Sivagiri Mutt, situated on a peaceful hilltop in Varkala, Kerala, is a revered spiritual and pilgrimage center established by social reformer Sree Narayana Guru, drawing thousands of devotees and visitors each year who come to reflect on his teachings of equality, education, and universal brotherhood in an atmosphere of serenity, wisdom, and enduring legacy.
Sivagiri Mutt is one of the most prominent pilgrimage centers in India, located in the serene town of Varkala, Kerala. Rooted deeply in India’s spiritual and social reform movements, the mutt stands as a symbol of the teachings and vision of Sree Narayana Guru, a revered saint, scholar, and reformer. While spirituality has long been a pillar of Indian life, Guru used it as a transformative force against caste discrimination and social inequality. Moved by the beauty and calm of Varkala, he named the area Sivagiri and established a hermitage that evolved into the present-day mutt.
Today, Sivagiri Mutt serves as the headquarters of the Sree Narayana Dharma Sangham (SNDP), a socio-spiritual organization founded by the Guru. Spanning over 200 acres, the campus is a peaceful retreat attracting thousands of pilgrims and followers annually. The mutt is not just a place of worship but also a hub of education, reform, and unity. It continues to spread the Guru’s message: “One Caste, One Religion, One God for Mankind.
A notable highlight within the mutt is the Sivagiri Sarada Temple, dedicated to Goddess Saraswathi, the deity of knowledge. Designed by Sree Narayana Guru himself, the temple’s octagonal structure and white, multi tiered terraces blend beautifully with the natural greenery around. The idol of Saraswathi seated on a white lotus symbolizes the blossoming of pure knowledge, reflecting the Guru’s emphasis on education and enlightenment as paths to social upliftment.