The idol is believed to have been consecrated by Parasurama, the mythical creator of Kerala.
It is one of the very few temples in India where Dhanwanthari is the primary presiding deity rather than a secondary one.
The temple follows the traditional architectural style of Kerala, featuring wood carvings and a copper-tiled roof.
Devotees often offer 'Dhanwanthari Pooja' as a form of prayer for longevity and recovery from persistent ailments.
Thottuva Dhanwanthari Temple is one of the few shrines in Kerala dedicated exclusively to Lord Dhanwanthari, the Hindu deity of medicine and an avatar of Vishnu. The temple is situated in the Ernakulam district near the banks of the Periyar River. It serves as a significant site for followers seeking healing, particularly during the annual Ashtami Rohini festival. The sanctum sanctorum houses a unique standing idol of the deity holding a medicinal herb, a conch, a discus, and a pot of nectar. The temple complex is integrated into the local agrarian landscape of the Koovappady region.
The traditional stone-pillared entrance (Nadapanthal) offers the best view of the temple's architectural layout.
Remove your footwear at the designated area outside the temple entrance.
Check the local calendar for the dates of the annual Ashtami Rohini, as the temple experiences high attendance during this period.
Observe silence while inside the sanctum area to respect those performing personal prayers.
Do not attempt to take photographs inside the inner sanctum, as this is strictly prohibited.
Traditional attire is required; men must remove shirts before entering the inner sanctum, and women should wear modest clothing like a sari or churidar.
