Thirunakkara Mahadeva Temple is one of Kottayam's important Shiva temples, built in the Kerala style with sloping roofs, carved timber, and murals drawn from the Hindu epics. Its present form is associated with the Thekkumkur rulers, giving it a deeper local history than many city-centre temples.
The annual festival, ending with the Aaraattu ceremony, is the liveliest time to see it. At quieter times, come for the architecture and the sense of continuity in the middle of town.