Yamunotri Temple - It Is Situated At A Height Of 3239 meters Above The Sea Level

YAMUNOTRI TEMPLE

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UTTARKASHI

Yamunotri Temple is located at a height of 3239 meters above the sea level in Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand. This temple was built by the King Tehri Naresh Sudarshan Shah in 1839. As it was damaged by an earthquake, the main temple was rebuilt by Maharani Gularia of Jaipur during the 19th century, which is then known as the center of attraction at Yamunotri. Yamunotri Temple opens every year on Akshaya Tritya, which falls either in the month of April or May and the holy idol of Goddess Yamuna is carried from the nearby village called Kharsali, which is said to be Goddess Yamuna’s Mother’s home.

The temple closes on the next day of Diwali festival called as Yama Dwitiya (which lies on the month of October or November), as the region will be covered with white sheets of snow for the rest of months. It is said that the Goddess Yamuna is a daughter of Lord Surya (Sun) and Goddess Sangya, the Goddess of Perception.

The main deity of this temple is Goddess Yamuna, the source of river Yamuna, believed to be the mother of Human Kind, providing the devotees with rich nourishment. The idol of Goddess Yamuna is made out of black marble. It is said that Yamunotri is specially mention in the Hindu mythology which was the home of an ancient sage named Asti Muni. The mythology says that a dip in the river Yamuna here will absolve all the sins.

Other important spots of Yamunotri are:

Saptarishi Kund (a tank)

Saptarishi Kund is regarded as the origin of the river Yamuna at an altitude of 4421 meters and the water in this kund is bluish in color and holds delightful scenery.

Surya Kund

Surya Kund is a hot boiling spring located at the region of the temple which flows into numerous pools.

Divya Sheel

Divya Sheela is a rock pillar, which gives a delicate feeling to the devotees who visits this place and it is ritual to worship the Divya Sheel before entering the sanctum.

Festivals

Phool Devi – celebrated in the month of March

Basant Panchami – celebrated in the month of March

Olgia – celebrated in the month of August

Poojas

The Aarti timings of Yamunotri temple is from 6.30 pm to 7.30 pm

The special poojas offered in this temple in the evening period of Janmashtami and Diwali.

By Air

Jolly Grant airport is the nearest airport of the city where people visit with the help of any public transport. This airport connects with many other cities and states which make your travel comfortable. It is about 196 km far from the Gangotri.

By Train

Dehradun railway station near to the city which is also the major railway network of the city. Trains are frequent and run for various other destination.

By Road

Buses are very convenient way to move from one place to another. You need to take bus for Hanuman Chatti and then reach this place by trekking as the routes here are not suitable for wheeled traffic. Chandigarh (394km), Delhi (419km), Haridwar (223km), Dehradun (172km) and Mussoorie (142km) can be reached via road.

Trimbakeshwar Temple - It Is Located Popularly Known For Its Panoramic Beauty

TRIMBAKESHWAR TEMPLE 

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NASHIK

Trimbakeshwar Temple is situated in the town of Trimbak, Trimbakeshwar Taluk, Nashik District of Maharashtra, dedicated to Lord Shiva. This temple is located at the origin of river Godavari, which is considered as the longest river in peninsular India. And a holy Kund named Kusavarta is appraised as the symbolic source of river Godavari and is respected as a sacred bathing place. The place where the Trimbakeshwar Temple is located popularly known for its panoramic beauty during monsoon season, and covered with luxuriant hills and unmarked by the pollution.

The construction of the current temple is said to be built by Peshwa Balaji Baji Rao also called as Nanasaheb. Trimbakeshwar Temple is one of the twelve Jyotrilinga (the radiant sign of the almighty) temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. 

The presiding deity of Trimbakeshwar temple is Lord Shiva and the deity of Lord Shiva is made of Nassak Diamond, the world famous diamond and considered is as the “Eye of the Idol”. Each Jyotrilinga temples takes different manifestation of Lord Shiva and the idol of Lingam is considered as a presiding deity in every Jyotrilinga temples. Lingam represents the beginning less and endless, which symbolizes the infinite nature of Shiva. The specific feature of Trimbakeshwar Jyotrilinga temple is that three faces concretizing Lord Brahma, Lord Vishnu, and Lord Rudra.

The Tridev (Lord Brahma, Lord Vishnu, and Lord Shiva) Lingam is covered with a jeweled crown, which consists of emeralds, diamonds, and many precious stones. And it is said that due to immoderate use of water, the Lingam has started to abrade. This process erosion signifies the eroding nature of human society. Trimbakeshwar temple is popularly known for its religious rituals, where Narayan Nagbali Pooja is performed only in this temple. This ritual is done for killing a cobra, to cure illness, preserve going through bad times, childless problem, etc.

Pooja Timings

The temple remains open from morning 5.30 am to night 9.00 pm.

Festivals

Godavari day – February

Nivrutti Natha festival – December or January

Mahashivaratri – February or March

Rathayatra (Chariot festival) – November

By Air

Nearest airport from Trimbakeshwar is at Mumbai, which is about 200 km away from the holy city.

By Train

Nearest railhead is at Nasik. It is one the major railway stations nearly 44 Kms away, connected to all major cities in India.

By Road

Trimbakeshwar is connected by bus services run by Maharashtra road Transport Corporation. There are many private luxury buses available from Mumbai to Nasik and to other major cities.

Jejuri Khandoba Temple - A Sword Competition Is Held Every Year In This Temple At Dussera Occasion

KHANDOBA TEMPLE

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PUNE

Khandoba Temple is located in the city of Jejuri in Pune. It is the prime temple among the Khandoba (Martanda Bhairava) Temples across Maharashtra. In fact, there are two shrines on top of a hill in Jejuri: one is Kadepathar and another is Gad-kot Temple.

Jejuri Khandoba Temple is dedicated to Khandoba, who is also known as Mhalsakant or Malhari Martand in the region. Khandoba is the important god worshipped by Dhangar, the oldest tribes in Maharashtra. It is believed that Khandoba is a god of Sakamabhakti, the god who fulfills all the desires of his devotees. Jejuri is popular for its old Deep Mala.

As said earlier, there are many versions of the legends relating to Martanda Bhairava. One or two myths are very famous and are associated with the creation of this temple. One of the major sources is the literary work, Malhari Mahatmya. Lord Khandoba is also known as Malhari (the warrior king). According to this literary work, the battle between Khandoba and the demons called Malla and Mani is the prime story behind the birth of Lord Martanda Bhairava.

The tale says that, the demon-brothers named Malla and Mani were creating a havoc in the world as they had got a boon from Lord Brahma. All Gods got annoyed by the menace they were creating on earth but were not able to destroy them. So, they requested Lord Shiva to destroy these demons. 

It is then Khandoba (a form of Shiva) was born. Finally, Malla and Mani were killed in the battle; while dying Mani asked for forgiveness by offering his white horse to Khandoba and gains a boon to be in every shrine of Martanda Bhairava. In fact, the name Malhari or Mallari comes from the words 'Malla' and 'ari' which means the destroyer of Malla or the enemy of Malla.

The Khandoba temple in Jejuri is built on a hill and offers good views all around. One has to climb a series of almost 200 steps to reach the sanctum sanctorum. There are various stone images of elephants on either sides of the main gateway of the temple. 

The entire flat plateau above the hill is surrounded by a stone pavement in the center, of which stands the Khandoba shrine. The whole courtyard is surrounded by arched aisles on sides, from which highly ornate balconies with cypress pillars and cusped arches project out. This enclosure has three gateways and the temple faces east. The outermost portion is an arched portico- consisting of a square mandapa and a garbhagriha. 

The idol of Sri Khandoba enshrined inside the temple is simply beautiful. There are three weapons housed in Jejuri Temple, a sword, a damaru and a paral. They are very exquisite and also have historical importance attached to them. A Sword Competition is held every year at the temple, on the occasion of Dussera. The one, who lifts the sword of the temple high up, for the maximum time, is declared as the winner. It attracts people from all over the state on the occasion of Bandara festival.

By Air

Pune Airport is the nearest airport to the town of Jejuri.

By Train

Jejuri Railway Station is the nearest railway station to Khandoba Temple. You can also board trains from places like Pune and Mumbai to reach Jejuri

By Bus

Jejuri is around 50km from Pune. It is well-connected to other parts of the state. Visitors can take government run buses from Pune or hire private cabs to reach Jejuri. 

Ambernath Shiv Temple - It Is An Ancient Temple Nearly Mumbai

AMBERNATH SHIV TEMPLE

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THANE

Ambreshwar Temple, the temple of Lord Shiva, located on the bank of Vadavan River, is very near to Ambernath Railway Station.

Situated in the hollow of a hill, the temple dating back from 1000 AD is wonderfully compact. To the south of the temple over the hillock most commanding view of the giant forms of Tavali and Malanggad or Bava Balang is obtained.

This temple is a fine example of the Vesara style that is essentially a tasteful blend of two schools of architecture, the Dravidian style and the Nagara Style, in simple words, a mix of the north Indian and south Indian styles of temple making. 

The versions of the Vesara style at Ambernath is of interlocking black stone in the Hemadpanti style named after legendary prime minister Hemadpanti who was a great patron of temple architecture during Devgiri Kings regimes.

The bold features are prominent in the heavily decorated outside wall and the stepped pyramid that forms the tower. The whole temple is executed in coarse brownish stone that is typical of this region. The plan of the temple is corrugated or fluted along its edges. 

The idea is to have a larger wall surface to accommodate a plethora of sculptures and other decorations that is the theme of this style. Had it been a straight outer wall only less that half of the sculpture could be accommodated on along the outer surface of the wall. 

The sculptures of Hindu mythology, predominantly Shiva theme, form a chain around the temple at the eye level. There are fluted molding above and below the sculptures. The tower is in the classic Nagara style. One can find the image of dancing Shiva on the tower.

There are three porches that give access to the central hall of the temple through a vestibule. The priests sit in this portion of the temple. This portion is intricately carved. The roof is supported by an array of pillars, which itself is a piece of art. Never forget to look up at the ceiling with all the details carved in stone.

 A Nandi (Bull) image is located at the center of the main porch, which is in the west. To reach the inner sanctum, one has to climb down 20 steps to go down in the main room called Garbhagriha (interior of the sanctum Sanctorum). 

There is one “Swayambhu” (self-manifested) Shiv Ling located at the center in this underground Sanctorum which is open to the sky. A big fun-fair starts two days prior to Mahashivratri and continues for a day after Mahashivratri to get blessings from the supreme god Shiva.

By Air

Mumbai airport is nearest airport to reach Ambarnath. From Mumbai airport private cabs are available to reach here or tourist can opt for local trains to reach Amabarnath.

By Train

Ambarnath is a central railway station and connected by local trains from Mumbai, Dadar and Thane. Tourists from outside Mumbai or Maharashtra can reach Mumbai or Thane by express trains and reach Ambarnath by local trains. The Shiv Mandir is located just 2 minutes away from the Ambarnath station.

By Bus

Ambernath have good connectivity by road. Many state transport buses are available to reach Ambarnath from Kalyan, Thane, Badlapur and Karjat. Thane is major city to reach Shiv Mandir Ambarnath. From thane, Badlapur or Karjat tourists can reach Ambarnath by bus, auto or private vehicles.

Six Warhouses Of Lord Murugan In Tamil Nadu

SIX ABODES OF LORD MURUGAN

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TAMILNADU

Arupadaiveedu (Six Abodes of Lord Murugan) are six temples of Hindu God Murugan, son of Lord Shiva situated in the state of Tamil Nadu, South India. Lord Murugan is known by different names such as Karthikeyan, Skandan, Vadivelan, Subramanian and Murugan at various temples. Lord Murugan is worshiped primarily in areas especially in Sri Lanka, in all over India, Mauritius, Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore. His six most important shrines in Sri lanka also in India are the Six Abodes of Lord Murugan also known as ‘Arupadai Veedu’, literally meaning six warhouses. In India, all the six temples located in Tamil Nadu. The famous six abodes of Lord Murugan (Arupadai Veedu Temples) are listed with sort by sequence:

Thiruparankundram Murugan Temple

Thiruchendur Murugan Temple

Palani Murugan Temple

Swamimalai Murugan Temple

Thiruthani Murugan Temple

Pazhamudhircholai Murugan Temple

Swamimalai Murugan Temple - Lord Murugan Taught Here To Lord Shiva About The Meaning Of Pranav Mantra OM

SWAMIMALAI MURUGAN TEMPLE

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THANJAVUR

Source:templedetails

The Swamimalai Murugan Temple, also known as Swaminathaswamy Temple is situated in Swamimalai in Thanjavur district of Tamilnadu, which is dedicated to Lord Murugan and also one of the ‘Arupadai Veedu Temples’. It is said that, Swamimalai Murugan Temple was in existence from 2nd century BC, built by the King Parantaka Chola I. The mythology says that when Lord Brahma, the Lord of all creations, at the time of visiting Mount Kailash He disrespected Lord Murugan. The ever playful child Lord Murugan in angry asked Lord Brahma for the meaning of Pranav Mantra “OM”.

Lord Brahma was unable to reply and admitted his ignorance towards Lord Murugan. And hence Lord Murugan knocked Lord Brahma on His forehead and imprisoned Him. All the creations came to a standstill, since Lord Brahma was imprisoned. And the Devas prayed Lord Shiva to get Lord Brahma released. When Lord Shiva asked Lord Murugan to release Lord Brahma from imprisonment, Lord Murugan demanded that the punishment was for His ignorance and unawareness of knowing the meaning of the Pranav Mantra “OM”.

Lord Shiva asked Lord Murugan whether He Himself aware of the meaning of Pranav Mantra. Lord Murugan replied He knew the meaning and it will be taught only when Lord Shiva accept Him as Guru (Teacher) and listen to Him as a disciple. Lord Shiva accepted the request of Lord Murugan and listened to the explanation of Pranav Mantra as a devoted disciple, hence the place came to be known as Swamimalai. The temple placed on the hill is reached by climbing 60 steps which represents the sixty months of the ancient Tamil calendar.

Lord Murugan is said to be the solver of all problems in human life like child boon, family prosperity, happy wedding life, longevity, wisdom and so on. Swamimalai Murugan Temple is treated as the most sacred place as where Lord Murugan preached the Pranav Mantra “OM” to His father Lord Shiva when He was a child. Swamimalai Murugan Temple is the fourth temple among the six sacred shrines of Lord Murugan, named as Arupadai Veedu Temples. 

The presiding deity of Swamimalai Murugan Temple is ‘Lord Swami Nathan’ (Lord Murugan), the teacher of Lord Shiva, located at the top of the hill. And the important sacred shrines of Lord Sundareswarar (Lord Shiva), and Goddess Meenakshi (Goddess Shakthi) and Lord Ganesh are located at downhill. The boundaries of the temple contains the idols of Lord Dakshinamurthy, Lord Chandikeswarar, Goddess Durga and Navagrahas.

In this temple Lord Murugan is seen with an Elephant as His Vahan (Vehicle) instead of Peacock in the sanctum. This elephant is named as ‘Airavadham’ presented to Lord Murugan by Lord Indra. The temple graces with a well called ‘Vajra Theertha’ represents the three divine powers Itcha Shakti, Gnana Shakti, and Kriya Shakti. Swamimalai Murugan Temple has three Gopurams (gateways) and three Praharams (precincts) and contains six daily rituals at various times.

Festivals

Monthly Kirutikai festival

Temple Car festival – April

Visakam festival – May

Navaratri festival – May

Skanda Shashti festival – October

Tiru Karthikai festival – November or December

Taippucam festival – January

Pankuni Uttiram festival – March

Pooja Timings

Viswaroopa darshan – 05.30 AM

Udhaya Maarthandam – 06.00 AM

Mudhal Kaala Sandhi, Siru Kaala Sandhi and Periya Kaala Sandhi – 08.00 AM

Kalasandhi – 9.00 A.M

Uchikala Poojas – 12.00 P.M

Sayaratchai – 05.30 P.M

Rendam Kalam – 08.00 P.M

Arthajama Pooja – 10.00 P.M

By Road

The Tamil Nadu State Transport Corporation has buses that connect Swamimalai to almost all the major cities of the state. One can avail of regular buses to Swamimalai from Kumbakonam, Trichy, Chidambaram and Chennai.

By Train

Swamimalai does not have a train station, and the nearest station is Kumbakonam, at a distance of 5 kilometers from Swamimalai.

By Air

The nearest airport to Swamimalai is in Trichy, and it is situated at a distance of ninety kilometers away.

Thiruchendur Murugan Temple - It Is Only The Temple Located Near The Sea Shore

MURUGAN TEMPLE

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THIRUCHENDUR

Source:templedetails

The famous Thiruchendur Murugan Temple,dedicated to ‘Lord Murugan’ is located in Thoothukudi (Tuticorin) District of Tamilnadu and also one of the Arupadai Veedu Temples. The word Thiruchendur denotes sacred and prosperous town of Victory. Thiruchendur temple is trusted to be a sign of Lord Murugan’s victory over the demon king Surapadman. A legend reveals that,after ‘Surasamharam'(Killing of Surapadman) Lord Murugan wished to worship His Father Lord Shiva here. So,the divine architecht named as Mayan constructed the shrines here. Even now Lord Murugan is seen in the posture of worshiping Lord Shiva in the Sanctum Sanctorum of Thiruchendur Murugan Temple.

According to the poem of ‘Thirunavukkarasar'(one of the Nayanmars)who lived in the 7th century, this ancient temple might have been built during that period. The Temple towers was consecrated by ‘Desigamoorthy Swamigal’ of Thiruvavaduthurai Aadeenam about 300 years ago. The Raja Gopuram of the temple has nine storeys high at 137 feet.To indicate this,there are nine Kalasams(copper finial stoopies) at the top of the Gopuram.

Raja Gopuram of most of the temples in Tamilnadu has been placed in the Eastern direction.But here only it is placed in the western side and also named as Mela Gopuram. This Gopuram was constructed 300 years ago. The temple and Gopuram will be visible at sea for twelve miles around. Originally, the Temple was built by sandstone, and due to corrosion by the sea near the temple the structure of the temple started to disintegrate. A sannyasin named ‘Mouna Swami’ in 1900 A.D. started the rework. And over 72 years, the three Pragarams were constructed by black granite stone.

Among the Six chosen temples (Arupadai Veedu temples) dedicated to Lord Murugan in Tamilnadu, Thiruchendur Temple is known as the Second Arupadai Veedu Temple. The six Arupadai Veedu temples are:-

Thiruparankundram Murugan Temple

Thiruchendur Murugan Temple

Palani Murugan Temple

Swamimalai Murugan Temple

Thiruthani Murugan Temple

Pazhamudhircholai Murugan Temple

It is the only temple which is located near the sea shore. The other five temples are situated in mountain region. The Raja Gopuram of this temple is situated in western gate and it is the only temple which does not have Eastern gateway. Lord Murugan is worshipped by various names in Tamil Language. Some of the names are ‘Lord Subramaniar’,’Lord Senthil Andavar’,’Lord karthikeyan’,’Lord Shanmugar’and so on. In this temple, Lord Murugan is represented in various forms:

Moolavar (Lord Balasubramanyar or Lord Subramania Swamy)

Shanmugar (Utsavar)

Jeyanthinathar

Kumaravidanga Peruman

An image of the Thiruchendur Lord Murugan

An image of the Thiruchendur Lord Murugan

Lord Murugan defeated Surapadman, who was a powerful demon and also intimidating Devas. On defeating Surapadman, Lord Murugan converted Surapadman into a Peacock and a Chanticleer. The peacock turned to be the vehicle for Lord Murugan and so He is called as ‘Mayilvahanan’(Peacock is named by ‘Mayil’ in Tamil language and ‘Vahanam’ means vehicle). He also set the Chanticleer as His flag.

Many deities presides in this temple. Most important major deities are ‘Lord Ganesh’ as ‘Vallaba Vinayagar’, ’Lord Shiva’  (as ‘PanjaLingam’), ’Lord Dhakshina Murthy’, ’Lord Bhairavar’, ’Lord Anjaneyar’, ’Goddess Valli’, ’Goddess Devasena’, ’Goddess Aandal’ and so on. ‘PanchaLingam'(Five Lingams) is located on the left side of the Sanctum sanctorum of Lord Murugan. It is believed to be that Lord Murugan worshipped His Father Lord Shiva here thru these five Lingams. A little place apart from the temple is a Sandstone Cave Temple which is dedicated to Goddess Valli, consort of Lord Murugan.

The Sannathi Street of Thiruchendur Murugan Temple is the longest among all the other temples in Tamilnadu. The holy visit to the Thiruchendur Murugan Temple will be fulfilled only by visiting ‘Nazhi Kinaru’ (A Holy Well). ‘Nazhi Kinaru’ is a 14 square feet well and there is one smaller well inside this well with 1 square feet. The water in the larger well seems to be salty, whereas, in the small well the water will be clear and it tastes sweet. This is because the Legend to be believed that Lord Murugan’s troops were thirsty and so He planted His spear at the spot of small well and caused fresh water to spark out from the large brackish well.

The temple will be opened from 5.00 am till 9.00 pm. The poojas in this temple are performed as per “Kumara Thandiram Murai”.

Thirupalli Eluchi	– 5.10 am
Viswaroopam Darshan	– 5.30 am
Dwajasthamba Namaskaram	– 5.45 am
Udaya Marthanda Abishegam	– 6.15 am
Udaya Marthanda Deeparadhanai	– 7.00 am
Kalasandhi pooja	– 8.00 am to 8.30
Kalasha pooja	– 10.00 am
Uchikala Abishegam	– 10.30 am
Sayaratchai pooja	– 5.00 pm
Arthasma Abishegam	– 7.15 pm
Arthasama pooja	– 8.15 pm
Ekanda Seva	– 8.30 pm
Ragasia Deeparadhanai	– 8.45 pm
Nadai Thirakappaduthal	– 9.00 pm

Vaikasi Visagam – (May – June)

A large number of devotees, participate in this festival.

The procession of Lord Jayanthinadhar with Goddess Valli and Goddess Deivanai is conducted in the night.

Avani Festival – 12 days in the month of August – September

On this Avani festival, 7th, 8th and 10th day functions are more important.

• 7th day – Sikappu Sathi Festival
• 8th day – Pachai Sathi Festival
• 10th day – Car Festival

Skanda Sasti Festival – 7 days in the month of October – November

On this festival, devotees undertake fasts for six days.Thousands of devotees stay in this temple during these six days.

• On the 6th day, Surasamharam is demonstrated in this temple.
• On the 7th day, Thirukkalyanam of Goddess Deivanai is celebrated in a very grand manner.

Masi Festival – 12 days in the month of February – March

• 7th day – Sikappu Sathi Festival
• 8th day – Pachai Sathi Festival
• 10th day – Car Festival
• 11th day – Floating Festival

By Road

This temple is located near Tuticorin city of Tamilnadu. (40Km from Tuticorin bus stand) There is also state run buses and private buses from tuticorin and Tirunelveli. It is 55 km from Tirunelveli and 75 km Kanyakumari. There are several buses from Madurai (185kms)

By Train

Every day there is an express train (Tiruchendur EXP) from Chennai and four passenger trains from Tirunelveli.

By Air

Tuticorin Airport – 30 Kms

Madurai Airport – 168 Kms

Omkareshwara Temple - King Lingarajendra 2nd Built This Temple For His Mental Peace In 18th Century

OMKARESHWAR TEMPLE

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MADIKERI

Omkareshwara Temple is situated in the middle town of Madikeri of Kodagu district in the Karnataka State of India. It is an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shive.The speciality of the temple is that its construction reflects a mix of Gothic and Islamic styles, It is a popular religious destination of Coorg. The temple draws a large number of tourists and devotees regularly.

The Omkareshwara Temple was constructed by King Lingarajendra II in the 18th century. Legend has it that the temple was built by the king as a form of penance.The story goes around that the king had killed a Brahmin to fulfil his political ambitions. However, the king started to have nightmares for his cruel deed. In order to free himself from the nightmares, the King sought the advice of a few wise men. They asked the king to build a temple of Lord Shiva to regain his mental peace.

The king followed their advice and brought a Shivalingam from the holy town of Kashi and installed it at a newly constructed temple. It is said that the stopped having the nightmares king after the temple was built. This Shivalingam is worshipped as Omkareshwara.

The Omkareshwara Temple displays a unique style of architecture. The temple has a design that is quite similar to the ones seen in Muslim dargah. The structure of the temple comprises of a large central dome with four minarets standing at the four corners.

The interesting thing to note is that the temple lacks a pillared hall as is common in most temples of India. The Shivalingam is installed near the entrance door. The history of the temple has been inscribed on a copper plate and fixed on the entrance door frame.

The Omkareshwara Temple is a large and simple structure with a peaceful ambiance. A water tank exists inside the temple premises. The tank has a mantapa built in the centre. This mantapa is connected by a walkway. A large number of fishes can be seen playing in the water of the tank at any time. As such, the tank attracts the attention of the tourists and devotees who visit the temple.

Timings: 6:30 AM to 12:00 Noon; 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM

Best time to visit: between the months of October to March

Entry Fee: Free

Duration of Visit: 1 hour (approximately)

Temple Info

Abhisheka – 6:30 AM to 6:45 AM

Ganga Pooja – 7:00 AM

Maha Pooja – 12:00 noon

Maha Pooja – 8:00 PM

Every Full moon day – Mass Sathyanarayana Pooja

Every 1st Tuesday of the month – Mass Ganahoma at Kote Ganapathi temple

By Air

The Mysore airport is the nearest one to Madikeri as the small town has no airport. Mysore is connected to Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata, Chennai, Hubli, and Dubai via Bangalore. The Mangalore International Airport at Mangalore can also be assessed to reach the town of Madikeri.

By Train

Madikeri does not have a railway station of its own. The nearest rail stations are located at Hassan, Kasaragod, and Kannur (each of which approximately 115 km away from Madikeri).Mysore and Mangalore are at a distance of 140 km from Madikeri and can be good alternatives to reach Madikeri through the train route.

By Bus

Madikeri is located near the Karnataka State Highway 88 that connects Mysore to Mangalore. This makes Madikeri a well-connected place by the road network.There are several public buses that ply from Madikeri to a number of places in Karnataka and Kerala. There are frequent KSRTC buses that connect Madikeri to Bangalore, Mysore, Virajpet, etc. The town can also be reached by private cars and hired cabs.

Belur Math - It Is The Hub Of A Worldwide Spiritual Movement

BELUR  MATH

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HOWRAH

Belur Math, sprawling over forty acres of land on the western bank of the Hooghly (Ganga), in Howrah district, an hour’s drive from Kolkata, is a place of pilgrimage for people from all over the world professing different religious faiths.  Even people not interested in religion come here for the peace it exudes

It was at Belur Math that Swami Vivekananda (1863-1902), the foremost disciple of Sri Ramakrishna (1836-1886), lived the last years of his brief life.He consecrated the grounds in 1898 by worshipping the urn containing the sacred relics of Sri Ramakrishna, which he himself carried on his shoulders to the place of worship.  

On that occasion he uttered these prophetic words about Belur Math: “The blazing light of universal harmony that will emanate from here will flood the whole world.”  On another occasion he said that “the power that will have its rise from here [Belur Math] will flood the whole world and turn the course of men's lives into different channels; from this place will spring forth ideals which will be the harmony of Knowledge, Devotion, Yoga, and Work ... all true seekers of spirituality will in course of time assemble here.”  True to that prophecy, Belur Math has become the hub of a worldwide spiritual movement known as the Ramakrishna Movement.

The serene campus of Belur Math on the Ganga includes temples dedicated to Sri Ramakrishna, Sri Sarada Devi and Swami Vivekananda, in which their relics are enshrined, and the main monastery of the Ramakrishna Order.  The place has been sanctified by the stay of Swami Vivekananda and most of the monastic disciples of Sri Ramakrishna who spent several years here.  Holy Mother Sri Sarada Devi also visited this place on several occasions.  

The room in which Swamiji attained Mahasamadhi has been preserved here.  The headquarters of the worldwide twin organizations known as Ramakrishna Math and Ramakrishna Mission are also situated here.  An added attraction is the Museum which contains articles connected with the history of Ramakrishna Math and Mission.  

The green lawns and lush growth of trees and bushes everywhere add to the serenity and beauty of the place.  All this has contributed to an elevating spiritual ambience that has made Belur Math an important place of pilgrimage for people all over the world.  A degree college, a polytechnic, and several other educational institutions of the Ramakrishna Mission are situated in the vast campus adjacent to Belur Math.

VISITING  HOURS OF BELUR MATH
April to September	6.00 to 11.30 a.m.1
	4.00 to 7.00 p.m.2
October to March	6.30 to 11.30 a.m.1
	3.30 to 6.00 p.m.2

HOW TO REACH BELUR MATH

Source:belurmath.org

Meenakshi Amman Temple - It Is One Of The Oldest Temple In South India

MEENAKSHI AMMAN TEMPLE

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MADURAI

The temple forms the heart and lifeline of the 2500 year old city of Madurai.

The annual 10 day Meenakshi Tirukalyanam festival celebrated during April–May attracts 1 million visitors.

The Meenakshi temple is believed to have been founded by Indra (king of Deva celestial deities) while he was on a pilgrimage to atone for his misdeeds. He felt his burden lifting as he neared the swayambu lingam (self formed lingam, a representation of Shiva used for worship in temples) of Madurai. He ascribed this miracle to the lingam and constructed the temple to enshrine it. Indra worshipped Shiva, who caused golden lotuses to appear in the nearby pool.

Tamil literature speaks of the temple over the last two millennia. Thirugnanasambandar, the famous Hindu saint of Saiva philosophy, mentioned this temple as early as the 7th century, and described the deity as Aalavai Iraivan. The temple is believed to have been sacked by the infamous Muslim invader Malik Kafur in 1310 and all the ancient elements were destroyed. 

The initiative to rebuild the structure was taken by first Nayak king of Madurai, Viswanatha Nayak (1559–1600) under the supervision of Ariyanatha Mudaliar, the prime minister of the Nayak Dynasty and the founder of the Poligar System. The original design by Vishwanatha Nayak in 1560 was substantially expanded to the current structure during the reign of Thirumalai Nayak (1623–55). He took considerable interest in erecting many complexes inside the temple. His major contributions are the Vasantha Mandapam for celebrating vasanthorsavam (spring festival) and Kilikoondu Mandapam (corridor of parrots). The corridors of the temple tank and Meenatchi Nayakar Mandapam were built by Rani Mangammal.

Rous Peter (1786–1828), the Collector of Madurai in 1812, got nickname 'Peter Pandian’ as he respected and treated people of all faiths equally. He donated a set of golden stirrups studded with diamonds and red stones to the temple.Goddess Meenatchi is believed to have saved Rous Peter from a fatal incident. He also wished that after his death, his body be buried in a position that would enable his eyes to face the temple

 According to legend, the sacred Suyambulingam discovered by the king of Gods indira at Kadambavanam, was later enshrined by him in Madurai. The fact that the Lord is seen on the vehicle of Indira in this temple is said to be proof for this.

Many historical evidences of the temple have been found dating back from early A.D. The temple was almost completely destroyed in the year 1310 following the invasion of the Islamic conqueror Malikkapur.As kings who were followers of Islam were noted for their intolerance towards other religions, the invaders destroyed most of the ancient sculptures of the temple. 

Thirugnanasambandar the Hindu Saint has mentioned the temple in his songs which go back to early 7th century. The Lord has been described as Alavai Iraivan in his songs.The temple was restored to its pristine glory in the late 14th century when the Hindu Kings came back to power in Madurai.This can also be termed as a new beginning of a new era in the history of the temple, when it was almost rebuilt. The King Thirumalai Naicker played an important role in the construction of the new form of the temple according to records.

The temple has four Rajagopurams or majestic towers, there are five towers on top of the sanctum sanctorum of the Lord, three on top of the sanctum sanctorum of the Goddess and two golden towers or gopurams, all which have been exquisitely designed and sculptured. All fourteen towers have been segregated based on the stages they are,.

Nine tier gopurams - four

Seven tier, Chittirai gopuram - one

Five tier gopurams - five

Three tier gopurams - two

Golden gopurams - two

By Air

Madurai Airport is located 12 kilometres from the city. It is one of the important airport in Tamil Nadu. 

By Train

Meenakshi Temple is 2 Km - Distance from Madurai Railway station. Madurai Junction is an important railway junction in southern Tamil Nadu and constitutes a separate division of the Southern Railway. It is the second largest revenue division in Southern railway next to the Chennai division. There are direct trains from Madurai connecting important cities in India like Chennai, Mumbai, New Delhi, Banglore, Jaipur, Hyderabad, Visakhapatnam, Trivandrum, Coimbatore, Kollam, Kanyakumari, Trichy, Tirunelveli, Rameswaram, Thanjavur, Vijaywada, Calcutta, Nagpur and Bhopal. Madurai has rail connectivity with important cities and towns across India.

By Bus

Madurai city has 5 Major Bus Stands- Periyar Bus Stand, Anna Bus Stand, Palanganatham Bus Stand, Arapalayam Bus Stand, Mattuthavani Bus Stand and probably to all parts of major cities in south India.

TOP MOST FAMOUS TEMPLES IN TAMIL NADU

SIKKAL SINGARVELAR TEMPLE

SREE VILLIPUTHUR ANDAL TEMPLE

MEENAKSHI AMMAN TEMPLE

THILLAI NATARAJA TEMPLE

MEENAKSHI AMMAN TEMPLE



SRIRANGAM TEMPLE



THIRUVANNAMALAI TEMPLE

Amarkantak - It Is An Important Pilgrimage Destination In Madhya Pradesh

AMARKANTAK

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ANUPPUR

Amarkantak is the small city situated in the middle area of superb ranges Satpura and Vindhya. The average elevation of this city is 1065 meters. The charming weather and best valleys with amazing view makes this place first choice for nature lovers. Amarkantak wraps up the splendor of typical sylvan atmosphere. The 2 best rivers of India known as Narmada and Sone are flowing from this area. 

An important pilgrimage site, Amarkantak also happens to be one of the finest hill stations in Madhya Pradesh. This sylvan hill town is dotted with forests and ponds. The picturesque setting and air of quietude is one of the reasons why you should visit Amarkantak. Amarkantak also happens to be the meeting point of Vindhya and Satpura mountain ranges as well as source of Sone and Narmada river. One of the main attractions in Amarkantak is Kabir Chabutra where the poet saint Kabir is said to have meditated.

Word Amarkantak comes from Sanskrit language that is related to mythological meaning. Because of religious values this place is also known as Theertha Raja (King of Holy destinations). The Narmada River is having holy values for Indians.  It’s a land of great history holding story of diverse empires. Pandavas also ruled this place for short period. 

Located as it is in central India, Amarkantak weather gets hot in summer months despite being a hill station. April till June experiences dry heat followed by humid but cooler monsoon from July till September. Temperature of Amarkantak could vary from a high of 45 degrees to low of 30 degrees during summer months.

The best time to visit Amarkantak is from September till March as cool weather makes it ideal for visits to local attractions as well as to enjoy the scenic surroundings of this hill town.

Narmada Udgam, Sonmuda, Dhuni Pani, Dudhdhara are the attraction in Amarkantak

By Air

Nearest airports are Jabalpur (228 km.) and Raipur (230 km)

By Rail

The nearest rail head is Pendra Road (42 km) on the Katni - Bilaspur section of the South-Eastern Railway. The major rail head is Anuppur Railway Station

By Road

Amarkantak is connected by regular bus service with Shahdol, Umaria, Jabalpur, Rewa, Bilaspur, Anuppur and Pendra Road.

Nagaraja Temple - A Visit Here Is Sure To Leave You With A Blissful Experience

NAGARAJA TEMPLE

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NAGARCOIL

Located in the Nagercoil town of Kanyakumari district in Tamil Nadu, the ‘Nagaraja Temple’ is dedicated to the serpent king Vasuki. The presiding deity of this temple is the five-headed Naga God and is visited by hordes of devotees, especially on Sundays when special Pooja is performed offering milk and turmeric to the deity. 

The temple sees an uncountable footfall of people suffering from Naga Dosha during the Tamil month of Avani (August and September) when some distinct rituals are performed for 12 days.

According to folk tales and legends, once a village girl was cutting grass in the area when all of a sudden she noticed blood oozing out of her axe after accidentally hitting a stone. She hurriedly went to the village and brought few villagers here, out of which one villager recognized the stone as an idol of a five headed snake. 

Thereafter, the temple dedicated to Nagaraja was built with its walls made of mud and roof made of coconut leaves. The main sanctum of the temple still has these mud walls and thatched roof with the small stone idol of Nagaraja placed on the soil. 

The soil underneath the idol remains wet as it is believed that the blood is still oozing out of the deity till date. It is believed that this soil holds special powers and can cure any skin ailments; the soil is also given as prasadam to the visitors of the temple.

The architecture of the temple is quite simple with scores of sculptures and images of different snakes adorning the walls, trees and pond around. The main sanctum enshrines the deity and is guarded by two huge statues of five-headed serpents. Inside the temple premises, you will also find Shivlinga and idol of Vishnu in Anant Shayana position.

One of the very unique temples in India located amidst tranquil and peaceful settings, a visit here is sure to leave you with a blissful experience.

Thai Brahmmotsavam in January-February; Aavani Sundays and Aavani Aslesha (Aayilyam) star day and Krishna Jayanthi in August-September; Navarathri in September-October and Tirukarthikai in November-December are the festivals celebrated in the temple.

The temple is located in heart of town Nagercoil, and is around 4 KMs from nearest railway station Nagercoil . There are frequent public transportations available to reach Nagaraja temple from other places.The nearest airport is at Thiruvanathapuram.

Bannari Mariamman Temple - It Is Placed In North-West Boundary Of Kongu Nadu

BANNARI MARIAMMAN TEMPLE

Around 300 years ago, the dana Nayakkan or Dhandanyakkan forest you all know now its been called as “BANNARI”. This name Bannari for this great historical place origined because of the great temple “Bannari Amman Temple”.

Bannari Mariamman temple is situated at a distance of fourteen kilometers from Sathyamangalam in Erode District.The temple facing south and it is surrounding by thick forests with verdant vegetation on the southern, northern and western directions.The range of mountains and the hilly backdrop add charm to the abode of the deity.Beasts such as elephants, wild pigs, bears, deer, hares, and monkey are found in the surrounding forests. Beautiful peacocks and various birds are also seen here.

In ancient days Tamil Nadu consisted of five division known as Chera Nadu, Chozha Nadu, Pandiya Nadu, Thondai Nadu and Kongu Nadu.Kongu Nadu was situated on the western side of Tamil Nadu. Mountains, rivers and forests added beauty to this fertile soil.Bannari located on the North West boundary of Kongu Nadu. Of late, it has become pilgrim’s paradise because devotees from far and near visit this spot. It is held in high esteem as the celebrated abode of Goddess Mariamman.

The oracle was heard by everybody who has assembled there. In response to that message, the villagers Erected shed with ‘KANANGU’ a kind of forest herbs. In due course, the thatched ceiling was replaced by tiled ceiling. Funds were collected from philanthropists and the temple structure underwent renovation repeatedly and, the gopuram was built above the SANCTUM – SANCTORIUM.

Shobana Mantapa in front of the temple with 24-pillared mantapa with carvings of architectural beauty was constructed in 1967. The Artha Mantapa, Maha Mantapa and Shobana Mantapa enhance the beauty of the temple. Separate shrines for such gods as Vinayaka, Bommairayan, Madeswara SARUGU Mariamman and Muniyappa are found in and around the temple.

The Bommarayan temple is in Artha mandapam facing west side and the Ganesh temple is in front mandapam facing east.God Matheshwaran is placed on a slab which is on the southern side of the Goddess temple.Near the temple pond a small temple facing west is constructed for Sarugu Mariamman is placed. The kumbhabishegam for this temple was conducted on second of this month.

On the west side of the temple pond a big pit is present. In that pit water will be stagnant only on rainy seasons. On other seasons water won’t stagnate there. To the left side of the way to the temple pond, God VandiMuniappar is placed on a slab. During the festival for goddess the people of Cholar caste do special poojas for this God.

By Air

The nearest airport one is their at Coimbatore for reaching Bannari.

By Train

The nearest railway station is Mettupalayam and then other nearest railways stations are Coimbatore and Chamarajanagar.

By Bus

There are lot of buses from Sathyamangalam(15 km), Bhavanisagar, Thalavadi and Chamarajanagar (60 km) to reach Bannari. The buses from Coimbatore and Erode to Mysore, Chamarajanagar and Kollegal on NH 209 also passes through Bannari. One can also get the buses from Bhavanisagar and reach the temple via Kothamangalam, but this is a long route to reach Bannari. And on every Sunday, Monday, Friday and new moon days there are special buses to the temple from Sathyamangalam, Erode, Gobichettipalayam and Coimbatore.

Vadapalani Andavar Temple – It Is 125 Years Oldest Shrine In Chennai City

VADAPALANI ANDAVAR TEMPLE

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CHENNAI

Vadapalani Andavar Temple is located in Vadapalani, Chennai. The temple is dedicated to Lord Muruga. The temple was renovated in 1920 and a Rajagopuram was built during that time. The temple has grown in popularity believed in part due to the patronage of cinema stars.

Built about 125 years back, this much hallowed and regularly frequented Lord Muruga Sannidhi has emerged from a thatched shed, an unostentatious one enshrining a Murugan picture only, and established for itself a name on par with ancient places of worship. Around 7000 couples are married here each year.

According to the sthalapurana, one Muruga devotee by name Annaswami Nayakar with his limited means built a small thatched hut and kept a Murugan painting for his personal worship primarily. During his meditation and worship, he used to experience some divine power entering his body and inspiring him to utter some mysterious things, whatever he said in his trance was found true.

His utterance went by the name of ‘arulvakku’ (God blessed statements) and relieved people in several ways, like curing diseases and getting jobs, solemnizing marriages, etc.

There are very many sannidhis in the vast courtyards of the temple, like Varasiddhi Vinayaka, Chokkanathar, Meenakshi Amman, Kali, Bhairava, Shanmuga with Valli and Devasena.

The moolavar in standing posture resembles the Palani Muruga in every respect. In the inner prakara, there are many niches housing Dakshina Murti, Chandikeswar, Mahalakshmi, et al. it has a spacious hall used for conduting marriages and religious discourses. It is one of the most frequented Murugan shrines in the city of Chennai.

By Air

Chennai International airport is just 7 kilometres away from the city. There are pre-paid taxi booths outside the airport from where you can hire a taxi and reach your destination. Charges may vary as per the cab vendor. However if you are looking for a cheaper alternative, auto-rickshaws can take you to the city at a relatively low fare.

By Train

Chennai has three major railway stations namely Chennai Central (code MAS), Chennai Egmore which is just 2 kilometres from the city (code MS) and Tambaram which serves the suburban areas of Chennai. Many super-fast and express trains run on a daily basis and are well-connected to cities like Bengaluru, Mumbai, Coimbatore, Delhi, Cochin, Hyderabad, Kolkata and other Indian cities. 

By Bus

Chennai Mofussil Bus Terminal (CMBT) is one of Asia's largest bus stations. Around seven state owned companies run buses to and from various destinations within South India. they connect cities like Tirupati, Pondicherry, Coimbatore, Tirunelveli and others. You can choose from deluxe, semi-deluxe, hi-tech, rajahamsa executive and sleeper buses while taking a route to any of the neighbouring cities. Also, there are various buses that connect major cities Bangalore and Calicut to Chennai.