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Sree Parassinikadavu Muthappan Temple Guide – Timings, Dress Code, and History

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Sree Parassinikadavu Muthappan Temple is also known as Sri Muthappan temple which is one of the famous Hindu temples. It is situated on the banks of the Valapattanam river about 10 km away from Taliparamba town in Kannur District of Kerala State. The main deity of worship in the temple is Sree Muthappan that is an indication of 2 mythical characters named Thiruvappana and Vellattam.

Parassini Madappura Sree Muthappan Temple is not a Kshethram but it is a Madappura. Sree Muthappan is always accompanied by a dog.

The ritual performers of Muthappan Theyyam belong to the tribal community of Kerala. It is unique because in Kerala both the upper-caste Brahmins, and the lower-caste tribals have a significant contribution to the major forms of worship. The devotees can interact with God as they pour out their grievances in a chat with the tastefully decorated Muthappan Theyyam.

Sree Parassinikadavu Muthappan Temple

History and Legend of Sree Parassinikadavu Muthappan Temple

  • The Naduvazhi (landlord) Ayyankara Illath Vazhunnavar was unhappy as he had no child. His wife Padikutty Antharjanam was a devotee of Lord Shiva. She offered several things as a sacrifice to the God Shiva. One day in her dream she saw the Lord. The very next day, while she was returning after a bath from a nearby river, saw a pretty child lying in a flower bed. She took the child home and brought him up as her own son.
  • The boy would take food with the poor and with the backward communities. As these acts were against the Namboothiri way of life, his parents earnestly requested him to stop this practice.
  • One day the boy went to his parents and shown his parents his divine form (visvaroopam) with bow and arrow and fiery eyes. His parents understood that the boy was not an ordinary child but God.
  • After revealing himself he left his house and on the way he got associated with toddy. Once a toddy tapper saw him stealing toddy and he tried to attack with his bow and arrow but fell unconscious. Toddy tapper’s wife begged by him to spare his life by calling him Muthappa with respect and since then he came to be known a Muthappan. He made his abode near valapattanam river in Parassinikadavu.
  • The deity here is an embodiment of the divine powers of Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu. The deity is also known as Thiruvappana and Vellattam. The ritual conducted in this temple is totally different and does not follow the satvik Brahminical form of worship as in other Hindu temples. The customary offerings to appease the deity of this temple are fish, meat and toddy.

Significance of Sree Parassinikadavu Muthappan Temple

  • Here dogs are considered sacred and can be seen in large numbers around the temple. Two carved bronze dogs at the entrance of the temple symbolize the bodyguards of the God. The temple is dedicated to Lord Muthappan, believed to be the incarnation of Lord Shiva.
  • Sree Parassinikadavu Muthappan Temple is the only temple in Kerala where the Folk art form of North Kerala ‘Theyyam’ is presented daily. This centre of worship and faith has in store many unique practices and rituals, and the temple architecture itself stands testimony to this aspect.
  • Sree Parassinikadavu Muthappan Temple is also a popular destination for travellers and pilgrims to savour the charm of Theyyam. A ritual that is performed here on a daily basis. Men adorning masks and costumes with a riot of colours perform this temple art form. It represents the conflict between good and evil, with good ultimately emerging victorious.

Sree Parassinikadavu Muthappan Temple Timings

  • Sree Parassinikadavu Muthappan Temple starts function from early morning to late night with few breaks in between for rituals to be performed.
  • Vellattam and Thiruvappana are performed every morning from 5.45 AM to 8 AM. Vellattam are also performed at evening by around 6.30 PM.
  • Sree Parassinikadavu Muthappan Temple remains open from 5 AM to in the morning to 8:00 PM in the evening.

Festivals celebrated at the Sree Parassinikadavu Muthappan Temple

Puthari Thiruvappana festival

Parassinikadavu Muthappan Temple Festival or Utsavam is the main festival celebrated at Parassini Madappura Sree Muthappan Temple. It falls during the Malayalam month of Vrischikam (November end – December half) every year. The Parassinikadavu Muthappan Temple Festival starts as per customary rituals at the Madamana Illam in the morning. Also known as Puthari Thiruvappana festival (Parassinikadavu Ulsavam), the Parassinikadavu Muthappan Temple festival is related to the harvest celebration of local people. Every year the festival begins on 16th Vrischikam in the traditional Hindu Calendar. During this harvest festival, people celebrate “puthari”. A grand ceremonial feast will be conducted at the temple for devotees.

It is associated with the harvesting season of the region. The last Thiruvappana of the temple year is on 30 Kanni every year.

Thiruvappana is not performed on the following days:

  1. Thulam 1st to Vrischikam 15th every year.
  2. Amaavasi (new moon) day of Karkkitakam and Thulam.
  3. “Nira” day of the temple.
  4. When there is a death in the Madappura family.

Poojas and Rituals at Sree Parassinikadavu Muthappan Temple

  • Avoid shirts, skirts, tank tops and so not expose legs. Footwear is not allowed inside the temple. Use of cellphones and photography is strictly prohibited.
  • The traditional offerings made to Sree Muthappan by devotees are Panamkutty, Vellattam and Thiruvappana. The offerings to the prime priest, Matayan, are Vecheringat (a boiled mixture of banana, pepper, turmeric powder and salt), Neerkari (a mixture of raw rice powder, salt, turmeric powder and pepper), boiled gram, or coconut slices. Toddy and burnt dry fish are also used as offerings.
  • The deity worshipped in this temple is Sree Muthappan. All the main poojas are performed by the Thiyyas of Parassini Muthappan family. In special cases, Brahmins and Madayans together perform poojas in Sreekovil.
  • Before entering the main temple one needs to climb down the steps to reach the river and clean the body. After cleaning, enter the inner premises of the temple. Pray before Muthappan and put some money into the box provided.
  • After having your food, you can go to the office and pay if you have anything to offer. One can pay cash for the same and get a receipt from the counter.

How to reach: Road, Rail and Air

By Air: Karipur International Airport at Kozhikode is the nearest airport. It is about 93 km from Kannur town. Mangalore Airport is about 120 km away.

By Train: Kannur Railway Station is an important railhead in Konkan Railway. It is the nearest railway station about 16 km from the temple.

By Road: Located at a distance of around 20 kilometres from Kannur, the Parassinikadavu Sri Muthappan Temple is a very popular pilgrim site and is visited by many devotees on a daily basis. Parassinikadavu Muthappan Temple is just 20 km from Kannur town.

Where to stay

Thapasya Heritage

Contact: Opp. AKG Mandiram, Temple Road, Parassinikadavu, Kannur- 670563

Thai Resort

Contact: Nr.Sri Muthappan Temple, Parassinikadavu, Kannur, Kerala 670563

Das Residency

Contact: Parassinikadavu, Kannur, Kerala – 670563

Hotel Well View

Contact: Near Muthappan Temple, Parassinikkadavu, Kannur-670 563, Kerala

Hotel Polariz

Contact: Hotel Polariz, PO Kalliassery, Mangad, Near Snake Park, Kannur -670 562, Kerala

Where to eat

  • The lane leading to the temple is full of tea shops offering a  variety of delicious dishes. Breakfast consists of rice which is light and wholesome; Puttu, a steamed rice flour dish is eaten with coconut scrapings, banana and sugar. Appam is another rice and coconut preparation fermented with toddy and made into a spongy pancake with crispy lacy frills eaten with coconut milk and sugar or Idiyappam. Rice flour pressed through a mould to resemble fine strings and then steamed are some of the dishes offered.
  • Another popular breakfast item is a rice and dal combination like idli and dosa accompanied by coconut chutney and sambar. Lunch and supper are unpolished rice, fish curry and vegetables. Evening tea is accompanied by the boiled green gram with coconut pieces topped with a plantain. A non-vegetarian delicacy is stewed clams, a shellfish with hinged shell, from Valapattanam river. Food is served on a banana leaf, the tip of the leaf placed to the left of the diner.
  • Devotes of all castes and beliefs come in hundreds and throng the courtyard. They are given generous quantities of Prasadam or sacred ashes as Muthappan bestows his blessings upon all his devotees.
  • Parassini Madappura provides free lunch to students from the temple oottuPura, irrespective of caste and religion. Almost all students from Parassinikadavu LP and UP school have their lunch from the Parassini Madappura Oottupura.

Nearby Temples

Sri Rajarajeswara Temple: Rajarajeswara Temple is situated 20 km from Kannur of Kerala state, south India. It is near Taliparamba town, famous for its spices trade. The temple is believed to have got the name from Thiru Shambara or the holy shambara in reverence to Maharishi Shambara. The Shiva Lingam here is believed to be several thousands of years old. The Rajarajeswara temple in Thaliparamba in Kannur district is one of the famous Shiva Temples in Kerala in general and in North Malabar in particular.

Trichambaram Sree Krishna Temple: Trichambaram Krishna Temple is an 11th-century shrine situated at Trichambaram, just 2 km south of Taliparamba in Kannur District. It is 20 km from Kannur on National Highway 17. The temple dedicated to Lord Krishna is one of the best known Krishna temples in Kerala. The temple is of great archaeological importance. The sanctum sanctorum is double storied and has a pyramid-shaped copper roof with a golden stupa (pinnacle) at the top. The sanctum has beautiful carvings and murals which date back to the 15th and 16th centuries.

Kalarivathukkal Temple: Kalarivathukkal Bhagavathy Temple, Bhadrakali Shrine located near Valapattanam river. It is the family shrine of Chirakkal Royal Family. The deity of the shrine is the fierce form of Bhadrakali. Kalarivathukkal Bhagavathy is considered as the mother of the ancient martial art Kalarippayattu and hence the name. The shrine is administered by Malabar Devaswom Board and classified as Category A Temple of the board. Kalarivathukkal has come from the word Kalari Vaatilkal.

Sabarimala Temple dedicated to Lord Ayyappa is also located in the same state of Kerala. It is open for only a few days every month. Check Sabarimala Temple Opening Dates before you visit.

Thiruvanchikulam Shiva Temple Guide – Timings, Dress Code, and History

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Thiruvanchikulam Shiva Temple located is one of the major Shiva temples in Kerala. This temple is in fact more than 2,000 years old. Thiruvanchikulam Mahadeva temple is famous for the various manifestations of Lord Shiva, who is also the main deity of the temple. The Thiruvanchikulam Shiva Temple also has many minor shrines dedicated to various Gods and Goddesses.

There is a Namaskara Mandapam, with 16 pillars in front of the Sreekovil, which is one of the major attractions of this temple. The Thiruvanchikulam Shiva Temple is well stored with ancient murals, wood carvings and Salabhanjikaas (sculptures) which are worth seeing.

Devotees attend Palliyara poojas held just before the Thiruvanchikulam Shiva Temple closes on the full moon nights. Devotees pray for a happy married life and are blessed with children. The idol is considered to be of Uma Maheswara as revealed to Sage Parasurama. The Siva idol is just about 4 inches above the ground level and is in the form of a half-circle. Among the Siva temples, the Thiruvanchikulam Shiva Temple is called Arathali temple with its abridged form of Sivalingam in ‘Vadakkekottaram’ ( palace in the northern side).

History of Thiruvanchikulam Shiva Temple

This place was the capital of Chera dynasty ruled here till the 13th century. The ancient seaport town Musiris and the Sree Kurumba Bhagavathy temple are the first things one notice in Kodungallur. The Thiruvanchikulam Shiva Temple is believed to be built by Cheraman Perumal, a legendary Chera king.

It is also believed that Cheraman Perumal and his minister and friend Sundaramoorthy Nayanar left their life in the temple. There are two idols in Thiruvanchikulam Shiva Temple, considering as two ‘upadevas’ (sub gods), of them. This is the temple having the largest number of Upadevas in Kerala.

Lord Ganapathy, Cheraman Perumal, Sundaramoorthy Nayanar, Brangiradi, Sandhyavelakkal Sivan, Palliyara Sivan, Sakthi Panchakshari, Bhagavathy, Goddess Parvathy, Lord Parameshwara, Prodhosha Nrithya, Sapthamathrukkal, Rishabham, Nandikeshan, Unni Thevar, Lord Ayyappan, Lord Hanuman, Nagaraja, Lord Pashupati, Nadakkal Sivan, Lord Subramanya, Goddess Durga Bhagavathy, Goddess Ganga, Konnakkal Siva, Kottarathil Thevar, Nagayakshi, Dakshinamoorthy, Althara Gopudan Swamy etc are worshipped here along with Lord Shiva.

Thiruvanchikulam Shiva Temple had undergone several invasions in the flow of time. The Dutch and The Tipu Sulthan of Mysore are the prominent ones, who demolished this temple during their invasions. The Thiruvanchikulam Shiva Temple was renovated in 1801 AD. It is believed that the main idol of worship, Siva linga is brought from Chidambaram Rameshwara temple. It was one of the most popular Shiva temples in South India.

Thiruvanchikulam Shiva Temple suffered war damages in 1670 and in the late 18th century. In the late mediaeval Thiruvanchikulam was under the ruler of Cochin but occasionally, the Zamorin of Calicut had usurped the control. 

The saint Sundaramoorthy Nayanar and Cheraman Perumal (both were close-friends) worshipped Lord Shiva leading to eternal bliss. They reached Kailas by riding on a 1000-tusked white elephant by Nayanar and on a blue horse by Perumal. Both of them have shrines in the Thiruvanchikulam Shiva Temple. This event was taken place on Swati day in the month of Karkidakam (July/August) and special Poojas are performed in these shrines.

Umamaheshwara once appeared in this place where Vasuki (serpents) stood guard. The Lingam here is said to have been self-incarnated. It is of 4-inch length, 12-inch diameter and in semi-circle form. There is water around as synonymous to Ganga.

Significance of Thiruvanchikulam Shiva Temple

Thiruvanchikulam Shiva Temple has the oldest reference in history in old Tamil Sangam literature. Thiruvanchikulam Shiva Temple is one of the oldest Shiva temples in South India where Lord Shiva is said to live along with his whole family. This temple has got a healthy relation with Chidambaram temple in Tamil Nadu.

A Brahmin had taken away Vasuki who stood guard to Umamaheshwara in a palm-leaf umbrella to his home for worship with the blessings of Umamaheshwara. This Brahmin family later became rich and their Mana famed as Pampummekkatt (serving of snake) Mana. This Mana is about 6-km east of Mahadeva temple. It is very famous for serpent Gods. People from all over Kerala and beyond visit here for the solution of problems connected with serpents.

The majestic gateway is decorated with carvings of elephants, gods and goddesses. Only the left side of the entrance there is a stone carving of Shiva and Parvathi as right and left respectively. Inside the enclosure, there is a porch with carvings dedicated to the characters of the great Hindu epic of Ramayana.

Thiruvanchikulam Shiva Temple Timings

  • Thiruvanchikulam Shiva Temple opens at 5 AM and closes at 8 PM. The afternoon break timings are from 11 AM to 5 PM.
  • The day starts with Palliyunarthal (waking up of the lord) at 3.00 AM.  Then there is escorting the lord and his consort from Palliyara to Mukhamandapa. Other rituals involve Changing of Nirmalyam, Abhishekam (ablutions), and leading them to the Moolasthana, Usha pooja, Dhaara. It is the accompaniment of Rudram. There is Pantheeradi pooja, Navakam, Panchagavyam, Uchapooja and closing of the temple for noon at 11.30 AM.
  • The sanctum opens again at 5.00 PM. Changing of Nirmalyam followed by Abhisheka, Deeparaadhana, Athazha pooja, escorting the lord and consort to Palliyara. Finally conducting Palliyara pooja (Dampathi pooja).

Festivals celebrated at Thiruvanchikulam Shiva Temple

The annual festival is celebrated for 8 days in the Malayalam month of Kumbham (February–March). It ends with the Arattuin the sea on the new moon day. Aanayottam is also conducted as part of the festival. The hoisting of the Thiruvanchikulam Shiva Temple flag atop the flagstaff (Dwajastambham) about 70 feet high marks the beginning of the festival.

Maha Shivaratri: It is the most famous festival celebrated at Thiruvanchikulam Shiva Temple that attracts a huge number of devotees. Thiruvanchikulam Shiva Temple houses images of other gods and goddesses in small shrines in the temple premises. The fourteenth day of every lunar month or the day before the new moon is known as Shivratri. Among all the twelve Shivratris that occur in a hindu calendar year, Mahashivratri, the one that occurs in February-March is of the most spiritual significance.

On this night, the northern hemisphere of the planet is positioned in such a way that there is a natural upsurge of energy in a human being. This is a day when nature is pushing one towards one’s spiritual peak. It is to make use of this, that in this tradition, we establish a certain festival which is night-long.

Thiruvanchikulam Shiva Temple Sevas and Poojas

  • The main offering in the Thiruvanchikulam Shiva Temple is ‘Shankabhishekam’ (pouring ‘Shanku’ flowers on the idol. The main event in the Thiruvanchikulam Shiva Temple is ‘Dhambathi Pooja’ (couple offering), in which worships the Siva-Parvathy dual and lead them to the ‘Palliyara’ (their personal bedroom).
  • It is believed that the ‘Palliyara Darshanam’ give the bliss to overcome hurdles in a good marriage and child fertility.
  • The shrikovil walls bear murals portraying Lord Ram and other mythological characters in five panels. The exterior of Palliyara walls also has mural paintings. Out of 274 Shaivite Thiruppathies in India, this is the only one in Kerala.

How to reach Thiruvanchikulam Shiva Temple

By Air: The nearest airport to Thiruvanchikulam Shiva Temple is at Nedumbassery International Airport at Kochi. It is at a distance 35 km away. Taxi services are available from Kochi to Kodungallur costing about Rs 500. Kochi airport is well connected to all major airports in India and also connected to many foreign cities. Direct flights are available to Chennai, Delhi, Mumbai and Bangalore.

By Rail: The nearest railhead to Kodungallur is located at Iringalakuda, at a distance of 16 km away. Iringalakuda is well connected with other major railway stations. It is in the main route connecting Kochi and Palghat. Taxi services are available from railway station to Kodungallur at a fare of about Rs 300.

By Road: Kodungallur is well connected by KSRTC buses and private transport buses. The city is connected to Kochi (35 km), Thrissur (38 km) and Guruvayur (45 km). Tourist deluxe luxury buses are available from many cities including Chennai, Bangalore, Trivandrum and Kozhikode to Kodungallur.

Where to stay

Vedic Village Resort: This resort provides with necessary amenities such as the internet, 24-hour front desk, air conditioning, parking, travel desk, 24-hour security, and doctor on call. Ayurvedic spa of the resort help transforms and rejuvenate your body, mind and soul. Food Court serves authentic Kerala cuisines by re-creating the unique recipes.  All the rooms are unique and exude a charismatic appeal.

Aswathy Hotel: All the rooms in this hotel provides with first-class amenities in a warm, relaxing atmosphere. The elegantly furnished multi-cuisine restaurant serves both buffets and menu of Indian dishes. The lobby provides guests sitting facilities for the visitors.

Where to eat

In Kerala food is served on a banana leaf. Almost every dish prepared in Kerala has coconut and spices to flavour the local cuisine. That gives it a sharp pungency that is heightened with the use of tamarind, while coconut gives it its richness.

There are different restaurants such as City Majlis Restaurant, Relax Muziriz Kitchen, Thaninaadan Samudra Family Restaurant, Classic Durbar Greens and many more.

Nearby Temples

Ayyappan temple: The Ayyappan Temple is dedicated to Lord Ayyappa is a sacred shrine of the town. Lord Ayyappa is an incarnation of Lord Vishnu and is considered very sacred in South India. Devotees believe that Lord Ayyappa was the foster son of King Pandalam.

Kurumba Bhagavathy Temple: The temple is more known for its fame and mythological importance. The shrine is dedicated to Goddess Bhadrakali (an incarnation of Goddess Durga). The idol of the goddess Bhadrakali in the temple is unique as it has eight hands with various attributes. One is holding the head of an Asura, another a sword, next an anklet, another a bell, and so on. The temple also houses the images of Lord Ganapathi and Lord Veerabhadra. Bhagawati Temple is also referred to as the abode of Kannaki. The later was believed to be an incarnation of Kali and as a result, a temple was erected in her memory in Kodungallur.

Mata Amritanandamayi: The Mata Amritanandamayi Math (MAM) is an international charitable organization that aims at the spiritual and material development of mankind. It is also home to an international community of more than 3,000 people. Permanent residents include monastic disciples and families from all over India and abroad. Inspired by Amma, they have dedicated their lives to attaining the goal of Self-realisation and serving the world. It is here that they live with Amma, imbibing her teachings, practising meditation and participating in selfless service.

Sivakrishnapuram Temple: Sivakrishnapuram Temple is one of the oldest temples near Kodungallur in Edavilangu. In front of the Sanctum Sanctorum is the Namaskara Mandapam with six pillars. The sanctum Sanctorum has Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati posing together. Lord Shiva is locally called “Uma Maheshwara”. It comes under the Cochin Devaswom Board and is managed by the devotees of Edavilangu. The temple is dedicated to Lord Siva and Lord Krishna.

Kottappuram Cathedral: The Kottappuram Cathedral is a Roman Catholic Church. The church is beautifully built in the typical Roman style of architecture and is extremely well-maintained. There is a missionary school in the church premises for the underprivileged. This particular church has a deep relationship with the ancient port city Cranganore(Muziris). Cathedral was in the name of Arch Angel Saint Michael.

Chidambaram Nataraja Temple Guide – Timings, Dress Code, and History

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Chidambaram Nataraja Temple in Chidambaram in Tamil Nadu is one of the Pancha Bhoota Stalas (the five Shiva temples). The main deity is in the form of Spatika Lingam – the sky element. Also, the 9 gateways of the temple signify the 9 orifices in the human body.

What is the history of Chidambaram Nataraja Temple?

The history of Chidambaram Nataraja Temple starts with the legend of Lord Shiva strolling into the Thillai Vanam. Vanam means forest and Thillai trees are a species of mangrove trees. In the Thillai forests lived sages who believed that God can be controlled using mantras and rituals.

 Lord Shiva walked in the forest with great beauty, assuming the form of Bhikshatana, a simple mendicant seeking alms. Vishnu followed him as Mohini.

The sages and their wives were enchanted by the beauty of Shiva. On seeing their womenfolk enchanted, the rishis got angry and invoked scores of nagas by performing magical rituals. However, Lord Shiva lifted the serpents and donned them as ornaments on His locks, neck and waist. Further enraged, the sages invoked a fierce tiger. But Shiva used its skins and dons as a shawl around His waist.

The rishis then gathered all their spiritual strength and invoked a powerful demon Muyalakan – a symbol of complete arrogance and ignorance. Lord Shiva wore a gentle smile, stepped on the demon’s back, immobilized him and performed the Ánanda Tandava (the dance of eternal bliss). It then disclosed his true form. Hence, the sages surrendered.

Adhisesha, the serpent who serves as a bed for the Lord, hears about the Ananda Tandava and yearns to see and enjoy it. The Lord blesses him, beckoning him to assume the saintly form of ‘Patanjali’. He then sends him to the Thillai forest, informing him that he will display the dance in due course.

When was Chidambaram Nataraja Temple constructed?

This temple is significant to the shaivites and is famous for its grand architecture. Also, the Sangam classics refer to Viduvelvidugu Perumtaccan as the chief architect of the temple complex. There have been several renovations in its history, particularly during the days of Pallava or Chola emperors in ancient and pre-medieval periods.

Perumtaccan of the respected clan of Vishwakarmas constructed and maintained the early structure of Chidambaram temple. The Chola king, Parantaka I laid the golden roof of the Chitambalam. In those flourishing times, kings Rajaraja Chola I and Kulothunga Chola I made significant donations to the temple.

he temple sculptures depicting the Thillai trees date back to the 2nd century CE. The word “Koyil” or temple in the Tamil Shaivite tradition refers to none other than the Thillai Natarajar Temple.

What is the significance of Chidambaram Nataraja Temple?

The significance of Chidambaram Temple is that it is one of the Panchabootha Sthalas and worships the Lord as sky or Aagayam. It is here that the hymns of three great Shaivite Saints were discovered. It is located at the Lotus heart of the Universe”: Virat hridaya padma sthalam.

Moreover, Lord Shiva is in three forms in Chidambaram, as visible idol form, formless as Akasha or space and form and formless as a Spatika Linga..

The spot where the Lord displayed the Ananada Tandava, the Ponnambalam/ Porsabai (Pon meaning gold, Ambalam/Sabai meaning stage) houses the Lord Shiva in his dancing form. The Lord is also hence famous as the Sabhanayakar, meaning the Lord of the Stage.

The Garbhagriha is a stage of the temple and houses the Lord in three forms. The “form” refers to the anthromorphological form as an appearance of Lord Nataraja, called the Sakala thirumeni; the “semi-form” – the semi-anthropo-morphological form as the Crystal linga of Chandramouleswarar;
the “formless” – as the Space in Chidambara Rahasyam, an empty space within the Garbhagriha, the Nishkala thirumeni.

What are the timings of Chidambaram Nataraja Temple?

Here are timings of Chidambaram Nataraja temple:

Day Timing
Monday 6:00 am – 12:00 pm
5:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Tuesday 6:00 am – 12:00 pm
5:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Wednesday 6:00 am – 12:00 pm
5:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Thursday 6:00 am – 12:00 pm
5:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Friday 6:00 am – 12:00 pm
5:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Saturday 6:00 am – 12:00 pm
5:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Sunday 6:00 am – 12:00 pm
5:00 pm – 10:00 pm
TimingsFromTo
Morning Darshan6 AM12 PM
Evening Darshan5 PM10 PM
Pal Nivedhayam6:30 AM
Maha Arati7 AM
kalashandhi Pooja7:45 AM9:45 AM
Irandam Kalaam10 AM 11 AM
Uchhikalam11:30 AM12 PM
Saayarakhshai5 PM 6 PM
Irandam Kalaam7 PM8 PM
Ardhajanam9 PM 10 PM

Which festivals are celebrated here?

Some festivals celebrated at Chidambaram nataraja temple are:

The 10 day Margazhi festival in December-January is one of the most important festivals that begin on the day prior to Tiruvadhirai star day with flag hoisting. The importance of the festival is that it is for Saivite Saint Manickavasagar.

The Vidayathi festival is both for the Lord and the saint.

The 10 day Aani Tirumanjanam festival begins with flag hoisting. It takes place 10 days earlier of Uthira star day. Also, from day one to the eighth day of the festival, procession of deities like Somaskanda, Shivananda Nayaki, Vinayaka, Subramania and Chandeswararm (panchamurthis) takes place in silver and gold vahans.

How to reach Chidambaram Nataraja Temple?

Here’s how to reach Chidambaram Nataraja Temple:

  • Air: The nearest airport is Trichy that is 195km away and Chennai that is 235 km away.
  • Rail: Local trains connect Chidambaram  to Trichy and other major cities of Tamil Nadu.
  • Road:  There are requent buses from Andhra, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu to Chidambaram. Locally auto rickshaw is the best mode of transport.

Where to stay nearby?

Some places where one can stay near Chidambaram Nataraja Temple are:

  • Hotel Akhshaya at Gandhi Nagar, Chidambaram has comfortable accommodations for tourists visiting Chidambaram. It is 1.8km away from the Chidambaram railway station. Also, it has a wide range of comfort delicacies.
  • Hotel Lakshmi Vilas Heritage at T Neduncheri, Chidambaram is has a big complex. The hotel gives the tourists a chance to enjoy living in pollution free atmosphere. It is only 12 km away from the Chidambaram railway station.

What are some temples nearby?

Some of the temples near Chidambaram nataraja Temple:

  • The Thillai Kali Amman Temple is famous for its presiding deity who is Goddess Parvathi in the form of Mahakali. Moreover, the idol is truly lively and magnificent to look at.
  • The Tiruvetkalam temple is adjacent to the Anamalai university complex. It is also a great place to visit for its peaceful and resplendent structure.

Dhyan Badri – Sapta Badri

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Dhyan Badri Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It is located in Urgam Valley near Kalpeshwar,  in the Chamoli district, Uttarakhand at an elevation of 2,135 m above sea level. It is the sixth temple complex among the ‘Sapta Badri’ temples. It’s part of the famous ‘Sapta Badri‘ pilgrimage circuit. It is a part of the Char Dham Yatra Package within Uttarakhand.

In ancient times, the path to the temple went through the Badri van (Forest of berries). Hence, the suffix ‘Badri‘ is added to the seven holy shrines of Lord Vishnu.

Dhyan Badri – Facts

Deity Lord Vishnu
Location Badri to Mata Murti road, Badrinath,
Uttarakhand 246422
Best Time to Visit May to June and September to October
Darshan Timings 5 AM to 12 PM
2 PM to 9 PM
Entry Fees Free
Dress Code Traditional Wear
Festivals Krishna Janmashtmi, Makar Sankranti

Dhyan Badri temple is dedicated to legend Urvarishi, son of the King Puranjaya, a descendant of Pandavas who meditated in the Urgam Valley for Lord Vishnu and established this shrine Tirth Dham dedicated to him.

The idol made of black stone and is a four-armed in a meditative form.

What are the timings of Dhyan Badri?

Here are the timings of the temple:

TimingsFromTo
Morning5 AM 12 PM
Evening2 PM9 PM

What is the significance of Dhyan Badri?

The significance of Dhyan Badri is that-

  • The temple has an image of Lord Vishnu which was established by Urvarishi.
  • Moreover, the temple is sometimes included in the Panch-Badri list.
  • Also, Brahmins from Southern India serve as head priests in the temple.

This image of Vishnu in the temple is four-armed, made of black stone and in a meditative posture.

What is the history of Dhyan Badri?

The legend of Dhyan Badri is related to Urvarishi, son of King Puranjaya of the Pandavas lineage. He meditated in Urgam valley and established a temple of Lord Vishnu here. Moreover, Kalpeshwar temple in honor of Lord Shiva is present at a distance of 2 km from Dhyan Badri.

Dhyan Badri History
Urvarishi meditated in Urgam valley and established a temple of Lord Vishnu.

Devotees also believe that Shri Adi Shankaracharya established Kalpeshwar Temple.

What are the festivals celebrated at Dhyan Badri?

Some of the festivals celebrated at Dhyan Badri are:

  • Krishna Janmashtmi: It is a popular Hindu festival that celebrates the birth of Lord Krishna, the eighth incarnation of Lord Vishnu. It occurs according to the Hindu lunisolar calendar and is also a very important festival for the followers of Lord Vishnu.
  • Makar Sankranti: This festival occurs each year in January to appease the Sun God. It is the first day when Sun enters Capricorn and marks the lengthening of daytime in the forthcoming days. This day also includes colorful decorations, preparation of sweets with sesame seeds and children asking for treats and pocket money.
Adi Badri Festivals
Makar Sankranti and Krishna Janmashtmi are celebrated at the temple.

How to reach Dhyan Badri?

Here’s how to reach Dhyan Badri:

  • Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun.
  • Train: Rishikesh and Haridwar are the nearest railway stations.
  • Road: One can reach Helang Chatti which is on the NH7 (Chamoli – Joshimath road). From there, one has to drive to Ugram Valley where the temple is present.

Where to stay near Dhyan Badri?

Some of the places where one can stay near Dhyan Badri while undertaking the Char Dham Yatra are:

  • Hotel Sudarshan Palace: Hotel Sudarshan Palace has facilities such as 24-hour front desk, garden area and parking facility within its premises. Amenities such as bed, bottled drinking water, access to the common balcony and attached bathroom are available.
  • Hotel Kuber Annex: The facilities offered here are front desk, room service, power backup, STD PCO facility, doctor on call. Massage service is also available here so that guests can relax after trekking. A helicopter booking facility is also available at the hotel.
  • Hotel Heaven: The hotel offers facilities suchlike parking and telephone. With a team of skilled professionals, the property ensures also the fulfillment of all needs of guests. Moreover, in case of medical emergencies, one can avail the doctor on call facility at the hotel.

Please carry valid ID proof such as Aadhar Card. It is needed at the time of booking of the hotel rooms.

What are the other Sapta Badri destinations?

The other Sapta Badri destinations are:

  • Adi Badri: It is the second among the ‘Sapta Badri’ temples. When Badrinath temple remains closed due to extremities in weather, devotees worship Lord Vishnu in Adi Badri temple. Moreover, the sanctum of the temple has an image of Lord Vishnu which is 1 meter high and has been carved out of black stone.
  • Vriddha Badri: It is the third among the ‘Sapta Badri’ temples. Devotees also believed that Adi Shankaracharya worshipped Badrinath here before enshrining Him in the main Badrinath temple. Vriddha Badri is temple is open for devotees and pilgrims throughout the year.
  • Bhavishya Badri: It is the fourth among the ‘Sapta Badri’ temples. According to beliefs, Lord Badri will take abode in Bhavishya Badri at the end of Kaliyuga. Even the name of the place literally translates to ‘Future Badri’, implying that it will be the future residence of Lord Badri.
  • Yogadhyan Badri: It is the fifth among the ‘Sapta Badri’ temples. As per mythology, the Pandavas were born here, and Pandu attained salvation and died here. Yogadhyan Badri has a bronze image of Lord Vishnu. Devotees believe that Pandu installed this image, which depicts Vishnu to be meditating (Dhyan). Hence, the name of the shrine comes from the posture of the image, and it is popular as ‘Yoga-Dhyan’ Badri.
  • Ardha Badri: It is the seventh among the ‘Sapta Badri’ temples. In comparison to other temples, the idol of Lord Vishnu here is smaller. Hence, the name of the temple roughly means ‘the little Badri’.

These temples are also a part of the Char Dham Yatra within Uttarakhand.

Vridha Badri Nearby

Annavaram Temple Guide – Satyanarayana Swamy – Timings, Poojas, and History

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Annavaram Temple is one of the most popular holy shrines of the country and is the second most popular pilgrimage after the Tirupati Temple in Andhra Pradesh. The Satyanarayana Swamy Temple in Annavaram has been built in the Dravidian style. The richness and glory of Lord Satyadeva, the temple’s deity, is described widely in the Revakhanda of the Holy Skandhapuranam.

In Annavaram Temple, Lord Satyadeva sits with his consort Shri Anantha Lakshmi on one side and Lord Siva on the other side. The Lord took his abode on the Ratnagiri Mountain, named after Ratnakara who was the son of Meru, the holy king of the mountains. The Sri Satyanarayana Swamy at Annavaram is followed by the sacred Pampa River which is touching the feet of the hill as is the case with all Divyakshetrams.

Lord Satyadeva is the God of truth and he showers his eternal blessings on all humankind in his beautifully manifested form in the form of the divine trinity which is called Hari Hara Hiranyagarbhathrimurtyatmaka. Therefore, the temple is the only ones attracting pilgrims from both the Vishanava and Saiva Hindu religion.

The Veeravenkatasathya Narayana swami is the main temple on the hill dedicated to Sri Veera Venkata Satyanarayana Swamy. This is a temple of Sri Rama and there are shrines of Vanadurge and Kanaka Durga around. The Grama Devatha (village deity) temple is located in the village foot of the hill.

Annavaram Temple History

According to legend, Raja i.e. Ramarayanam was the then zamindar of the Gorasa and the Kirlampudi estates near Samalkot since he was ordained by Lord in his dream. He then traced the idol on the hill and worshiped and installed it at this spot on Sravanasuddhavidiya in the Telugu year khara 1891.

The temple was constructed on the hill and the Bay of Bengal situated at 11 miles is visible from the hill and row of the majestic Eastern Ghats is visible on other side. The hills and the Pampa River encircle Ratnagiri from all sides. The main hillock is about 300 feet above the sea level and there are about 460 well-laid stone steps that lead to the top.

The main temple has been constructed like a chariot that has four wheels at each corner. The main temple’s front has the modern architecture including a Kalyanamantapa. Down the way, there is a Ramalaya and then there are shrines of Vana Durga which is held in veneration and the Devi is believed to be seen there in the nights according to the holy precincts that a perpetually guard the lord.

Significance of Annavaram Temple

According to the Agni Purana and the Hindu mythology, any temple’s akriti is the manifestation of its Prakriti.  In the ancient texts, the idea is developed and the Slipasastra is based on this principle. The temple’s wall and Vimana should be constructed to remind the devotee of the universe while the supreme spirit is represented by the deity inside who is the core of the entire universe.

These texts believe that the chariot is a symbol of seven lokas which lie underneath and the seven lokas that lie above along with garbhalaya of the lord rule hearts and center that rules over the entire universe.

The Annavaram Temple has been constructed based on these ideas. The temple’s front side depicts the chariot, the Meru is on the floor and the pillar is at the center. The idols at tope are constructed to bring to life the idea that Lord remains at the centre but it also permeates entire universe.

The wheels depict both the Sun and Moon and serve as a reminder us that the Jaggernaut completely moves on wheels of time and this cycle goes on forever. The Annavaram temple satisfies the devotees’ ritualistic values and spiritual aspirations.

There is a dial on the north side of temple’s compound that shows Indian standard time which is easy to calculate. A Mandapam is constructed round the main temple and a Kalyana mandapam on the lower level, that provides space to conduct about a thousand Satyanarayan Vrathams at one time and 500 Vrathams can be conducted by the side of Ramalya.

The foundation of a Galigopuram has been laid opposite to the Kalyanamantapam by left side which lies to the south of the compound wall.

The annavaram temple has also installed NavaGrahams and a bigger temple might be built for them in future. Down the steps, there are office rooms, guesthouse, a Choultry and open-air theatre used for HariKathas. The walls of the Vratha halls and the open air theatre have been painted with figures that represent the story of the deity Satyanarayana Swamy and his devotee called Sadhuvu.

A shed for tonsure ceremony, the Kesakhandanasalahas been built on the eastern side of the temple. A new kitchen is also present behind the main temple where the priests prepare Naivedyam for the lord. Another kitchen prepares Prasadam.

The idol of the main deity is 13 feet high and is in cylindrical form. The base of the idol is in the lower sanctum that represents Lord Brahma and the idol’s top situated in upper sanctum that represents lord Vishnu. The idol’s middle portion represents Lord Siva. This image that represents the 3 Lords in a single idol i.e. the Trimurtis-Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva is of great attraction.

One of the most popular temples in Andhra Pradesh, a unique yantra based on Tripadvibhuti Narayan Upanishad exists here the shrine is constructed in two storeys, the lower one containing the yantra and upper one housing vigrahas of the lord. The idol is about 4 meter high is in cylindrical form.

The base in the lower sanctum represents Lord Vishnu and the middle portion represents Lord Shiva. The image of the deity forming a single idol and representing the Hindu trinity is of unique attraction.

Annavaram Temple Timings

Darshan Timings: 6 AM to 12 PM, 12:30 PM to 9 PM.

  • Many Poojas are conducted throughout the day by the temple priests and Abhishekas are performed by the devotees at Rs. 100/- per each ticket in the Yantralayam.

Festivals Celebrated here

Ekadashi is a very auspicious occasion for the annavaram temple as this is the best day to perform the Satya Narayan Vratham. Hindus have been performing the Shri Satyanarayana Vratham for ages throughout India.

The vratham is known to bring wealth, prosperity, education, and offspring. A number of pilgrims visit the temple from far and near and the daily average attendance of the temple is two thousand. Ekadashi is a very auspicious occasion for this vratham, but the individual devotees also perform this vratham on any convenient day. The vratham has become all the more popular due to the experience narrated in stories and also due to the legends and observations of daily life.

The vratham has an important fable according to which Sage Narada was once very much distressed about the immense misery of men in this world. He prayed to Lord Vishnu to suggest a way out. The Lord told him about the Satyanarayana Vratham and he said that this would relieve all men of the troubles.

The vratham was also useful to gain worldly prosperity and to achieve salvation after death. Lord narrated that a pious Brahmin from Banaras had performed this magical vratham first. Other people who had performed the Vratham and had benefitted were King Ulkamukha from Bhadrasila Nagaram, Emperor Tungadhwaja, and a Vaishya business man named Sadhuvu.

The community of Gollas in the kingdom of Tungadhwaja and a poor woodcutter from Banaras had performed this vratham. They were all blessed by the great Lord Satya Narayana Swamy (who is Vishnu himself) and they achieved all they desired in life.

This vratham has hence caught fascination of the millions of devotees who have heard the stories and offer respect to the Lord. These stories are easy to understand for the common people as well as within the understanding of the scholars. Thus, all classes of people can perform the vratham and this has popularized it among them as people have been benefitted by the vratham.

According to the texts of the Vratham, Sadhuvu’s daughter Kalavathi had left the prasadam of Lord Satya Narayan to see her husband and thus the husband drowned in the boat in which he was travelling. Thus, Kalavathi was grieved and decided to kill herself. Sadhuvu was extremely grieved to see his only daughter preparing for sahagamana. He thus realized that only Lord Satyanarayana could come to his relief and thus, he fervently prayed to him.

The lord revealed that this catastrophe was inflicted upon them as Kalavathi did not take her prasadam in the hurry to go to her husband. Thus, Kalavathi rushed home and took the prasadam and when she hurried back to the seashore, she saw her husband Ratnakara who was safe on the shore. She then told him all about the Lord and upon hearing this her husband was so much impressed that he heart fully prayed to the Lord and the Lord’s blessings changed the spot  into Ratnagiri hill on which the Lord took his permanent abode.

According to legend, the River Pampa running by the hill is the form of the devotee Kalavathi who had melted with ecstasy at the grace of the Lord and of her husband’s achievement and thus began to flow as Pampa River.

Poojas and Rituals at Annavaram Temple

The Sathya Narayan Vratham is performed on Ekadashi and has a specific procedure. First Lord Ganesha and the Navagrahas are offered respect and then the image of the deity is placed on a clean spot.

The Lord is appeased through chants, flowers, and prasadam that includes fruits, sweet wheat flour, and sweets are offered to the deity. The story is then narrated and Aarti is performed at the end. After the prayer, a small lamp is lit near the idol is known as the Aratika. The devotees take prasadam at the conclusion of the pooja.

How to Reach Annavaram Temple – By Rail, Road, and Air

Annavaram is a village situated close to River Pampa in the east Godavari district of Andhra Pradesh. It is situated about 32 kms from Pithapuram, 51 km from Kakinada and 72 kms from Rajahmundry. The Sri Veeravenkata Satyanarayana Swamy Vari Devasthanam, Annavaram is well connected by both rail and roadways. It can be reached by road, rail and airways:

By Air: The nearest airport is at the east side of Annavaram at Visakhapatnam and all flights fly to Vishakhapatnam. Annavaram is at a distance of 3 hrs from Visakhapatnam. On the west side of Annvaram, the Rajahmundry Airport is located.

By Train: Many trains that pass between Kolkata and Vijayawada stop at the Annavaram station. One can also stop at Visakhapatnam.

By Road: There are regular buses to Vishakhapatnam as well as Annavaram from all major cities. Madras to Calcutta, National Highway-5 road is going via Annavaram. Regular bus service is available from all nearby towns.

Hotels in Annavaram

Sun Ray Village resort, Visakhapatnam which is the finest resort and family leisure destination at Vizag. Hotel Daspalla is centrally located in the heart of Visakhapatnam near Jagadamba centre.

Nearby Temples

Talupulamma Talli Temple: It is one of the most famous and a well-known place in Andhra Pradesh and people visit for offering pooja to the Goddess after purchasing a new vehicle.

Sri Kukkuteswara Swamy Temple: This is an ancient Siva temple in East Godavari District of Andhra Pradesh

Pancharama Sri Kumararama Bheemeshwara Swamy Temple: It is located in Samalkota near Annavaram and is a popular temple there.

Vishakhapatnam is near Annavaram and is also a popular tourist attraction in the region. It has been built along the seashore of the Bay of Bengal. It is bounded and broken by the bold headland which is called the dolphin’s nose (357mts above the sea level).

Vishakhapatnam also has a stunning beach. The region’s surrounding area also very picturesque with the well-forested Eastern Ghats and numerous rivers, major among which are the Godavari and Indravati River.

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