The fact that temples played a major role in moulding Hindu culture and devotion to God, is undeniable. Kerala is having a large number of ancient temples. One such temple is Sree Chozhikkara Mahadeva temple at Kallara, an interior village in Kottayam district. This very rare west facing temple, where the diety is usually powerful and benedictory, is believed to be more than 1400 years old according astrological calculation based on 'Deva Prasnas' conducted here. This temple was originally situated on a nearby small hill called "Neelimala" which is harldy 400 metres just east of the present structure.

Legend says that due to power struggle and ownership fight among the chieftains or land lords, the temple was destroyed, the Sivalinga was damaged. Another is that the Tippu Sultan, in one of his annexations, plundered and destroyed the temple. It is evident from the old documents that those people who had leased the temple properties, parted with a portion their income for the temple festivals which was celebrated 10 days with all splendour starting from 'Kodiyettu'.

The temple pond as the remance of the ancient temple still exists as part of the original structure. It is believed that the Holy Flag Mast (DHWAJAM), vahana and the peedam of the Sivalinga of the original temple are still lying in the pond, as per astrological revelations (devaprashnas). The powerful yakshi has been consecrated in the present temple and is having tremendous powers. Many people of the locality have seen goodess Parvathy holding a tradition lamp and standing in the pond, during the night.