Kodangallur Bhagavathi Temple, Kerala, India

In Kerala, the mother Goddess is generally referred as Bhagavathy. The Bhagavathy temple at Kodungallur is actually a temple dedicated to Kali or Kannagi. Kannagi, the heroine of the Tamil epic Silappathikaram. The Chera king Senguttuvan built a temple for Kannagi in Kodangallur. This is perhaps the only temple for Kannagi. As Kannagi is believed to be a manifestation of Kaali or Durga, this temple can also be considered as the temple of Kaali.

As per the belief, the temple was orginally a Shiva temple and after Kannagi or Bhagavathi's images was installed, it became Bhagavathi temple. The image of Bhagavathy, which is around six feet high, is believed to have been carved out of a jack fruit tree. Bharani festival is celebrated in this temple in a grand manner.

Kodungallur Bhagavathi temple also houses the Shiva shrine. Shiva is called as Sundareshwarar in this temple (remember the name of the Lord of Madurai is Sundaraeshwarar, and Kannagi was living in Madurai). The backside wall of Sundareshwarar shrine has a small figure of Meenakshi (the Goddess of Madurai).

There are two more idols in the courtyard of the temple - Kshetrapala idol and a Goddess idol.

Happy travelling.

Fast Facts:

Site Name: Kodungallur Bhagavathi Temple

City Name: Kodungallur

Highlights:

1) An ancient Bhagavathi temple in Kerala

2) Perhaps the only temple for Kannagi

Location: 40 kms from Thrissur, Kerala state, India

Nearest Railway Station: Thrissur

Nearest Airport: Cochin (around 50 kms)

How to reach: Reachable by road from Thrissur

Hotel: A lot of luxury hotels and budget hotels are available in the nearby city Thrissur

Restaurants: There are a lot of good restaurants in the nearby city Thrissur

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Triprayar Rama Temple, Kerala, India

Triprayar is a small town located at around 25 km from Thrissur, which has a magnificient Rama temple. The town is loacted on the banks of the river Triprayar. As per the legend, the images of four brothers Rama, Lakshmana, Bharat, and Satrugna were washed ashore and were discovered by a local chieftan Vakkey Kaimal. He installed those images in four different places, and hence you can find Rama temple in Triprayar, Lakshmana temple in Tirumoozhikkalam, Bharat temple at Koodalmaanikkam, and Satrugna temple at Payammel.

The image of Rama in the main shrine resembles Vishnu with four arms, bearing a conch, disc, bow and garland, unlike other temples where he has only two hands with bow and arrow. Apart from Rama, there is a small shine for Dakshinamoorthy, Sastha, and Ganapathy in this temple. Another interesting point is that you can find the idols of Sri Devi and Bhoo Devi on both sides of Rama instead of Sita. Rama has been portrayed in the form of a victorious Lord over the evil demon Khara. The temple is rich in wood carvings and built in a typical Kerala temple architectural style. There are also a lot of ancient murals in this temple.

When you happen to visit Thrissur, ensure that you go and visit Triprayar too.

Happy travelling.

Fast Facts:

Site Name: Triprayar Rama Temple

City Name: Triprayar
Highlights:
1) An ancient Rama temple in Kerala

2) Rama idol along with Sri Devi and Bhoo Devi instead of Lakshmana and Sita

3) Rama idol with four arms similar to Vishnu

Location: 25 kms from Thrissur, Kerala state, India
Nearest Railway Station: Thrissur
Nearest Airport: Cochin (around 70 kms)
How to reach: Reachable by road from Thrissur
Hotel: A lot of luxury hotels and budget hotels are available in the nearby city Thrissur
Restaurants: There are a lot of good restaurants in the nearby city Thrissur

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Zoo and Museum,Thrissur, Kerala, India

Zoo and museum are located in the same compound in Thrissur city, Kerala. Apart from the divine attractions of Thrissur city such as Thiruvambadi Krishna temple, Vadakkunnathan temple, and Paramekkavu Bhagavathi temple, Zoo and museum complex is one of the important attractions in Thrissur city.

The museum has collections of wood carvings, metal sculptures and ancient jeweller. The compound covering museum and zoo is green with full of plants and trees. There is a separate building for art museum which houses a lot of beautiful and rare sculptures, and traditional lamps.

The zoological park, even though small, houses various species such as sloth bear, deer, lion tailed macaque, and different kinds of birds. There is also a small snake park within the zoo.

If you have enough time in Thrissur after visiting all the temples, there is no harm in going to this place. It is basically a destination for local people.

Happy travelling.

Fast Facts:

Site Name: Museum and Zoo

City Name: Thrissur

Location: 70 kms from Ernakulam, Kerala state, India

Nearest Railway Station: Thrissur

Nearest Airport: Cochin (around 50 kms)

How to reach: Easily reachable by road and train

Hotel: A lot of luxury hotels and budget hotels are available

Restaurants: There are a lot of good restaurants in the city

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Thiruvambadi Krishna Temple, Thrissur, Kerala, India

Thiruvambadi Krishna temple is one of the popular temples of Thrissur city, apart from the two other main temples - Vadakkunnathan temple and Paramekkavu Bhagavathi temple. Thiruvambadi Krishna temple is located at a distance of around 1 km from the popular Vadakkunnathan temple in Thrissur.

Thiruvambadi Krishna temple, similar to Paramekkavu Bhagavathi temple, actively participates in the world famous Pooram festival every year. This temple, believed to be built around 1000 years back, is in a typical Kerala temple architectural style.

Apart from the main shrine dedicated to a beautiful idol of Lord Krishna, this temple also houses three small shrines - two for Lord Ganesha, and one for Bhagavathi.

When you happen to visit Thrissur, ensure that you visit this beautiful temple of Lord Krishna along with Paramekkavu Bhagavathi temple and Vadakkunnathan temple.

Happy travelling.

Fast Facts:

Site Name: Thiruvambadi Krishna Temple

City Name: Thrissur

Highlights:

1000 year old Krishna temple

Location: 70 kms from Ernakulam, Kerala state, India

Nearest Railway Station: Thrissur

Nearest Airport: Cochin (around 50 kms)

How to reach: Easily reachable by road and train

Hotel: A lot of luxury hotels and budget hotels are available

Restaurants: There are a lot of good restaurants in the city

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Paramekkavu Bhagavathi Temple, Thrissur, Kerala, India

Paramekkavu Bhagavathi temple, located opposite to the famous Vadakkunnathan temple in Thrissur, is one of the most important Bhagavathi temples of Kerala state. The mother Goddess is worshipped in the name of Bhagavathi in Kerala, and this temple is perhaps the biggest Bhagavathi temple in Kerala state.

Bhagavathi temple is believed to be 1000 years old, similar to that of Vadakkunnathan temple. Apart from the main deity Bhagavathi, there is no other idol or shrine present in this temple. Bhagavathi temple stands as an example for Kerala type temple architecture.

One of the major highlights of the temple is that it is one of the temples that partipates in the world famous Thrissur Pooram festival.

When you happen to go to Thrissur, ensure that you visit Vadakkunnathan temple as well as Bhagavathi temple.

Happy travelling.

Fast Facts:

Site Name: Paramekkavu Temple

City Name: Thrissur
Highlights:
1) One of the famous Bhagavathi temples of Kerala
2) 1000 year old temple

Location: 70 kms from Ernakulam, Kerala state, India
Nearest Railway Station: Thrissur
Nearest Airport: Cochin (around 50 kms)
How to reach: Easily reachable by road and train
Hotel: A lot of luxury hotels and budget hotels are available
Restaurants: There are a lot of good restaurants in the city

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Vadakkunnathan Temple, Thrissur, Kerala, India

Vadakkunnathan temple aka Vadakkumnathan temple is one of the largest and ancient Shiva temples in Kerala state of India, located at Thrissur. Thrissur is referred as the cultural capital of Kerala - the God's own country. Vadakkunnathan temple, situated on a small hillock, is believed to be 1000 years old. There is a legendary belief that this temple was built by Parasuram, the incarnation of Lord Vishnu. There is also a belief that the Hindu reformed Adi Shankaracharya was born after his parents prayed to Vadakkunnathan in this temple.

Vadakkunnathan temple aka Vrishabhachalam or Thenkailasam (meaning South Kailash) is a huge temple built in typical Kerala style of architecture. The temple has a lot of mural paintings depicting the incidents from Hindu epics and puranas.The venue of the famous Pooram festival is located well next to the temple.

The highlight of the temple is that the idol of Vadakkunnathan which is in the form of Shiv Linga is not visible outside. It is covered under the mount of ghee.This is formed by daily abhishek over the years. The idols of Shiva and Parvathi are seen behind the Shiv Linga. Near the main shrine of Vadakkunnathan, there are two main shrines - one for Rama and another for Hari Hara or Shankara Narayana (a combined form of Vishnu and Shiva). There is a separate shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva in the form of a hunter (vettaikkaran).All these four shrines are located in the center mandapa.

Outside the mandapa, there are shrines for Krishna, Parasurama, Vrishabha, Simhodara, Adi Shankaracharya, and Dharma Sastha. There is also a huge Nandi statue in the verandah of the temple. You can also find the samadhi of Adi Shankaracharya in this temple. I am not sure why the samadhi of Adi Shankaracharya is located in this temple, as one is located in Badrinath too. Apart from that, there are some people who believe that Shankarachary attained samadhi in Kanchipuram town of Tamil Nadu state.

The temple, surrounded within a massive stone wall, has a huge area of around 9 acres. There are four temple towers in four directions. There is also a museum withing the temple for ancient wall paintings, wood carvings, and other forms of art pieces.

This is a great temple which you shouldn't miss to visit.

Happy travelling.

Site Name: Vadakkunnathan Temple

City Name: Thrissur
Highlights:
1) One of the famous Shiva temples of Kerala
2) Shiva idol covered with mount of ghee
3) 1000 year old temple

4) Adi Shankaracharya's samadhi is located

Location: 70 kms from Ernakulam, Kerala state, India
Nearest Railway Station: Thrissur
Nearest Airport: Cochin (around 50 kms)
How to reach: Easily reachable by road and train
Hotel: A lot of luxury hotels and budget hotels are available
Restaurants: There are a lot of good restaurants in the city:



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Kerala - the God's Own Country

Kerala, a state located at the southern end of India, has various tourist destinations. Kerala is so beautiful that it is being called as God's own country.

Kerala has pleasant climate throughout the year, and provides various destination options for travellers such as beaches, pilgrimages, resorts, hill stations, back waters and wild life sanctuaries. Due to its moderate climate throughout the year, and various festivals celebrated, travellers keep travelling to Kerala throughout the year.

Kumarakom, Kuttanad, Alapuzha, and Kochi are some of the most important backwater destinations of Kerala. The beaches like Kovalam are world famous. Mannar, Ponmudi, .... there are lot of hill stations in the state. And, when it comes to pilgrim centers, I am not sure if any other state in India except Tamil Nadu has so many pilgrim centers. Some of the religiously important sites located in Kerala are Sabari Malai, Guruvayur, Thrissur, Chottanikkarai, Varkala, Vaikom, and Kaladi.

Whatever be your travel objective, and whatever month you want to travel, Kerala would definitely be an ideal destination for you.

I admit that I haven't completely explored Kerala yet. I am going to write about the places that I have visited so far in Kerala. You cannot find photographs for some places, as photography is strictly prohibited in Kerala temples.

Happy travelling.

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Hotels in Kanchipuram

Kanchipuram has a lot of hotels and restaurants. I am providing the details of some of the good hotels and restaurants in Kanchipuram city.

Hotels in Kanchipuram:

1) TamilNadu Government's Hotel Tamil Nadu for budget accommodation

2) Sri Rama's Lodge at Nellukkara Street

3) Hotel Jaybala International at Gandhi Road

4) GRT Regency (3 star hotel)

5) MM Hotels at Nellukkara street

Restaurants in Kanchipuram:

1) Hotel Saravana Bhavan at Gandhi Road near bus stand

2) Hotel Sakthi Ganapathi near bus stand

3) Adya Ananda Bhavan at Nellukkara street

4) Sridhar Care

5) Hotel Chakra at Gandhi Road

6) India Coffee House

Places to visit in Kanchipuram, India

Kanchipuram, the city of 1000 temples, has around 250 temples in and around the city. Most of them are popular and ancient temples. Apart from temples, you can do shopping for silk sarees in Kanchipuram.

Some of the important tourist attractions in Kanchipuram city are given below.

1) Kamakshi Amman Temple - Kamakshi Amman Temple is one of the three most important Goddess temples of India. This is the most important temple of Kanchipuram and remains as the center of attraction. The current temple structure was constructed in 14th century AD. Kamakshi Amman temple is one of 51 Shakthi Peeths.

2) Kumara Kottam Temple - Kumara Kottam Subramanya temple is the most important Subramanya (Muruga) temple in Kanchipuram city. The Tamil version of Skanda Puran (the story of Subramanya) was composed in this temple.

3) Ekambareswarar Temple - Ekambareswarar Temple is the most important Shiva temple that is located in Kanchipuram city. There is a 3000 year old Mango tree inside the temple.

4) Varadarajar Temple - Varadaraja Perumal temple is the most important Vishnu temples in Kanchipuram. This is one of 108 Divya Desams temple and the temple is very huge and architecturally beautiful.

5) Sankara Mutt - This is the monastery started by Adi Shankaracharya around 2500 years back and remains as one of the center of attractions in Kanchipuram city, inspite of several controversies.

6) Ulagalanda Perumal Temple - 35 feet idol is the highlight of this temple, which is one of 108 Divya Desam temples. The temple compound has other three Divya Desam shrines too.

7) Pandava Doota Perumal Temple - 25 feet long gigantic idol is the highlight of the temple.

8) Kailasanathar Temple - This temple is the most beautiful temple in Kanchipuram due to its sculpture and architecture.

9) Vaikundanatha Perumal Temple - This temple is also architecturally beautiful and has a lot of extraordinary sculptures similar to that of Kailasanathar temple.

10) Kachabeswarar Temple - This is one of the important Shiva temples in Kanchipuram.

11) Pachaivanna Perumal and Pavalavanna Perumal Temples - These two temples together are considered as a single Divya Desam.

Apart from the above listed temples, there are a lot of temples such as Chokkeeswarar Temple, Jurahareswarar Temple, Yadhothakaari Temple, Chitraguptar Temple, Ashtabuja Temple, and Mrutyunjeswarar Temple.

Happy travelling.



City Name: Kanchipuram
Highlights:
1) City of 1000 temples
2) One of the seven sacred cities of India
3) Famous for silk sarees
4) Has around 250 temples in and around
5) Very ancient city
6) One of the Pancha Bhootha Sthalams - earth adobe of Lord Shiva
7) The city has Kamakshi Amman temple - one of the three most famous temples of mother Goddess
Location: 75 kms from Chennai, Tamil Nadu state, India
Nearest Railway Station: Kanchipuram
Nearest Airport: Chennai (around 75 kms)
How to reach: Easily reachable by road and train
Hotel: A lot of luxury hotels and budget hotels are available
Restaurants: There are a lot of good restaurants in the city


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An unknown architectural marvel of ancient time - Mrutyunjeswarar Temple, Kanchipuram, India

Mrutyunjeswarar temple is a beautiful example for ancient Pallava architecture. This outstanding beautiful small temple is located next to Pachaivanna Perumal temple in the main road and very close to the bus stand in Kanchipuram, South India. It is unfortunate that this temple is neglected and no one visits this temple. Due to this reason, the main shrine where Lord Shiva (Mrutyunjeswarar) is located remains closed. The temple is under the archaeological survey of India.
There is no separate shrine for the goddess. However, there are separate shrines for Ganesha and Skanda. The idol of Nandi is very beautiful with its face slightly turned toward right side. This temple is believed to have been worshipped by the sage Markandeya, and hence there is an idol for him in this temple.

I wish those who go to Kanchipuram should visit this ancient architecutral marvel of South India.

Happy travelling.

Site Name: Mrutyunjeswarar Temple
Highlights:
Ancient Pallava architecture

Location: Kanchipuram, 75 kms from Chennai, Tamil Nadu state, India
Nearest Railway Station: Kanchipuram
Nearest Airport: Chennai (around 75 kms)
How to reach: Easily reachable by road and train
Hotel: A lot of luxury hotels and budget hotels are available
Restaurants: There are a lot of good restaurants in the city

God got married here – Pachaivanna Perumal Temple, Kanchipuram, South India.God got married here – Pachaivanna Perumal Temple, Kanchipuram, India

Pachaivanna Perumal temple is located opposite to Palvanna Perumal temple in Kalander street near bus stand in Kanchipuram city, South India. The highlight of these temples is that both these temples together are considered as a single Divya Desam (one of 108 holy adobes of Lord Vishnu).



The main deity of the temple is Lord Vishnu named as Pachaivanna Perumal. The sage Bruhu Maharishi prayed to God and got the goddess Lakshmi as his daughter. He got his daughter married to Lord Vishnu in this temple. The Lord appears in standing posture in this temple. There are shrines for the goddess Maragadambal, Andal, Garuda, Hanuman, and Prasanna Varadarajar. This temple is too small but very ancient.

Visit this temple alon with Palvanna Perumal temple.

Happy travelling.

Site Name: Pachaivanna Perumal Temple
Highlights:
1) One of the 108 Divya Desam temples
2) God got married to Lakshmi in this site

Location: Kanchipuram, 75 kms from Chennai, Tamil Nadu state, India
Nearest Railway Station: Kanchipuram
Nearest Airport: Chennai (around 75 kms)
How to reach: Easily reachable by road and train
Hotel: A lot of luxury hotels and budget hotels are available
Restaurants: There are a lot of good restaurants in the city

Pavalavanna Perumal Temple, Kanchipuram, India

Palvanna Perumal temple is located opposite to Pachaivanna Perumal temple in Kalander street near bus stand in Kanchipuram city, South India. The highlight of these temples is that both these temples together are considered as a single Divya Desam (one of 108 holy adobes of Lord Vishnu).

In Pavalavanna temple, the main deity has red shades which is unique. As he fought demons disturbing Brahma's yagna, he has blood sheds in his body.The temple is very small but contains authentic architecturally beautiful temple towers. The main deity is Pavalavanna Perumal (Vishnu), who is in sitting posture. There is a separate shrine for the goddess Pavalavalli. There are also shrines for Andal, Rama with Lakshman and Sita, Garuda, and Hanuman. One can also find the idol of Bruhu Maharishi opposite Pavalavanna Perumal shrine.




Visit this temple alon with Pachaivanna Perumal temple.

Happy travelling.

Site Name: Pavalavanna Perumal Temple
Highlights:
One of the 108 Divya Desam temples

Location: Kanchipuram, 75 kms from Chennai, Tamil Nadu state, India
Nearest Railway Station: Kanchipuram
Nearest Airport: Chennai (around 75 kms)
How to reach: Easily reachable by road and train
Hotel: A lot of luxury hotels and budget hotels are available
Restaurants: There are a lot of good restaurants in the city

God with eight weapons in eight hands - Ashtabujakaram temple, Kanchipuram, India

Ashtabujakaram temple, one of 108 Divya desams (108 holy adobes of Lord Vishnu) is located towards south of Rangaswamy tank in Chinna Kanchipuram, South India. As per the legend, Lord Vishnu took eight weapons in his eight hands to fight the demons intruding the yagna conducted by Lord Brahma. Hence, he got the name Ashtabujakaram (Ashta="Eight"; karam="hand").

As per another legend, Indira sent Devakanyas to divert the sage Mahasudha from penance in this place. The sage, attracted by ladies who had taken the form of elephants, took the form of elephant and started living with them. When he realized his mistake, he sought help of the sage Markandeya. Markandeya suggested him to worship Ashtabujakaram. The sage worshipped Vishnu with lotus flower in the form of elephant. One day, the elephant' leg was caught by a crocodile. The elephant cried for Lord's help. Lord Vishnu rescued the elephant by killing the crocodile, and this incident is termed as 'Gajendra Mokhsa'.

The main deity Ashta buja Perumal (Vishnu) is seen with ashta bujam (eight hands) having weapons – chakra, knife, flower, arrow, sanku, bow, kedaya and gadha – in each hand. The God in this temple is also referred as Gajendra Varadan, and Adi Kesava Perumal. There is a separate shrine for the goddess Pushpavalli. Next to the goddess shrine, there is a shrine for BhooVaraha. There are also small shrines of Garuda, Hanuman, and Andal in this temple. Outside the temple, the tank where the elephant Gajendra got Moksha is situated.

Happy travelling.

Site Name: Ashtabujakaram Temple
Highlights:
1) Vishnu with eight hands
2) The site where Gajendra Moksha took place

Location: Chinna Kanchipuram, 75 kms from Chennai, Tamil Nadu state, India
Nearest Railway Station: Kanchipuram
Nearest Airport: Chennai (around 75 kms)
How to reach: Easily reachable by road and train
Hotel: A lot of luxury hotels and budget hotels are available
Restaurants: There are a lot of good restaurants in the city

Tiruvekka Yadhothakaari Temple, Kanchipuram, India

Yadhothakaari temple is one of 108 Divya Desams (108 divine adobes of Lord Vishnu), which is located near Rangaswamy tank, and it is very close to the famous Varadarajar temple in Chinna Kanchipuram of South India.

As per the legend, when Lord Brahma was performing a yagna in this place, his wife Saraswati in the form of river Vegavathi started flooding this area. She did this to help demons who wanted to stop the yagna. As per the request from Devas, Lord Vishnu laid down on Adi Sesha in the way of river in three places - Parkadal (the milky ocean), Srirangam, and in this place. Hence, this place was called as Vegavathi anai (anai means "dam" in Tamil language), and then became Vegka and the temple is referred as 'Tiruvekka'.

Poigai Alwar, one of the twelve important devotees of Lord Vishnu, was born in lotus flower in the tank adjacent to this temple. As per the legend, Kanikannan, a disciple of Thirumazhisai Azhwar was banished from the kingdom by the then ruler when he refused to sing on the King. When Thirumazhisai Azhwar left the place in search of him, Lord Vishnu at the request of Azhwar, rolled Adisesha in his hand and followed Azhwar. Once Lord Vishnu left the place, the whole town faced several problems. The king realised his mistake and begged Azhwar to forgive and return back to the kingdom. Azhwar then returned to the place requesting Vishnu once again to follow him and he did the same. Since Vishnu did as asked by his disciple, he got the name ‘Sonnavannam Seitha Perumal’ (meaning the Lord who did as per the request by his devotee).

The highlight of this temple is that, Ranganath is in a unique resting posture with his head to the right side of the devotees and legs to the left side unlike the other temples. Devotees such as Peyalwar, Poigai Alwar Thirumazhisai Alwar and Thirumangai Alwar sang devotional songs in praise of the God in the temple.

The temple is not very big, and there are only few shrines. The main shrine has Lord Ranganath (Sonna Vannam Seitha Perumal) in reclining posture with Lakshmi near his feet. There is a separate shrine for Goddess Komalavalli. Andal idol is extraordinarily beautiful in this temple. I would say that this is one of the most beautiful idols of Andal. There is a shrine for Ram along with Lakshman and Sita. Opposite to the main shrine, as usual, there is a small shrine of Garuda.

Happy travelling.

Site Name: Yadhothakaari Temple
Highlights:
1) Ranganath in the reclining posture on the right side
2) One of the 108 Divya Desam temples
3) Birth place of Poigai Alwar

Location: Kanchipuram, 75 kms from Chennai, Tamil Nadu state, India
Nearest Railway Station: Kanchipuram
Nearest Airport: Chennai (around 75 kms)
How to reach: Easily reachable by road and train
Hotel: A lot of luxury hotels and budget hotels are available
Restaurants: There are a lot of good restaurants in the city


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A rare temple for the God who keeps track of our deeds - Chitraguptar temple, Kanchipuram, India

Chitra Guptar temple is an unique and rare temple located in Kanchipuram city of South Inda. This small temple, which was built during Chola period in 9th century AD, is located in Nellukara street near Kanchipuram bus stand.

Chitra Gupta, the younger brother of Yama, the God of Death, is believed to keep track of good and evil deeds of all human beings. Everyone goes to heaven or hell based on the records maintained by Chitra Gupta. You cannot find a temple or shrine for Chitra Gupta anywhere else except in Kanchpuram. As Chitra Gupta is the God of Ketu, one of the Navagrahas, you can find a lot of devotees visiting this small temple.

The temple has Lord Chitra Guptar as the main idol with Utsava idols of Chitra Guptar with his wife Karni Ambal. There is a separate shrine for Ayyappa, Vishnu Durga, Navagraha, and Ramalingar in this temple.

When you go to Kanchipuram, visit this rare temple.

Happy travelling.

Site Name: Chitra Guptar Temple
Highlights:
A rare and unique temple for Chitra Guptar, who keeps track of our deeds
2) One of the 51 Shakthi Peeths
3) The most famous temple of Kanchipuram, the city of thousand temples
Location: Kanchipuram, 75 kms from Chennai, Tamil Nadu state, India
Nearest Railway Station: Kanchipuram
Nearest Airport: Chennai (around 75 kms)
How to reach: Easily reachable by road and train
Hotel: A lot of luxury hotels and budget hotels are available
Restaurants: There are a lot of good restaurants in the city


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Subramanya became Creator - Kumara Kottam Temple, Kanchipuram, India

Sri Kumara Kottam temple is the most important Muruga (Subramanya) temples of Kanchipuram, the city of thousand temples. Kumara Kottam temple is located on the west Raja street at a distance of around half a km from Kanchipuram bus stand. The temple is located very near to Kamakshi Amman temple and Sankara Mutt.

The Tamil version of Skanka Purana (the story of Lord Subramanya/Muruga, the son of Lord Shiva) was composed by the saint scholar Kachiappa Sivachariyar in this temple. As per the legend, once Lord Subramanya imprisioned the creator God Brahma for not knowing the meaning of Pranava Mantra, and he started doing the creation duties. The idol of Lord Muruga in this temple is in the form of Creator form. Another highlight of the temple is that the famous 'Tiruppugazh' was composed by Arunagirinathar in praise of Lord Muruga in Kumara Kottam temple.

Once you enter the temple through the tower (Raja gopuram), you can find the hall (mandapa) where Skanda Purana was composed. Near the mandapa, there are small shrines of Ganesha and Muruga. Inside the main section of the temple, there is a Ganesha idol found at the entrance of Lord Skanda (Muruga/Subramanya) shrine. The main shrine has Muruga in standing posture. The first prakara (roundabout) of the main shrine has various idols and shrines such as Ganesha, Palani Muruga, Nava Veeras, Muthukumaraswamy, Somaskandar, Bhairavar, Chandikeshwarar, Navagrahas, Sun with his consorts, and Veerabhadra.

Kumara Kottam temple has a separate shrine for Lord Vishnu called as Urugum Ulla Perumal. There is a legend associated to this shrine. When there was a disastrous flood all over the world, the sage Markandeya swam through and reached Kanchipuram. The city was not affected by the flood. Lord Vishnu followed the sage and he too reached Kanchipuram. He bathed in the holy waters of Ulakaana and worshipped Lord Subramanya of Kumara Kottam temple. As per his request, Lord Subramanya made him to be present next to his shrine in the same temple.

There are also other shrines and idols such as Ramalingar, Shanmuga with his consorts Valli and Devasena, Kachiappar, and Pamban Swamigal.

Kumara Kottam temple is definitely one temple in Kanchipuram which should not be missed.

Happy travelling.

Site Name: Kumara Kottam Temple
Highlights:
1) One of the most important temples of Kanchipuram
2) The most important Muruga temple in Kanchipuram
3) The temple where the Tamil version of Skanda Puran was composed
4) The God on which 'Tirupgazh' was composed

Location: Kanchipuram, 75 kms from Chennai, Tamil Nadu state, India
Nearest Railway Station: Kanchipuram
Nearest Airport: Chennai (around 75 kms)
How to reach: Easily reachable by road and train
Hotel: A lot of luxury hotels and budget hotels are available
Restaurants: There are a lot of good restaurants in the city


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Lizard worship in 1000 years old temple - Varadarajar Temple, Kanchipuram, India

Varadarajar temple, which is located in Chinna Kanchipuram aka Vishnu Kanchi, is one of the most popular temples in Kanchipuram. Kamakshi Amman temple is the most important Goddess temple in Kanchipuram; EKambareswarar temple is the most important Shiva temple in Kanchipuram; Kumarakottam is the most important Muruga (Subramanya) temple in Kanchipuram; Similarly, Varadarajar temple is the most important Vishnu temple in Kanchipuram city. Chinna Kanchipuram (means "Little" Kanchipuram) is more like a separate town as this is located on the other side of main Kanchipuram (Periya Kanchipuram = "Big" Kanchipuram). Varadarajar temple is the centre of attraction of Chinna Kanchipuram.

Varadarajar temple, located in a sprawling 20 acres area, is one of the 108 Divya desams (108 holy abodes of Vishnu). Lord Vishnu, called as Varadarajar in this temple, was believed to be worshipped by Lord Brahma in Krita yuga, Gajendra in Treta yuga, Brahaspati (Guru) in Dwapara yuga and Aadisesha in Kali yuga. Varadarajar in this temple is also called as Devaraja Perumal, Athigiri Arulala Perumal, Karivaradar, and Giri Varadar. It is believed that Indira's white elephant Iravat, is in the form of a hill bears the image of Lord Vishnu in this temple.

This huge temple of Varadaraja was built by Pallava kings in 11th century AD. The temple was patronized by Chola and Vijayanagara kings. There is a big Raja gopuram (temple tower) for this temple in the main entrance. Once you enter the temple, you can find the beautiful 100 pillared hall (Nuttrukkal mandapa) with full of extraordinary sculptures. Behind the mandapa, the tank is located. The original figure of Lord Varadarajar made out of fig wood is kept at the bed of the tank and is taken out only once in every 40 years.

The first roundabout (prakara) of the temple is on the holy mound ''Hasthigiri'. The main shrine is about 40 feet height and you need to take 43 steps to reach. The main shrine has Lord Varadarajar in standing posture with four hands. The main idol of Lord Varadarajar is believed to the second largest idol and the largest idol is Tirupati Balaji idol. There is a separate shrine for the goddess Perundevi. The idol of the goddess is very beautiful. Opposite to Varadarajar, there is a small shrine housing Garuda. Next to Perundevi shrine, there is a shrine for Lord Krishna.

One of the highlights of Varadarajar temple is a small shrine for lizards (lizard worship). Two lizard idols - one with gold plate and another withe silver plate are carved in the ceiling along with the figures of Sun and Moon. Devotees touch these lizard figures; as per the belief, it will relieve them from their diseases and problems. As per the legend, the two sons of sage Srungibera (Hayman and Sukran) were the disciples of the sage Gautama. One day, the lizard was found in the water that they bought of Gautama to perform pooja. Hence, the sage cursed them to become lizards. They got rid of their curse after visiting Varadarajar temple.

The Varadarajar temple is architecturally beautiful and a lot of sculptures and paintings are found. There is a shrine for Valampuri Vinayakar in the prakara. There is a shrine for Dharmendran, and Andal too. There are also shrines for Yoga Narasimha, Rama, Ranganath, Danvantri and Karumanikka Perumal. Near the tank there is a shrine for Chakrathalwar and Narasimha on the back side.

Sages like Peyalwar, Budhatalwar, and Tirumangai Alwar have sung on this deity. The greate Hindu reformed saint Ramanujar was believed to have lived in this temple for sometime. This is the birth place of Vedanta Desikar. Garuda Seva, which is a grand utsav (festival) done in Vaikasi month is said to be the most and special festival here.

There is another legend related to this temple. Lord Brahma wanted to get darshan of Lord Vishnu in Chathur Bhujam (with four hands) and becasue of this, he did penance towards him. First Vishnu gave his seva in the form of Teerth, which is now called as "Pushkar". Next he gave the seva in the form of forest, which in now called as "Naimisaranyam". But still, Lord Brahma was not satisfied. At that time, he heard an Asarari (an unknown voice from heaven) which said that to get the darshan Sri Varadarajar, he must do the great Ashwameta yagna for hundred times. But, Lord Brahma felt so depressed that he didn't have patience to perform 100 Ashwameta yagna. Finally as per Vishnu's advice, he performed one Ashwameta yagna which is equivalent to 100 Ashwameta yagnas. It is said that doing one Ashwameta yagna in Kanchipuram is equivalent to 100 times of doing Ashwameta yagna somewhere else. Brahma started the yagna and from the fire of the yagna, Sri Varadarajar came out and gave his darshan.

"Ka" - means Brahma and "Anjitham" - means who was worshipped. Since, Brahma worshipped Vishnu as Varadharajar, this place is called "Kanchi".

Varadarajar temple is one place which should not be missed when you go to Kanchipuram.

Happy travelling.






Site Name: Varadaraja Perumal Temple

Highlights:
1) One of the most important temples in Kanchipuram
2) The most important temple in Little Kanchipuram (Chinna Kanchipuram)
3) The most important Vishnu temple in Kanchipuram
4) One of the 108 Divya Desams temples
5) Lizard worship
6) The second biggest Vishnu idol
7) 1000 years old Pallava temple
8) Beautiful sculptures, paintings, and architecture

Location: Chinna Kanchipuram, 75 kms from Chennai, Tamil Nadu state, India
Nearest Railway Station: Kanchipuram
Nearest Airport: Chennai (around 75 kms)
How to reach: Easily reachable by road and train
Hotel: A lot of luxury hotels and budget hotels are available
Restaurants: There are a lot of good restaurants in the city


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Worshipped by Tortoise - Kachabeswarar Temple, Kanchipuram, India

Kachabeswarar temple is one of the most important and big temples of Kanchipuram city, the city of thousand temple. Kachabeswarar temple is located in the southern corner of Western Raja street, at a distance of around 1 km from the famous Ekambareswarar temple in Kanchipuram.

Kachabeswarar temple is a Shiva temple, and Lord Shiva, the main deity of this temple is called as Kachabeswarar. The goddess is called as Soundarambikai. The temple has big Raja gopuram (temple tower) and very big in area. The temple also houses other idols such as Saraswati, Ganesha, Chadurmukeswarar, Sastha and Bhairav. There are four shrines of Lord Shiva around the temple tank (called as Ishta Siddhi Teerth) - Dharma Siddheswarar, Kama Siddheswarar, Artha Siddheeswarar and Moksha Siddheswarar. Near the main deity Kachabeswarar, there is an idol of Lord Ganesha called as Satyamozhi Vinayaka, which was worshipped by Lord Vishnu.

As per the legend, when the Devasa and Asuras were churning the milky ocean to get Amruth, the mountain which was used as the churning stick, started sinking. Lord Vishnu incarnated himself as Koorma (tortoise) and lifted the mountain on his back. Due to this, he got proud and increased the water level which troubled the universe. At this juncture, Lord Shiva destroyed the tortoise and strung its shell on the sacred garland worn about his neck. Later, Lord Vishnu regretted his act and came here to get blessings of Lord Shiva, and hence Shiva in this temple got the name Kachabeswara (Kachab means tortoise). It is believed that Lord Brahma and hsi consort Saraswathi also worshipped Kachabeswarar in this temple. Asura guru Sukracharya worshipped here to get Mruthsanjeevini and Vajrayakkai.

Happy travelling.

Site Name: Kachabeswarar Temple

Highlights:
1) One of the most important temples in Kanchipuram
2) Worshipped by tortoise (Koorma incarnation of Lord Vishnu)

Location: Kanchipuram, 75 kms from Chennai, Tamil Nadu state, India
Nearest Railway Station: Kanchipuram
Nearest Airport: Chennai (around 75 kms)
How to reach: Easily reachable by road and train
Hotel: A lot of luxury hotels and budget hotels are available
Restaurants: There are a lot of good restaurants in the city

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Get rid of your fever - Jurahareswarar Temple, Kanchipuram, India

Kanchipuram, which is called as the city of thousand temples, has around 250 temples at present in and around the city. Even though most of the temples are very ancient, have historical importance, or architecturally beautiful, only few temples are popular and visited by devotees. Jurahareswarar temple is one of the most beautiful temples of Kanchipuram city, which is an architectural wonder, but remains as an unknown temple.


Jurahareswarar temple, currently under the control of archaeological department of India, is located at the south direction of the popular Ekambaranathar temple of Kanchipuram city. Jurahareswarar temple is an ancient temple and architecturally very beautiful. As per the legend, the demon Juraha was killed by Lord Shiva here, and hence he got the name Jurahareswarar in this temple. It is also believed that Shiva (Jurahareswarar) cures the fever and heat related diseases of the devotees. The word "Juram" in Tamil language means fever; it can also be considered as the reason for the main deity's name as Jurahareswarar.

I assume that this temple must have been built during Pallava era; I couldn't find any historical data about this temple. The main shrine of Jurahareswarar temple is circular, which is an example of great architectural skill. The entire temple is built of stones, and there are few beautiful idols in this temple. The main deity of the temple is Lord Shiva (Jurahareswarar). You can also find the idol of Kuber, the wealth God in this temple. The other normal deities such as Goddess, Ganesha, and Subramanya are also present in this temple.

The temple also has a tank named 'Vepperi Kulam' aka 'Upperi Kulam'.

As photography is banned inside this temple, I couldn't display the pictures of this extraordinarily beautiful temple. When you visit Kanchipuram temple, ensure that you do visit this temple.

Happy travelling.

Site Name: Jurahareswarar Temple

Highlights:
One of the architecturally beautiful temples in Kanchipuram

Location: Kanchipuram, 75 kms from Chennai, Tamil Nadu state, India
Nearest Railway Station: Kanchipuram
Nearest Airport: Chennai (around 75 kms)
How to reach: Easily reachable by road and train
Hotel: A lot of luxury hotels and budget hotels are available
Restaurants: There are a lot of good restaurants in the city


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An architectural marvel of Pallava era - Vaikundanatha Perumal Temple, Kanchipuram, India

Vaikundanatha Perumal Temple is located very near to Kanchipuram bus stand in Kanchipuram city, the city of thousand temples. This is one of the most important temples in Kanchipuram city. It is one of the 108 Divya Desams (108 most important temples of Lord Vishnu). This temple is also referred as 'Parameswara Vinnagaram'. Similar to Kailasanathar temple in Kanchipuram, Vaikundanatha Perumal temple is an architectural marvel. Hence, this temple is being visited not only by devotees, but even by art lovers.


As per the legend, the dwarapalaks of Lord Vishnu were reborn as Pallava and Villava. They performed Ashwametha Yagna in this place, and Lord Vishnu gave darshan to them.


The temple, built by Nandhivarma Pallava, is architecturally too beautiful. The main shrine has three floors. In the first floor, Lord Vishnu is present in sitting posture. In the second floor, you can find Lord Ranganath along with Sridevi and Bhoodevi in the reclining posture. The top floor has the Lord Vishnu in the standing posture. There is a separate shrine for Goddess Vaikundavalli Thayar. The temple is full of rare sculptures and idols which are extraordinarily beautiful. The architectural style of Pallava era and the beautiful sculptures are the main highlights of this temple.

Don't miss to visit one of the most beautiful temples of Kanchipuram to taste the great Pallava architecture.

Happy travelling.

Site Name: Vaikundanatha Perumal Temple
Highlights:
1) One of the most important temples in Kanchipuram city
2) One of 108 Divya Desams are present in the temple (108 most important temples of Lord Vishnu)
3) Three forms of Lord Vishnu available in the same temple
4) One of the most beautiful temples of Kanchipuram city with full of sculptures
5) Ancient architecture of Pallava era

Location: Kanchipuram, 75 kms from Chennai, Tamil Nadu state, India
Nearest Railway Station: Kanchipuram
Nearest Airport: Chennai (around 75 kms)
How to reach: Easily reachable by road and train
Hotel: A lot of luxury hotels and budget hotels are available
Restaurants: There are a lot of good restaurants in the city


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35 feet high idol - Ulagalanda Perumal Temple, Kanchipuram, India

Ulagalanda Perumal temple, situated very near to the Kanchipuram bus stand, is one of the most important temples of Kanchipuram, the city of thousand temples. The temple is famous for the gigantic image of the main deity.

The main shrine of the temple is dedicated to Trivikraman. Vamana is an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. When Vamana took a large image of himself, he is referred as Trivikrama. Lord Vishnu has taken 25 incarnations. Of them, you can find temples mainly for three incarnations - Rama, Krishna, and Narasimha. The temples for other incarnations are found very rarely. This is one of the rare temples dedicated to Vamana (Trivikrama) incarnation of Lord Vishnu. In the main shrine, you can find 35 feet long idol of Lord Trivikrama in standing posture with his left leg raised aloft to indicate that his one step has measured the sky. His right leg rests on the head of Mahabali (the demon king).The deity is made up of stucco (sudhai in Tamil language). You can also find the Utsava idols of Lord Vishnu along with his consorts Sri Devi and Bhoo Devi in the same main shrine.The God in this main shrine is also referred as Peragathan, and this main shrine is considered as one of the 108 Divya Desams (108 most popular temples of Lord Vishnu).


On the right side of the main shrine, there is shrine referred as Ooragam dedicated to Lord Vishnu on top of snake Adi Sesha. The word Ooragam refers to serpent.

The temple has three roundabouts (prakaras). The second prakara has a shrine named Neeragam where the Lord Vishnu is referred as Tiru Niragathan aka Jagadeeshwara. The Lord is seen in a standing posture with four arms. The Lord is found along with his consort Nilamangaivalli or Nilamangaivalli Nahiar. Only the Utsava idols (metal idols/procession idols) are seen here and the whereabouts of the main stone idols are not known. This shrine is considered as one of the 108 Divya Desams.

The third prakara has another shrine named Karagam. Lord Vishnu referred as Karunakara is see seated on Adi Sesha along with his consort Padmamani. This shrine is considered as a separate Divya Desam. The details of the original temple and stone idols are not known; only utsaval idols are present now.

The third prakara also houses another shrine - Tiru Kaarvanam, where you can find Lord Kaarvannnan aka Navaneetha Chora (Vishnu) in standing posture with four arms under the Pushpaka Vimana. His consort is found along with him and is called Kamalavalli. This is another separate Divya Desam. Only Utsava idols are present here and the whereabouts of main idols are not known.

There is a separate shrine dedicated to Goddess Aaranavalli Thayar in this temple.

This architecturally beautiful temple has a unique feature of having four Divya Desams in the same complex. When you visit Kanchipuram, you must definitely visit this divine place.

Happy travelling.

Site Name: Ulagalanda Perumal Temple
Highlights:
1) One of the most important temples in Kanchipuram city
2) Four out of 108 Divya Desams are present in the temple (108 most important temples of Lord Vishnu)
3) A temple dedicated for Vishnu's incarnation Vamana/Trivikrama (which is rare)
4) The gigantic image of 35 feet high deity

Location: Kanchipuram, 75 kms from Chennai, Tamil Nadu state, India
Nearest Railway Station: Kanchipuram
Nearest Airport: Chennai (around 75 kms)
How to reach: Easily reachable by road and train
Hotel: A lot of luxury hotels and budget hotels are available
Restaurants: There are a lot of good restaurants in the city


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