streets. The festival continues for seven days.
