http://www.tamilnadu-tourism.com/tamil-nadu-temples/
The temples built under the regime of Pallavas are the oldest temples of Tamil Nadu, dating back to 700 AD. During their period the holy shrines were replicated out of caves. Pallavas had an art of constructing temples of stones.
Cholas
From 900 AD to 1250 AD, the Cholas took responsibility for the construction of temples. They included many decorative mandpams (halls) and the temples were beautified with huge gopurams (towers).
Pandyas
The Pandayas enhanced the artistic value of the temples of Tamil Nadu with their constant innovation. The Pandayas introduced high wall enclosures, superb gateway arches and huge towers.
Vijaynagar
Tamil Nadu temples built during Vijaynagar dynasty has distinct style of architecture. It comprised of intriacately carved monolithic pillars.
Nayaks
The splendid art architectural style in Tamil Nadu temple during the regime of Nayaks was marvelous. They added circulatory paths or prakarams.
The grandeur of the Meenakshi Temple has remained undiminished for the past two thousand years. This sprawling and awe-inspiring temple complex is not only a marvel of architecture but also a veritable treasure trove of Indian culture and civilization. It is also one of the largest temple complexes in India.
The 'city of virtue' is one of the most ancient heritage sites of India truly reflective of the cultural ethos of India. Madurai is closely associated with the literary wealth of Classical and Modern Tamil. The crowning glory of this historic city is the sprawling Meenakshi Sundareswarar Temple. Four of the 6 major streams of the indigenous system of beliefs as codified by Sankaracharya (i.e. Saivism, Shaktism, Vaishnavism and the worship of Skanda) meet in this historic city during festive occasions when the entire region is transformed into a vast space of celebration.
of gods, goddesses, gargoyles, and gryphons. Like the statues of classical Greece, the people who follow the ancient Dravidian culture of South India also paint their gods in brilliant colors. Thus, one can experience a myriad of colors atop these gateways.
Hence Tirupporur temple has a lot of significance where Lord Shiva and his son Muruga (also spelt as Murugan) are worshipped. The Sthalapurana also discloses that Lord Muruga with his consorts Valli and Devayanai granted protection to devas and expounded the meaning of Pranava to Agastya Muni at this place.
According to legend, Skanda enunciated the principle of pranava or reality to the devas here. The very concept of Pranavam is said to have worshipped Skanda here, and the hill behind the temple is known as "Pranava Malai". Legend also has it that Vishnu worshipped Shiva on the Pranava Hill. Legend also has it that Skanda worshipped Shiva as "Vanmeekeswara" to rid himself of the sin of having killed Soorapadman. Another legend has it that Skanda enunciated the principle of pranava or reality to the devas here. The very concept of Pranavam is said to have worshipped Skanda here, and the hill behind the temple is known as "Pranava Malai". Lord Vishnu worshipped Shiva on the Pranava hill. Legend also has it that Skanda worshipped Shiva as Vanmeekeswara to rid himself of the sin of having killed Soorapadman.
» Rail : The nearest railway station is at Chennai, which is a major junction.
» Road : Tourists can access Tirupporurur by road either from Chennai or Chengalpattu. Private taxis and regular buses ply from Chennai and Chengalpattu to Tirupporurur.
» Rail link: Rameshwaram is connected by rail directly to Chennai, Madurai, Trichy and Coimbatore.
» Road Link: Rameshwaram is connected by regular bus services with Chennai 666 km, Kanyakumari 320 km, Madurai 167 km, Sivaganga 136 km and Ramanathapuram 55 km. It is also just 24 Km from the Sri Lanka.
Legend has it that Kanya Devi, an avatar of Goddess Parvati, was to wed Lord Shiva, the destroyer in the Hindu trinity. But he did not turn up at the auspicious time and the wedding never took place. The rice and cereals meant for the marriage remained uncooked. Even today, one can buy stones there that look exactly like rice and cereals. Local folks believe that they are the leftovers of the legendary marriage that could not be solemnized. As for the princess Kanya Devi, she became a virgin goddess
» The Temple : The main entrance to the temple is through the northern gate though the deity is facing east. The eastern entrance is kept closed except on special occasions when the deity is taken out for ceremonial bath.
Three corridors surround the sanctum. The outer corridor has no special shrines, but after a walk round it the devotees cross the 'Navarathiri mandapam' and a pathway leads to the second corridor encircling the shrine. There stands the flag mast or 'Kodisthambam'. From here you can have a clear view of the Goddess. A move further forward will take you in front of the sanctum.
» Main Festivals and Opening Times : The main festivals are held in the Tamil month of Vaikasi (May/June) and the Navarathri festival in September/October.
The temple is open to the public from 4.30 AM to 11.45 AM and 5.30 PM to 8.45 PM. Male worshippers are required to remove their shirts before entering the temple.
Location: Temple Near Chennai, Tamilnadu
Dedicated to: Lord Shiva
Religious anchorage Much ecclesiastical adherance is anchored to this temple and the pilgrims after sanctification at the confluence of worship of Lord Chayavaneswara seek his blessings. According to Hindu religious rites an ablution at the concourse of a river with the sea is considered religiously meritorious.
"It so happened that once an old man approached him with the very absurd request to send his (Nayanars) wife to him as a gift. Without hesitation Iyarpagai Nayanar satisfied the desire of the old man. But this created commotion among his relatives, who never appreciated such a gift. However socially degrading it may be, he insisted upon his wife to follow the sadhu and she did so. The old man transformed into Lord Shiva, praised the Nayanar for his unstinted devotion towards Saivite saints and blessed him with liberation", as the legend reveals!. Lord Shiva tests the profoundness of devotion of his followers and rewards them when they stand the 'test of faith'.
Krishnapuram's lithic images are unique in nature than that of others found in other temples. They are very vivacious. Life seems to overflow the river of sculptures. This temple can be referred as touch stone for art critics. This kind of liveliness can only be seen here and not elsewhere.
» Skanda Sasti festival - 7 days (October - November) Devotees numbering about 5 lakhs will participate in the above festival. On this festival occasion devotees fast for all six days. On the sixth day Surasamharam is demonstrated. On the 7th day Thirukkalyanam to Deivanai is celebrated in a grand manner
The Lord has a number of festivals round the year. Every year in the month of 'Maasi' (February-March) a festival is conducted and the image of Lord Kumbeswara is taken out in a procession. It is celebrated for 10 days during that period.
Others include, Theppam festival during Panguni (March - April), Sapthathanam during Chitirai month (April - May). During this festival Lord's idol will be carried in a palanquin to the nearby villages. Marriage festival for Lord Adikumbeswara and Goddess Mangalambigai is conducted in the month of 'Vaikasi' (May - June). Daily pujas are conducted six times from morning to evening and also Kumbakonam Tour
The temple has three 'gopuram' with three 'praharam'. The 'gopuram' on the south side of the temple is decorated with statues and contains five storeys while the other two entrances have no towers above them.
Swamimalai is a sylvan village, located about five kilometers west of Kumbakonam on the banks of a tributary of river Cauvery. The temple is situated in close proximity to the bus stand and the railway station is about two kilometers away. It is well connected to and circumscribed by important Place to See like Kumbakonam, Tiruvidaimarutur, Mayiladuthurai, Papanasam, Tanjavur etc, Tour to Swamimalai Temple India
Mythology says that saint Bhrugu before begining an arduous Mythology says that saint Bhrugu before commencing an arduous tavam or penance, got the blessing that anybody disturbing his mediation will forget all his knowledge. Such was the power of the penance that the holy fire emanating from the head of the saint reached up to the heavens, and the frightened devas surrendered to Lord Siva praying for his grace. The Lord extinguished the sacred fire by covering the saint's head by hand. With the saint's penance thus disturbed the Lord became oblivious of all his knowledge and is said to have regained them by learning the Pranava mantra from Lord Muruga at this shrine.
Once when Brahma, the lord of all creations was proceeding to Kailasa, the ever-playful child Lord Muruga asked him for the meaning of the Pranava OM.
The important festivals conducted in the temple are :
Consecrated On: November 5, 1830
Famous As: One of the oldest Churches the Nilgiris, Tamilnadu
The St. Stephen's Church, located on the Mysore road, near the Collectorate,is one of the oldest churches in the Nilgiris. It dates back to the days of Rt. Hon'ble Stephen Rumbold Lushington, the then Governor of Madras, who keenly felt the need for a cathedral exclusively for the British, in Ooty.He laid the foundation for the church on April 23, 1829, to coincide with the birthday of King George IV. St. Stephen's Church was consecrated by Rt. Rev. Turner, Bishop of Calcutta, on November 5,1830,and was given the name of the Governor since he was the driving force behind it. It was thrown open to public communion on Easter Sunday-April 3,1831.
For the first time, an Indian chaplain, Rev. M. Dorai was appointed in June 1981. Till then it was the British who were chaplains. The last British chaplain was Rev. John White. The 150th anniversary of the church was celebrated in April 1981.
Built By: Raja Raja II, 1150- 1173 AD
The Chola architecture, as manifested in the various monuments, came into full flowering in the district of Tanjore. One such living monument is the temple of Airavatheeswara located at Dharasuram. The temple, constructed by Raja Raja II, 1150- 1173 AD, has now been recognised as a world heritage monument by the UNESCO. The Airavatheeswara temple is an outstanding creative achievement in the architectural conception of the pure form of the Dravida type temple, Tour to Airavatheeswara Temple India
The vimanam of the Airavatheeswara temple rises to a height of 23 meters. The sanctum sanctorum is nirandhra- that is, without the circumambulatory passage. There is an ardha Mandapam, and a 100-pillared Maha Mandapam.
» Sculptural Marvels
The outer walls of the Maha Mandapam and the garba griha have exquisite sculptures. Apart from these, the inside of the Maha Mandapam, the pillars supporting the Maha Mandapam as well as the walls of the prakara (enclosure) have beautifully-carved panels.
For instance, in the south-west corner of the prakara, a lady's acrobatics have been chiselled out to represent four in one. The statue of Annapoorani in the ardha Mandapam is a marvellous piece of sculpture, the face aglow in a smile, the left hand carrying a brass vessel and the right, a lotus. The ratha-like side projections on the eastern and western sides of the Maha Mandapam are characteristic of 12 other Chola temples, like in Tiruvarur, Chidambaram and Melakadambur. The wheels and spokes are very delicately carved.
» Music Of the Stones
Most enchanting, though, are the musical notes that rise from the tread stones inside the Nandi enclosure in front of the Airavatheeswara temple-they are melodious testimony to the superb engineering skills of master craftsmen of a bygone era.
Built in: 1065 AD
Presiding Deity: Lord Siva
Amidst the lush green paddyfields and sylvan surrounding on the northern banks of the Uyyakondan channel in a sleepy hamlet named Cholamadevi near Thiruverumbur, 12 km away from Trichy City, stands a dilapidated temple. But for a trained eye, the historical importance of its majestic ruins wouldn't go unnoticed. The Kailasamundaiyar temple, dating back to the 11th century, is a virtual treasure house of historic information pertaining to the Cholas. The adhistana and the walls of the temple are fully covered with inscriptions belonging to the periods of Raja Raja Chola I, Rajendra Chola I and Vira Rajendra Chola I. A majority of the inscriptions belong to Raja Raja I. Further, the inscriptions contain the earliest known reference to Sankara Bhashyam, a commentary on Sankara's philosophy, written by Chidaananda Bhattaara. The inscription is in Tamil with a few Sanskrit words in between written in Grantha characters.
Built in: 1005 AD
The Tanjore District has a definite magic- a magic endowed by the towering presence of many ancient temples, built over 1000 years ago. One such temple is the Nageswaran Temple India, a place where where devotion, mythology and aesthetics form an ideal medley. Built around 1005 A.D, it is an outstanding symbol of Chola sculpture. It draws many foreigners keen to interpret the rock wall edicts and study the sculptures and also Tourist Place to See in Tamilnadu
Temples in Tamilnadu and Famous South India Temple Tours
Taj Garden Retreat
Address: Pasumalai, No. 40 T.P.K. Road, , Madurai
Location: City Center
Property Type: Business And Leisure Hotel
Accessibility: Airport: 15KM.
Location: City Center
Property Type: Business And Leisure Hotel
Accessibility: Airport: 15KM.
Pandyan Hotel
Address: Race Course, , Madurai
Location: City Center
Property Type: Business And Leisure Hotel
Accessibility: Airport: 15KM., Bus Stand: 5KM., Railway Station: 4KM.
Location: City Center
Property Type: Business And Leisure Hotel
Accessibility: Airport: 15KM., Bus Stand: 5KM., Railway Station: 4KM.
" Devotion At Highest Levels ! "
" Tamil Nadu is also popular as 'land of temples' for its grand temples that are architectural masterpieces. There are 30,000 plus temples constructed by rulers of different dynasties over the years. These Tamil Nadu temples are standing testimony to the rich Dravidian art and culture. Each temple showcases a distinctive style, built by Chola, Pallava, Nayak, Pandya and Vijaynagar rulers, who were great patrons of art and architecture.South India Temples
South India is famous for various ancient temples, which attract number of devotees to pay their obeisance. The architectural excellence of temples in South India depicts the glory of bygone era. Enhanced with huge gateways, Gopurams, Sanctum Sactorum and pillared hallways, these temples are attached with some kind of mythological story. The century old temples are designed with unique shape of gopurams and hallways size. Daily rituals and ceremonies are performed in the holy shrines. These south Indian temples are also an important place for imparting educations, social gathering and celebrations. Take a South India temples tour to marvel these architectural marvels.Architecture of Tamil Nadu Temples
The most commendable contributions to Tamil Nadu temples architecture were made by the Pallavas, Cholas, Pandyas, Vijayanagar rulers and the Nayakas. Each dynasty had its own way to design these beautiful masterpieces.
Temples Construction Under Different Dynasties
PallavasThe temples built under the regime of Pallavas are the oldest temples of Tamil Nadu, dating back to 700 AD. During their period the holy shrines were replicated out of caves. Pallavas had an art of constructing temples of stones.
Cholas
From 900 AD to 1250 AD, the Cholas took responsibility for the construction of temples. They included many decorative mandpams (halls) and the temples were beautified with huge gopurams (towers).
Pandyas
The Pandayas enhanced the artistic value of the temples of Tamil Nadu with their constant innovation. The Pandayas introduced high wall enclosures, superb gateway arches and huge towers.
Vijaynagar
Tamil Nadu temples built during Vijaynagar dynasty has distinct style of architecture. It comprised of intriacately carved monolithic pillars.
Nayaks
The splendid art architectural style in Tamil Nadu temple during the regime of Nayaks was marvelous. They added circulatory paths or prakarams.
Chidambaram Temple is Famous Nataraja Temple in Tamilnadu India
Saradharam Hotel
Address: 19, V.G.P. Street, Chidambaram - 608 001. Cuddalore , Chidambaram
Location: District, Tamilnadu State, India
Property Type: Business And Leisure Hotel
Location: District, Tamilnadu State, India
Property Type: Business And Leisure Hotel
Alritz Hotel
Address: 2 VGP Street Near Nagarajar Temple,
Location: Chidambaram 608001, India
Property Type: Business And Leisure Hotel
Location: Chidambaram 608001, India
Property Type: Business And Leisure Hotel
The Akas sthalam
Chidambaram Tourism Guide, is the seat of the cosmic dancer Nataraja (Ananda Tandava pose ; the Cosmic Dance of bliss). Chidambaram is one of the foremost Saivite shrines; the very name Kovil refers to Chidambaram, where Natarajar is enshrined in the Chit Sabha or the Hall of Consciousness, in the Ananda Tandavam (Dance of Bliss) pose. Chidambaram is one of the Panchabhoota Stalams signifying the 5 elements of wind water , fire , earth and space. The Moovar (Sambandar, Appar and Sundarar) as well as Manikkavacakar have sung praises of Chidambaram. Several literary works praise the glory of Chidambaram.Linkage
Chidambaram Tours and Travel, is 250 Kms south of Chennai. It is on the railway main line. Roughly this is in the middle, between Chennai and Tiruchirapalli. Chidambaram can be reached by bus. Bus routes connect this town to various places in Tamil Nadu.Glory of the legend !
This temple was concealed behind the veil of mystery for centuries,but its known sublimity in records begins with the visit of Hiranya Chakravarthi of Kashmir around 500 A.D. The king is believed to have been cured of his leprosy with a single dip in the temple pushkarini, Sivaganga thirtham . The four eminent saiva acharyas Appar, Sambandar, Sundarar and Manikkavachakar are bonded with this holy temple and produced master pieces eulogising their respective paths - Charya, Kriya, Yoga and Gnana. This kshetra is said to have given 'moksha' (liberation) to infinite devotees - notable amongst them are Nandanar, Tirunilakandanayanar, Vyagrapada, Patanjali.On the map of the Tamilian heart !
Chidambaram is located 235 Kms from Chennai (Madras), Tamilnadu State, South India and 43 Kms from Cuddalore (Cuddalore District Headquarters).Meenakshi Temple Tour and Madurai Pilgrimage India Tamilnadu
Taj Garden Retreat
Address: Pasumalai, No. 40 T.P.K. Road, , Madurai
Location: City Center
Property Type: Business And Leisure Hotel
Accessibility: Airport: 15KM.
Location: City Center
Property Type: Business And Leisure Hotel
Accessibility: Airport: 15KM.
Pandyan Hotel
Address: Race Course, , Madurai
Location: City Center
Property Type: Business And Leisure Hotel
Accessibility: Airport: 15KM., Bus Stand: 5KM., Railway Station: 4KM.
Location: City Center
Property Type: Business And Leisure Hotel
Accessibility: Airport: 15KM., Bus Stand: 5KM., Railway Station: 4KM.
About Meenakshi Temple India
In one of the largest temple complexes in India, from her rambling maze-like palace the Goddess Meenakshi presides over the ancient city of Madurai-the Athens of South India. But for older than the city itself is the nucleus of the temple. Far older than that, the faith that the Meenakshi temple (Travel & Tourism) signifies.The grandeur of the Meenakshi Temple has remained undiminished for the past two thousand years. This sprawling and awe-inspiring temple complex is not only a marvel of architecture but also a veritable treasure trove of Indian culture and civilization. It is also one of the largest temple complexes in India.
The 'city of virtue' is one of the most ancient heritage sites of India truly reflective of the cultural ethos of India. Madurai is closely associated with the literary wealth of Classical and Modern Tamil. The crowning glory of this historic city is the sprawling Meenakshi Sundareswarar Temple. Four of the 6 major streams of the indigenous system of beliefs as codified by Sankaracharya (i.e. Saivism, Shaktism, Vaishnavism and the worship of Skanda) meet in this historic city during festive occasions when the entire region is transformed into a vast space of celebration.
The Gopuram ! Meenakshi Temple Tamilnadu
This magnificent temple complex sprawls over an area of 6 hectares. It also has 12 gopurams or gateways, ranging in height from 45 to 50 m, the tallest being the southern one. The southern gateway is beautifully proportioned and is nine stories high. Like the other gopurams, it is also crowded with the images
of gods, goddesses, gargoyles, and gryphons. Like the statues of classical Greece, the people who follow the ancient Dravidian culture of South India also paint their gods in brilliant colors. Thus, one can experience a myriad of colors atop these gateways.
Accessibility to Madurai Meenakshi Temple !
Madurai has daily flights from Madras (Chennai) and four times a week from Bangalore. It is an important railway junction on the Southern Railway network. It is connected, through Madras (Chennai), to major centers in India. It is also connected to the major towns and cities in Tamil Nadu by bus.Murugan Temple Tours in Chennai
Le Royal Meridien
Address: 1, GST Road, St. Thomas Mount , Chennai
Location: Suburban
Property Type: Business And Leisure Hotel
Location: Suburban
Property Type: Business And Leisure Hotel
Taj Coromandel
Address: 17, Mahatma Gandhi Road, Nungambakkam , Chennai
Location: City Center
Property Type: Business And Leisure Hotel
Location: City Center
Property Type: Business And Leisure Hotel
About Murugan Temple
Tirupporur (place of the sacred war) is one of the 33 major Temples of Tamilnadu dedicated to Lord Muruga, situated 25-km away from Chingleput and 45-km from Chennai. Tirrupporur is an ancient temple dating back to the Pallava period. Tirupporur is an ancient temple dating back to the Pallava period and is one of 33 major Temples in Tamil Nadu dedicated to the worship of Murugan. Tirupporur is situated 25 kilometers northeast of Chingleput and is connected by bus service with Chennai at a distance of 45 kilometers.The Legend
There are many legends related to Tirupporur according to one, Lord Vishnu and his consort Lakshmi were subjected to the curse of Kanva rishi. In order to liberate them from its effects Lord Shiva came to this place and relieved them from its effects.Hence Tirupporur temple has a lot of significance where Lord Shiva and his son Muruga (also spelt as Murugan) are worshipped. The Sthalapurana also discloses that Lord Muruga with his consorts Valli and Devayanai granted protection to devas and expounded the meaning of Pranava to Agastya Muni at this place.
According to legend, Skanda enunciated the principle of pranava or reality to the devas here. The very concept of Pranavam is said to have worshipped Skanda here, and the hill behind the temple is known as "Pranava Malai". Legend also has it that Vishnu worshipped Shiva on the Pranava Hill. Legend also has it that Skanda worshipped Shiva as "Vanmeekeswara" to rid himself of the sin of having killed Soorapadman. Another legend has it that Skanda enunciated the principle of pranava or reality to the devas here. The very concept of Pranavam is said to have worshipped Skanda here, and the hill behind the temple is known as "Pranava Malai". Lord Vishnu worshipped Shiva on the Pranava hill. Legend also has it that Skanda worshipped Shiva as Vanmeekeswara to rid himself of the sin of having killed Soorapadman.
Links :
» Air : Nearest airport is Meenambakkam in Chennai; it operates both national and international flights.» Rail : The nearest railway station is at Chennai, which is a major junction.
» Road : Tourists can access Tirupporurur by road either from Chennai or Chengalpattu. Private taxis and regular buses ply from Chennai and Chengalpattu to Tirupporurur.
About The Temple :
This temple enshrines Skanda in several forms relating to legends from the Skanda Puranam. The foremost of these is the depiction of Skanda as a warrior, "Samhara Subramanya". He is also enshrined in the form of a child, expounding the meaning of the oneness of creation Om to his father Lord Shiva.Rameshwaram Temple Tours in India
Hotel Royal Park
Address: Semma Madam, Ramnad highway, Rameswaram
Location: Ramnad Highway
Property Type: Hotel Royal Park is a unit of World Park Hotels.
Accessibility: Madurai Airport-190 km, Nearest Railway Station-2 km
Location: Ramnad Highway
Property Type: Hotel Royal Park is a unit of World Park Hotels.
Accessibility: Madurai Airport-190 km, Nearest Railway Station-2 km
Maharajah Hotel
Address: Near the main temple, 7 Middle street, Rameswaram
Location: City Centre
Property Type: Hotel Maharaja is one of the most economy hotel of Rameshwaram.
Accessibility: Madurai Airport- 160 km, Nearest Railway Station- 130 km
Location: City Centre
Property Type: Hotel Maharaja is one of the most economy hotel of Rameshwaram.
Accessibility: Madurai Airport- 160 km, Nearest Railway Station- 130 km
Rameshwaram Temple Tour in Tamilnadu
Pilgrimage tour to Tamil Nadu is incomplete without taking a trip toRameshwaram. One of the most sacred place in the city, Rameshwaram temple awaits thousands of pilgrims every year. It is believed whosoever visit Varanasi, is supposed to take Rameshwaram Tamil Nadu Temple Tour to complete his pilgrimage.Legends Associated To Rameshwaram Temple
Plan for Rameshwaram temple tour to know the legendary tale related to this world renowned holy shrine. The legends believes, Lord Rama offered prayers to Shiva in form of the a Shiva Lingam, on his return to Ayodhya. The lingam was made of earth by Sita, consort of Lord Rama. This Shiva lingam is now popularly known as Ramalingam.History of Rameshwaram Temple
Sprawling in an area of 15 acres, the ancient was only a small hut until the 12 th century. The first masonry structure was built by Parakrama Bahu of Sri Lanka. Later on, rest of building was designed under the regime of Setupathy rulers. Vimaanams of the holy shrine resembles a lot with Vimaanams of the Pallava period. Most of the temple was structured from 12 th century to 16 th century A.D. In the 18 th century AD, long corridor were made in the temple complex. Apart from that, powerful kingdoms of Ramanathapuram, Pudukkottai and Mysore also offered valuable patronage to this renowned Hindu temple.
Architecture of Rameshwaram Temple
Take a Tamil Nadu Rameshwaram Temple Tour to marvel the outstanding architecture of this majestic temple. One of the most sacred shrines of Hindus, Rameshwaram temple is among the 12 Jyotirlingams of India. The stupendous shrine is adorned with huge Gopurams, Nandi and monolithic walls. The corridor measuring 4000 feet with over 4000 pillars is said to be the longest in the world. Rajagipuram on the eastern side is 126 feet long and has nine levels. An impressive image of Nandi placed inside the temple is 22 feet in length and 18 feet tall.Festivals in Rameshwaram Pilgrimage Temple
Two major festivals are celebrated by devotees, with great grandeur and enthusiasm at this scared shrine. The annual festival known as Bhrammotsavams is held in the Tamil months of Aadi and Maasi. Another festival celebrated in the temple is Rama's worship in the month of Aani.Tourist Information for Rameshwaram Temple Tour
» Air link: Nearest airport is at Madhurai (167 km).» Rail link: Rameshwaram is connected by rail directly to Chennai, Madurai, Trichy and Coimbatore.
» Road Link: Rameshwaram is connected by regular bus services with Chennai 666 km, Kanyakumari 320 km, Madurai 167 km, Sivaganga 136 km and Ramanathapuram 55 km. It is also just 24 Km from the Sri Lanka.
Rameshwaram to Kanyakumari
A number of pilgrims who visit Rameshwaram also pay a visit to another temple destination - Kanyakumari. Here a the main temple is dedicated to Kanya Devi, an avatar of Goddess Parvati, who is worshipped here as the virgin goddess. If you too want to visit Kanyakumari from Rameshwaram, there are a number of tour packages on offer. Driving all by yourself from Rameshwaram to Kanyakumari is also a good option. The distance between the two destinations is around 320 kms and the condition of the road is quiet good except for the monsoons when other options to reach Kanykumari should definitely be checked out. There are also trains that run from Rameshwaram to Kanyakumari that you can take.Kanyakumari Temple Tour and Pilgrimage Destination in Tamil Nadu
Hotel Singaar International 
Address: 5/22, Main Road, , Kanyakumari
Location: City Center
Property Type: Business And Leisure Hotel
Accessibility: Airport: 92KM., Railway Station: 0.5KM., Bus Station: 1KM.
Location: City Center
Property Type: Business And Leisure Hotel
Accessibility: Airport: 92KM., Railway Station: 0.5KM., Bus Station: 1KM.
The horizon of faith !
Kanyakumari was once referred to as the Alexandria of the east. This place has been a great center for art, culture, civilization, and pilgrimage for years. It was also a famous center for commerce and trade. During the early part of the eighth century AD Islam entered the southern part of India through the sea route with traders and missionaries. Through St. Thomas, one of the twelve Apostles of Christ, Christianity arrived in this area in AD 52. Islam, Christianity and Jainism have greatly contributed to the architectural wealth and literary heritage of this place. Kanyakumari was also under the control of the Cholas, the Cheras, the Pandyas and the Nayaks who were great rulers of south India. The architectural beauty of the temples is the work of these rulers.Legend has it that Kanya Devi, an avatar of Goddess Parvati, was to wed Lord Shiva, the destroyer in the Hindu trinity. But he did not turn up at the auspicious time and the wedding never took place. The rice and cereals meant for the marriage remained uncooked. Even today, one can buy stones there that look exactly like rice and cereals. Local folks believe that they are the leftovers of the legendary marriage that could not be solemnized. As for the princess Kanya Devi, she became a virgin goddess
» The Temple : The main entrance to the temple is through the northern gate though the deity is facing east. The eastern entrance is kept closed except on special occasions when the deity is taken out for ceremonial bath.
Three corridors surround the sanctum. The outer corridor has no special shrines, but after a walk round it the devotees cross the 'Navarathiri mandapam' and a pathway leads to the second corridor encircling the shrine. There stands the flag mast or 'Kodisthambam'. From here you can have a clear view of the Goddess. A move further forward will take you in front of the sanctum.
» Main Festivals and Opening Times : The main festivals are held in the Tamil month of Vaikasi (May/June) and the Navarathri festival in September/October.
The temple is open to the public from 4.30 AM to 11.45 AM and 5.30 PM to 8.45 PM. Male worshippers are required to remove their shirts before entering the temple.
Chayavaneashwara Temple Tour and Attractions
Hotel Sangam
Address: Post Box No. 91, Collector's Office Road , Trichy
Location: City Center
Property Type: Business And Leisure Hotel
Accessibility: Airport: 7KM., Bus Station: 0.1KM., Railway Station: 1KM.
Location: City Center
Property Type: Business And Leisure Hotel
Accessibility: Airport: 7KM., Bus Station: 0.1KM., Railway Station: 1KM.
Royal Southern Hotel
Address: Race Course Road, Khajamalai, , Trichy
Location: City Center
Property Type: Business And Leisure Hotel
Accessibility: Airport: 1.5KM., Bus Station: 2.5KM., Railway Station: 2.5KM.
Location: City Center
Property Type: Business And Leisure Hotel
Accessibility: Airport: 1.5KM., Bus Station: 2.5KM., Railway Station: 2.5KM.
Dedicated to: Lord Shiva
Offer the tender petals of reverence
About a mile away the confluence of River Kaveri with the sea, known as Kaveri- patnam, and two miles from Tiruvengadu, there exists an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Siva revered as Chayavaneswarar. The place is known as Chaikadu (Chayavanam).Religious anchorage Much ecclesiastical adherance is anchored to this temple and the pilgrims after sanctification at the confluence of worship of Lord Chayavaneswara seek his blessings. According to Hindu religious rites an ablution at the concourse of a river with the sea is considered religiously meritorious.
Chayavaneashwara Temple - The legendary Saga !
The temple near Chennai achieved legendary relevance for its bondage with Iyarpagai Nayanar, one of the sixty-three Nayanmars or Saivite saints of the South. The legend says that the Nayanar used to spend all his wealth for temples, feeding sadhus and other virtuous entreaties."It so happened that once an old man approached him with the very absurd request to send his (Nayanars) wife to him as a gift. Without hesitation Iyarpagai Nayanar satisfied the desire of the old man. But this created commotion among his relatives, who never appreciated such a gift. However socially degrading it may be, he insisted upon his wife to follow the sadhu and she did so. The old man transformed into Lord Shiva, praised the Nayanar for his unstinted devotion towards Saivite saints and blessed him with liberation", as the legend reveals!. Lord Shiva tests the profoundness of devotion of his followers and rewards them when they stand the 'test of faith'.
Connectivity to Chayavaneashwara Temple Near Chennai
The nearest airport is located in Chennai. Railway lines easily reach the temple from Shiyali, Vaitheeswaran Koil, Semponnar Koil and Akkur railway stations on the Chennai- Mayavaram line. Besides this Tiruvengadu is well connected through roads.Reside in the world of spiritual harmory !
Accommodation is available at the choultries located near the temple premises.Krishnapuram Temple Tour in Tamilnadu Tourism
Hotel Nainaar
Address: Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu
Location: India
Property Type: Business And Leisure Hotel
Location: India
Property Type: Business And Leisure Hotel
Janakiram Hotel
Address: Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu
Location: India
Property Type: Business And Leisure Hotel
Location: India
Property Type: Business And Leisure Hotel
About Krishnapuram Temple
Krishnapuram is a small village situated in Tirunelveli District at a distance of about six miles from Tirunelveli town. There are a plenty of images and idols of sculptural interest in the temple, enticing hundreds of visitors. Lord Venkata- Chalapathy has been installed here with Sri Devi and Bhoo Devi. Pujas and abhishekam are being conducted to the Lord daily and some important festivals are celebrated every year (Krishnapuram Tour India).Images of rare workmanship !
There are many impressive images of ingenious and exquisite workmanship in the mandaparn, which is just opposite the presiding deity. One of the pillars represents the story of the adventure of Bhimasena with Purushamrigam. To fulfil the ritual at an important yagna, Yudhishthira required the milk of Purushamrigam, a half-man, half-beast denizen of the forests, this creature is a devoted Siva bhakta and Bhimasena achieved his purpose when it was in deep penance.Krishnapuram's lithic images are unique in nature than that of others found in other temples. They are very vivacious. Life seems to overflow the river of sculptures. This temple can be referred as touch stone for art critics. This kind of liveliness can only be seen here and not elsewhere.
Festivals of the temple !
» Vaikasi Visagam (May - June) Enormous devotees numbering about two lakhs will participate in the festival. The procession of Sri Jayanthinathar with Valli and Deivanai is conducted during night and Tourist Places to See Krishnapuram» Skanda Sasti festival - 7 days (October - November) Devotees numbering about 5 lakhs will participate in the above festival. On this festival occasion devotees fast for all six days. On the sixth day Surasamharam is demonstrated. On the 7th day Thirukkalyanam to Deivanai is celebrated in a grand manner
The name of the village !
This village is named after the King Kumar Krishnappa Naicker son of Viswanatha Kumarappa Naicker, the greatest among Naicker kings. Earlier, this place was called Venkatapuram. Later it was named after Krishnappa Naicker who had constructed the temple and called as Krishnapuram. Some may say it is named after the Vijaya Nagar King Krishna Devarayar.Kumbeswara Temple Pilgrimage Tour
A.M.S Hotel
Address: 9, Head Post Office Road,
Location: Kumbakonam, Tamilnadu, India
Property Type: Business And Leisure Hotel
Location: Kumbakonam, Tamilnadu, India
Property Type: Business And Leisure Hotel
Hotel Pandiyan
Address: 52, Sarangapani East Sannathi,
Location: Kumbakonam, Tamilnadu, India
Property Type: Business And Leisure Hotel
Location: Kumbakonam, Tamilnadu, India
Property Type: Business And Leisure Hotel
Kumbeswara Temple
This is the largest and the oldest Shiva temple located in the center of the town of Kumbakonam. The presiding deity of this temple is Lord Kumbeswara and the presiding Goddess is Sri Mangalambigai. There is a shrine dedicated to Adi Vinayaka (Lord Ganesh).Kumbeswara Temple Kumbakonam - History unfurls !
Kumbeswara, HistoryA Chola King built the Kumbeswara Temple and the temple building itself would seem to have been renovated by the Nayak King. Some of the old images like "Sri Ambal", "Sri Durgaiamman" and "Sri Kirathamoorti" bear the impress of the antiquity about them.Festive zeal in Kumbeswara Temple Kumbakonam
Festivals of Kumbeswarar, The great Mahamaham festival celebrated in honour of Lord attracts lakhs of people from far and wide and it takes place once in 12 years. It is celebrated on the conjunction of the moon with the Mahanakshatra and Jupiter crosses one Rasi or sign in about one year. It comes to Simha Rasi or Leo every 13th year and it is considered specially sacred. It is believed that on this auspicious day the tank receives supplies of water from the Ganges and eight other holy rivers and all the deities are said to remain present here on that occasion.The Lord has a number of festivals round the year. Every year in the month of 'Maasi' (February-March) a festival is conducted and the image of Lord Kumbeswara is taken out in a procession. It is celebrated for 10 days during that period.
Others include, Theppam festival during Panguni (March - April), Sapthathanam during Chitirai month (April - May). During this festival Lord's idol will be carried in a palanquin to the nearby villages. Marriage festival for Lord Adikumbeswara and Goddess Mangalambigai is conducted in the month of 'Vaikasi' (May - June). Daily pujas are conducted six times from morning to evening and also Kumbakonam Tour
Kumbeswarar Temple Kumbakonam Timings
The Kumbeswarar Temple is kept open from 5:30 in the morning and stays so till 12:00 in the noon. The temple usually remains closed during the noon hours, and reopens in the evening at 4:00 p.m. The Kumbeswarar Temple closes in the night after the last pujas are performed by 8:00 p.m.Swamimalai Temple Tour and Famous Festivals
A.M.S Hotel
Address: 9, Head Post Office Road,
Location: Kumbakonam, Tamilnadu, India
Property Type: Business And Leisure Hotel
Location: Kumbakonam, Tamilnadu, India
Property Type: Business And Leisure Hotel
Hotel Pandiyan
Address: 52, Sarangapani East Sannathi,
Location: Kumbakonam, Tamilnadu, India
Property Type: Business And Leisure Hotel
Location: Kumbakonam, Tamilnadu, India
Property Type: Business And Leisure Hotel
About Swamimalai Temple
Swamimalai is one of the six renowned abodes of Lord Subramanya. The temple is built on an artificial hill and is approached by a flight of steps. The presiding deity is worshipped as Swaminathan.The temple has three 'gopuram' with three 'praharam'. The 'gopuram' on the south side of the temple is decorated with statues and contains five storeys while the other two entrances have no towers above them.
Swamimalai is a sylvan village, located about five kilometers west of Kumbakonam on the banks of a tributary of river Cauvery. The temple is situated in close proximity to the bus stand and the railway station is about two kilometers away. It is well connected to and circumscribed by important Place to See like Kumbakonam, Tiruvidaimarutur, Mayiladuthurai, Papanasam, Tanjavur etc, Tour to Swamimalai Temple India
Mythology and History
Swamimalai is fourth among the six padai veedu or sacred shrines built to offer reverence to Lord Muruga. The presiding deity here expounded the inference of the Pranava mantra OM to his own Father Lord Siva Himself.Mythology says that saint Bhrugu before begining an arduous Mythology says that saint Bhrugu before commencing an arduous tavam or penance, got the blessing that anybody disturbing his mediation will forget all his knowledge. Such was the power of the penance that the holy fire emanating from the head of the saint reached up to the heavens, and the frightened devas surrendered to Lord Siva praying for his grace. The Lord extinguished the sacred fire by covering the saint's head by hand. With the saint's penance thus disturbed the Lord became oblivious of all his knowledge and is said to have regained them by learning the Pranava mantra from Lord Muruga at this shrine.
Once when Brahma, the lord of all creations was proceeding to Kailasa, the ever-playful child Lord Muruga asked him for the meaning of the Pranava OM.
Pujas and Festivals
Daily pujas to the deities are performed six times a day (six kalams). Usha Kalam, Kalasandhi and Uchikala poojas are performed in the forenoon and the afternoon poojas begining from Sayaratchai and Rendam kalam are concluded with Arthajama pooja in the night.The important festivals conducted in the temple are :
- Monthly Kirutikai festival
- Temple Car festival in April
- Visakam festival in May
- Navaratri festival in May
- Skanda Shashti festival in October
- Tiru Karthikai festival in Nov/December
- Taippucam festival in January; and
- Pankuni Uttiram festival in March
St Stephen's Church in Ooty Tamilnadu Tourism
Holiday Inn Gem Park Ooty
Address: Sheddon Road, , Udagamandalam
Location: Suburban
Property Type: Business And Leisure Hotel
Location: Suburban
Property Type: Business And Leisure Hotel
Hotel Sinclairs
Address: Gorishala Road, Post Box No. 81 , Udagamandalam
Location: Suburban
Property Type: Business And Leisure Hotel
Location: Suburban
Property Type: Business And Leisure Hotel
About St. Stephen's Church
Location: Mysore Road, Ooty, TamilnaduConsecrated On: November 5, 1830
Famous As: One of the oldest Churches the Nilgiris, Tamilnadu
The St. Stephen's Church, located on the Mysore road, near the Collectorate,is one of the oldest churches in the Nilgiris. It dates back to the days of Rt. Hon'ble Stephen Rumbold Lushington, the then Governor of Madras, who keenly felt the need for a cathedral exclusively for the British, in Ooty.He laid the foundation for the church on April 23, 1829, to coincide with the birthday of King George IV. St. Stephen's Church was consecrated by Rt. Rev. Turner, Bishop of Calcutta, on November 5,1830,and was given the name of the Governor since he was the driving force behind it. It was thrown open to public communion on Easter Sunday-April 3,1831.
St. Stephen's Church Ooty - An Inside View
The church has a fine pew with a raised chancel. There are stained-glass painting on the eastern side as well as behind the chancel depicting Mary holding baby Jesus in her arms and the crucifixion of Christ among others. On the Western wall, above the panelled doorways, is a large life-like painting of the Last Supper. The vestry is in the cellar down the chancel. The pulpit is on the left of the chancel and attached to it is a small flight of steps. A pleasant surprise awaits one in the attic of the third tier of the church. Here, instead of the big metallic bell, one comes across novel but antique hammer like structures (four in number) tied on to inverted "V" Shaped planks, with ropes. There are four thick iron bars on the Eastern as well as the Western side screwed on to thick wooden beams and they hang from above at different heights in a slanting fashion, and face each other. There are pulleys attached with solid wires, which operate the hammers, and which reach the ground floor through the gaps in between the planks on the floor. The entire structure is housed on a tall, sturdy stool, which is open on all the fourth sides. When the wires are pulled from the floor, a rhythmic musical sound is produced.St. Stephen's Church Ooty - Church Facts
In 1947 St. Stephen's Church Ooty came under the Church of South India. It bestows pastoral care not only on the local parish but also on the member of the planting community. The chaplain holds services regularly in the tea estates. An Anglo-Indian orphanage was maintained for long but it was wound up with the starting of the St.George Home in Keti.For the first time, an Indian chaplain, Rev. M. Dorai was appointed in June 1981. Till then it was the British who were chaplains. The last British chaplain was Rev. John White. The 150th anniversary of the church was celebrated in April 1981.
Airavatheeswara Temple Tour and Attractions
Anandham Swamimalai
Address: Thimmakudy Agraharam, Baburajapuram Post, Thanjavur
Location: Located on the bank of Cauvery river near Tanjore
Accessibility: Trichy Airport: 91.0 KM, Kumbakonam Railway Station: 4.0 KM
Location: Located on the bank of Cauvery river near Tanjore
Accessibility: Trichy Airport: 91.0 KM, Kumbakonam Railway Station: 4.0 KM
Ideal River View Resort
Address: Vennar river Bank, Pali Agraharam, Thanjavur
Location: Located 3 km away from Thanjavur city.
Accessibility: Tiruchirapalli Airport: 58 km
Location: Located 3 km away from Thanjavur city.
Accessibility: Tiruchirapalli Airport: 58 km
About Airavatheeswara
Location: Dharasuram, 34 kms from ThanjavurBuilt By: Raja Raja II, 1150- 1173 AD
The Chola architecture, as manifested in the various monuments, came into full flowering in the district of Tanjore. One such living monument is the temple of Airavatheeswara located at Dharasuram. The temple, constructed by Raja Raja II, 1150- 1173 AD, has now been recognised as a world heritage monument by the UNESCO. The Airavatheeswara temple is an outstanding creative achievement in the architectural conception of the pure form of the Dravida type temple, Tour to Airavatheeswara Temple India
A Gaze at the Airavatheeswara Temple
» The StructureThe vimanam of the Airavatheeswara temple rises to a height of 23 meters. The sanctum sanctorum is nirandhra- that is, without the circumambulatory passage. There is an ardha Mandapam, and a 100-pillared Maha Mandapam.
» Sculptural Marvels
The outer walls of the Maha Mandapam and the garba griha have exquisite sculptures. Apart from these, the inside of the Maha Mandapam, the pillars supporting the Maha Mandapam as well as the walls of the prakara (enclosure) have beautifully-carved panels.
For instance, in the south-west corner of the prakara, a lady's acrobatics have been chiselled out to represent four in one. The statue of Annapoorani in the ardha Mandapam is a marvellous piece of sculpture, the face aglow in a smile, the left hand carrying a brass vessel and the right, a lotus. The ratha-like side projections on the eastern and western sides of the Maha Mandapam are characteristic of 12 other Chola temples, like in Tiruvarur, Chidambaram and Melakadambur. The wheels and spokes are very delicately carved.
» Music Of the Stones
Most enchanting, though, are the musical notes that rise from the tread stones inside the Nandi enclosure in front of the Airavatheeswara temple-they are melodious testimony to the superb engineering skills of master craftsmen of a bygone era.
Connectivity
Thanjavur has road links to all major cities. Connected by rail with Trichy, Madurai, Nagercoil, and Chennai directly. The nearest airport, Tiruchirapalli, is 58 kms and Tourist Places to See TamilnaduStaying
Tourists can unpack at the various hotels available in Thanjavur.Kailasamundaiyar Temple Tours and Pilgrimage Travel
Hotel Sangam
Address: Post Box No. 91, Collector's Office Road , Trichy
Location: City Center
Property Type: Business And Leisure Hotel
Accessibility: Airport: 7KM., Bus Station: 0.1KM., Railway Station: 1KM.
Location: City Center
Property Type: Business And Leisure Hotel
Accessibility: Airport: 7KM., Bus Station: 0.1KM., Railway Station: 1KM.
Royal Southern Hotel
Address: Race Course Road, Khajamalai, , Trichy
Location: City Center
Property Type: Business And Leisure Hotel
Accessibility: Airport: 1.5KM., Bus Station: 2.5KM., Railway Station: 2.5KM.
Location: City Center
Property Type: Business And Leisure Hotel
Accessibility: Airport: 1.5KM., Bus Station: 2.5KM., Railway Station: 2.5KM.
About Kailasamundaiyar Temple
Location: Temple around Trichy, Cholamadevi, 12 kms away from TrichycityBuilt in: 1065 AD
Presiding Deity: Lord Siva
Amidst the lush green paddyfields and sylvan surrounding on the northern banks of the Uyyakondan channel in a sleepy hamlet named Cholamadevi near Thiruverumbur, 12 km away from Trichy City, stands a dilapidated temple. But for a trained eye, the historical importance of its majestic ruins wouldn't go unnoticed. The Kailasamundaiyar temple, dating back to the 11th century, is a virtual treasure house of historic information pertaining to the Cholas. The adhistana and the walls of the temple are fully covered with inscriptions belonging to the periods of Raja Raja Chola I, Rajendra Chola I and Vira Rajendra Chola I. A majority of the inscriptions belong to Raja Raja I. Further, the inscriptions contain the earliest known reference to Sankara Bhashyam, a commentary on Sankara's philosophy, written by Chidaananda Bhattaara. The inscription is in Tamil with a few Sanskrit words in between written in Grantha characters.
Structure of the Kailasamundaiyar Temple
Apart from the importance of the inscription, the Kailasamundaiyar temple itself is rated as an architectural marvel and built as per specifications of the Silpa Shasthra. The Siva temple consists of a central shrine, ardha and Mahamandapas. The presiding deity, the Linga has a square base. The four-pillared ardhamandapa has exquisite in the front. Two dwarapala sculpture adorn the entrance of the ardhamandapa.A Closer View
A unique feature of the temple is the innumerable panel sculptures on almost every stone, which has gone into its construction. Among the most eye catching carving are an image of Bhikshatana, a figure of a lady holding a ladle and a row of pots, Ganesha, Dakshinamurthy and a sculpture of Krishna caught in the act of stealing butter.Accessibility
Trichy is connected with Chennai, Sharjah, Kuwait, and Colombo by regular flights. Besides, excellent rail and road networks connect it with Chennai, Thanjavur, Madurai, Tirupati, Tuticorin, Bangalore, Coimbatore, Mysore, Kochi, Kanyakumari, and Mangalore.Staying
There are excellent accomodation facilities in and around Tiruchirapalli.Nageswaran Temple Tour Tamilnadu Tourism
A.M.S Hotel
Address: 9, Head Post Office Road,
Location: Kumbakonam, Tamilnadu, India
Property Type: Business And Leisure Hotel
Location: Kumbakonam, Tamilnadu, India
Property Type: Business And Leisure Hotel
Hotel Pandiyan
Address: 52, Sarangapani East Sannathi,
Location: Kumbakonam, Tamilnadu, India
Property Type: Business And Leisure Hotel
Location: Kumbakonam, Tamilnadu, India
Property Type: Business And Leisure Hotel
About Nageswaran Temple
Location: Kumbakonam, 36 kms from ThanjavurBuilt in: 1005 AD
The Tanjore District has a definite magic- a magic endowed by the towering presence of many ancient temples, built over 1000 years ago. One such temple is the Nageswaran Temple India, a place where where devotion, mythology and aesthetics form an ideal medley. Built around 1005 A.D, it is an outstanding symbol of Chola sculpture. It draws many foreigners keen to interpret the rock wall edicts and study the sculptures and also Tourist Place to See in Tamilnadu
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