Overview of Ramanathaswamy Temple, Rameswaram
Ramanathaswamy Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and is located on Rameswaram Island in Ramanathapuram district. The temple has been built in Dravidian style of architecture.
Ramanathaswamy Temple forms a prominent pilgrimage centre for followers of Hinduism.
The Legend behind Ramanathaswamy Temple
The presiding deity of the temple, Lord Shiva venerated as Ramanathaswamy in Lingam form, is believed to have installed and worshipped by Lord Rama.
According to the Indian epic Ramayana, Lord Rama (the seventh avatar of Lord Vishnu) prayed to Lord Shiva for the absolution of his sins committed during his war against the demon king Ravana of Sri Lanka. Lord Rama directed his devotee Hanuman to bring a lingam from Himalayas. When Hanuman delayed in bringing the lingam, a small lingam was made out of sand by Sita, the consort of Lord Rama on the shores of Rameswaram. This is believed to be the lingam in the sanctum.
The Architecture of Ramanathaswamy Temple
The establishment of the temple from a thatched shed to the present structure is mainly attributed to the Setupatis of Ramanathapuram.
The sanctum of the temple has two lingams – Ramalingam that was built by Sita from sand, resides as the main deity and Vishwalingam brought by Hanuman from Kailash.
The temple has high compound walls on all four sides with huge towers to the east and west and finished gate towers to the north and south. The temple interior has striking long corridors. The outer set of corridors is regarded to be the longest in the world having 1212 pillars. The Rajagopuram (temple tower) is 53 metres tall. The temple consists of various halls namely Anuppu Mandapam, Sukravara Mandapam, Setupati Mandapam, Kalyana Mandapam and Nandi Mandapam.
The temple houses separate shrines for Ramanathaswamy and his consort Goddess Parvathavardhini separated by a corridor. Shrines of Goddess Vishalakshi, Parvathavardhini, Subramanya, Nataraja, Hanuman, Lord Vishnu and Lord Ganesha can also be found inside the temple.
Interesting Facts about Rameswaram Ramanthaswamy Temple
- Rameswaram Ramanathaswamy Temple is one of the twelve Jyothirlinga temples and one of the 274 Paadal Petra Sthalams. Three of the most revered Nayanars (Saivite saints) – Appar, Sundarar and Tirugnana Sambandar have glorified the temple with their songs. The temple is one of the holy Char Dham (four divine sites), the other three being Badrinath, Puri and Dwaraka.
- The temple boasts of its corridor with a 197-metre span from East to West and a 133-metre span from South to North, making it the longest one in Asia.
- As was instructed by Lord Rama, Vishwalingam (brought by Hanuman from Kailash) is worshipped first even today.
- The Maratha kings who had ruled Thanjavur established rest houses throughout Rameswaram and Mayiladuthurai and donated them to the temple.
- It is believed that no Hindu devotee’s journey is complete without a pilgrimage to Varanasi and Rameswaram as a step towards attainment of salvation.
The Sacred 22 Holy Theerthams
There are sixty-four Theerthams (holy water bodies) in and around Rameswaram; Agni Theertham considered to be the primary seashore associated with the temple. Twenty-two (22) of the Teerthams are within the Ramanathaswamy Temple. Bathing in these Theerthams is considered equivalent to penance and forms a major aspect of the pilgrimage to Rameswaram. Each of the Theerthams has its own significance. Temple Timings The temple is open in the morning from 5:00 AM to 1:00 PM and in the evening from 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
The Rituals and Pujas at Rameshwaram Temple
| Pooja details of Rameshwaram Temple | Timings |
|---|---|
| Palliyarai Deepa Aradhana | 5:00 AM |
| Spadigalinga Deepa Aradhana | 5:10 AM |
| Thiruvananthal Deepa Aradhana | 5:45 AM |
| Vila Pooja | 7:00 AM |
| Kalasanthi Pooja | 10:00 AM |
| Uchikala Pooja | 12 Noon |
| Sayaratchai Pooja | 6:00 PM |
| Arthajama Pooja | 8:30 PM |
| Pilliyarai Pooja | 8:45 PM |
Ramanathaswamy Temple Festivals
The prominent festivals observed in the temple are:
- Maha Sivarathri – 10 days festival during the Tamil month of Maasi (February-March)
- Vasanthotsavam – 10 days festival during the Tamil month of Vaikasi (May-June)
- Ramalinga Prathishtai – 3 days festival during the Tamil month of Aani (June-July)
- Thirukalyanam – 17 days festival during the Tamil month of Aadi (July-August)
- Navarathri – 10 days festival during the Tamil month of Purattasi (September-October)
- Kantha Sashti – 6 days festival during the Tamil month of Aippasi (October-November)
- Aarudhra Darshanam – 10 days festival during the Tamil month of Margazhi (December-January)
How to reach Rameswaram
Rameswaram is well connected by road and rail with Chennai, Madurai, Coimbatore, Trichy and other important cities. The 2.3 kilometres long Indira Gandhi Road Bridge (popularly called Pamban Bridge) connects Mandapam (a place on Indian mainland) with Pamban (fisherman town in Rameswaram). The city bus stand is at a distance of around 2 kilometres from Ramanathaswamy Temple. Rameswaram has a railway station, about 1.3 kilometres from the temple. The nearest airport is at Madurai, 163 kilometres from Rameswaram.
Epilogue
Ramanathaswamy Temple is a holy paradise for devotees and an ideal delight for tourists. With its architectural grandeur, imposing temple tower, magnificent long corridors, aesthetically carved pillars and holy water bodies purifying mind and soul, the temple attracts millions of pilgrims every year.
Tips for Visiting Rameswaram Ramanathaswamy Temple
Temple Rituals:
- Holy Bath: Take a dip in the sacred waters of the 22 holy theerthams, believed to purify the soul.
- Main Darshan: Seek the blessings of Lord Ramanatha Swamy at the main shrine.
- Pujas and Offerings: Participate in various pujas and offer prayers.
Temple Etiquette:
- Respectful Behavior: Maintain silence and a respectful demeanor within the temple premises.
- Photography Restrictions: Mobile phone is strictly not allowed inside the temple.
- Queue Discipline: Follow the queue system and wait patiently for your turn.
Exploring the Complex:
- Holy Wells: Visit the 22 holy wells, each with its own significance.
- Ramanathaswamy Temple: Admire the magnificent architecture and intricate carvings.
- Other Temples: Explore nearby temples like the Hanuman Temple and the Kothandarama Swamy Temple.
Local Cuisine:
- Vegetarian Options: Enjoy vegetarian dishes influenced by South Indian cuisine.
- Seafood Delights: Indulge in fresh seafood delicacies.
By following these tips, you can make the most of your pilgrimage to Ramanathaswamy Temple and immerse yourself in its spiritual significance.
Tourist Attractions near Rameswaram:
- Agni Theertham Beach
- Dhanushkodi
- APJ Abdul Kalam Memorial – Rameswaram
- Kunthukal Beach
- Pamban Bridge
Ettukudi Sri Subramanya Swamy Temple is dedicated to Lord Murugan. The temple is located at Ettukudi in Nagapattinam district. The chief deity of the temple is Lord Shiva in Lingam form as Soundara Nayakar.
More about Ettukudi Sri Subramanya Swamy Temple
According to popular folklore, the idol of Lord Murugan has been sculpted by the same person who carved the sculpture at Sikkal and Engan Murugan Temple.
Ettukudi Murugan temple gained popularity through reverence in songs, including the hymns by Saint Arunagirinathar (14th century Tamil poet).
What stands out about the temple is the position of the peacock, the mount of Lord Murugan. The head of the peacock in all Murugan temples is seen facing the right, however in Ettukudi it is seen facing the left.
Dating back to around the 14th century, the temple is in the architectural style of the Chola period. The monolithic sculpture is Lord Murugan with 3 faces and 12 arms is seated on a peacock facing north.
Legend behind the Temple
There are many variants to the story behind the temple that are more or less very similar. In a village by name Porulvaithaseri, there once lived a sculptor who was an ardent devotee of Lord Murugan. He incessantly chanted the glory of Lord Murugan through the mantra ‘Om Saravana Bhava’.
He sculpted an idol of the Lord with six faces. Such was the beauty of the idol that an envious Chola king cut off the thumb of the sculptor so that such beauty cannot be resculpted. The sculptor still continued to make idols enduring all the pain. The first idol was installed at Sikkal, the second at Ettukudi and the third idol at Enkan.
Lord Murugan in the temple appears in different forms (as a child, an adolescent or an elderly person) to the eyes of the devotees based on their imaginations about the Lord.
Temple Timings of Ettukudi Sri Subramanya Swamy Temple
The temple remains open from 4:30 AM to 12:30 PM and from 4:30 PM to 9:00 PM.
Ettukudi Sri Subramanya Swamy Temple Festivals
Chithirai Pournami is a 10 day festival celebrated during the Tamil month of Chithirai (April-May). Devotees throng in thousands during this festival. Other noted festivals religiously celebrated are Skanda Sashti, a six day festival observed during the Tamil month of Aipasi (October-November) and Vaikasi Vishakam during the Tamil month of Vishakam (May-June).
How to reach Ettukudi Sri Subramanya Swamy Temple
The temple is located 30 kilometres from Nagapattinam on the Thiruthuraipoondi Road and 28 kilometres from Thiruvarur on Thiruvarur- Thiruthuraipoondi National Highway. Buses are an easy way of access to Ettukudi. The nearest railway station is at Nagapattinam (around 30 kilometres away) and the nearest airport is at Trichy (around 134 kilometres away).
Located in the town of Vedaranyam in Nagapattinam district is the Vedaranyeswarar Temple. The temple is an ancient one dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Vedaranyeswarar Temple is one of the temples built by Aditya Chola along the banks of river Kaveri. The temple is administered and maintained by Tamil Nadu Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Department.
Vedaranyeswarar Temple – Legend
According to the legend associated with the temple, the Vedas worshipped Lord Shiva in this place and so the name Vedaranyam was given to it.
Another legend states that Lord Rama (the seventh avatar of Lord Vishnu) is believed to have visited Vedaranyam to absolve himself from his sins.
History of Vedaranyeswarar Temple
The inscriptions found in the Vedaranteswarar Temple furnishes with a glimpse into the history of the temple and the city of Vedaranyam. The inscriptions date from the reign of Chola kings at different periods of time indicating various grants to the temple.
Reference to Literature
Vedaranyeswarar Temple is classified as Paadal Petra Sthalam and has reference in the 7th century canonical work, the Tevaram written by the Nayanars.
Architecture of Vedaranyeswarar Temple
Vedaranyam Temple has a five-tiered Rajagopuram (temple tower) and three Prakarams (precincts/outer part of the sanctorum). The chief deity of the temple is Vedaranyeswarar in the form of Lingam made of granite. The hall leading to the sanctum houses the granite images of Lord Ganesha, Lord Murugan, Nandi and Navagraha. The first precincts or walls around the sanctum have the shrines of Dakshinamurthy, Goddess Durga and Saint Chandikeswarar.
Vedaranyeswarar Temple is one of the temples that depict the dance styles regarded as Saptha Vidangam or seven dance moves. The temple falls under the category of Bhuvanivividangar Temple, known for Hamsapthanathaanam dance pose (meaning dancing with the gait of a swan).
Temple Timings in Vedaranyeswarar Temple
The temple remains open from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM and from 5:00 PM to 8:30 PM.
Pooja Timings of Vedaranyeswarar Temple
| Pooja | Timings |
|---|---|
| Usha kalam | 5:30 AM |
| Kalasanthi | 8:00 AM |
| Uchikalam | 10:00 AM |
| Sayaratchai | 5:00 PM |
| Irandan Kalam | 7:00 PM |
| Arthajamam | 8:00 PM |
Temple Festivals
- Rituals undertaken on a daily basis on a weekly basis are Somavaram (Monday rituals) and Sukravaram (Friday rituals).
- Fortnightly rituals observed include Pradosham.
- Monthly festivals observed are Amavasai (new moon day), Kiruthigai (third of the 27 nakshatrams as per Hindu astrology), Pournami (full moon day) and Sathurthi (fourth day of a lunar month).
- Festivals celebrated during the full moon days of Tamil months Aadi (July-August) and Thai (January-February) attracts a large number of devotees.
How to reach Vedaranyeswarar Temple
Vedaranyam is located at a distance of 68 kilometres from Nagapattinam, 80 kilometres from Thanjavur and around 317 kilometres from Chennai. Frequent buses connect Vedaranyam to Thanjavur and Nagapattinam. Employing a four wheeler is an ideal way to reach Vedaranyam. The place is connected by rail from Thanjavur, Nagapattinam and Velankanni.
Trichy is the nearest airport (around 135 kilometres away).
Epilogue
Vedaranyeswarar Temple is a spiritual and divine place one cannot miss to visit in Vedaranyam. The temple’s amazing history and architecture draws numerous pilgrims throughout the year.
Sikkal Singaravelan Temple is a traditional and popular Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Murugan. The temple is located in the village of Sikkal in Nagapattinam.
The temple is believed to have been built by Muchukunda Cholan, associated with the Tiruvarur legend. Singaravelan Temple is found in the premises of Sikkal Navaneetheswarar Temple which is the main temple. One very unique feature of the temple is that it houses the shrines of Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva.
Legend behind the Sikkal Singaravelan Temple
A myth associated with the temple states that Kamadhenu, the Goddess with a cow’s trunk lived in this place which was once a jasmine forest. When once Kamadhenu got cursed by Lord Shiva for eating meat, she managed to get rid of the sin by taking a bath in the holy water of the temple. She later offered her milk and the pond came to be known as Parkulam (meaning the milk pond).
The Parkulam of the temple is where Sage Vashistha is believed to have performed a pooja by making a Lingam with the butter from the Parkumal. When he tried moving the Lingam after completion of his pooja, it never moved and got stuck to the place. This is the reason the sage regarded the place as sikkal (getting stuck).
It is also believed that Lord Murugan had got his divine weapon (Vel) from his mother Parvathi at Sikkal. He used this weapon to kill the demon Surapadman.
Deities in the Temple
The presiding deity is Lord Shiva manifested as Navaneetheswarar and Goddess is worshipped in the form of Velnedunganni. Lord Murugan is worshipped here as Singaravelavar. The other deities found in the temple
complex are that of Ganapathi, Mahalakshmi, Nataraja, 63 Nyanmars, Bhairava, Surya and Chandra.
The seven tiered Rajagopuram adorning the entrance to the temple is 80 feet high.
Temple Timings – Sikkal Singaravelan Temple
The temple is open for worship from 5:30 AM to 12:30 PM and from 4:30 PM to 9:00 PM in the evening.
Pooja Timings – Sikkal Singaravelan Temple
| Pooja | Timings |
|---|---|
| Usha kalam | 5:30 AM |
| Kalasanthi | 9:00 AM |
| Uchikalam | 12:30 PM |
| Sayaratchai | 4:30 PM |
| Irandan Kalam | 8:00 PM |
| Arthajamam | 9:00 PM |
Festivals of Sikkal Singaravelan Temple
The most important festival observed by the temple is Soora Samharam- killing of the demon Soorapadman during the Tamil month of Aipasi (October-November). Brahmottsavam is celebrated with religious pomp for Lord Shiva during the Tamil month of Chittirai (April-May).
How to reach Sikkal Singaravelan Temple
Sikkal is situated about 5 kilometres from Nagapattinam and 18 kilomteres in the east from Tiruvarur. The nearest railway station is located at Sikkal less than a kilometre away from the temple. The nearest airport is at Chennai (300 kilometres away).
Other popular places to visit in Nagapattinam district:
Nagapattinam district in Tamil Nadu is renowned for its cultural and spiritual significance, alongside stunning coastal attractions. Velankanni Church, known as the “Lourdes of the East,” attracts pilgrims worldwide for its serene ambiance and miracles. Nagore Dargah, a revered Islamic shrine, reflects harmony and history. Explore Kodikkarai Wildlife Sanctuary (Point Calimere), a haven for migratory birds, wild horses, and scenic landscapes. The Soundararajaperumal Temple in Thirunagari showcases exquisite Dravidian architecture. Beach lovers can relax at Nagapattinam Beach, offering tranquil views of the Bay of Bengal. History buffs will enjoy the Dutch Fort at Tranquebar, a blend of colonial charm and local heritage. With its unique mix of spirituality, nature, and history, Nagapattinam is a must-visit destination.
- Shri Kayahorana Swami Neelayathatchi Amman Temple
- Soundararaja Perumal Temple
- Vedaranyeswarar Temple
- Ettukudi Murugan Temple
- Nagore Dargah
- Velankanni Church
Shri Kayarohana Swami Temple is situated in the town of Nagapattinam. It is one of the prominent Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, worshipped as Kayarohana. His consort Goddess Parvathi is worshipped here in the form of Neelayathakshi.
Significance of the Temple
- The temple was built in the 6th century AD by the Lakolisa cult (one of the oldest sects of Shaivism) which has its origin in Gujarat. The only other temple built by this cult in Tamil Nadu is at Kanchipuram.
- The temple houses the idol of Thyagaraja, a renowned composer of Carnatic music. The uniqueness of this idol is that it is made of lapis lazuli (a deep blue metamorphic rock). · The temple is one of the 275 Paadal Petra Sthalams.
- The temple has been rebuilt by the Pallavas and Cholas.
- Kayarohana Swamy Temple is one of the temples that depicts the dance styles regarded as Saptha Vidangam or seven dance moves. The temple falls under the category of Adhividangar Temple, known for Vilathithaanam dance pose (meaning dancing like waves of sea).
- The temple is a Shakti Peetam and has been greatly praised by the revered saints Sambandar, Appar and Sundarar in their Thevaram
hymns.
Shri Kayahorana Swami Neelayathatchi Amman Temple Timings
The temple is open from 6:00 AM to 12:30 PM and from 5:00 PM to 9:30 PM.
Temple Festivals – Shri Kayahorana Swami Neelayathatchi Amman Temple
The various festivals observed by the temple are:
- Vaikasi Wedding Festival in the Tamil month of Vaikasi (May-June)
- Aadi Pooram in the Tamil month of Aadi (July-August)
- Shivarathri in the Tamil month of Masi (February-March)
- Annabhishekam in the Tamil month of Aipasi (October-November)
- Tiru Karthigai in the month of November-December
How to reach Shri Kayahorana Swami Neelayathatchi Amman Temple
Nagapattinam old bus stand is very close to the temple, at less than a kilometer away. Nagapattinam Railway Junction is the nearest station at a distance of 1 kilometre from the temple. Trichy Airport is the nearest terminal (147 kilometres). Chennai International Airport is around 297 kilometres away from the temple.
Nagapattinam is well connected by road and railways with all major cities in South India
Kuchanur Suyambu Sri Saneeswarar Temple in Theni
Located on the banks of River Surabhi, in the district of Theni is Sri Saneeshwarar Temple. The temple is located in Kuchanoor and is dedicated to Saturn God or Lord Shani.
Lord Saneeswarar is in self-manifested (Svayambhu) form Saturday is considered to be an auspicious day to offer prayers to Lord Saneeshwarar.
Kuchanur Suyambu Sri Saneeswarar Temple Timings
The temple is open from Sunday to Friday from 7:00 AM to 1:00 PM and 4:30 PM to 8:00 PM.
On Saturdays, the temple is open from 6:00 AM to 3:00 PM and 4:30 PM to 9:00 PM.
Pooja Timings – Kuchanur Suyambu Sri Saneeswarar Temple
The Pooja details from Sunday to Friday are as below:
| Name of the Pooja | Timing |
|---|---|
| Ushakala Pooja | 5:30 AM to 6:30 AM |
| Kalasandhi | 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM |
| Uchikalam | 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM |
| Saaya Rakshai | 5:30 PM to 6:30 PM |
| Irandam Kaala Pooja | 8:00 PM |
| Artha Jama Pooja | 8:30 PM |
The Pooja details for Saturday are as below:
Kuchanur Suyambu Sri Saneeswarar Temple Festivals
The festivals observed in the temple are:
- Aadi Festival (July to August)
- Sani (Saturn) Transit Day that occurs every two and a half year
How to reach Kuchanur Suyambu Sri Saneeswarar Temple
Kuchanur Sri Saneeswarar Temple is located 20 kilometres south of Theni. The nearest bus stand to the temple is at Kuchanur, 67 metres away from the temple. Theni Railway Station, around 21 kilometres away is the nearest railway station. Madurai International Airport is the nearest Airport, around 135 kilometres away.
Veerapandi Gowmariamman Temple
Veerapandi Gowmariamman Temple is located in the district of Theni, at a distance of around 80 kilometres from Madurai. The temple was built by the Pandya king Veera Pandi during his reign in the 14th century. The temple is around 200 years old. The Goddess in the temple is Swayambhu i.e the shrine is self-manifested.
Legend
According to the legend associated with the temple, it is said that in the ancient days the Ruler of this region was affected with an eye disease. He underwent all kinds of treatments, but he couldn’t recover. Finally, by following the suggestion from a sage, he started worshipping Gowmariamman and Kanneswaramudaiyar. And miraculously, his eyes were cured. He later built a temple dedicated to these two Gods.
Temple Timings – Veerapandi Gowmariamman Temple
The temple is open to devotees on all days from 5:00 AM to 12:00 PM and from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
Veerapandi Gowri Mariamman Temple Festivals
Chithirai Gowmariamman festival is a yearly festival celebrated in the Tamil month of Chitirai (April-May). This festival is celebrated for 8 days and is a divine sight to behold. Special poojas to the Goddess are performed during the months of Vaikasi Visagam (May-June), Vinayaka Chaturthi (August-September), Deepavali (October-November), Karthigai Deepam (November-December), Margazhi Danur Pooja (December-January), Panguni Uthiram (March-April).
Devotees carrying fire pots in their palms (called Agni Chatti) and preparing dough lamp (called Maavizhakku) are the famous rituals at the temple.
How to reach Veerapandi Gowmariamman Temple
Regular buses are available from Madurai. Madurai Railway Station is the nearest station to the temple. The nearest airport is also at Madurai.
Vellore Ratnagiri Balamurugan Temple
Listed as one of the ancient temples in Tamil Nadu, dedicated to Lord Murugan, is the Ratnagiri Balamurugan Temple in Thirumanikundram, Vellore.
The chief deity of the temple Lord Murugan has self-manifested in two forms- one with his consorts Valli and Deva Sena (Lord Thirukolam) and the other in the form of the Guru (Lord Gurukolam). The temple was built in the 14th century. Balamurugan Adimaigal developed this hilltop temple.
The temple tower or Gopuram is five-storeyed and was built in the year 1975. Separate shrines dedicated to Lord Ganesha, Lord Shani and Navagraha are also found in the temple.
Aadi Kritika (July-August) and Thai Krithika (January-February) are the important festivals observed in the temple.
The temple is open on all days from 6:00 AM to 1:00 PM and from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Temple timings are subject to changes on special days.
One can avail direct bus from Vellore to Ratnagiri Temple. The nearest railway station is at Vellore at a distance of 15 kilometers from the temple and the nearest airport is at Chennai (115 kilometers away).
Located inside the Vellore Fort is a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, by name Jalakandeswarar Temple. The temple belongs to the Vijayanagar period. It is owned and maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) while the administration was taken over by the Government of Tamil Nadu.
Image Attribution : Soham Banarjee
History of Jalakandeswarar Temple
As per the legend associated with the temple, there once was a giant ant-hill at the place where the temple stands now. The ant-hill is said to have been surrounded by stagnant water. Chinni Bommi Nayaka, a Vijayanagar chieftain and the then controller of the fort had a dream where Lord Shiva asked him to build a temple at that location. He, therefore, demolished the ant-hill and built a temple in 1550 AD. The temple was named Jalakandeswarar referring to Lord Shiva who resides in water. The temple also has the shrine of Sri Akhilandeshwari Amman, consort of Lord Jalakandeswarar.
The temple was mutilated during the capture of the Fort and Muslim invasion, following which, worship in the temple was stopped and it was used as an arsenal for nearly 400 years. The main deity was later moved to Jalakanda Vinayakar Temple for its safety.
The ASI took charge over the maintenance of the fort in the year 1921, after which the temple was still not used for worship. However, in the year 1981, the deity was removed from the Jalakanda Vinayakar Temple and secretly smuggled inside the fort. The deity was the cautiously re-installed and worship was re-instated.
The Temple Architecture
The temple is a supreme example of Vijayanagar architecture. The architectural marvels of the temple can be traced in the exquisitely carved temple tower and the stone pillars, impressive monoliths and sculptures and a Mandapam with beautifully carved stone pillars. The temple is surrounded by water.
Lord Jalakandeswarar in Lingam form is the chief deity. Nandi statue is seen in front of the main sanctum. The outer wall of the Amman sanctum houses the shrines of Lord Vinayaka, Goddesses Maheswari, Vaishnavi, Varahi, Lakshmi and Saraswathi.
Jalakandeswarar Temple Timings
The temple is open on all days from 6:30 AM to 1:00 PM and 5:00 PM to 8:30 PM.
Jalakandeswarar Temple Festivals
The following festivals are celebrated in the temple: Chitra Pournami – 10 day festival (April-May). Surasamharam – in the month of Aipasi (October-November). Aadi Pooram – 10-day festival (July-August). Vinayaka Chathurthi – in the month of Avani (August-September). Navarathri – in the month of Purattasi (September-October)
How to reach Jalakandeswarar Temple
Jalakandeswarar Temple is located inside the Vellore Fort. Vellore Fort is located at a distance of 138 kilometres from Chennai. Katpadi Junction in Vellore (around 7.5 kilometres north of the fort) is the nearest railway station.
Vellore is well connected by road and rail with all the major cities in South India. The nearest international airport is at Chennai, 128 kilometres east of Vellore.
Sripuram Golden Temple or Vellore Golden Temple
Sri Lakshmi Narayani Golden Temple
Golden Temple is located inside the Sripuram spiritual park. The temple is situated at the foot of a small range of hills at Malaikodi village, about 8 kilometres from Vellore.
The temple has been constructed by the Vellore-based charitable trust, Sri Narayana Peedam, headed by its spiritual leader Sri Sakthi Amma who is also known as Narayani Amma. The chief deity at the temple is Sri Lakshmi Narayani, the consort of Lord Vishnu and goddess of wealth.
Image Attribute : Dsudhakar555
The Temple Design
Complex – The temple finds its place on an area of 100 acres of land and is beautifully adorned with 1,500 kg of pure gold. The complex has been intricately designed by specialized artisans and the temple art has significance from the Vedas. The temple houses man-made sculptures and ornately decorated pillars and roof.
Star path – The temple is situated in the middle of a star-shaped path extending over 1.8 kilometres. Various spiritual messages are displayed for devotees to read as they walk along the ‘star path’ to reach the temple.
Landscape – The landscape at Sripuram, created and managed using organic manure, provides a serene ambience and beautiful experience.
Sahasra Deepam – Located on the eastern side of the star path & the temple entrance is the Deepa Mandapam. This mandapam is enclosed in a vast structure encompassed by huge wall statues of Goddess Durga, Goddess Saraswathi and Goddess Lakshmi. The Sahasra Deepam (1008 lamps) is designed as a towering structure made of bronze. The structure has 9 layers and is 18 feet high.
Temple Timings
The temple is open for devotees from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM everyday. However the below timings can be noted:
- Abhishekam – 4:00 AM to 8:00 AM
- Aarthi Seva – 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM
How to reach Sripuram Golden Temple
The temple is located at a distance of 145 kilometres from Chennai, 120 kilometres from Tirupati, 160 kilometres from Puducherry and 200 kilometres from Bengaluru.
The nearest railway station is at Vellore, about 12 kilometres from Sripuram. Frequent buses run from Vellore city to Golden Temple at Sripuram. Vellore is well connected by road with major cities including Bangalore, Chennai and Tirupati.
Chennai International Airport (148 kilometres away) and Bangalore International Airport (201 kilometres away) are the nearest airports.
