Travel Guide to Famous Temples

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Ksheera Ramalingeswara Swamy Temple Palakollu Guide – Timings, Poojas, and History

September 14, 2019, Sasidhar Darla Leave a Comment Filed Under: Andhra Pradesh Temples Tagged With: Pancharama, Shiva Temples

Ksheera Ramalingeswara Swamy temple in the West Godavari district of Andhra, Palakollu is a grand temple of Lord Shiva that is one of the Pancharama temples. The presiding deity here is Lord Shiva whose form was established by Lord Vishnu. Locally this temple is also famous as Pedda Gopuram.

What is the history of Palakollu Ksheera Ramalingeswara Swamy Temple?

According to history, Palakollu Ksheera Ramalingeswara Swamy temple was constructed during the reign of Chalukya Bhima of Chalukya dynasty in the 9th century. Sri Velupathi designed it’s Prakara during the 10^th century. The architecture is a clear reflection of the art practised during the Chalukya dynasty reigns.

During the 14^th century, Sri Alladu Reddy built the Gopuram. During the 17th century, there was construction of Kalyana mantapam (choultry) and Ashtha Bhuja Lakshmi Narayanaswamy alaya.

What is the significance of Palakollu Ksheera Ramalingeswara Swamy Temple?

Significance of Ramalingeswara Swamy is that the Shivalingam at the temple is the tallest one and has a unique milky white color. The shiva lingam which is popular as moola virat is visible from all four sides of the sanctum sanctorum or garbha griha.

In addition one can also view several other gods like the Sun God, Devi Parvati and Lakshmi, Veera Bhadra, Kanaka Durga, Nataraja, Shankara, Radha Krishna from all four sides.

Locally there is a saying that staying for a day at Ksheerama is equal to staying at Varanasi.

The temple has 72 pillars made of black stones.

Timings of Palakollu Ksheera Ramalingeswara Swamy Temple

Here are the timings of Ksheera Ramalingeswara Swamy Temple:

Timings	From	To
Open	6:00 am	8:00 pm

How to reach Palakollu Ksheera Ramalingeswara Swamy Temple?

Here’s how to reach Palakollu Temple:

Road: buses are frequently available from all the parts of Andhra Pradesh moving towards Bhimavaram to Palakollu.
Rail: trains are also very easily available on a regular basis from the Vijaywada railway junction.
Air: The nearest aiport is Vijawada from where regular flights are available.

Where to stay near Palakollu?

Some of the places where one can stay near Palakollu are:

Palavalli Boutique Resorts which is 12km from Palakollu town centre has a great location where guests enjoy their peace and solitude.
Falcon Nest Hotel behind the coastal city centre at Bhimavaram is a grand place to check in.

What are some temples near Palakollu?

Some of the temples near palakollu are:

Sri Someswara Temple which is 117 km from Vijaywada is one of the Pancharama Kshetras where one can visit to offer prayers to the Lord. Devotees also believe that Lord Chandra installed the main Lingam.
Sri Venkateswara Swamy Temple is another pilgrim place to visit during this trip. It is on the top of the Seshachala hill in Tirumala.
Shri Lingaraj Temple is a famous Hindu temple in honour of lord Harihara, a form of lord Shiva and is one of the oldest and largest temples in Bhubaneswar, the capital of the East Indian state of Odisha (formerly Orissa). The temple is the most prominent landmark of the Bhubaneswar city.

Ardha Badri – Sapta Badri

August 29, 2019, Sasidhar Darla 3 Comments Filed Under: Char Dham Yatra, Uttarakhand Temples Tagged With: Sapta Badri, Vishnu Temples

Ardha Badri Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand. It is the seventh 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.

Know more about- Sapta Badri

Ardha Badri – Facts

Deity	Lord Vishnu
Location	Garhwal region, Uttarakhand
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

It extends from Satapanth to Nandaprayag in the Alaknanda river valley. 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.

What are the timings of Ardha Badri?

Here are the timings of Ardha Badri:

Timings	From	To
Morning	5 AM	12 PM
Evening	2 PM	9 PM

What is the significance of Ardha Badri?

The significance of Ardha Badri is that in comparison to other temples, the idol of Lord Vishnu here is smaller. Hence, the name of the temple roughly means ‘the little Badri‘. As per mythology, Vishnu is the ‘preserver’ among the holy trinity that also includes Lord Shiva and Lord Brahma.

What is the history of Ardha Badri?

According to history, Adi Shankaracharya built Sapta Badri temples, including Adi Badri during the Gupta period. As per beliefs, he did so to promote and spread Hinduism to all parts of the country, however remotely accessible. Devotees believe that Lord Vishnu moved to Badrinath in Satya yuga.

Adi Badri History 1 — Adi Shankaracharya built Sapta Badri temples to promote and spread Hinduism.

However, ancient saints prophesied that he will shift his abode to Bhavishya Badri after the Kali Yuga, which is also a part of the Char Dham Yatra destinations within Uttarakhand.

What are the festivals celebrated at Ardha Badri?

Some of the festivals celebrated at Ardha 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 a very important festival for the followers of Lord Vishnu.
Makar Sankranti: This festival is celebrated each year in January and is 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 Ardha Badri?

Here’s how to reach Ardha Badri:

Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun.
Train: Rishikesh and Haridwar are the nearest railway stations.
Road: Ardha Badri temple is present near the Joshimath-Tapovan road in a remote village and can be approached only by trekking along a steep bridle path.

Where to stay near Ardha Badri?

Some of the places where one can stay near Ardha 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 also ensures 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.
Dhyan Badri: It is the sixth among the ‘Sapta Badri’ temples. It has an image of Lord Vishnu which was established by Urvarishi. This image of Vishnu is four-armed, made of black stone and in a meditative posture. Also, Brahmins from Southern India serve as head priests in the temple.

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

Amba Bhavani

September 8, 2019, Sasidhar Darla Leave a Comment Filed Under: Haryana Temples Tagged With: Devi Temples

Bhawani Amba Temple

Ambala is located in Haryana. Ambala is a small city and a municipal corporation in Haryana. Ambala City and Ambala Cantonment are politically and geographically divided which is only 3 km from here. Ambala city and Indus river separates two river networks. In the north, it is adjacent to the river and to the south Tangdi Ghaggar river. It is believed that the name of city Ambala has been derived from the name of Goddess Amba, whose temple is situated in the city. It is a temple of the ancient period and has been there since a very long time. The Amba Bhavani Temple in Ambala has derived its name from the presiding Goddess of the temple. The deity is known as Amba Devi or Bhawani Devi. Like every state in India, the state of Haryana is also a land of numerous temples. The temples and the other religious buildings like gurudwaras, mosques and churches speak volume of the culture and the background of the place. The Haryana temples are beautiful and they serve as ideal tourist spots. Among the numerous legendary temples in the state of Haryana, the Amba Bhavani Temple is a prominent one. It is situated in the city of Ambala. The temple of Amba Bhavani is considered a very sacred temple. It is a temple of the ancient era and has been there since a very long time. The Amba Bhavani Temple in Ambala has derived its name from the presiding Goddess of the temple. The deity is known as Amba Devi or Bhawani Devi. There is a popular belief that the city of Ambala has been named after Devi Amba. In and around the city of Ambala, there are many holy places and shrines. Some of these places of worship need a mention. Apart from the Amba Bhavani Temple, the other places of interest are the Kali Mata Mandir, the Sangat Sahib Gurdwara, the Badshahi Bag Gurdwara, Sis Ganj Gurd-wara and the Manji Sahib Gurdwara. The Bhawani Amba Temple, which is situated in the city of Ambala, is an ancient temple and it has been the witness to the city’s history since Ambala’s birth. All the temples are unique in their own ways and each of the temples has different history and leg-ends associated to them. The stories behind the temples are very interesting and are informative at the same time. The Bhawani Amba Temple in Ambala is listed amongst the most sacred religious places in Haryana. The temple is one of the leading tourist attraction in Ambala. It is name after the presiding Goddess of the temple called Amba Devi or Bhawani Devi. Thousands of devotees visit this temple for offering prayers and be a part of the rituals that are followed at this place. The beautifully carved out pillars and the intrinsic carvings on the walls of the temple speaks volume about the rich artistry.

History and Legend of Amba Bhavani

It is believed that the origin of the name Ambala is done from this Devi Amba’s Temple. In ancient times this temple was considered an important pilgrim destination.
The temples in Haryana are mostly of the ancient era. These primitive temples are not just places of worship. Most of these are architectural masterpieces and are treasuries of erudition and ethnicity.
The temples in Haryana envelop the atmosphere of the place with a divine air. There are plenty of famous temples in the state of Haryana.
The Amba Bhavani Temple, the Kali Mata Mandir in Ambala, the Shiv Temple in Gurgaon, the Bishnoi Mandir and the Sheetala Devi Temple are to name just a few of the temples.
The Sheetla Devi Temple in Haryana is a prime pilgrimage point. The place is also known as Shakti Peeth because Sheetla Devi or the Goddess of Shakti is the presiding deity here.

Significance of Amba Bhavani

• Among the numerous legendary temples in the state of Haryana, the Bhawani Amba Temple is a prominent one. It is situated in the city of Ambala. The temple of Bhawani Amba is considered a very sacred temple. It is a temple of the ancient era and has been there since a very long time.
• The Bhawani Amba Temple in Ambala has derived its name from the presiding Goddess of the temple. The deity is known as Amba Devi or Bhawani Devi. There is a popular belief that the city of Ambala has been named after Devi Amba.
• In and around the city of Ambala, there are many holy places and shrines. Some of these places of worship need a mention. Apart from the Bhawani Amba Temple, the other places of interest are the Kali Mata Mandir, the Sangat Sahib Gurdwara, the Badshahi Bag Gurdwara, Sis Ganj Gurd-wara and the Manji Sahib Gurdwara.
• The Bhawani Amba Temple, which is situated in the city of Ambala, is an ancient temple and it has been the witness to the city’s history since Ambala’s birth.
• All the temples are unique in their own ways and each of the temples has different history and leg-ends associated to them. The stories behind the temples are very interesting and are informative at the same time.
• The Bhawani Amba Temple in Ambala is listed amongst the most sacred religious places in Haryana. The temple is one of the leading tourist attraction in Ambala. It is name after the presiding Goddess of the temple called Amba Devi or Bhawani Devi.
• Thousands of devotees visit this temple for offering prayers and be a part of the rituals that are followed at this place. The beautifully carved out pillars and the intrinsic carvings on the walls of the temple speaks volume about the rich artistry.

Timings of Amba Bhavani Temple

Darshan in Bhawani Amba Temple starts from 6am to 12pm and then 1pm to 9pm. The temple trust gives Naivedyam to the Goddess from 12pm to 1pm. During this time the devotees are not allowed to enter the temple. During summer, Arti begins from 8am to 6pm whereas during winter season it begins from 8am to 8pm.

Food Timing of Amba Bhavani Temple

The offerings which devotees give to the Gods and Goddesses are touched to the Gods and Goddesses and then sent back to the devotees which are known as Prasads. Devotees are also provided by the Temple. These foods are sold by the Temple.

Places to stay

There are various dharamshala facility provided fo the devotees. The Temple Trust has themselves made dharamshalas for the devotees as well as tourists. Apart from dharamashalas, there are many hotels as well as private organizations that provide dwelling facilities to the people. The hotels have nominal charge keeping the need and budget of the devotees and the tourists. The hotels provide clean and hygiene environment to the tourists as well has good and hygienic food. Many hotels provide wifi facilities to the tourists so that they keep themselves connected to the whole world.

Place to eat

Amba Bhavani Temple provides food to its devotees. They are free of cost and all the expenses incurred are borne by the Trustees. Once the daily Puja is over, devotees are allowed to move for food. These food are made in a very hygienic condition maintaining the dignity of the Temple. The food includes three main course and are given in plenty. All the expenses incurred are borne by the temple trust. Apart from the prasad provided in the temple, one can also have food from hotels outside the campus. These hotels provide clean and hygienic food. There are various other places to eat food. There are many hotels and cafe which provide food keeping the taste and needs of the devotees. They cost very nominal keeping the needs and budget of the tourists.
There are a lot of dishes which are given to the devotees. There are one-time free prasads served to the devotees. There are many other dishes that are served to the devotees for which they need to spend money. The food is prepared in a very hygienic conditions. All the eatables are taken good care while preparing food. Foods are prepared in a very hygienic atmosphere.

Apart from the food we get in the temple, there are many other hotels and places where one can have food. In Ambala, we can find food stalls everywhere. There are hotels and cafes like Cafe Coffee Day, Pind Balluchi and many more. There are many other hotels which have nominal charges keeping the taste of the consumer in mind. They prepare food in a very clean and hygienic environment.

How to Reach- Road, Rail and Air

• Air– The nearest airport to Bhawani Amba Temple is chandigarh air force base airport , morni which is 3 km away from Bhawani Amba Temple .
• Rail- The nearest railway station to bhawani amba temple is Ambala Cant Jn Train Station which is 6 km away from Bhawani Amba Temple.

Festivals celebrated at the Amba Bhavani Temple

• Bhavani Festival- This festival is celebrated for four days and four nights. Devotees pray and worships Goddess throughout the festival. Bhavani festival is celebrated twice in a year. This festival includes rituals like Sasthi, Bhavani Ashthami. On Bhavani Ashthami, the devotees fast until they offer flowers to the deity. On the next day, girls who have not reached puberty yet are fed and offered presents. These girls are represented as the young form of the Goddess. The last of this festival is known as Vijaydashmi. On this day the Goddess is carried to the river and immersed in the water. There is a distribution of sweets and the devotees enjoy that this festival will again be celebrated next year. This festival is known as Durga Puja in West Bengal and is celebrated almost same. This festival symbolizes win of good over evils. This festival is also known as Navratri.
• Ganesh Chaturthi- Ganesh Chaurthi is another very important and famous festival. This festival is celebrated with great pomp and show in the town of Ambala. This festival is held in the months of August and September. This festival is celebrated in the honor of Lord Ganesha. Ganesh Chatirthi is traditionally celebrated on Shukla Chaturthi in the months of Bhaadrapada according to the Hindu calender.
• Diwali- Diwali is one of the important festivals of Hindus. This festival is celebrated in the months of October and November and is also known as “Festival of Lights”. People of Ambala celebrate this festival with great pomp and show. During this festival Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha are worshipped.
• Holi- Holi is another imporatnt festival for the natives of Ambala. This is a “Festival of Colors”. This festival is celebrated with great pomp and show in India. This festivals charges the atmosphere. Holi celebration is started by Holika Dahan where people gather and sing and dance.
Places to visit in Ambala
• St. Paul’s Church- St Paul’s church is one of the oldest church in Ambala Cantt which was built on January 4, 1857. It was bombed during the 1965 Indo-Pak war which destroyed its splendid and what left was only the tower. Since then, a portion of the parsonage has been dedicated for church operations.
• Badshahi Bagh Gurudwara– This Gurudwara is located on Ambala – Hisar road. This is related to Sri Guru Gobind Sahib Ji. The Gurudwara is heavily crowded on festive season and Sundays. The ambience is simply super. This Gurudwara is historic related to Sri Guru Gobind Singh Sahib Ji. The place is simply awesome and very peaceful. Visit the Gurudwara on Sundays.
• Gurudwara Manjhi Sahib- Situated on the NH-1 in Ambala, few KM from Ambala city, actually its inside the city only. This is the place where the Sikh Guru Gobind Singh ji has stayed over night and has placed his cot (MANJI)to take rest.That’s why it is known as Manji sahib. Inside the Gurudwara you feel calmness, inner peace and peace of mind.

Ambalapuzha Sri Krishna Temple Guide – Timings, Dress Code, and History

July 23, 2019, Sasidhar Darla 2 Comments Filed Under: Kerala Temples Tagged With: Krishna Temples

Ambalapuzha Sri Krishna Temple is a famous temple dedicated to Lord Krishna. It is situated at Ambalapuzha district in Kerala. The statue resembles the deity of Parthasarthi. Hence it also comes with a whip in the right hand and a Sankha (sacred conch) on the other. Furthermore, this idol depicts the incarnation of Lord Vishnu as Lord Krishna of the age of Mahabharata.

The deity is also known by the name of Gopala Krishna. It is made of black granite stone. The especially relevant fact about the temple is that it exhibits Kerala style of architecture. There is also a pond near the temple.

History and Legend of Ambalapuzha Sri Krishna Temple

A visit to the Ambalapuzha Sri Krishna Temple, Ambalapuzha is a must when you are in Kerala. It is also a heritage of Kerala.

The temple was constructed by Chembakasserry Pooradam Thirunal-Devanarayanan Thampuran. He was the ruler of Ambalapuzha. The temple was built in the 15^th – 17^th century.
As per legends, Lord Krishna once arrived at the court of the ruler of Ambalapuzha. He was in disguise of a sage. Lord Krishna challenged the king in a game of chess. As a winning price the saint asked just for few grains of rice from the king. Lord Krishna demanded amount of rice equal to the chess board. One grain of rice had to be placed on the first square, two in the second square, four in the third square, eight rice grains in the fourth square, sixteen in the fifth square and it would continue till the last square of the board is reached. The king lost the game and as a result he had to give the equal amount of rice to the sage. He started calculating the total quantity of rice and the amount reached millions. It became impossible to provide this gift. Thus the monarch was in a crisis. Finally, Lord Krishna appeared in his true form. He asked the king to serve paal payasam to the worshippers everyday till the debt is paid.Hence the ritual of serving paal payasam started at the temple.
There is another myth associated with the introduction of paal payasam as daily offering at the temple. Champakasseri Thampuran (ruler) once borrowed some rice from a brahmin. Thampuran could not repay the rice for a long span of time. The ruler came to visit the temple one day. The Brahmin accosted him. He demanded back the rice. Thampuran asked his minister to repay the debt and left the place. The minister was in a dilemma. As there was not enough paddy in stock to clear the debt. Finally, he managed to collect the required amount from the households. He weighed the paddy in front of the brahmin. The minister asked the brahmin to remove the paddy in one go from the place before the afternoon worship at the temple. As it may disturb the pooja process. He also kept a condition. If the brahmin fails to remove the rice, it will be given to the temple. The rice will be used to feed the poor. This was a conspiracy from the minister’s end. Hence the brahmin could not find even a single porter. Therefore the brahmin was not able to remove the paddy. In the meantime, the shrine closed for its afternoon worship. Hence as per the condition, brahmin donated all the paddy. The paddy was used for making paal payasam. So from this time this golden porridge is distributed among the devotees. The porridge is golden in colour. The paal payasam is popular for the taste.
Kalakkaththu Kunchan Nambiar was a renowned architect of Kerala. He spent his youth at Ambalapuzha. There is a mizhavu kept at the temple. The mizhavu was used by the architect. Hence the temple authority has preserved the mizhavu.
It is also believed that Thunjathu Ezhuthachan has written his famous work, Adyathtmaka Ramayanam kilipattu at this place.
The Champakulam Moolam Snake boat is also associated with the history of this temple.

Significance of the Ambalapuzha Sri Krishna Temple

The Ambalapuzha Sri Krishna Temple, Ambalapuzha is important to the religious history of South India. The temple is famous for its impeccable architecture.

Ambalapuzha Srikrishna Temple is directly connected to the Guruvayoor Sree Krishna Temple. The idol of the Guruvayoor temple was kept here during the raid of Tipu Sultan in 1789.
The payasam served at the temple is of immense importance to the devotees. It is believed that Guruvayoor himself comes to have the payasam here. There is also a myth that Guruvayoor comes here at the time of Palpayasa Nedyam.
Ambalapuzha Srikrishna Temple is also a treasure of rich Kerala paintings. The interior of the temple is adorned with the pictures of Dasavatharam. Dasavatharam refers to the ten incarnations of Lord Vishnu.
Ottan Thullal was first performed at Ambalapuzha Srikrishna Temple. This dance exhibits social issues of Kerala. Kunchan Nambiar is the creator of Ottan Thullal dance. He is also one of the famous poets of Kerala.

Ambalapuzha Sri Krishna Temple Timings

Ambalapuzha Sri Krishna Temple opens early like the other South India temples. The temple remains open from 3 am to 12 pm. The temple is again open from 5 pm to 8 pm.

Ambalapuzha Sri Krishna Temple Food Timings

The Ambalapuzha Srikrishna Temple, Ambalapuzha is famous for its porridge. The porridge is known as payasam. The devotees get paal payasam everyday here. The porridge is popular by the name of Amabalapuzha Pal Payasam. Devotees can also book the prasada. They can also pay for the prasada through money order.

Guidelines for Ambalapuzha Sri Krishna Temple

The temple authority also do not allow photography within the temple complex.

Dress Code at Ambalapuzha Sri Krishna Temple

There is no specific dress code at the temple. But the temple authority suggests decent dressing.

Festivals celebrated at the Ambalapuzha Sri Krishna Temple

Festivals are celebration of life at the Ambalapuzha Sri Krishna Temple. Dances are performed at the festivals. Boat races are also popular here. Hence, every year thousands of pilgrims gather at the temple.

Ambalapuzha Temple Festival: Ambalapuzha Temple Festival is another feature. The festival started in the 15^th century. The ruler of Travancore, Chembakassery Devanarayana Dynasty started the festival. The rulers decided to bring Lord Krishna idol from the Karinkulam temple. Hence, the festival started from this event. This festival includes shifting the deity from one shrine to another. Chambakulam Moolam water festival is another name for this festival. The celebration takes place every year. The event is on the Moolam day of the Mithuman month. This festival follows Malayalam calendar. The festival is noteworthy for Chundanvallom boat races. Beautiful water floats decorate the water. The visual art forms, Ottan Thullal, Chakiyarkuthu, Krishnanattam and Velakali dance are performed at this festival.
Aaraattu Festival: This festival takes place in the Meenam month of Malayalam calendar. This is either March or April. The festival starts with flag hoisting in the Atham star. Also on the Thiruvonam day, Velans perform the Pallipana ritual. Velans are also popular as sorcerers. This festival takes place once in twelve years. Furthermore, cocks are altered at this festivity.
Vijayabali: This festival is celebrated every 144 years. Last time Vijayabali was celebrated in 1955.

Poojas and Rituals at Ambalapuzha Sri Krishna Temple

Ambalapuzha Srikrishna Temple, Ambalapuzha follows the traditional pooja style of Kerala.

Uccha is another feature of the temple. This is an afternoon pooja ritual. Priests offer Palpayasam to Lord Krishna at this afternoon pooja.
Kalabharam is another ritual performed at the temple. This 30000 old ritual is observed as per the Malayalam calendar. Kalabharam takes place in Edava Masam. This month generally falls between May and June.
The Pallipana ritual is also very popular. The Velans perform this ritual. Pallipana ritual takes place every twelve years.

How to reach: Road, Rail and Air

Ambalapuzha is a small town. It is only at 13 km from Alapupuzha town. The place is easily accessible. Tourists can travel by air, railways and roadways.

By Air: The Kochi International Airport is the nearest airport to Ambalapuzha. It is just at 2 hours 30 minutes from the temple. The Trivandrum airport is the second nearest airport. It is only 2 hours 37 minutes from the place. Tourists can also travel from the Bangalore International Airport. Coimbatore and Calicut airports are also near the temple. There are cabs available at the airport.

By Rail: Ambalapuzha Srikrishna Temple, Ambalapuzha is almost 2 kilometres from the railway station. There are also other railway stations nearby. Like, one railway station is at 14 kilometres from the shrine.

By Road: Finally, tourists can reach Ambalapuzha via roadways. It lies near NH 47. The temple is at 1.5 km from the town junction. Local vehicles like auto rickshaws will leave you at the doorsteps of the shrine. Pilgrims can travel to the place via buses. Kerala State Road transport has regular bus service.

Hotels in Ambalapuzha: Where to stay

Ambalapuzha Srikrishna Temple is one of the most famous temples of the Alleppey region. There are multiple hotels that have developed here. These hotels provide a comfortable stay to the visitors. Aquabliss offers airconditioned rooms. Tourists can also book houseboats from this hotel. The hotel is located just at 4.6 km from the temple. The Coir Village Lake Resort is another decent hotel. It is just at 7.8 km from the temple. These mid range hotels provide complimentary breakfast. There is also free parking facility. Tourists cab also use the swimming pool. Hotel Bonanza, Hamlet Heaven, Tamarind KTDC Easy hotel, Green Palace Kerala Resort and Kadavil Lakeshore Resort are the other hotels near the temple.

Where to eat

There are multiple food joints near the temple. The Indian Coffee House serves authentic Kerala coffee and cuisines of the state. The Thaff restaurant offers good food at a budget price. Halais Restaurant, Memories, Cassia, Sisir Palace, Café Paradiso Espresso Coffee Bar and Mushroom are some of the other popular eat outs near the temple.

Nearby Temples

Kerala is also a popular pilgrim centre. Hence there are multiple temples near the Ambalapuzha Srikrishna Temple.

Chanvara Bhavan: This is the residence of the Kuriakose Elias Chavara. He is a renowned sage of Kerala. His home is considered as a pilgrimage. Finally, this place was transformed into a temple. Hence, at present thousands of devotees gather here. The beacon of light is another interesting aspect of the shrine. The light is preserved here from past 250 years. You can reach the temple only on boats.
Chengannur Mahadeva Temple: This temple is at the same district. Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati are the main deities. The temple is famous for the Thripootha Arattu festival.
Bhavaneeswara Temple: The temple is at Munnar. This temple is known for its architecture. The most noteworthy feature is, the temple has a special purpose. The temple is open to people from all caste and creed. This shrine is also known for its beautiful Kerala style of architecture. Lord Shiva is the presiding deity.
Vaikom Mahadeva Temple: This temple is also dedicated to Lord Shiva. This shrine is one of the oldest temples of the state. The temple is also large. The land spread is massive 8 acres. It is equipped with a courtyard. There are four pillars on four sides of the temple. The temple entrance is made of wood. The sanctum and ceiling are made with stone. A devotee has to pass the six steps to reach the main sanctum. Every step shows the six emotions of kama, krodha, lobha, moha, madha and mathsarya.The Shiva Lingum is located at the main sanctum.
Pazhaya Sreekanteswaram Temple, Kerala: Lord Shiva is the main deity here. Also, the Swamyambhu Shiva Lingum established at this shrine has a history.

Hence visit the Ambalapuzha Sri Krishna Temple to know the rich history and culture of Kerala. Have fun at the colourful festivals. Most of all, this is considered as one of the five prime Lord Krishna temples of the state.

Dhamekh Stupa, Sarnath

May 4, 2019, Sasidhar Darla Leave a Comment Filed Under: Uttar Pradesh Temples Tagged With: Buddha Temples

Dhamek Stupa is one of the most famous and Buddhist stupas. It is located in Sarnath near Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh, India. Dhamek Stupa is one of the most visited Buddhist structures in the world. This Stupa was originally built in 249 BCE, during the reign of King of the Maurya Dynasty, Ashoka. After that, this massive and prominent structure has gone through several expansions and additions. Dhamek Stupa lies inside the Deer Park in Sarnath.

The Dhamek Stupa marks the spot where the Buddha after attaining enlightenment, gave the first sermon to his first five Brahmin disciples. He revealed his Eightfold Path leading to nirvana.

What is the history of Dhamek Stupa?

The mortal remains of Buddha were distributed and buried under 8 mounds after his cremation. The embers and urn were placed under 2 other mounds. Therefore 10 such monuments consisted of the relics of Lord Buddha.

Emperor Ashoka of the Maurya Dynasty reigned over almost the entire Indian subcontinent from c. 268 to 232 BCE. He built several Stupas that consisted the relics of Lord Buddha. and His disciples across India in his pursuit to spread Buddhism. In 249 BCE he commissioned to build the Dhamek Stupa in Sarnath. The Stupa was later reconstructed in 500 CE. It was around that time that he built the Dhamek Stupa and several other monuments to commemorate his pilgrimage at Sarnath.

Dhamek stupa boasts of a distinct architectural pattern. The stupa bears special significance for devout Buddhist. This is because it marks the ‘seat of the holy Buddha’ as he proclaimed his faith.

What is the architecture of the Stupa?

The Dhamek Stupa is a cylindrical tower. t is 43.6 m high and 28 m in diameter. The Stupa is built with red bricks and stone. The lower part being entirely covered with beautifully carved stones. These are chiseled with exquisite floral carvings of the Gupta period. The borders of the stupa are delicately carved with figures of humans and birds.

The base of the Stupa dates back to the Ashokan period. The panels of Dhamek Stupa Sarnath also consist of ‘Swastikas’. The structure of the stupa was expanded and enlarged almost12 times in the course of history.

How to reach the Dhamek Stupa?

Train: Take a train to Varanasi railway station and Kashi railway station.

Air: Varanasi airport is well connected with all the major cities of the country

Road: Varanasi is connected to all major cities by road.

What is the visiting hours of the Stupa?

The site remains open from sunrise to sunset.
It can be visited all the time during the year.

What is the entry fees of the Stupa?

The entry fees of the Stupa is:

Rs. 5: Foro Indian citizens and visitors of SAARC and BIMSTEC nations.
Rs. 100/: Others.
Free: For children up to 15 years of age