Kanchipuram the City of Temples

Tiruchirappalli - Rockfort City

Introduction
Situated on the banks of River Kaveri, Tiruchirappalli , the fourth largest city in the state was a citadel of the many dynasties like early Cholas, Pallavas, Pandyas, Vijayanagar dynasty Nayakas, Marathas including French, Nawabs and British colonial rulers.


Tiruchi flourished and prospered in its own right and grew to be the city. Tiruchi is a fine blend of tradition and modernity built around the Rock Fort. Apart from the fort there are several churches. colleges and missions dating back to the 1760s. With its excellent infrastructural facilities Tiruchi will serve as a good base to see central Tamil nadu.


GENERAL INFORMATION
Area . 4403.83 Sq. km
Attitude . 75m above the sea level
Population 24,18,366 (As per 2001 census)
Temperature Summer Max 37. I C Min 26.4 C Winter Max 31.3 C Min 20.6 C
Average Rainfall 43.4 cms
Season Throughout the year
Clothing Tropical
Languages Tamil, English, Hindi Interpretation Center at Main Guard Gate (By ASI)

HOW TO GET THERE
Air: Tiruchirappalli has an airport (7 km) Indian Airlines connects Tiruchi with Chennai, Sharjah, Kuwait, Colombo and Singapore/Ma laysio. Rail: Railway connectsallimportantcitieswithinthestateandotherstates. Road: Good network of road link all cities and towns.

Local Transport: City Bus service to all places of tourist interest from Central Bus Stand and from Chinthamani - Main Guard Gate Bus Stand. Tourist Taxis, Autos, Rickshaws are available.

PLACES OF INTEREST

Rock Fort (5Kms)

Tiruchi's most famed landmark is an 83-mte tall rock fort which is the only outcrop in the otherwise flat land of the city The most amazing fact about the rock is that it is one of the oldest in the world - approximately 3,800 million years, which makes it as old as the rocks of Greenland and older than the Himalayas. The sheer abruptness of its rise is an attention grabber in itself but the actual centre of attraction is not the fort itself, of which very little remains, but the temple at the summit. 344 steps hewn out of rock lead to the top where there are inscriptions dating back to the 3rd century B.C. Hardly anything remains of the ramparts but the Main Guard Gate is still intact. The fort played an important role during the Carnatic Wars and according to an inscription, mainly contributed to lay the foundations of the British empire in India.

A top of the rock is the Uchipillaiyar Koil, a temple dedicated to Lord Vinayaka from where one can enjoy a panoramic view of Tiruchi. A flight of steps leads to the Thayumanavarswami Temple, dedicated to Lord Siva where the lingam is a projection of the rock itself. Below the Siva temple there are two Pallava cave temples that have beautiful sculptures of the 6th and 7th centuries A.D. At the foot of the Rock Fort is a tank and a pavilion which are used during the float festival of the temples. Near the tank is the house where Robert Clive lived when he was in Tiruchi and an 18th century Christ Church built by Reverend Schwartz of Denmark, The house is now part of Tiruchi's famous St. Joseph's College. Ph: 2704621

Srirangam 

The District's most important pilgrim centre is located in an island just 7 km from Tiruchi. Srirangam, surrounded by the waters of River Kaveri on one side and its tributary Kollidam on the other side is a 600 acre island-town enclosed within the seven walls of the gigantic Lord Ranganathaswami Temple. There are 21 gopurams, among which the Rajagopuram is the largest in South India. The 72mtr. high 13-tiered Raja gopuram was built in 1987 and dominates the landscape for miles around, while the remaining 20 gopurams were-built between the 14th and 17th centuries. Originally, there was just a small shrine where the temple is today, but it was added on to and expanded by the Cholas, Cheras, Pandyas, Hoysalas, the Vijayanagar Kings and Nayaks of Madurai. and today Srirangam stands as the biggest temple complex in the country.

Tiruvanaikkaval

Situated 2 km east of Srirangam, this beautiful Siva temple steals the show from the larger Ranganathaswami temple due to its excellent architectural design. The temple is named after the elephant which is believed to have worshipped Lord Siva here and installed under an ancient Jambu tree. The Lingam is partially submerged by water and is meant-to represent Water, one ofthe five elements

St. Lourdes Church (5 km)

The church located near the RockFort Teppakulam based on the French architecture is the oldest one of its kind. Church of Our Lady of Lourdes is the replica of the Basillica of Lourdes, the world famous place of pilgrimage in south France.

Nadhirsha Dharga (5 km)

The Dharga built 1000 years ago, was stood as a holy place for musilms. The festival of'urs' is celebrated in this mosque every year with a great boom. Many devotees from various parts of Tamilnadu visit this mosque during the festival rituals.

Samayapuram (18 kms)

This is a very famous pilgrimage centre dedicated to the Goddess Manamman. It is one among the abodes of Shakti in India. Pancha prakaram, Poochoriyal Vizha and Brahmotsavam are some ofthe festivals that attract many devotees. Ph: 2670460, 2670807.

Vayaloor (8km)

A very fine picnic spot located on the out skirts of Tiruchirappalli having a temple dedicated to Lord Murugan in the midst of lush green vegetation. Ph: 2607344.

Thiruvellarai (25 km)

A Vaishnava Temple known as Pundareekasha Perumal Temple is situated here. This Temple is one among the 108 Divya desams sanctifed by the songs rendered by Azhwars. It has the pride of Mangalasasanam made to the shrine by Periazhwar and Thirumangai Azhwar. This is also a noted Archaeological site having cave temple and swastika tank. Ph 2562246.

Uthamar Koil (12 km)

Here one can worship Lord Brahma (the creator), Lord Vishnu (the protector) the Lord Shiva (the destroyer) with in the same temple complex. So this place is called Trimurthi Shektram or Kadambavanam. Uthamarkoil in Karumbanur is one of the most famous shrines denoted in 108 VaishnavaDiviyadesam's Paadal Sthalam, Ph: 2591 4 461 2541.

Gunaseelam (24 km)

Gunaseelam located on the northern bank of River Cauvery in between Tiruchirapalli-Musin Road. A Vaishnava Temple dedicated to Lord PrasannaVenkateshwarar attracts many devotees to this place. Ph: 2275216.

Planetorium (6 km)

Planetorium / Anna Science center is located on Pudukottai Road near Airport. Programmes in Tamil and English versions are shown daily Tamil Version : 10.30 am, I .00 pm, 3.30 pm, 4.45 pm

English Version: 1 1.45 am, 2.15 pm
Entry Fee Adult : Rs. [ 2/- Child Rs. 6/- (below 12yrs)
Environmental Gallery Entry Fee Adult : Rs.5/- Child Rs. 2/-(below 12yrs) Science Park Entry Fee : Rs. I /
Phone:0431 233 1921/2332190
Timing: 10.00A.M. to 5.45 PM. (all days except Three National Holidays)

Government Museum (5km)

Government Museum is located in Rani Mangammal Chaultry near Town Hall. This museum contains bronze and granite statues. The art and architecture, the heritage of Truchy District, History, Culture and Civilization are gracefully depicted here.

Entrance Fee Adult : Rs.5/-, Students : Rs.2/-, Foreigners : Rs. 100/¬Phone:0431-2708809.

EXCURSIONS :

Puliancholai (72 km)

A beautiful picnic spot located at the foot of the kolli hills is in the forest region. At the top of kolli hills, there is a water falls known as Dakshina Ganga, the water of this cataract carrying the medicinal properties has reached Puliancholai and joins the kollidam, the tributary of Cauvery. It is a perennial stream.

Mukkombu (Upper Anaicut) (18 km)

A place located on the Truchi-Karur Road with a significance of bifurcation of Cauvery into two branches named River Cauvery and kollidam. This is a beautiful picnic spot with lush green trees, meadows and parks.

Kallanai (Grand Anaicut) (20 km)

The Grand Anaicut, built by Karikal Cholan in the 2`° Century A.D. to harness the waters of the Cauvery is the greatest engineering marvels of India. The dam is 329m long and 20m wide made up of stone is still very much in use.

Pachamaiai (80 km)

A lush green vegetative hill range near Thurayur is known as Pachamabi. It is very fine picture spot to enjoy the nature. The title people have been residing there. Their habits and way of life lure many foreign touristtothe spot

Viralimalai (28 km)

A small hillock, having a temple dedicated to Lord Su bramanya.lt is said to be existed before 15 century A. D, is situated here. There is a very fine peacock sanctuary having different kinds of peacocks. The presiding deity of this temple, Lord Subramanya seated on a peacock with his two consorts on eitherside.

Gangaikonda Cholapuram (100 km)

A gigantic temple, known as Brahadeeswarar temple was built by Rajendra Chola during 1012-1044 A.D. is similar to the temple at Thanjavur. This place had been named after his victory over the kingdoms bordering the River Ganga. The most noteworthy feature of this temple is there are life size beautiful sculptural panels on the outer walls of the scactum sanctorum. Apart from the huge Nandi, there are some beautiful sculptures including a dancing Ganesa, a lion-headed well and depicting Rajendra being crowned by Lord Siva and Goddess Parvathi.

Pudukottai (52 km)

Once a princely state, the area, which comprises the district is of absorbing interest to historians, anthropologists, archeologists and lovers ofart. The numerous dolmns, stone circles and otherforms of megalithic burials in the district indicate the antiquity of this region dating back to pre-historic and protohistoric times, this tract is mentioned in the Sangam classics. The archaeological and cultural remains at Kodumbalur, Narthamalai, Kudumianmalai, Sittannavasal, Thirumayam and Avudaiyarkoil are proofs of its rich cultural heritage.

Manora (120 km)

The eight storey Victory Tower here was built by the Maratha King Serfoji in the year 18 14 A.D. to commemorate the victory of the British over Napolean Bonaparte at Waterloo. The name 'Manors' is derived from the word minaret (small minar).

Karur (72 km)

Once the capital of early cheras, Karur was otherwise called Vanji during the Sangam age. This city played a significant role in the glorious history and culture of Tamil people. The evidences of Tamil Epic Silapathikaram, the travel note of Greek scholar Ptolemy and the recent excavations made in this area reveals that Karur has been flourishing a trading center even from the earlys Sangam age.

Chidambaram - seat of cosmic dance

Chidambaram

Chidambaram is also called as Thillai since the place was originally a forest of Thillai shrubs. It is an important pilgrim centre and a holy place for Saivites as the famous Natarajar Temple is located here. It is 245 kms. from Madras on the Madras-Tiruchirapalli main line of the Southern Railway.

PLACES OF INTEREST
The Natarajar Temple
The temple, located in the centre of the town, covers an area of 40 acres. It is one of the ancient temples of Tamil Nadu. The roof of the sanctum sanctorum is covered with gold plates. The presiding deity of the temple is represented by air, one of the five elements of the universe and is known as Akasa Lingam. There is also a shrine known as Chitrakootam dedicated to Lord Govindaraja, adjacent to the Natarajar shrine. There are five halls in the temple namely, the Nritta Sabha, Deva Sabha, Kanaka Sabha, Chit Sabha and Raja Sabha.

The Chit Sabha houses the Akasa Lingam, Kanaka Sabha houses the Nataraja image. These two sabhas are covered with gold tiles. Nritta Sabha is the hall of immortal dance. This Sabha has fifty six pillars depicting dancing figures. Here the stones pulsate with rhythm and life. Deva Sabha is the hall of festivals and meeting place of the administrators, The Raja Sabha is the 1000-pillar-hall measuring 103 metres long and 58 metres wide where the Pandyas, the Cholas and others celebrated their victories.

The Eastern tower rises to a height of 40.8 metres. On the side walls of the entrance through this tower are carved the 108 dance poses of Bharathanatyam. The Bharathanatyam Dance poses can be seen in the Western tower also. The Northern tower rises to a height of 42.4 metres.

The Sivakamiamman temple, the Sivaganga tank, and the thousand-pillar hall are other important features of the temple.


Kali Temple
The Thillai Kali Amman temple is at the northern end of the town. It was built by Chola King Kopperunjingan, who ruled between 1229 A.D. and 1278 A.D.


Annamalai University
It is a Residential University,founded by Raja Sir Annamalai Chettiar. It is on the eastern outskirts of the town and is a great centre of Tamil learn¬ing and Carnatic music.

Pondicherry - The French Connection

The 17th-18th century headquarters of the French colonial possessions in India, this serene township even today carries a distinct French flavour, which, combined with the sea and laidback air of the place, add up to an irresistible charm. Pondicherry was laid out on the sea front of the Bay of Bengal and stands out for its neatly planned parallel roads that intersect at right angles. During colonial times the town was divided into French quarters and Tamil areas, separated by a canal that has since been covered. The oldest part of the town is ranged along the Seashore Boulevard, and has streets still carrying their French names and their pasts with them. Strolling here among old elegant buildings, churches and leafy parks fill one with a lazy delight.


Churches - One of the most beautiful churches in the city is the dramatic, Gothic, Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus located on South Boulevard. Noteworthy here are the three stained-glass panels which show scenes form the life of Jesus. The Eglise de Notre Dame des Anges (1865) has a marble-like white exterior that was achieved by mixing limestone with the white of eggs. It's the proud possessor of an oil painting of Our Lady of Assumption that was donated by Napoleon III. A famous church festival in Pondicherry is the annual June festival of the Eglise de Notre Dame de Lourdes, on the outskirts of Pondicherry, which attracts people across religions. This church is patterned on the Basilica at Lourdes in France.

Beach - On its eastern front, Pondicherry is flanked by a one and a half-kilometre long beach, a dean stretch ideal for sunbathing and swimming. There is a statue of Mahatma Gandhi and a War Memorial on the beach. Further down the beach is a 150-year-old lighthouse.

Aurobindo Ashram - Pondicherry is today best known for the Aurobindo Ashram, which is a serene retreat shaded by trees. In the early 20th century, Sri Aurobindo, the Bengali philosopher-poet, took refuge in this French territory to escape the British and in 1926 established his Ashram. The residences of Sri Aurobindo and the Mother (Mirra Alfassa, a French disciple of Sri Aurobindo who carried on in his tradition till her death in 1973) are the main buildings of the Ashram. The Samadhis (memorials) of Sri Aurobindo and the Mother are in the courtyard and are the main points of interests for the visitors. apart from the most intense and unparalleled quietitude

Auroville -This "universal town" is about 10 km north of Pondicherry. The Mother, Mirza Alfassa, dreamt of international community living in unity, peace and harmony transcending caste, creed, religion, or nationalities. The famous international commune is a self¬sufficient settlement growing its own food, running its own schools, a beacon to others on how to try and live in harmony with humanity and the Earth. French architect Roger Anger gave an interesting architectural shape to this concept, especially to the 'Matri Mandir' which symbolizes the birth of a new human consciousness.


Temples – Amidst all its French flavour, Pondicherry retains memories of the time it was under the Chola dynasty between the 10th and 12th centuries. The Manakula Vinayaka Temple is also very popular with both the locals and visitors for it is believed that Lord Ganapathy blesses his devotees with success. In February-March, the Masi Magam festival is held here. The 12th century Varadaraja Temple is another ancient shrine.

Pondicherry Museum – The Museum is located near the Government Park on Rue St Louis and was opened in 1984. There is an impressive collection from the French colonial period which includes a bed used by Joseph Francois Dupleix, the most famous of the French governors in India. Also, do not miss the rare bronze and stone sculptures from the Pallava and Chola period.

For more information on Pondicherry visit http://tourism.pondicherry.gov.in/

Tirupati Attractions

Chandragiri Fort
Chandragiri Fort is the southern entrance to the temple for the vehicles coming from Bangalore, Tamilnadu and Kerala.It is a historical fort and encircles eight ruined temples of saivite and vaishanavite pantheons, Raja Mahal,Rani Mahal and other ruined structures.

ISKCON Lord Krishna Temple
ISKCON known for the architecture on the way to tirumala hills has the carving of Lord Narasimha Swamy, Lord Varaha Swamy and Krishna Leela are marvelous.Lord Krishna"s playful acts on the windows glass reveals the colorful masterpiece in art work. The pillars are decorated with ten avatars of Lord Vishnu. A beautiful park is sorrouded with lot of flowers, ponds and fountains.

Kapila Theertham
Kapila Theertham is the only temple in Tirupati, dedicated to lord Shiva.This huge temple stands at the entrance to a mountain cave in one of the steep and vertical faces at the foot of the amazing hills of Tirumala, where the waters of the mountain stream Paapa Vinasanam fall as a huge waterfall.A huge stone statue of a seated bull "Nandhi", Lord"s Shiva"s steed, greets devotees and passersby at the entrance to the temple.

Kodanda Rama Swamy Temple
Kodhanda Rama Swamy Temple, known for the architecture- Lord Rama, Seetha and Lakshmana and the Anjaneya Swamy is seen near the foot of Lord Rama.Located in the heart of city.

Padmavati Temple
In Tirupati catch the exquisitely carved gold gopuram of the Lord Venkateswara Temple, glinting in the sun. the Trimala shrine is a masterpiece of Dravidian architecture. This ancient temple has also found a mention in various Sastras and Puranas.That's not all. There are other famous shrines in Tirupati town - Govindarajaswamy, Kodanda Ramaswamy, Tiruchanur (Goddess Padmavathi), Kapila Theertham (Lord Shiva) and Srinivasa Managapuram (Sri Venkateswara).

Sri Venkateswara Zoological Park
In Tirupati catch the exquisitely carved gold gopuram of the Lord Venkateswara Temple, glinting in the sun. the Trimala shrine is a masterpiece of Dravidian architecture. This ancient temple has also found a mention in various Sastras and Puranas.That's not all. There are other famous shrines in Tirupati town - Govindarajaswamy, Kodanda Ramaswamy, Tiruchanur (Goddess Padmavathi), Kapila Theertham (Lord Shiva) and Srinivasa Managapuram (Sri Venkateswara).

Srikalahasti
Srikalahasti (Sri=Spider,Kala=Snake,Hasti=Elephant),located on the banks of the river Swarnamukhi ( a tributary to river Pennar), is one of the important ancient Siva temples in South India. The temple is in between the river bank and the foot of the hills and the place is known as Dakshina (South) Kailasam. The lofty gopuram is a great example for the architecture.The hundred pillared mandapam is an important feature of this temple.

Talakona
Talakona Waterfall also known as Sri Venkateswara park,is the highest waterfall in Andhra pradesh. Lord Siddeswara Temples is located close to the waterfall.The water of the Talakona is enriched with herbs and people believe that it has healing properties. Talakona was declared as Bio-Sphere Reserve because of the rare species. A long and treacherous trekking route leads to the top of the hill, which can be reached by multiple paths.

Thiruchanoor
Thiruchanoor also known as Alamelu Mangapuram, the temple is home to the temple of Sri Alamelu (Padmavati), consort of Sri Venkateshwara. It is believed that the goddess Alamelu, an avatara of Lakshmi, was born the daughter of Akasha Raja, the ruler of this region, and wed Venkateshwara of Tirupati.

Tirumala Venkateswara Temple
Hindu Temple of Lord Venkateswara located in the hill town Tirumala. The temple is located on the Venkatachalam hill that forms part of the seven hills of Tirumala, and hence the temple is also known as the Temple of Seven Hills.The Tirumala hills comprising of the seven hills of Seshadri, Neeladri, Garudadri, Anjanadri, Vrushabadri, Narayanadri and Venkatadri are the abode of the Tirumala Venkateswara temple. The hill town (Tirumala) and the temple (Venkateswara Temple) are located on the Seshadri or Seshachelam hill.

Kanniyakumari

The origin of name - Kanyakumari (also spelt as Kanniyakumari) district is bounded by Tirunelveli district in the north and northeast, by Kerala state in the northwest and confluence of Arabian Sea and Indian Ocean in the west and south. The coastline is almost regular except for some points of land projecting into the sea at Cape Comorin. Kanyakumari is the district headquarters of the district of the same name.


At the southern most land tip of India, where the Arabian Sea, the Indian Ocean and the Bay of Bengal meet, lies Kannyakumari, an important pilgrim centre. Kannyakumari is famous for its beach and the spectacular sunrises and sunsets, especially on full moon days. Kanyakumari is also famous for its vast green stretches of paddy fields, rich forests, coconut groves and mineral sands.

Kannyakumari has been named after the Goddess Kannyakumari Amman who is the popular deity of the area. Legend has it that the Goddess Parvati in one of her incarnations as Devi Kanniya did penance on one of the rocks of this land's end to obtain the hand of Lord Shiva.


The History
Kanniyakumari district, once known as "The Granary of Travancore" lies at the southwestern part of Indian peninsula. It was in Travancore for a long time and then merged with Tamil Nadu in 1956 under the State Linguistic Reorganisation Act.

At the southernmost tip of India, where the Arabian Sea, the Indian Ocean and the Bay of Bengal meet, lies Kanyakumari, an important pilgrimage site. The Kumari Amman temple, here, is dedicated to Parvati as Devi - Kanya - the virgin goddess who did penance to obtain the hand of Lord Shiva.

Two rocks reach out of the ocean, south-east of the Kumari Amman temple. One of these is Sri Padaparai, where the footprints of the virgin goddess are to be seen. On this rock, Swami Vivekananda is said to have sat in deep meditation; and here stands the Vivekananda Rock Memorial, built in 1970.


Location
Kanyakumari is the southern most district of Tamil Nadu. The district lies between 77o 15' and 77o 36' of the eastern longitudes and 8o 03' and 8o 35' of the northern Latitudes. The District is bound by Tirunelveli District on the North and the east. The South Eastern boundary is the Gulf of Mannar. On the South and the South West, the boundaries are the Indian Ocean and the Arabian Sea. On the West and North West it is bound by Kerala.


Pilgrim Attractions of Kanyakumari


Temple Of Goddess Bhagavati
Few temples in India are more picturesquely located than that of Goddess Bhagavati in Kannyakumari. It stands near where three oceans meet: the Indian Ocean, the Bay of Bengal and the Arabian Sea. In its early form the temple seems to have been built by the first Pandyas. The Nayaks expanded it later. There are three Prakaras. The image of the Goddess in the sanctum is marvellous in its serenity and beneficence. She carries a necklace in Her right hand. The eastern gate, facing the Bay of Bengal is opened only five times a year.


Swami Vivekananda Rock Memorial
On the evening of December 25, 1892, Swami Vivekananda who had come to Kannyakumari on pilgrimage swam to the rock and spent the whole night there in deep meditation. He then resolved to decide himself to the service of the Motherland and to spread the message of Vedanta. Next year he attended the Parliament of Religions in Chicago, an event of seminal importance in the modern history of Hinduism. To commemorate his visit to the rock a superb memorial has been erected. It attracts thousands of visitors.


The Temple at Suchindram
Tradition connects the Kannyakumari temple with that in Suchindram (13-km from Kanyakumari). This is a fine, large fane, with a beautiful tank. It is one of the few temples in the country where the Trinity, Brahma, Vishnu and Isvara, are worshipped. The Linga, named "Sthanumalaya", is in three parts; the top represents Lord Shiva, the middle Lord Vishnu, and the base Lord Brahma. "Sthanu" is a name of Shiva, "Mal" of Vishnu, and "Ayan" of Brahma.

Kumari Amman Temple
Picturesquely situated overlooking the shore, this temple and the nearby ghat attract pilgrims from all over India to worship and to bathe. According to legend, Devi did penance here to secure Shiva's hand in marriage. When she was unsuccessful, she vowed to remain a virgin (kanya). The temple is open daily from 4.30 to 11.45 am and from 5.30 to 8.30 pm, but non-Hindus are not allowed into the inner sanctum. Men must remove their shirts, and everyone their shoes on entering the temple.


Nagaraja Temple at Nagercoil
19-km from Kannyakumari is Nagercoil, which contains the celebrated Nagaraja temple. The sanctum is a simple thatched shed, with mud walls. It enshrines the King of Serpents. Tradition states that a King of Kalakkad was cured of leprosy when he performed penance in the temple. He then rebuilt it in the Kerala style. He might have been Bhuthalavira Sri Vira Udaya Marthandavarma, who ruled Venad, with Kalakkad as his capital, from 1516 to 1535. It is believed that snakebite is not fatal within a kilometre of the temple. The fane has some Jain sculptures.

Tirunelveli
The temple of Swami Nelliappar and Sri Kanthimathi Ambal in Tirunelveli (83-km from Kanyakumari) dates back at least to the seventh century. Sambandar has sung it, and Ninrasir Neumaran, the Pandya, is said to have commissioned the making of musical pillars in a Mandapa in this temple. Originally, there were two temples side by side, dedicated to Lord Nelliappar and Goddess Kanthimathi. A Mandapa, the ?chain? Mandapa, built in 1647, linked them. The oldest inscription belongs to the middle of the tenth century.


Sankaranainarkoil
Sankaranainarkoil has three shrines dedicated to Lord Sankaralinga, to Goddess Gomathi Amman and, between these two, to Lord Sankaranarayana, a combination of Shiva and Vishnu. The temple was built in the eleventh century and was expanded later. The Gopura is of nine storeys and is 38m high. The temple is famous for the miracles the Goddess performs in curing illness.


Subramanya Temple in Tiruchendur
The temple of Lord Subramanya in Tiruchendur, also in the same district, is one of the "Arupadai Veedus", or specially sanctified residences, of the Lord. It is situated by the sea. Traditionally, it commemorates the Lord's victory over Surapadma, a demon. The Gopura, of nine storeys, is 42m high and was constructed in the 17th century. It was renovated in 1983.


Kumarakovil
Kumarakovil is at the foot of the Velimalai hills in Kalkulam Taluk (also spelt as Taluka), about 34-km from Kannyakumari. The Lord Muruga Temple is built on the hillock about 200 feet height in a lush green field of Paddy, Plantain and Coconut trees. The temple is noted for architectural beauty. The side of the Lord also enshrines goddess Valli, the spouse of Lord Subramanya in the temple. In the right side of the temple there is one big lake, suitable for boating.

Madurai

Madurai is one of the oldest cities of southern India. It has been a centre of learning and pilgrimage, for centuries. Legend has it, that the divine nectar falling from Lord Shiva's locks, gave the city its name - Madhurapuri, now known as Madurai.

History
Madurai's history dates back to over 2000 years ago, when it was the capital of the Pandyan kings. In the 10th century AD, the Chola emperors captured Madurai. It remained in their hands, until the Pandyans regained their independence in the 12th century, only to lose it to the Muslim invaders under Malik Kafur, a general in the service of the Delhi Sultanate. The Hindu Vijaynagar kings of Hampi overthrew Malik Kafur?s dynasty. After the fall of Vijayanagar, in 1565, the Nayaks ruled Madurai until 1781 AD.

During the rule of the Nayaks, the bulk of the Meenakshi temple was built, the main attraction for visitors, today. Madurai also became the cultural centre of the Tamil people. Madurai passed on to the East India Company in 1781, and in 1840, the Company razed the fort, which had previously surrounded the city, and filled in the moat. Four streets, the Veli streets, which were constructed on top of the fill, till today, define the limits of the old city.

Unique Attraction of Madurai
Shree Meenakshi Sundareswarar Temple
Every day, the Meenakshi Temple attracts pilgrims in thousands, from all over India. The temple is named after the daughter of a Pandyan king who, according to legend, was born with three breasts. At the time of the birth, the king was told that the extra breast would disappear, when she met the man she was supposed to marry, and this happened when she met Lord Shiva on Mount Kailas. Shiva arrived in Madurai, later, in the form of Lord Sundereswara, and married her. The Meenakshi temple is an excellent example of Dravidian architecture, with gopurams or multi pillared halls, covered from top to bottom, in a profusion of multicoloured images of gods, goddesses, animals and mythical figures. The temple occupies an area of around six hectares, and has four entrances to it. The museum called the Temple Art Gallery is located within the temple and contains beautiful stone and brass images, examples of South Indian scripts, friezes and attempts to explain the Hindu pantheon and many other legends associated with it.

Azhagar Koil
Located 21-km northwest of Madurai is a Vishnu temple located on a picturesque wooded hill. Here Lord Vishnu presides as Meenakshi's brother 'Azhagar'. It is one of the few temples in the country built in tiers. The tower consists of 3 tiers depicting Lord Vishnu in 3 postures, sitting, standing and reclining. The shadow of the Vimanam never falls on the ground. On entering the temple, one can see the life-size sculptures carved in the stone Mandapam built by Tirumalai Naicken. These are similar to those found in Madurai temple. The deity is known as "Kalazhagar" as he is the household deity of the Kallas, a low caste people. Other Attractions
About a kilometre away from the temple is the Tirumalai Nayak Palace, which was built in 1636, by the ruler, after whom it has been named. Much of the palace has now fallen into ruins, and only the entrance gate, main hall and dance hall remain. Gandhi Museum provides some of the little - known facts about Mahatma Gandhi. It has the blood - stained dhoti worn by Mahatma Gandhi, at the time of his assassination. Mariamman Teppakkulam Tank, few kilometres east of the old city, is the site for Teppam Festival (Float Festival) in the months of January and February.

Mahabalipuram

Mahabalipuram (Mamallapuram)
Globally renown for its shore temples, Mahabalipuram was the second capital of the Pallava kings of Kanchipuram. 58 kilometres from Madras on the Bay of Bengal, this tiny sea - side village of Mahabalipuram, is set in a boulder - strewn landscape. Tourists are drawn to this place by its miles of unspoiled beach and rock-cut art. The sculpture, here, is particularly interesting because it shows scenes of day-to- day life, in contrast with the rest of the state of Tamil Nadu, where the carvings generally depict gods and goddesses
Mahabalipuram art can be divided into four categories : open air bas - relief, structured temples, man-made caves and rathas ('chariots' carved from single boulders, to resemble temples or chariots used in temple processions). The famous Arjuna's Penance and the Krishna Mandapa, adorn massive rocks near the centre of the village. The beautiful Shore Temple towers over the waves, behind a protective breakwater. Sixteen man-made caves in different stages of completion are also seen, scattered through the area. History
The temples of Mamallapuram, built largely during the reigns of Narasimhavarman and his successor Rajasimhavarman, showcase the movement from rock-cut architecture to structural building. The mandapas or pavilions and the rathas or shrines shaped as temple chariots are hewn from the granite rock face, while the famed Shore Temple, erected half a century later, is built from dressed what makes Mamallapuram so culturally resonant are the influences it absorbs and disseminates.
All but one of the rathas from the first phase of Pallava architecture are modelled on the Budhist viharas or monasteries and chaitya halls with several cells arranged around a courtyard. Art historian Percy Brown, in fact, traces the possible roots of the Pallavan Mandapas to the similar rock-cut caves of Ajanta and Ellora. Referring to Narasimhavarman's victory in AD 642 over the Chalukyan king Pulakesin II, Brown says the Pallavan king may have brought the sculptors and artisans back to Kanchi and Mamallapuram as 'spoils of war'Temples in Mahabalipuram There are, or rather were, two low hills in Mahabalipuram, about 400m from the sea. In the larger one, on both sides, there are eleven excavated temples, called Mandapas, two "open air bas reliefs", one of which is unfinished, and a third enclosed one. Out of a big rock standing free nearby there is a "cut out" temple, called a "Ratha". This type is unique to Mahabalipuram.
Out of the other hill, much smaller and standing about 200m to the south, are fashioned five more rathas, and three big sculptures of a Nandi, a Lion and an Elephant. On the top of the bigger hill there is a structural temple, and a little distance the magnificent beginnings of a Vijayanagar Gopura and also survivals of what is believed to be a palace.

Shore Temple
Perched on a rocky outcrop, it presides over the shoreline, serving, as Percy Brown puts its, 'a landmark by day and a beacon by night'. Designed to catch the first rays of the rising sun and to illuminate the waters after dark, the temple ended up with an unusual layout. As the main shrine faces the sea on the east, the gateway, the fore count and the assembly hall of the Shore Temple all lie behind the sanctum.
Unusual, too, is the fact that the temple has shrine to both Shiva and Vishnu. The main sanctum and one of the two lesser ones on the west are dedicated to Shiva. The enclosing wall has a series of Nandi bulls on it. Interconnected cisterns around the temple meant that the sea could be let in to transform the temple into a water shrine. But, in recent times, a stone wall as been added to protect the shrine from the rising seas and further erosion.

Mandapas
The main hill at Mamallapuram is dotted with pillared halls carved into the rock face. These mandapas, with their graceful columns and intricate figure sculptures bear witness to the artistry of the Pallavan rock cutter. The ten pavilions at Mamallapuram, of which two are unfinished, were designed as shrine, with a sanctum and on outer hall. The shallow porticoes are adorned with exquisite sculptures of gods, goddesses and mythological figures. The Ganesh mandapa is an active shrine even today, with the idol of the elephant-god being revered by the faithful, fourteen centuries after it was first consecrated. Beyond the circular rock called Krishna's Butterball is the Varaha mandapa dedicated to the two avatars of Vishnu as Varaha the boar and Vamana the dwarf. The pillars of this pavilion are perhaps the earliest to display a motif that became the signature of southern architecture-the lion pilaster, where a heraldic lion support ornamental pillar. The Mahishasuramardini mandapa has the goddess Durga in bas relief, slaying a buffalo-headed demon, and the Vishnu Sayana Mandapa shows Lord Vishnu lying under the protective hood of the seven-headed serpent Adishesha. Of the other mandapas, the Panch Pandava mandapa, that is unfinished, has a more elaborate facade. Its pillars are adorned with rearing lions springing from the capital, and the shrine is the only one surrounded by a passage which allows circumvolutions.

Rathas
The eight rathas are monolithic temples fashioned as chariots. They remain an architectural mystery, for each is apparently a faithful reproduction of a structure built of wood. In fact, even the grain of the timber beams and rafters has been simulated in stone.
Of the eight rathas, five have been named for the Pandava brothers, the heroes of the epic Mahabharata, and their shared wife, Draupadi. The largest is the Dharmaraja ratha and it sets the tone for the others. Modelled on a Buddhist vihara or monastery, it sports a square hall topped by a vaulting roof. The Bhima, Arjuna and Nakula-Sahdeva rathas are lesser copies of the Dharmaraja ratha.
The Draupadi ratha is the smallest and the quaintest. It is simple structure, fashioned as a thatched hut borned on the backs of elephants and lions. It was probably the fascimile of a portable village shrine.
The fact that many of the temples and sculptures of Mamallapuram are unfinished, points to the sudden withdrawal of patronage from rock-cut temples when King Rajasimhavarman came to power.

Ooty

Udhagamandalam (Ooty)
The capital of Nilgiri district, is popularly known as the "Queen of hill stations' among the tourist circuits. It is situated at a distance of 105 km away from Coimbatore. The height of the hills in the Nilgiri range varies between 2280 and 2290 meters, the highest peak being Doddabetta at a height of 2623 meters.





Coonoor
Coonoor is situated on the eastern side of the southern extremity of the Doddabetta range, at an altitude of 1,858 metres above the sea level. It is the second largest hill station in the Nilgiris. Coonoor is located 19-km away from Ooty, a famous hill station of India. Coonoor is the first of the three hill stations in the Nilgiris- Ooty, Kotagiri and Coonoor - that one comes across when leaving behind the southern plains. Grassy meadows, tea bushes and profusion of Sunflowers, Marigolds and Rhododendrons, all growing wild cover it. Coonoor is essentially a small tea garden town where the weather remains pleasantly cool throughout the year. The town is physically divided into upper and lower Coonoor.


Kotagiri
Kotagiri is located 16-km away from Ooty and it is the oldest hill station of the Nilgiris. Kotagiri is situated at an altitude of 1950m, which was once a British hill resort, that dates back to 1819 and is quieter than Ooty. Elk Falls, Kodanad Viewpoint and Catherine Falls are a few places to visit.


Ketty
Ketty is famous for having the highest railway station in the country, situated at a height of 7,000 ft, in the Nilgiri Mountains of South India. The weather of Ketty valley is salubrious. Ketty is a wealth of natural beauty reposing in the Wenlock Downs, the Municipal Gardens and Doddabetta Peak, at 2,623 m the highest in the Nilgiris.

Thanjavur

Thanjavur was the royal city of the Cholas, Nayaks and the Mahrattas. Thanjavur derives its name from Tanjan-an asura (giant), who according to local legend devastated the neighbourhood and was killed by Sri Anandavalli Amman and Vishnu, Sri Neelamegapperumal. Tanjan's last request that the city might be named after him was granted. Thanjavur rose to glory during the later Chola reign between the 10th and the 14th Centuries and became a centre of learning and culture. It is the headquarters of the district of the same name. Thanjavur district, the ' Rice Bowl ' of Tamil Nadu, is also known for its exquisite handicrafts, bronzes and South Indian Musical Instruments.History A brief introduction to the Later Cholas or the Thanjavur Cholas. Rajaraja Cholan the Great. Occupies the foremost place in the history of the later Cholas. Vijayalaya Chola was the founder of the later Chola dynasty. He conquered the country from a vassal chief of the pallavas, and established Thanjavur as the capital of the dynasty. His son and successor Aditya I conquered the pallavas and the Kongu country; and his son Parantakan I (AD 907-953), under his leadership, the cholas acquired a dominion, which foreshadowed the greater empire Rajarajan, and Kulotungan.

Pilgrimage Attraction of Thanjavur
Bragateeswara Temple
The Big Temple. Rajaraja Cholan, the Great Chola king built Bragateeswara Temple. Big Temple is an example for the Indian sculptural architecture greatness. Temple is surrounded by moat on two sides and Grand Anaicut River on the other side. This temple is unique to have the tallest tower over the sanctum sanctorum unlike the other temples. It is 216 feet tall. The stupa at the top is made of bronze.The walls of the sanctum are covered, with the wall paintings of Chola and Nayak periods, comparable to the famous Ajanta cave frescoes.Guarding the inner shrine of the temple is the gigantic statue of Nandi, the Bull. The Nandi is 12 feet tall, 191/2 feet long and 81/4 feet wide. And it weighs around 25 tons. Nayaka kings constructed a Mandapam for the Nandi to protect it from sun and rain.


Puliyur Vyagrapureeswara Temple
Around 80 Km from Thanjavur, situated 3/4 Km North of Ramarmadam Busstop in Nagapattinam - Tiruvarur Main Road. The ancient history says Kamadhenu, the devalogha cow prayed to Lord shiva in this shrine to get rid of its sabam. One more speciality about this temple, on evenings, Nataraja is worshipped first prior to all other gods. This is also referred as Dhakshina Chidambaram. chidambaram is where famous temple of lord Nataraja located. This village is also called as Vyagrapuri named after the lord.


Sikkal Singaravelavar Temple
Around 80 Km from Thanjavur situated in Nagapattinam Tiruvarur Main Road. The ancient history says here only Lord Murugan got the 'Sakthi Vel' from Parvathi (refered as Velnedunkanni amman in this temple) and killed Suran. This temple is one of the few temples in Tamilnadu, which has both Siva and Vishnu in the same campus. The 'Vel vankuthal' festival in the Tamil month of Iyappasi is very famous here.
SirkazhiGoddess Parvathi gave Gnana milk to Thirugnana Sambandar here, when he was a child. After this, he sang the famous Devaram. Lord Shiva as Thoniappar resides in a thoni (boat). The boat symbolizes that Thoniappar helps people cross their sea of birth. Every year during Thiruvadirai Nakshatra of Chiithirai month, the famous Thirumulaippal Utsav is held.


Swamimalai
Located 32 Km away, Swamimalai is one of the six abodes (Arupadaiveedu) dedicated to Lord Murugan. Lord Murugan preached Pranava mantra "OM" to Lord Shiva and that why he is called Swaminathan. The 60 steps to the temple indicate the 60 years of the Tamil calendar. Arunagirinadar praises this temple. Every Thursday, Lord Swaminathan is decorated with Diamond Vel.


Thirubuvanam
45 Km away, Thirubuvanam has a 13th century Chola temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Also well known for its silk weaving industry.


Thiruvaiyaru
13 Km from Thanjavur, where the famous saint Thyagaraja lived and attained samadhi. The famous temple at Thiruvaiyaru is dedicated to Shiva, and is known as Panchanatheswara. An eight-day music festival is held here, every January, in honour of the saint.


Thiruvarur
55 Km away from Thanjavur. The Thyagarajaswami Temple is famous for the largest temple chariot in Tamil Nadu. This vast temple houses Thyagaraja, Kamalamba and Vanmikanathar and has been sung by the Saiva Saints. The pillars and the halls here are of great beauty. Rajaraja Cholan was an ardent devotee of Thyagarajaswami. This temple is also referred to as a Prithvi (Earth) Sthalam. Thiruvarur is also the birthplace of saint Thyagaraja.

Vaitheeswaran Kovil
Vaitheeswaran, Thaiyal Nayaki, Muthukumaraswamy (Shiva, Parvathi, Subramanya Swamy). An ancient temple dedicated to Shiva - as Vaitheeswaran literally meaning the divine provider of cures. Adorned with imposing towers, Mandapams and pillars, this well visited shrine has been sung by the Saivite Saint Poets. It is of said that Angarakan - Mars, Kartikeya, Jatayu and the Rig Veda worshipped Shiva here. This shrine is also referred to as an Angarakasthalam.

Navagrahas

The planets within your reach!
Indian astrology is based on planetary movements. It is believed that these planetary movements determine an individuals destiny. Hence, these nine planets also called navagrahas are considered to be of primary importance in one's life. There are individual temples dedicated to Navagrahas located around Kumbakonam, near Thanjavur. They are as below:

1. The Suryanar Kovil (Sun)
2. Thingaloor Kovil (Chandra)
3. Vaitheeswaran Kovil (Mars)
4. Thiruvenkadu (Mercury)
5. Alangudi (Jupiter)
6. Kanchanoor (Venus)
7. Thirunallar (Saturn)
8. Thirunageshwaram (Raghu)
9. Keezh Perumpallam (Ketu)

All these temples are in close proximity to one another. This is a unique confluence not seen anywhere else in India. Just three days and you can be blessed by the Navagrahas!!! Contact us, for some exciting spiritual packages.

Rameshwaram

Rameshwaram
Rameshwaram is an island situated in the gulf of manner at the very tip of the Indian peninsula and is a very important pilgrim centre of the Hindus. Rameshwaram is the place from where Lord Rama, built a bridge across the sea to rescue his consort Sita, from her abductor, Ravana. This is also the place where Rama worshipped Lord Shiva to cleanse away the sin of killing Ravana. Both the Vaishnavites and Shaivites visit this pilgrimage which is known as the Varanasi the south.

Rameshwaram is significant for the Hindus as a pilgrimage to Benaras is incomplete without a Pilgrimage to Rameshwaram. The presiding deity is the Linga Of Sri Ranganatha, which happens to be one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of India. Rameshwaram is also popularly referred to as the 'Benaras of the south'. In order to attain Moksha it is believed that the visit to Rameshwaram is mandatory.

The religious island is spread in an area of 61.8 square kilometers and happens to be in the shape of a conch. The Ramanatha Swamy Temple occupies major area of Rameshwaram. The masterpiece of Dravidian architecture boasts of the largest temple corridor in India. Different rulers built the Ramanatha Swamy Temple over a period of time starting from the 12th century. The temple comprises of twenty-two wells where the taste of the water of each well is different from the other.

Mythological HistoryAccording to the Hindu mythology i.e. the story of Ramayana Lord Rama performed thanksgiving rituals to Lord Rama after the battle at Sri Lanka and his triumph over the demon king Ravana. Owing to this Rameshwaram attracts Vaishnavites (worshippers of Lord Vishnu) and Saivites (worshippers of Lord Shiva) alike. Sri Lanka is at a distance of 24 kilometers from Rameshwaram. In fact the entire area of Rameshwaram is associated with various incidents from the Ramayana. Rameshwaram happens to one of the most visited pilgrim sites in India.

"A Pilgrimage To Kashi Is Not Considered Complete Without A Pilgrimage To Rameshwaram"

Pilgrimage Attaractions of Rameshwaram
Ramanathaswamy Temple
Ramnathswamy temple was built in the 17th century. Situated close to the sea on the eastern side of the island, this temple is famous for its 1200 gigantic granite columns. The 54 metre tall gopuram (gate-tower), 1220 metres of magnificent corridors and the flamboyant columns embellish and render fame to the temple. The water in each of the 22 sacred wells in the temple tastes different.

Agniteertham
100 metres away from the temple is Agniteertham, where Rama worshipped Lord Shiva, to absolve himself from the killing Ravana.

Gandamadana Parvatham
The imprint of Lord Rama's feet placed on a Chakra (wheel) is found in this shrine, which is at the highest point on the island at 2 km from Rameswaram.

Dhanushkodi
Dhanushkodi named after Rama's bow, is at the eastern end of the island at a distance of 8 kms from Rameshwaram. The boulders around the sea between Srilanka and this place known as Adam's bridge, and are believed to be used by Hanuman to reach across Srilanka.

Dhhanushkodi was completely destroyed by the cyclones of 1964. Kothandaramaswamy temple is the only salvage of the cyclone. Idols of Rama, Sita, Lakshmana, Hanuman and Vibhishana (brother of Ravana), surrendered to Rama, here.

Erwadi
An important site for Muslim pilgrims, Erwadi houses the tomb of Ibrahim Sahid Aulia. At a distance of 24 kilometers from Rameshwaram is Erwadi. Muslims from across the globe visit Erwadi especially during the month of December to participate in the annual festival celebrated as a tribute to the saint.

Ramanathapuram
This ancient town is the district headquarters. The Ram Vilas Palace of the Sethupati Rajas is a must visit place. The oil portraits of the Rajas of the past centuries and the articulately designed ceilings and walls embellished with eighteenth century murals, the subjects of which vary from business. Meetings with the English to battles with the Marathas, make this place more interesting.

Tirupullani
Outside the island, there are three other sites traditionally connected with Sri Rama's expedition to Sri Lanka. A big temple in Tiruppullani commemorates the tradition that there the Lord obtained a bow and arrows to use in the impending war from its presiding Deity and also that the Lord of the Ocean who had refused to help Him finally submitted.

Uthirakosamangai
16-km southwest of Ramanathapuram stands the renowed Shiva temple of Uttarakosamangai. Manikkavachagar has sung of it. The Lord is Mangaleshvara and the Goddess Mangalesvari. The temple has inspired many Tamil works of devotion. So, of course, has the Ramanatha temple in Rameshwaram.

Sethu
5-km south of the temple is Sethu, where there is a celebrated temple of Sri Anjaneya, and where, tradition holds, Sri Rama built a bridge to Sri Lanka. In Devipatnam, or Navapashanam, also by the sea, there are nine stones visible at low tide. It is believed that they were set up by Sri Rama to represent the nine planets, the Navagrahas

Golden Temple of Vellore

A grand 'golden temple', the Lakshmi Narayani temple, located at Sripuram, at the foot of a small range of green hills in a place known as "Malaikodi" near Vellore, has been constructed by Vellore-based Sri Narayani Peetam, headed by spiritual leader Sri Sakthi Amma. The entire structure except for the pathway, is made of gold and copper. The temple, has intricate carvings and sculptures in gold. The temple is decorated with lights so that even at night you are able to see the splendors of the temple.
About 400 goldsmiths and coppersmiths, including craftsmen from Tirumala-Tirupati Devasthanam, have completed the architectural marvel in gold in six years. The approximate cost of the temple is Rs 600 crore. Surrounded by mountains and lush and scenic beauty, the temple, entirely conceived and designed by ‘Amma’, would be open to people of all religions. "The temple is Amma's gift to mankind," the sources said. The timings of entry into the premises is strictly between 07:00 AM to 08:00 PM. The temple offer various Darshans which allows limited people at any one of the darshans.

For further information please visit http://www.sripuram.org/