Nalambalam Karkidakam: The Sacred Pilgrimage to Koodalmanikyam Temple and Lord Bharatha

July 18, 2026

Nalambalam Karkidakam: The Sacred Pilgrimage to Koodalmanikyam Temple

The month of Karkidakam (July-August) holds a special place in Kerala's spiritual calendar. During this holy month, devotees undertake the Nalambalam Yatra — a sacred pilgrimage to four temples dedicated to the four brothers of the Ramayana: Lord Rama, Lord Bharatha, Lord Lakshmana, and Lord Shatrughna.

What is Nalambalam Karkidakam?

Nalambalam means "four temples" in Malayalam. The Nalambalam Karkidakam Yatra is the tradition of visiting all four temples during the month of Karkidakam. The four temples are:

Sree Rama Temple — Triprayar, Thrissur
Koodalmanikyam Bharatha Temple — Irinjalakuda, Thrissur
Lakshmana Temple (Moozhikulam) — Ernakulam
Shatrughna Temple — Payammel, Thrissur

Koodalmanikyam Temple: The Only Bharatha Temple

Among the Nalambalam, Koodalmanikyam Temple in Irinjalakuda is unique — it is the only temple in India dedicated to Lord Bharatha, the younger brother of Lord Rama. This makes it the most significant stop in the Nalambalam Karkidakam pilgrimage.

The temple is ancient, dating back to at least the 9th century, and is one of Kerala's most revered shrines. The deity here is Sangameshan Bharathan, a rare form of Bharatha worshipped nowhere else in the world.

Why Visit Koodalmanikyam During Karkidakam?

During Karkidakam, the temple sees thousands of devotees completing their Nalambalam Yatra. The spiritual energy of this period is believed to be especially powerful. Devotees believe that completing the Nalambalam visits during Karkidakam brings blessings from all four brothers of the Ramayana.

Bring Lord Bharatha Into Your Home

For those who have completed the Nalambalam Karkidakam pilgrimage — or those who wish to keep the blessings of Lord Bharatha close — FOFUS offers the world's only 3D printed Sangameshan Bharathan Idol.

Crafted in partnership with 3D Divine, this idol is a faithful representation of the deity at Koodalmanikyam Temple. Available in two sizes:

Standard Size — Perfect for home pooja rooms and personal altars
Large Premium Size — Statement piece for dedicated home temples and ceremonial gifting

Each idol is 3D printed with premium PLA material and hand-finished in traditional Kerala style. FOFUS is the only platform in India offering this rare deity for purchase.