Kuttralam Chitra Sabai Sivan Temple
Chitra Sabai Sivan Temple or the Hall of Painting is located at a walkable distance from the main falls of Coutrallam in Tenkasi District. The place is a treasure trove of beautiful mural art and hence the name Chitra Sabhai. It is one of the five locations where Lord Shiva is said to have performed his Cosmic Dance.
Pancha Sabhai
Pancha Sabhai refers to the temples of Lord Shiva located in Tamil Nadu. It marks the place where Lord Shiva performed the Cosmic Dance in the form Lord Nataraja. The five temples are found at Thiruvalangadu (Rathina Sabhai), Chidambaram (Por Sabhai), Madurai (Velli Sabhai), Tirunelveli (Thamira Sabhai) and Coutrallam (Chitra Sabhai). Each of the temple names is associated with a particular dance form or Thandavam of Lord Shiva.
Legend behind the temple
According to the legend, once there had been imbalance on Earth due to the multitude of crowd present to witness the marriage of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvathi in the Himalayas. At the Lord’s request, Sage Agastyar went southward to balance the instability. The sage came down to Coutrallam but was dejected that he was not able to witness the divine wedding. Lord Shiva, on understanding the sage’s desire, is said to have presented himself before the sage along with Goddess Parvathi. The Lord then performed the Thirupura Thandavam.
The Temple Structure
Chitra Sabai Sivan Temple is a rectangular structure with a wooden entrance and pyramid style of roofing.
The hall within the Sabha is classified broadly into two compartments in the form of two rings. The two rings are adorned with artistic mural paintings on the wall.
The paintings in the Sabha are of various sizes and represent some very beautiful stories. Some of the paintings found in the hall symbolize the history of Coutrallam, the divine wedding of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvathi, Lord Vishnu in a reclining posture (Anantha Sayanam), scenes from the epics Ramayana and Mahabharata and many other depictions of mural arts.
How to reach Chitra Sabai Sivan Temple
Chitra Sabhai Sivan Temple is located at a distance of around 7 kilometres from Tenkasi and around 65 kilometres from Tirunelveli. Tenkasi Railway Junction at a distance of around 7 kilometres connects the temple to all major cities in the State. Madurai Airport is the nearest airport at a distance of 161 kilometres from the temple.
Other Tourist Attractions in Kuttralam:
Sri Thirukutralanathar Temple, Kuttralam
Sri Kutralanathar temple, located adjacent to Coutrallam Main Falls is one of the prominent temples in Tamil Nadu. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Thirukutralam or Trikootachalam represents one of the five Pancha Sabhas of Lord Nataraja. The temple is located 7 kilometers from Thenkasi in Tirunelveli district.
The temple is maintained and administered by the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Department of the Govt. of Tamil Nadu.
Kutralanathar Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva worshipped as Sri Kutralanathar and his consort Goddess Parvathi worshipped as Kuzhalvoimozhi Amman. It is believed that the worship of Kutralanathar has been in practice since the Sanga period.
Legend behind the temple
According to the legend, the temple was originally a Vaishnava temple. At Lord Shiva’s request, Sage Agastyar went southward to balance the instability caused by the multitude of crowd present at the wedding of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvathi in the Himalayas. Sage Agastyar is believed to have converted the Vishnu shrine into a Shiva Lingam.
This temple is one of the Pancha Sabha Kshetram of Lord Shiva (in the form of Lord Nataraja) known as Chitra Sabha. The other four dance halls are found in Chidambaram, Madurai, Tiruvalankau and Tirunelveli. The Chithra Sabha or the hall of pictures located in a picturesque locale, 500 metres away from the temple is decked with hundreds of murals.
The Temple Deities
Kutralanathar temple is conch shaped and is referred to as Sangakkovil. The presiding deity Lord Shiva is worshipped in the temple as Kutralanathar and his consort Goddess Parvathi as Kuzhalvoi Mozhiamman. Lord Shiva shrine in the temple is a Swayambumurthi i.e it is self-manifested. There is a separate shrine for Lord Vishnu, Kasi Viswanathar, Kasi Visalakshi, Adi Parashakti, Tenkasi Kasi Viswanathar, Nellaiyappar Gandhimathi Ambal and Navagrahas. Lord Ganesha and Lord Murugan also grace this holy place.
Reference to Literature
Thrikooda Rasappa Kavirayar’s well known work Kutrala Kuravanji glorifies the shrine at Thiru Kutralam. The temple has been revered in two pathigams by Saint Tirugnanasambandhar of 7th century A.D. The four great poets Appar, Sundarar, Gnanasambandhar and Manikkavasahar have sung about this holy place.
Kutralanathar Temple Timings
The temple remains open from 6:00 AM to 12:00 Noon and from 4:30 PM to 8:00 PM.
Pooja Timings of Kutralanathar
| Pooja Details | Timings |
|---|---|
| Thiruvananthal | 6:00 AM |
| Uthayamarthandam | 7:00 AM |
| Vila Pooja | 8:00 AM |
| Sirukala Sandhi | 9:00 AM |
| Kala Sandhi | 10:00 AM |
| Uchikalam | 12:00 Noon |
| Sayaratchai | 6:00 PM |
| Arthajamam | 8:00 PM |
Kutralanathar Temple Festivals
The major festivals observed in the temple are:
- Vishu Festival – 10 days festival during the Tamil month of Chithirai (April-May)
- Brahmotsavam – 10 days festival during the Tamil month of Aippasi (October-November)
- Thiruvadhirai Festival – 10 days festival during the Tamil month of Margazhi (December-January)
- Navarathri Festival – 9 days festival during the Tamil month of Purattasi (September-October)
Other festivals observed in the temple include Adi Ammavasai, Avani Moolam, Aippasi Thirukalyanam, Kandha Shasti, Karthigai Deepam, Thai Maha Theppam, Maasi Sivarathri and Panguni Uthiram.
How to reach Kutralanathar Temple
Kutralanathar temple is located at a distance of 14 kilometres from Tenkasi bus station and 65 kilometres from Tirunelveli. Tenkasi Railway Junction at a distance of around 16 kilometres connects the temple to all major cities in the State. Madurai Airport is the nearest airport at a distance of 161 kilometres from the temple.
Other Tourist Attractions near Kuttralam:
Erwadi Village in Kilakkarai Taluk of Ramanathapuram District is the location of the grave and shrine of Qutb Sultan Syed Ibrahim Shaheed Badusha, the then ruler of Madinah Al Munawwara.
The Journey of Shaheed Badusha
Sultan Syed Ibrahim Shaheed is an 18th generation descendant of the Islamic prophet Mohammad. He was the king of Madinah when he began his journey to India in the early 12th century to spread Islam according to Muhammad’s wish. He had many followers from all over the Islamic community.
With an ultimare aim to spread Islam following the orders of his hereditary grandfather Muhammad, Shaheed Badusha started from Madina with his entire family. After encountering many difficulties while travelling by sea and through the forests on his way to India, Shaheed Badusha entered Kannanur in Kerala. Travelling via Kayalpattinam and Vaippar, he finally reached Bouthiramanickapattinam, now called Erwadi.
Shaheed Badshah, in his attempt to spread Islamic teachings, waged war against the Pandya ruler Thiru Pandian in Madurai and Vikrama Pandyan in Bouthiramanickapattinam. He won the battles, ruled the province for twelve years and spread Islam all over south Tamil Nadu.
The Erwadi Dargah
The main shrine in Ervadi is the holiest place in Tamil Nadu because it is mixed with the soil of Madinah. The graves of Emperor Sulthan Ibrahim Shaheed Badusha along with his kith and kin are found in the main Dargah campus. The Dargah premises also houses the holy graves of other important Shahudaas and in-laws of Badusha Sulthan Syed Ibrahim Shaheed. The main Dargah campus has a big mosque that can accommodate 10,000 pilgrims for every prayer-service.
The big hall of the shrine of Sulthan Syed IbrahimShaheed was constructed by Eiatibar Khan. The flag throne situated south of the main entrance of the Dargah is built surrounding the grave of Begum, wife of Eiatbar Khan. The main Dargah has three entrances.
The minaret of the mosque, around 250 feet, is a mammoth structure that adds to the impressive appearance of the Dargah. It also acts as a virtual lighthouse to the fisherman in Ervadi and the adjacent villages.
Urus Festival or Erwadi Santhanakoodu Festival
The Grand Urus Festival (Santhanakoodu Festival) of Erwadi Dargah is held every year in the Islamic month of Dhu al-Qi’Dah commemorating the shahadat anniversary of Qutb Sultan Syed Ibrahim Shaheed Badusha. The festival starts on 1st of Zul Qaida and ends on the 30th of Zul Qaida of every Hijri year.
This festival is celebrated by Hindus and Muslims as a mark of the religious harmony in Tamil Nadu. Millions of devotees throng the Dargah during the festival. It is also believed that people with satanic illness get cured after visiting the Ervadi Dargah.
How to reach Erwadi Dargah
Erwadi is well connected through road with all parts of Tamil Nadu. Frequent buses ply from Ramanathapuram to Erwadi. Ramanathapuram railway station (around 27 kilometres away) is the nearest station to Ervadi. Thoothukudi Airport (around 123 kilometres away) is the nearest airport from Ervadi Dargah.
Kodaikanal – The Princess of Hill Stations
Kodaikanal is a lovely lake town situated near Palani in the hills of Dindigul district of Tamil Nadu. It is popularly known as “The Princess of Hill Stations”. The name Kodaikanal in Tamil means “The Gift of the Forest”. However, the name has four more possible interpretations based on how it is pronounced in Tamil language. It is referred to as “a place to see in the summer” owing to its pleasant climate. It could also mean “the end of the forest” in a geographical sense as it is at the summit of Palani Hills. The place is also stated to mean “the forest of creepers/wine”
Major Attractions in Kodaikanal
Kodaikanal offers an array of places to visit according to one’s likings and preferences. Some of the major tourist attractions of Kodaikanal are:
Kodaikanal Lake
The Kodaikanal lake is an artificially created lake built in 1863 by Sir Vere Hendry. The lake covering 24-hectare is bordered by a 5 kilometre path. Boating, horse-rides, cycling, and a stroll along the lake are the highlights of this place.
Bryant Park
Bryant Park was landscaped by a British Army Officer, Glen Bryant. It is a well maintained botanical garden found east of the lake and 500 meters from the bus stand. It covers an area of 20.5 acres. The park is open throughout the year and offers a rainbow of flowers and ornamental plants. The Flower Show conducted during the month of May every year is a real treat for the eyes.
Coaker’s Walk, Kodaikanal
Running along the edge of steep slopes on the southern side of Kodaikanal is the 1-kilometre paved pedestrian path called the Coaker’s Walk, named after Lt. Coaker. It is at a distance of 500 meters from the bus stand. The place assures one of the best views extending to the Dolphin’s Nose in the south, the valley of Pambar River in the southeast, and the town of Periyakulam and Madurai.
Pine Tree Forest, Kodaikanal
Found southwest of Kodaikanal, Pine Forest is yet another prominent tourist spot of Kodaikanal. Here, one can witness the myriad of pine trees aligned to as far as our vision goes. The pine plantations was started by Mr. Bryant in the year 1906. Photographers and nature enthusiasts would simply love this place. Scenes from various Indian movies have been shot here.
Poombarai Village (Kuzhanthai Velappar Temple)
The scenic village of Poombarai is 15 kilometres from Kodaikanal bus stand. At the heart of Poombarai village is Kudhanthai Velappar Temple which comes under the administration of Palani Temple. The temple houses the shrine of Lord Murugan in standing posture and has a history of over three thousand years.
Green Valley View
The Green Valley View formerly called the Suicide Point is a little more than 5 kilometres from the bus stand. It offers a breathtaking view of the Vaigai Dam to the south. The valley below this point is very deep and goes down to around 5000 ft.
Shenbaganur Museum Kodaikanal
The museum also known as Fauna Flora Museum was established in 1895. It is at a distance of around 5 kilometres from the Lake. Tourists can witness over 300 species of exotic orchids and a phenomenal taxidermy collection of more than 500 species of animals, birds and insects. It’s a place best suited for people inclined towards science and facts.
Kodaikanal Solar Observatory Museum
Located 6 kilometres from the bus stand on Observatory Road at 2343 meters is the Kodaikanal Solar Observatory Museum. A grand panorama of Kodaikanal through the Terrestrial Telescope, the popular Astronomical Science Museum, Astronomy Library are some of the captivating attributes of this place.
Pillar Rocks View Point
A set of three giant pillars standing 122 meters high, 8 kilometres from the bus stand are the Pillar Rocks Viewpoint. The beautiful view from the rocks makes it a crowded place. You could also visit the public garden adjacent to the view point.
Guna Caves, Kodaikanal
Deep narrow chambers between the three giant Pillar Rocks is the Devil’s Kitchen, now known as the Guna Caves (named after the Tamil movie Guna). Its mystery and adventure has led to many tragic incidents in the past and hence entry inside the cave is now prohibited.
Silver Cascade Waterfalls, Kodaikanal
Experience a refreshing environment at the Silver Cascade Waterfalls. At a distance of 8 kilometres from Kodaikanal, this waterfall was formed from the outflow of Kodaikanal lake. It is a perfect stop-over to have a break while on your journey from Kodaikanal to Madurai.
Dolphin’S Nose View Point
A quiet retreat to experience the beautiful valley of Kodaikanal at its best would be The Dolphin’s Nose viewpoint. This viewpoint, as the name suggests, is based on a flat and protruding piece of rock similar to a dolphin’s nose. It’s a splendid way to experience the peace and tranquility in the atmosphere of a hill station.
Kurinji Andavar Murugan Temple
This Murugan temple, situated 4 kilometres from the bus stand, refers to Lord Murugan as the “God of Hill”. The area surrounding the temple is famous for Kurinji flower which blooms once in 12 years. You could have an amazing view of Palani and Vaigai Dam from this temple.
Berijam Lake
This viewpoint is 21 kilometres South West of Kodaikanal Lake. It is a reservoir that hosts many species of animals, birds, plants and fishes. Entry is restricted by the Forest Department between 9.30 a.m. and 3 p.m. It’s a perfect place for bird watching, amiable photography and for some quiet nature time.
Things to do in Kodaikanal
Apart from spending time in nature’s lap, Kodaikanal offers a host of other recreational activities such as cycling, pony rides, boating, trekking and angling. Ensure a safe and enjoyable trek with our comprehensive trekking gear checklist. Tourists can also shop for some quality Eucalyptus oil, homemade chocolates, plums and pears and woolen clothing.
Ideal time to visit Kodaikanal
You can visit Kodaikanal anytime during the year as the temperature is always moderate, however the best time would be in the months of April to June, September and October. Watch out for the Summer Festival that takes place every year in the month of May.
How to reach Kodaikanal
Buses are available from Madurai Aarappalayam bus stand and Batlagundu. Frequent buses are also available from Palani, Kodairoad and Dindigul. The nearest Railway Stations to Kodaikanal are – Palani Railway Station in the north (64 kilometres) , Kodaikanal Road Station down south (80 kilometres), Dindigul Junction in the east (100 kilometres) and Madurai Junction nearly to the east (114 kilometres). The nearest Airports are in Madurai, Coimbatore, Tiruchirapalli and Tuticorin.
Best Hotels to stay in Kodaikanal
Looking for the best hotels in Kodaikanal? Our guide highlights top-rated accommodations, including luxury resorts, family-friendly hotels, and budget-friendly options. Book your stay today!
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Ooty – The Queen of Hill Stations
The beautiful town of Udhagamandalam, popularly known as Ooty is located in the Nilgiris District of Tamil Nadu. It’s fascinating gardens and cottages, beautiful lakes and waterfalls, vast stretches of grasslands, lofty mountainous peaks and frosty weather makes it a lovely blend of adventure, beauty and romance.
Places to visit in Ooty
The small town of Ooty offers galore of attractive destinations.
Botanical Gardens
Botanical Gardens attract tourists from all over the world. The garden has an explicit collection of flowers, trees, beautiful shrubs and coloured lilies.
Ooty Lake & Boat House
Ooty Lake is behind the Central Bus stand and near to Ooty Railway station. Local ponies for jolly rides, boat races, children park, deer park are the means of entertainment for the visitors.
Rose Centenary Garden
Laid on 10 acres of land, situated in the heart of Ooty town is the enchanting Rose Centenary Garden. It is maintained by Tamil Nadu Horticulture Department. Its prominent features include the unusual colours and collection of roses that will simply captivate your senses. “Nila Maadam” is located in a spot from where visitors can see the entire rose garden.
Pykara Lake & Pykara Boat House
Pykara village is 19 kilometres from Ooty. Pykara Lake is a clean and scenic lake located between the hills. It is an isolated lake free from pollution and crowd.
Shooting Spots
The picturesque meadows found at 6 and 9 miles from Ooty town are the well-known Shooting Spots. This location has been a preferred location for Indian movies. A calm lake alongside the route leading to the viewpoint, surrounded by mountains and aligned by huge trees makes it an excellent picnic spot.
Avalanche Lake
Avalanche Lake derives its name from it being formed naturally due to a landslide back in 1823. This stunning spot is located at about 28 kilometres from Ooty. The lush green hillside landscape with clear water all around makes it a unique experience for tourists, especially for nature lovers.
Belikkal Lake
Belikkal lake is a popular tourist destination in Ooty. Spotting elephant, deer and tiger around the lake is very common, it being the source of drinking water for the wildlife living in the surrounding forest. It is also a nice spot for bird watching. Tourists can engage in trekking and hiking near the lake with the help of a proper guide.
Upper Bhavani Lake
A perfect getaway at around 48 kilometres from Ooty is the Upper Bhavani Lake. For people looking out for indulgence with nature, do not miss out on visiting the Upper Bhavani lake.
Sim’s Park
Sim’s Park is named after Mr. J.D. Sim, a former Secretary to the Government, who laid out the garden in 1874. The place has an exotic garden with many unique species of plants and shrubs. Tourists can witness the Annual Fruits and Vegetables show held every year in the month of May.
Nilgiris Mountain Railway
The Nilgiris Mountain Railway was built by the British in 1908. It is a 1000 mm metre gauge railway operated by the Southern Railway The train covers a distance of 26 kilometres connecting Ooty and Mettupalayam.
In July 2005, UNESCO declared the Nilgiris Mountain Railway as an extension to the World Heritage Site of Darjeeling Himalayan Railway. The train ride is a real delight to experience the tranquility and scenic atmosphere of Ooty.
Doddapetta Peak
Doddapeta meaning “a big mountain” is the highest peak located at 2637 meters in the Nilgiris Mountains. It is at a distance of 10 kilometres from Ooty covered by a reserved forest area around its peak. One could get an amazing view of the whole district from ‘The Telescopic House’ set up by the Tourism Department.
The Tea Factory & Tea Museum
The perfect aroma of tea could be found in Nilgiris District, home to the largest tea growing belts in India. Dodabetta Tea Factory at Coonoor was founded in 2005 and spreads out over an area of 1 acre of land. Adjacent to the Dodabetta Tea Factory is the Tea Museum.
Emerald Lake
Another very prominent tourist spot at Ooty is the Emerald Lake, located in Silent Valley in the Nilgiris District. It has a wonderful sun rise and sunset view and variety of birds in the locale. An ideal place for lovers of photography to soak in the natural beauty.
Things to do in Ooty:
Apart from visiting the spectacular locations, experiencing the joy of boating and the fun ride in the Nilgiri Mountain toy train, tourists also have the option of engaging in other entertaining activities such as fishing, golfing, horse racing and trekking. You could go shopping for handicrafts and woolen clothes. Homemade chocolates, tea, and spices are also very famous in Ooty.
Ideal time to visit Ooty
Ooty has a pleasant climate between the months of March to June. This constitutes the peak season for tourists to visit Ooty as you can venture out for sightseeing and have fun.
How to reach Ooty?
Ooty is well connected by road to major cities including Chennai, Coimbatore, Bangalore, Mysore, Calicut. By rail, Ooty is connected to Mettupalayam by narrow gauge and going forward is connected to Coimbatore. The nearest airport is Coimbatore at a distance of 104 kilometres.
Best Hotels to stay in Ooty
Looking for the best hotels in Ooty? Our guide highlights top-rated accommodations, including luxury resorts, family-friendly hotels, and budget-friendly options. Book your stay today!
Booking.comMadurai Corporation Eco Park is situated on the western side of Annamaligai at Madurai. It is a big park consuming an area of around 5.5 acres of land.
The park houses a variety of trees and plants. Out of the number of trees present here, 124 types of herbal trees are present. Public and Tourists can enjoy themselves when boating inside ECO park.
Four types of fiber illuminated types of trees are the best attractions other than the artificial fountain that is 110 feet tall. The Eco-park was developed by Madurai Corporation and is being maintained by the same from the beginning.
The public is charged a nominal entry fee to enjoy the place thoroughly. Go and see for yourself and be at peace on the bed of Nature.
Napier bridge in Chennai, built over Coovam river connects Fort St. George with Marina beach with span of 138m long. named after a Governor of Madras, Francis Napier.
The People of Chennai call it “Irumbu Varavadhi”. It is the oldest tied-arch structural bridge. The bridge is visible from Air when the plane approaches from the seaside and looks beautiful at night when it is fully lit.
It provides a gateway to the famous Marina Beach, the bridge now forms a striking image at night to re-enforce the efforts towards developing the city’s urban nightscape.
We can enjoy the breathtaking cityscape crystal clear view of Chennai from here. As part of the Marina Beach beautification project, special lights have been fixed beneath the bridge providing a visual effect as if the bridge is floating on the river water. A combination of lighting effects has been created on the arches and surface. It is being the prime icon of the city.
Overview
Chitrangudi Bird Sanctuary is a part of Chitrangudi village in Ramanathapuram District. It is a 4763 sq km protected declared as a sanctuary in the year 1989.
This sanctuary is adjacent to Kanjirankulam Bird Sanctuary and is also known by the name ‘Chitrangudi Kanmoli’. The sanctuary lies within the community tank embankment and its immediate water holding channel, measuring approximately 15 metres from the bottom of the embarkment.
Image Attribution :rajesh.udhayan
Fauna of Chitrangudi Sanctuary
This beautiful crescent shaped sanctuary attracts a host of migratory birds in winter. The place offers notable diversity in nestling and feeding behaviours and hence is a preferred nestling site for colonial birds and heronry species. Between October and February is the perfect time to spot the colourful winged creatures that flock the sanctuary from distant lands. The fauna population consists of Spot Billed Pelican, Open Billed Stork, Little and Large Egret and Purple heron.
Flora of Chitrangudi Sanctuary
The sanctuary is also rich in fauna with its distinctive feature being the prominent spread of Babul trees. Chitrangudi landscape is a predominantly dry deciduous forest with grassy trees. Some of the other trees such as that of Tamarind, Silk, Fig, Neem, Palmyra and drumsticks and medicinal plants can also be found in the area.
Epilogue
Chitrangudi Bird Sanctuary is open year-round and is a perfect weekend getaway to immerse oneself in the beauty of nature. Bird watching and refreshing nature walks are the best way to enjoy one’s time at the sanctuary.
Accommodation facilities are available at PWD Guest House at Mudukalathur (around 10 kilometres away), the Forest Rest House at Sayalgudi and Paramakudi
How to reach Chitrangudi Bird Sanctuary
Chitrangudi Bird Sanctuary can be reached by road from Mudukalathur (4 kilometres), Sayalgudi (12 kilometres), Ramanathapuram (45 kilometres) and Madurai (120 kilometres). The nearest railway station to the sanctuary is at Paramakudi (around 34 kilometres away) and nearest airport is at Madurai (around 96 kilometres away).
Kunthukal Beach, Vivekananda Memorial Hall, Pamban, Rameswaram
Kunthukal beach is located in a small fishing village named Kunthukal, which is nearly about 12 km from the Rameswaram. The crystal clear blue sea water with moderate tides makes this beach awesome.
Vivekananda Memorial Hall is located on the shores of Kunthukal Beach near Pamban. The Memorial was built to commemorate the return of Swami Vivekananda (to India on January 26, 1897 after his participation in ‘The Parliament of World Religions’ held in Chicago. Swami Vivekananda or Swamiji was the Indian Hindu monk who was the disciple of Indian mystic Sri Ramakrishna Paramahansa.
More about the Vivekanda Memorial Hall
- The Memorial was inaugurated on January 26, 2010. Before the memorial was built, the place had a pillar in remembrance of Swami Vivekananda.
- The memorial houses a 6-foot statue of Swami Vivekananda with Ramanathapuram King Baskara Sethupathi who had sponsored his visit to Chicago.
- The Memorial also has a spiritual library and meditation hall.
- The Memorial is located close to Kunthukal sea beach, around 15 kilometres from Rameswaram bus stop.
How to reach Kunthukal beach
Kunthukal is located at a distance of 12 kilomeTres from Rameswaram. Rameswaram is well connected by road and rail with Chennai, Madurai, Coimbatore, Trichy and other important cities. The nearest airport is at Madurai, 163 kilometres from Rameswaram.
Tourist Attractions near Kunthukal Beach:
- Pamban Bridge
- APJ Abdul Kalam Memorial – Rameswaram
- Ramanathaswamy Temple, Rameswaram
- Agni Theertham Beach
- Dhanushkodi
Uthirakosamangai Mangalanatha Swamy Temple in Ramanathapuram is a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is believed to be around 3000 years old. The temple is maintained and administered by the Hindu Religious and Endowment Board of the Government of Tamil Nadu.
More about Uthirakosamangai Mangalanatha Swamy Temple
- The temple has been revered in the hymns of 9th century saint Manickavasagar and by the 15th century Tamil poet Arunagirinathar.
- Lord Shiva shrine in the temple in Lingam form is a Swayambumurthi i.e it is self-manifested.
- The temple is believed to have been built by the Pandya Kings Achutappa Nayak, Muthuveerappar and other kings of Ramanathapuram at various times.
- The name Uthirakosamangai is derived from the Tamil terms, Uthiram meaning ‘secrets’, Kosam meaning ‘to say’ and Mangai meaning ‘Parvati’. It is believed that this is the place where Lord Shiva transferred the secrets of Vedas to Parvati.
- The shrines in the temple include that of Mangalanathar (Lord Shiva), Mangalambigai (Goddess Parvati) and Natarajar (Emerald statue). The idol of Natarajar is 6 feet tall and is made of Maragatha (a rare emerald).
- The deity is worshipped using Thazhambu or Screw pine flower.
Uthirakosamangai Mangalanatha Swamy Temple Timings
The temple is open from 6:00 AM to 11:00 AM and from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM.
How to reach Uthirakosamangai Mangalanatha Swamy Temple
Uthirakosamangalam Temple is at a distance of 17 kilometres from Ramanathapuram. The nearest railway station is at Ramanathapuram. Madurai Airport, at a distance of 110 kilometres from the temple, is the nearest airport.
Other Popular Tourist Attractions in Ramanathapuram
- Ramanathaswamy Temple, Rameswaram
- Agni Theertham, Rameswaram
- Pamban Bridge, Rameswaram
- Dhanushkode, Rameswaram
- Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Memorial, Rameswaram
- Devipattinam, Navashabashanam
- Aadhi Jaganatha Perumal Temple – Thiruppullani (about 10 kilometres from Ramanathapuram)
- Erwadi Dargah, Kilakkarai
