Koodali Mahaganapathi Temple is located in the peaceful village of Koodali in the Kannur district of Kerala. Koodali Mahaganapathi Temple is believed to be several centuries old.It is said that royal families and local landlords (Jenmis) offered their patronage to the temple.
The main deity worshipped here is Lord Mahaganapathi (another name for Lord Ganesha), the remover of obstacles and the giver of wisdom and success.
Along with Lord Ganesha, the temple also has smaller shrines for other deities such as Lord Shiva, Goddess Bhagavathy, Lord Ayyappa, and the Snake Gods (Naga Devatas).
The word “Koodali” in Malayalam can mean “joining” or “union.”
According to another traditional story, the temple’s name signifies the joining of divine forces. In this place, Ganapathi’s divine energy joined with the positive vibrations of the land and the sages’ devotion. It also represents the union of people who gather here to seek the Lord’s blessings.
The Koodali Ganapathi Temple is built in traditional Kerala temple style. The sanctum sanctorum (sreekovil) has a sloping tiled roof to withstand heavy rains. The temple complex has a chuttambalam (covered corridor), a flagpole (dwajasthambam), and a deepastambham (stone lamp pillar) at the entrance. The temple structure is simple but exudes a strong divine presence. The walls are adorned with minimal but beautiful traditional Kerala-style carvings.
According to the local legends, the land where the temple stands was once a thick forest where sages performed penance. They faced many obstacles during their prayers and realized that only Lord Ganesha could help them. They worshipped Ganapathi with full devotion.
Moved by their prayers, Lord Mahaganapathi appeared as a divine light at this place. Following his appearance, the sages installed an idol of Lord Ganesha where the temple now stands.
The name “Koodali” itself means “joining” in Malayalam, referring to the joining of divine forces at this sacred place. Devotees believe praying here removes all difficulties, especially in education, marriage, business, and travel.
The main festival celebrated at the Koodali Ganapathi Temple is Vinayaka Chaturthi (Ganesh Chaturthi).
On this day, the temple comes alive with special poojas, Ganapathi Homam, Abhishekam, and offering of Modakams (sweet dumplings loved by Ganesha).The temple also hosts an annual festival (Utsavam) during the Malayalam months of Makaram–Kumbham (January–February), filled with rituals, cultural events, and community feasts.
