Peralassery temple pond in Kannur tagged National Water Heritage Site

The Peralassery Subrahmanyaswami temple pond in Kannur, has achieved the status of National Water Heritage tag, one among the 75 National Water Heritage sites declared by Ministry of Jal shakti (Ministry of Water Resources), Government of India. Only two sites from Kerala were included in the list, the other being Kerala waterways at Ernakulam.

As part of India's 75th Independence Day celebrations, the Ministry of Water Resources has selected 75 water heritage sites from the 421 nominations received. Tanks, wells, step wells, canals, reservoirs and water mills built 100 years ago are included in the list. The pond at Peralassery temple belongs to the step well category.

The pond known as Ayanivayal Kulam, is constructed in the form of step- wells found in North Indian states. This rectangular pond has countless steps leading into the pool from all the sides that reflect the unique and intricate architectural style of the temple pool. The temple authorities had renovated the pond in 2001, without affecting its architectural features and archaeological significance.  

Subrahmaniaswami temple at Peralasseri in Kannur district is an ancient temple believed to be of 1500 years old. In this, though the main deity is Lord Subrahmanian, the temple is known for the worship of Nagas, the serpents. Since the recent past, this pond is a main attraction in the temple as it has been featured in many movies and music albums.