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Somarama Temple Bhimavaram Guide – Timings, Poojas, and History

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Somarama Temple Bhimavaram (Someswara Temple) is one of the Pancharama Kshetras in Bhimavaram of West Godavari district. Many believe that Chalukaya Bheema constructed it. People also believe that Lord Chandra installed the Shiva Lingam of the temple. A tinge of modernity becomes conspicuous due to the paintings and sculptures.

What is the history of Somarama Temple Bhimavaram?

The history of the Somarama Temple Bhimavaram is that according to beliefs, during Tarakasura vadha, the Shivalingam which was present on the throat of Tarakasura, a powerful asura, was divided into five pieces. The Pancharama Kshetras are present in the place where the five pieces fell.

There are two famous legends about the temple. The legend says that, the Shivalinga was owned by Rakshasa King Tarakasura and he was so powerful that no one could win over him due to the power of Shivalinga.

Lord Kumara Swamy used his powers (Sakthi Ayudha) to kill Tarakasura into pieces but failed as they reunited again and again. On the guidance of Lord Sriraman Narayana who informed him to break the Shiva lingam worn by Tarakusura into pieces first and then place them in five different places forming the sacred temples (PancharamaKshetras).

Lord Chandra installed Shivalinga in Bhimavaram temple and hence the name SomeshwaraSwamy.

Another legend says that Lord Shiva when destroyed Tripura’s during ‘Tripura Samharam’, all that was left was a Shivalingam in the throat of the Lord of Tripuras was broken into five pieces and installed for worship in five different places as Pancharama Kshetras.

What is the significance of Somarama Temple Bhimavaram?

Here is the significance of Somarama Temple Bhimavaram:

  • The Pancharama Kshetras are: Amararama at Amaravati, Guntur Draksharama at Draksharama, East Godavari Somarama at Bhimavaram, West Godavari Ksheerarama at Palakol, West Godavari Bhimarama at Samarlakota, East Godavari.
  • Within the premises on to the left side of the entrance lie the shrines of Lord Hanuman, Lord Sriram, Lord Kumaraswamy and Navagrahas in a hall. On to the right is an open hall with a huge statue of Nandi.
  • One of the most special features of this temple is that the color of the Shivalingam will change its color regarding the lunar aspects, the shape of the illuminated (sunlit) portion of the Moon. And hence during Pournami (full moon days), the color of the Shivalingam will be in white and during Amavasya (dark nights), the color of the lingam will be black.
  • Other deities are Goddess Adilakshmi, Lord Anjaneya Swamy, Lord Kumara Swamy, Sun God, Lord Ganesha, Navagraha and Nandi. The Pushkarani (temple tank) of Somarama Temple is Soma Gundam Pushkarani.

What are the timings of Somarama Temple Bhimavaram?

Here are the timings of Somarama Temple Bhimavaram:

TimingsFromTo
Morning Darshan5 AM11:00 AM
Evening Darshan4:00 PM8:00 PM

Which festivals are celebrated at Somarama Temple Bhimavaram?

Some of the festivals celebrated at Somarama Temple Bhimavaram are:

  • Maha Shivaratri is a foremost festivals taking place in the months of February/March.
  • Sarannavarathri is another grand event that takes place during the months of September/October.

How to reach Somarama Temple Bhimavaram?

Here’s how to reach Somarama Temple Bhimavaram:

  • Road: The Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (APSRTC) runs buses frequently from Palakollu, Rajahmundry as well as Vijayawada.
  • Air: The nearest airport is Rajahmudry or Vijaywada from where one can avail regular flights.
  • Rail: Also, the temple is 2km away from Bhimavaram railway station.

Where to stay nearby?

One can stay at ‘Visiv Stay’. This lodge is in Bhimavaram. It offers polished, sophisticated and a visual pleasure to its guests. The rooms are neat and are replete with all basic amenities.

What are some places to visit near Bhimavaram?

Some of the places one can visit near Somarama Temple Bhimavaram are:

  • Dwaraka Tirumala is popular for Chinna Tirupati Temple, a Lord Venkateshwara Temple on the top of the Seshachala Hill.
  • Dindi is about 80 km from Rajahmundry and has a village with virgin backwaters, lakes, lagoons, and rivulets around it.
  • Pithapuram and Draksharamam are two pilgrimage centers that people usually visit together with Kakinda as the base town for a stay.
  • The Bhadrachalam Temple Seetaramachandra Swamy temple is a 17th Century Lord Rama temple and is another important pilgrimage center.

Garbarakshambigai Temple – Timings, Sloka and History

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Garbarakshambigai Temple is an ancient temple in the Tanjore district of Tamil Nadu. Goddess Garbharakshambika is a form of shakti who cures infertility in women and also blesses pregnant women with a safe delivery. ‘Garbha’ means Pregnancy, ‘Raksha’ means ‘To protect’ and ‘Ambigai’ is a name of Parvati.

Garbarakshambigai Temple
Temple Timings 5:30 am to 12:30 pm, 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm
Location Tanjore, Tamil Nadu
Poojas Pregnancy Ghee, Delivery Castor Oil
Deity Garbarakshambika

What are the timings of Garbarakshambigai Temple?

Here are the timings of Garbarakshambigai Temple:

Ritual Timings
Morning Darshan 5:30 am to 12:30 pm
Evening Darshan 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm
Abhishekam 8:00 am to 8:30 am

What is the history of Garbarakshambigai Temple?

According to the history of Garbarakshambigai temple, sages Gowthama and Gargeya did penance in a garden of mullai flowers. Sage Nithuvar was living here with his wife Vedhika. Then, one day when Sage Nithuvar was away, sage Urdhvapada visited the garden. But Vedhika was asleep and didn’t show hospitality.

She was having pains due to pregnancy but Urdhvapada unaware of her difficulties got angry. He thought that she didn’t bother to wake up and hence, cursed her. The curse caused a lot of pain and she thought she would lose the child.

So, she prayed to Goddess Parvathi to help her. Goddess Parvati took the avatar of Garbarakshambigai and appeared before Vedhika. She protected the child in herwomb by holding it in a “kalasam ” – divine pot.  When Vedhika cried as she was not able to feed the baby with her milk, a sacred cow came in front of the temple and made a lake of sacred milk.

Vedhika prayed to Goddess Garbarakshambigai to remain in the temple forever and bless all women with their difficulties.

The temple is spread over a wide expanse with huge towering Gopurams and a beautiful water tank in front of it. The main sanctum of this temple has the Shiva lingam and Goddess Garbharakshambika is situated to the left of the Shiva temple. It is believed that the Nandi at this temple is in Swayambhu vigraham (Self manifested).

What is the significance of Garbarakshambigai Temple?

The significance of Garbarakshambigai temple is that the Shiva Lingam in the sanctum is  Swayambu, made up of ant hill mud. Therefore no water abhishekam is done for this idol. But, the Lingam is only pasted with Punugu. Devotees also believe that people with incurable diseases can offer “Punugu Chattam.”

Moreover, goddess Garbarakshambigai is the goddess of mercy to bless women with gift of childbirth and safe pregnancy. Hence, she is the supreme personality of Motherhood. Her beautiful idol is about 7 feet tall and has beautiful kanjeevaram sarees and exquisite jewellery.

What are the festivals celebrated at Garbarakshambigai Temple?

Some of the festivals celebrated at Garbaratchambigai temple are:

  • Vaikasi Brahmotsavams: Vaikasi Brahmotsavam commenced in a grand manner at this temple. Amid Vedic chants and recitals of verses from scriptures, the priests perform the rituals in the temple. There are processions and large number of people participate in them.
  • Navratri: Navarathri is celebrated for 10 days in the month Purattasi. Every year the beginning of summer and the beginning of winter are the times when devotees worship the divine power during Navratri. The most important Navratri in a year is the Sharadiya Navratra.
  • Margazhi utsavam: Margazhi festival is celebrated at all temples in Tamil Nadu and India. Mainly the celebrations of this festival take place in all Vishnu temples and Shiva temples. Another importance of margazhi is that devotees read Tamil Holy Scriptures “Thiruppavai” and “Thiruvempavai” during this month.
  • Panguni Uthiram: Panguni Uthiram is a day of importance to Hindus especially those who belong to Tamil nadu. It falls on the day the moon transits in the asterism of Uttara-phalguni. The day connotes the wedding of Goddess Parvati and Lord Shiva, Lord Muruga and Devasena and other celestial couples. According to Ramayana, it is also on this day that Sita married Rama. 
  • Thirukkarthigai: Tamil Nadu celebrates Karthigai Deepam as the traditional festival. This festival of lights involves lighting lights almost anywhere to put an end to darkness. People believe that the light  will make people close with Lord Shiva on Karthigai Deepam. Lord Shiva will shed all his blessings during this special time of the year.

What are the Poojas and Rituals of Garbarakshambigai?

The poojas and rituals of Garbaratchambigai temple are:

  • Women who come here to pray for pregnancy and childbirth just offer flowers and do archana for goddess. 
  • Virgins who fail to find suitable grooms for a long time should come to this Garbarakshambigai temple in person. They should wash the steps with a little ghee draw ‘Kolam’ and perform Archana to the Goddess.
  • The childless couples offer ghee at the feet of the Goddess Garbarakshambigai. They should consume a little of the ghee as prasad at night daily for about 48 days and the woman will conceive. 
  • The women who are expecting deliveries should offer castor oil at the feet of Sri Garbarakshambigai. During labor pains, one should apply this oil on their abdomen and devotees believe that it removes all complications of deliveries.
  • Kattalai Archanai takes place on the particular date of the stars and the temple sends prasadams on monthly basis. Pregnant women consume it during their pregnancy period. 
  • Women light up eleven lamps and pray for the safe delivery. On performing the Garbarakshambigai Homa, childless couples attain parenthood and pregnant women undergo safe delivery.

How to reach Garbarakshambigai Temple?

Here’s how to reach Garbarakshambigai temple:

  • Air: The nearest airport is in Trichy.
  • Rail: The nearest railway station is the Papanasam railway station. 
  • Road: Thirukarukavur is present on Thanjavur-Kumbakonam main road. Several buses ply between Papanasam and Saliyamangalam at 30 minutes interval.Papanasam is 25 kms from Thanjavur and then to Thirukarukavur 6 kms from Papanasam.

Where to stay near temple?

Some of the places where one can stay near Garbarakshambigai temple are:

  • Hotel Simran Heritage Contact: Station Road, Moudhapara, Near Fafadih Chowk
  • Hotel Pace Contact: 217, Pace City I, Sector 10A, Near Hero Honda Chowk
  • Manyaa Hotels Contact: Khasra No. 500, Khandsa Chowk, Opposite Sector 10 A, Before Sector 37 Industrial Area
  • Motel Melfort Contact: Raj Nagar, Near Delhi Jaipur Highway, Raj Nagar Mod
  • Gautam Retreat Contact: M-200, South City I, Behind Unitech House

What are some temples nearby?

Some of the temples near Garbarakshambigai temple are:

  • Brihadeeswarar Temple: Thanjavur Brihadeeswara temple is one of the most ancient temple, situated in the city of Thanjavur in Tamil Nadu, India. The complex that houses the main sanctum is popular as the ‘Periya Kovil’. Thanjavur had the distinction of specifically being a religious city with the temple in the centre.
  • Gangaikonda Cholapuram: The presiding deity of this temple is Lord Shiva. The temple is famous for having the biggest Shivalingam, with a 4 meter Lingam in South India. The majestic entrance of the sanctum has beautiful image of Goddess Saraswathi. 
  • Darasuram Temple: Raja Raja Chola built this temple for Lord Siva, and it is either famous as Drasuram temple or Airavateswara Temple. The main mandapam of this temple is in the form of a chariot with horses. The steps are stones, which give different musical sounds when people tap them. 
  • Tirumanancheri Temple: This temple is quite famous among the devotees from the Hindu community who wish to find suitable life partners for marriage or in order to overcome. All times are auspicious since Lord Shiva and Parvathy are in a bliss here always. The shrine of Thirumananjeri is has close relation with legends that tell the story of Shiva’s marriage to Parvati.

Baglamukhi Temple – Timings, Poojas, and History

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Baglamukhi Temple is a popular Hindu temple dedicated to the Mahavidya Goddess Bagalamukhi which is located in the city of Amleshwar to the south of Raipur town in the Indian state of Chhattisgarh. The temple was established by Param Pujaya Shri  Pitambara Pithadhishwar Yogiraj Youdhishthir Ji Maharaj. The temple was established on 16th May and the most sacred occasion to visit the temple during Navratri.

There is an immense significance of Goddess Bagalamukhi who is one among the ten Mahavidyas in Hinduism. She is believed to smash the misconceptions and delusions of her enemies and protects them from their enemies with her cudgel. Popularly known as Pitambara Maa in the northern part of India, Bagalamukhi is the wisdom goddess who symbolizes the potent force of primeval female.

The word Baglamukhi has been derived from “Bagala” meaning bride and “Mukhi” meaning faced. Her name symbolizes “the one with the face that has the power to capture or control”. She represents the hypnotic power of the Goddess.

Another meaning of her name is crane faced. Goddess Bagalamukhi has golden complexion and she is always seen in a yellow dress. The Goddess sits on a golden throne which lies in the midst of an ocean of nectar which is full of yellow lotuses and her head is adorned with a crescent moon. In sacred texts, the Goddess is described as the Dwi-Bhuja or the two handed and the Chaturbhuja or the Four handed.

According to the Dwi-Bhuja depiction, she is described as Soumya or mild where she holds the club in her right hand that is used by her to beat a demon and she pulls out his tongue with her left hand. With this image, she exhibits the power of Stambhana where she can stun or paralyze the enemy into silence. The devotees of Bagalamukhi worship her for this boon.

Bagalamukhi has another name Pitambara Devi as well as Brahmastra Roopini and according to the name she turns everything into its opposite like knowledge into ignorance, speech into silence, power into impotence and defeat into victory. The Goddess allows her devotees to master their weaknesses.

Baglamukhi Temple History

According to Hindu mythology once a huge storm erupted over the earth and this storm threatened to destroy the creation and all Gods assembled in Saurashtra region. Goddess Bagalamukhi at this point emerged from Haridra Sarovara appeased by the prayers of God and calmed down the mighty storm. From then onward, she was worshiped by her devotees as a form of Goddess Parvati.

Significance of Baglamukhi Temple

Bagalamukhi Devi, also known as Pitambara Maa exists is a Shakti. Thus, Goddess Bagalamukhi represents potent female primeval force and is the one among ten forms of wisdom Goddesses.

There are very few Baglamukhi Temple in India and some of the main Baglamukhi Temple dedicated to her are as follows:

  1. Aligarh: A major district headquarters in the state of Uttar Pradesh with a Maa Baglamukhi Temple in Biharipuram. The temple lies 4 km from Aligarh Railway Station and 135 km from New Delhi.
  2. Haridwar: A pilgrimage temple in the Uttarakhand State has a Maa Bagalamukhi Siddhi Peeth near Bhagiradhi Vidyalayam.
  3. Ludhiana- A major district head quarter in Punjab State has a Maa Bagalamukhi Mandir just 6 km from Ludhiana Junction Railway Station.
  4. Nalkhera: This is a Nagar Panchayat in the Shajapur district in Madhya Pradesh State with a Bagalamukhi Temple and is 107 km from Ujjain.
  5. Pappankulam: This is a small village in the Tirunelveli district of Tamil Nadu and this is a location for Shri Bagalamukhi Devi Temple.
  6. Raigarh: A major district headquarters in Chhattisgarh State has a Bagalamukhi Mandir and is just 1.5 km from Raigarh Railway Station.
  7. Sameli: A small village in the Kangra District of Himachal Pradesh State has a Bagalamukhi Temple.
  8. Tewar: A small village near the Kachnar city of Jabalpur district in Madhya Pradesh State has a Bagalamukhi Temple just 16 km from Jabalpur.

Baglamukhi Temple Timings

Baglamukhi Temple is open on all days from 9 AM to 6 PM.

Festivals Celebrated at Baglamukhi Temple

Navaratri that is a major festival dedicated to Goddess Durga and Shakti is one of the most celebrated temples in the Maa Pitambara temple. The baglamukhi temple hosts a major celebration before Dussehara. During the occasion, all forms of Shakti including Maa Baglamukhi are revered and a major ritual that runs a length of 9 days is celebrated here. Special arrangements are made for complete and enriching worshiping procedures for the deity and the methodologies adhere to the principles of the Vedas.

During this time, many yogis and Tantriks pray to the Goddess for special powers and people from all parts of the country visit the region to enjoy the exemplary decorations and celebrations in this part of the country. The celebrations involve many processions and there are elaborate preparations for Prasadam and religious Poojas during the time in Amleshwar.

The Baglamukhi temple also hosts a huge celebration on the occasion of Guru Purnima during navratri celebrations and also special poojas are arranged during Vasant Panchmi. These are perfect occasions to begin any religious proceedings or sadhanas.

Poojas and Rituals at Baglamukhi Temple

Like the Kamakhya Temple of Guwahati, the Bagalamukhi temples too are considered to be the centers of Tantricism. Here there are temples dedicated to ten Mahavidyas. These temples are powerful Bagulamukhi Siddha Peeth where the Goddess is worshiped by Yogis for special powers.

The major difference between Baglamukhi temple and any other temple is that if someone worships all Gods in these temples, they would be worshiping all 33 types of Gods and Goddesses together at one place.

Maa Baglamukhi is the eighth mahavidya and is invoked for the destruction of the enmity. She is the supreme divine force and was believed to be invoked by Lord Rama to destroy Ravana along with his descendants. All offerings that are made by the devotees to the deity in the temple are in compliance with the Vedic rules.

The holy chants that reverberate the temple premises during the rituals are performed with Divine grace. The Bagalamukhi Yantra also is of paramount significance for offering Pooja to the deity and for the successful completion of the rituals. It protects the devotees and also shields them from the negatives forces of enmity.

How to Reach Baglamukhi Temple: By Rail, Road, and Air

The Amleshwar Temple lies about 15 km from Raipur Airport and is at a distance of 25 km from Durg. It is accessible by train, approximately 5 km from Raipur Railway Station and also well connected through buses. The nearest airport, railway station, and bus stands are at Raipur. The temple can be reached by various modes as follows:

By Air: The major airport near Raipur is Swami Vivekanand International Airport located at Mana, 15 km south of Raipur. All major cities are connected to Raipur through flights.

By Rail: Raipur junction is the main railway station that is connected to the entire country through major trains.

By Road: Raipur is well connected to all other major cities of the country via regular buses and the major bus stations are at Raipur.

Where to Stay and Eat

Although Amleshwar is a small place and doesn’t have many boarding and lodging options, still Raipur being a close city can be a comfortable place to stay at while visiting. There are many 4 star and 5 star hotels in Raipur like Hotel Piccadilly, Hotal Mayura, Hotel Babylon International and Hotel Madhuban.

Nearby Temples

Chattisgarh has many ancient temples that are both a tourist attraction as well as a pilgrim for devotees. Here are some major temples of the region:

  1. Amarkantak Temple: Located at the height of 3500 feet at Maikal Mountains, the temple is a major pilgrim spot for Hindus and the spot is the source of the most venerated mighty River Narmada.
  2. Bambleshwari Temple: Located at Dongargarh in the Rajnandgaon district in Chattisgarh. The temple is on a hilltop of 1600 feet. Another temple the Chhoti Bambleshwari is situated at ground about 1.5 km from the main complex. The twin shrines are revered by numerous people during Jyoti Kalash is lighted during Navratri before Dussehra.
  3. Bhoramdeo Temple: Situated in the midst of mountain ranges, this temple in Chattisgarh is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The main temple is built in stone and the complex has a total of four temples. The architecture of the temple is its uniqueness and the carvings are worth having a look at. The temple is named as Khajuraho of Chattisgarh.
  4. Champaran Temple: The village is at a distance of 60 km from Raipur and is the birth place of Saint Mahaprabhu Vallabhavacharya who was the founder of the Vallabh sect.
  5. Danteshwari Temple: Dedicated to Goddess Danteshwari the temple represents the 52 Shakti Peeth across the country and was built in 14th century by Chaulakyas of the south. Every year during Dussehera, thousands of pilgrims visit the temple and the presiding deity is takes out for a mega procession
  6. Hatkeshwar Temple: The Mahadev Ghat o situated on bans of River Kharun and this is a holy shrine of the Hindus. The presiding deity of the temple is Lord Shiva.
  7. ISKCON Temple: Raipur has a major ISKCON temple dedicated to Lord Krishna and many Vaishvaites come here to pray to the Lord. The temple is located behind Maharishi Vidya Mandir in Raipur.
  8. Madwa Mahal: The Shiva temple is close to the Bhoramdeo Temple and has a Linga over 16 pillars. The temple was built in 1349 CE.
  9. Mahamaya Temple: Dedicated to Goddess Durga and Lakshmi, this temple was built in the 12th century and is one of the 52 Shakti Peeths.

Raipur is a place with immense natural beauty, lush green spots, flora and fauna and has many places to visit and for the purpose of sightseeing. Thus, whenever one happens to visit the temple they should also take out some time to explore the nearby tourist spots that extremely popular among the locals as well as among the tourists. Here are some other major attractions of Raipur:

  1. Gandhi Udhyan: One of the major tourist spots in Raipur, the Gandhi Udyaan has many tourist attractions for a rejuvenating time. The place is built with world standards, innovative layouts, extraordinary architecture, and well-thought execution that makes it a place and highly coveted point of tourist interest. One can carry the camera and capture the special moments at Gandhi
  2. Madku Dweep: The place is situated on the tranquil waters of the Shivnath River and it is an island of great beauty with lush and splendid waterfalls. The place is filled with visitors during Shivratri and Paush Purnima The place is also a major spot for archeological excavation and 19 temples had been found on this island.
  3. Nandavan Garden: The garden is open all days of the week except Sunday from 9 am to 5 pm and is a major place of natural beauty in the city of Raipur. The place is a sure way to refresh after a busy weekday. The place is best to explore fabulous designs, interesting themes, colorful landscapes, amusing characters, ambient music, props, and merchandise.
  4. Urja Park: The place is great to get into the spirit of adventure and a great place for sightseeing and family visit. The place is great for rejuvenation and has an extraordinary architecture for finding fulfillment on outing and camping.

Therefore, do visit Raipur and the nearby Maa Pitambara (Bagalamukhi) Temple at Amleshwar whenever you happen to find time with the family and enjoy the religious bliss of this spot while devoting your time to the presiding Goddess here who is the provider of special powers and wisdom to all her devotees. The revered deity is one of the most sacred and sought out among the Hindus and thus, they get the best spiritual outcomes by praying here.

Panch Prayag – Five Sacred Confluences in Uttarakhand

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Panch Prayag is a manifestation in the spirit of the Hindu religion. The expression is used to signify the five holy river confluences in the Garhwal district of Uttarakhand.

The word ‘Prayag’ breaks down to the confluence of two or more rivers. Moreover, Panch Prayag goes by the name ‘Panch Pentad’ in Sanskrit. Nevertheless, five confluences in the descending order of their existence are Vishnuprayag, Nandaprayag, Karnaprayag, Rudraprayag and Devprayag.

Holy Pathways of Panch Prayag

Alaknanda originates from the triangular lake called Satopanth. It is present 4402 metres above sea level. Moreover, Satopanth gets its name from Brahma, Vishnu, Shiva and Bhagirath Kharak Glaciers lying near Nanda Devi peak in Uttarakhand.

Holy trail of Panch Prayag
Satopanth is the origin of the Holy Alaknanda river.

In the course of 229 km from its origin Alaknanda crosses all the five Prayags. Moreover, it finally unifies with Bhagirathi and gives rise to the Holy Ganges or Ganga. Nevertheless, it continues to flow down further to Rishikesh and Haridwar that share the banks of Ganges in Uttarakhand.

Each Sangam or confluence has developed religious towns near them due to the inflow of pilgrims visiting Panch Kedar and Sapta Badri temples. Also, devotees take bath at these holy Sangam while undertaking the Char Dham Yatra in Uttarakhand.

The town names inspired by these confluences are titled as Nandaprayag, Karnaprayag, Rudraprayag and Devprayag. However, Vishnuprayag does not have a town at its bank yet it is 12 km from Joshimath.

The Essence of the Five Prayags

According to Hindus, Prayag is the sacred Sangam of rivers where devotees take a dip before worship. Also, people arrive at these sacred sangams to perform the last rites for the dead. Moreover, the devotees worship holy confluences as God’s manifestation on Earth.

Essence of Panch Prayag
Dip in the holy waters of Prayag is believed to wash away ones sins.

However, the Prayag at Allahabad is considered to be the holiest. Nevertheless, the Panch Prayag of Uttarakhand is just next to them. Apart from numerous tales from the Puranas, these Prayags are home to the amazing scenic beauty.

Moreover, the religious texts state that Panch Prayag in Uttarakhand is the Svargarohana route that the Pandavas took to reach heaven.

How to get to these confluences?

Rishikesh is the point of start for your Panch Prayag journey. It is near to Haridwar that has train connectivity to all the major cities of India. Moreover, Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun is at a distance of 18 km from Rishikesh.

Besides these, one can take a road trip to Rishikesh from different parts of the country. However, one can hire private taxis to Rishikesh as per their convenience.

From Rishikesh, the distance of the five Prayags are –

Name of the PrayagDistance from Rishikesh
Vishnuprayag263 km
Nandaprayag193 km
Karnyaprayag 173 km
Rudraprayag141 km
Devprayag74 km

Portrayal of Panch Prayag

  • Vishnuprayag– After Alaknanda descends from Satopanth, Dhauliganga merges into it at this Sangam. Moreover, Ahlayabai, the queen of Indore constructed a Vishnu temple at this Prayag.
  • Nandaprayag– Here, Alaknanda meets Nandakini river and the two rivers unify. However, this confluence gets its name from King Nanda who performed yagna at this place in pursuit of a son.
  • Karnaprayag– This is the confluence of river Alaknanda and Pindar. Beliefs say that Krishna cremated Karna at this place only. Hence, there is a Karna temple by the banks of the confluence.
  • Rudraprayag– At this place, Mandakini river joins Alaknanda in its flow. Moreover, traditional tales suggest that Shiva appeared in its Rudra avatar at this place in front of Sage Narada. Hence, the place has Shiva temples in abundance.
  • Devprayag– This confluence gives birth to the mainstream Ganges as Alaknanda and Bhagirathi unify. Devprayag means ‘Godly confluence‘. Moreover, the inspiration of the confluence’s name is taken from sage Dev Sharma from Satyug, who got blessings from Lord Vishnu. Lord Ram also meditated here so it has many Ram temples too.

Frequently Asked Questions About Panch Prayag

Where is the Panch Prayag located?

Panch Prayag is present in the ‘God’s Land’ i.e. Uttarakhand.

Which river meets Alaknanda at Karna Prayag?

Pindar meets Alaknanda at Karna Prayag.

How many Prayags are there in Uttarakhand?

As the name, Panch Prayag suggests there are five Prayag in Uttarakhand.

When should one visit these Prayags?

The best time to visit these Prayags is from March to October.

Pandalam Ayyappa Temple Guide – Timings, Poojas, and History

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Pandalam Ayyappa Temple is situated in between Thottakkonam and Mulampuzha villages of Pandalam. Pandalam in Kerala is chosen and blessed place where Lord Ayyappa is the presiding deity. The temple is unique with its natural procession route around the Sanctorum. Ayyappa is believed to be the one god who protects his devotees from miseries and suffering in Kali Yuga.

Ayyappa is also known as Dharmasasta, Manikandan, Bhutanathan, Pandala Raja, and Pamba Vaasan. Ayyappa was born with composite energy of Lord Siva and Lord Vishnu when Lord Vishnu was taken over Mohini form. The main intention behind Ayyappa’s birth was to demolish Mahishi who was one of the asura demon.

Pandalam Ayyappa Temple

History and Legend of Pandalam Ayyappa Temple

  • Sabarimala was once under the regime of the Pandalam dynasty. The Pandalam kingdom was established around 79 ME (903 AD) by the Pandalam royal family who is descendant of the Pandya kings of Madurai. Sabarimala Festival Calendar.
  • The family kept on the move for over a century, finally reaching Pandalam in 79 ME. This was chosen to be the permanent home for the royal family. The then ruler of Venad (later Travancore) helped to establish the kingdom at Pandalam.
  • The King of Pandalam helped Marthanda Varma to conquer the Kayamkulam province. In return for this help, Marthanda Varma did not attempt to attack and conquer Pandalam.
  • The Kingdom of Pandalam extended to over 1,000 square miles. Pandalam dynasty helped other religious followers to build a mosque at Kadakkad and a church at Kudassanad. It is also believed that those who settled down in Pandalam had sympathies toward the Buddhist beliefs.
  • 48 major temples were added to Travancore. The idol was erected in 1910. Pandalam Ayyappa Temple conflagrated in 1971 and underwent a major revamp. Pandalam had extended up to Thodupuzha in Idukki district once. Before the formation of the Pathanamthitta district, Pandalam was in Mavelikkara taluk of Alappuzha district.
  • Leela who was the daughter of Galavamuni, under the curse of her husband Dathan, was reborn as Mahishi. She was an “asura’ female with a buffalo’s face. Upon having killed by Lord Ayyappa, the curse was revoked and the beautiful woman rose out of the corpse. She thanked the Lord and prayed to be with him as his wife.
  • However, the Lord told her that he is a ‘Brahmachari’ and so her desire would not be fulfilled. However, he allowed her to remain in Sabarimala, which is a little distant from his abode.

Significance of Pandalam Ayyappa Temple

  • It is believed that Lord Ayyappa himself instructed the Pandalam king to build a mosque for Vavur at Erumuli. The Vavur deity is believed to be as old as the original deity of Ayyappa himself. Records show that the shrine was renovated sometime in 1905. Here, the poojas are conducted by a Muslim priest. There is no distinguishable idol, but a carved stone slab that represents the deity.
  • It is believed that the deity protects the devotees from the evil spirits of the forests. According to legend, Kadutha was a great warrior who helped the Pandalam king defeat the armies of Udayanan and other enemies.

Pandalam Ayyappa Temple Timings

Pandalam Ayyappa Temple opens at 4:00 AM in the morning to 11:00 PM in the evening. But during special events and festivals, the timing for the temple can be exceeded in order to accommodate more number of devotees.

Rules to follow at Pandalam Ayyappa Temple

Women between the ages of 10 and 50 years are not supposed to visit the shrine. The devotees are required to break a coconut at the appointed place before entry to the steps. Consumption of alcohol and non-vegetarian food, Smoking etc are punishable offences.

Festivals celebrated at Pandalam Ayyappa Temple

Makara Vilakku: Makara Vilakkui is the most anticipated festival at the Ayyappa Temple. It takes place at the time when the Dakshinayana Punyakalam ends and Uttarayan or Uttarayana Punyakalam starts. Makaravilakku is the Jyothi that appears at Ponnambalameddu three times on Makar Sankranti day after evening puja. Parashurama first lit the Makaravilakku after installing the murti of Ayyappa. The jewellery to adorn the idol during the celebrations is brought from Pandalam Palace in a ceremonial procession that starts from Valiya Koyikkal Sastha Temple at Pandalam. The poojas and rituals associated with Makara Vilakku are performed on the Manimandapam (sacred platform). Makara Jyothi is the star that appears on the sky during the Puja. Makaravilakku is the Jyothi that appears at Ponnambalameddu three times on Makar Sankranti day after evening pooja.

Onam: Onam is the biggest and the most important festival of the state of Kerala. It is a harvest festival and is celebrated with joy and enthusiasm. The festival is celebrated to welcome King Mahabali, whose spirit is said to visit Kerala at the time of Onam. A large number of devotees gather in the temple to seek the blessings of Lord Ayyappa. Onam is celebrated at the beginning of the month of Chingam, the first month of Malayalam and Hindu Calendar. This corresponds with the month of August-September according to Gregorian Calendar. It is also known as Pookalam. The best part of the festival is the food served on banana leaves. The festivities of the Onam last for ten days in which old and young participate with equal enthusiasm.

Vishu: Vishu Festival heralds the beginning of Malayalees New Year and is celebrated in a big way in the state of Kerala. This corresponds to the month of April-May according to the Gregorian calendar. The occasion holds a lot of significance for Hindus as Vishu marks the Astronomical New Year Day. A most important ritual of the day is called ‘Kani Kanal’.

In Kani Kanal, there is a prescribed list of items, which a person must see first thing on a Vishu morning to bring good luck. This includes a cadjan leaf book, gold ornaments, fresh white cloth, a measure of rice or paddy etc. A huge rush of devotees can be seen in the temple. special prayers are organised to mark the day. People stay overnight in the courtyards of these temples a night before Vishu so that they see Kani, first thing on Vishu in the temple. Devotees close their eyes and set their eyes on Kani and deity so that when the doors to the deity opens at 2:30 am, the first thing they see is Kani.

Poojas and Rituals at Pandalam Ayyappa Temple

  • Vrischikam and part of Dhanu months are considered to be the holy 41 days of Mandalakalam. Special poojas are conducted in the temple especially for Lord Ayyapan. Ayyappan Vilakku is conducted on the first Saturday of Vrischikam. The poojas are conducted in a traditional style without compromise on any of its aspects.
  • Pandalam Ayyappa Temple is opened in the morning and the Lord is awakened from his sleep with the melodious notes. The Lord is adorned with flowers of the previous day. This is known as Nirmalya Darshanam. It is believed that after the night pooja, when the doors are closed, the devas (gods) come and worship the deity. A darshan of the Lord who has just been worshipped by the Devas themselves is considered highly auspicious. Lamps are lit and chiming bells along with spontaneous cries of the devotees.
  • The rite of bathing the deity with oil takes place after removing the adornments of the previous day. After this abhishekam is performed with water. After this, the Prabatha pooja is performed every day.
  • ‘Pantheeradi Pooja’ refers to the time when the shadow of a person with normal height becomes 12 feet long. This is the second main pooja done for the chief deity.
  • Lighting a lamp is a vital part of Hindu pujas, auspicious occasions and social events. It denotes dispelling away the darkness. Deeparadhana is one of the very important poojas that is conducted. The night worship is Athazha pooja and the offering made at that time is athazhanaivedyam.
  • The last pooja offered to lord ayyappa is the Athazhapooja. After cleaning the temple the sanctum is set to put the lord Ayyappa to sleep. All the devotees and sub priests get together in front of the sanctum and sing Harivarasanam.

How to reach: Road, Rail and Air

By Air: Thiruvananthapuram is the nearest airport which is at a distance of about 101 km and Kochi airport is 127 km from Pandalam. One can hire a taxi or board a bus from the airport.

By Train: Chengannur is the nearest railway station that is about 14 km from the temple. Trains are available to all the major Indian cities from the railway station.

By Bus: You can reach Pandalam by bus through MC Road. KSRTC (Kerala State Road Transport Corporation) is conducting the services if you are coming from either Thiruvananthapuram or Kochi airports. Private buses ply to various destinations around Pandalam. The minimum time a bus takes to reach Pandalam from Ernakulam is 3h 18m. The cheapest way to reach Pandalam from Ernakulam takes you 5h 16m, which is to take Malabar Express from Ernakulam to Chengannur then take State Transport Bus from Chengannur to Pandalam.

Where to stay

There are many options available to stay near the Pandalam Mahadeva Temple. There are many well good hotels nearby.

  • Shines Tourist Hotel Contact: Main Central Rd, Pandalam, Kerala
  • Estilo Meadows Contact: Pandalam, Kerala 689501
  • NSS Working Women’s Hostel Contact: Chiramudi, Pandalam, Kerala 689501
  • Hotel Chaithram Contact: Ambalakadvu, Thumpamon – Pariyaram Rd, Thumpamon, Kerala

Where to eat

Kerala food is served on a banana leaf. One has to take food with the right hand. Almost every dish prepared in Kerala has coconut and spices to flavour the local cuisine giving it a sharp pungency that is heightened with the use of tamarind, while coconut gives it its richness. There are many restaurants at Pandalam that offer some amazing food.

  • S N Restaurant Contact: S.N Restaurant, Pandalam, Main Central Rd, Pandalam, Kerala 689501
  • Vazhiyoram KTDC Restaurant Contact: National Highway 220, Pandalam, Kerala 689503
  • Relax Inn A/C Restaurant Contact:  Chengannur, Kerala 689121
  • Nalukettu Contact: Opposite Manikandan Aalthara, Poozhikad Muttar Road, Pandalam, Kerala 689501

 Nearby Temples

Pandalam Mahadeva Temple: Pandalam Mahadeva temple is positioned on the banks of river Achankovil in Pandalam in the state of Kerala. It is believed that Lord Parasurama has installed the idol in the sanctum. Pandalam Mahadeva Temple is one of the oldest temples out of the 108 Shiva temples consecrated by the great ‘Sanayasin Khara Muni’. Yearly Kettukazhcha festival is one of the attractions for tourists. The temple is unique with its natural procession route around the Sanctorum.

Pandalam Valiya Koyikkal Dharmasastha Temple: The temple has great importance for the inhabitants of monkeys. The presiding deity of the temple is Shri Dharma Sastha. Ayyappan is an avatar or incarnation of Sastha. There are references to Sastha in many of the Puranas. The presiding deity of the temple is Sree Dharma Sastha, accompanied by his consort ‘Prabha’ and son ‘Sathyaka’. The history of the temple was based on the period of the Ramayana.  It is believed that after the victory over Ravana, Sri Rama came along with his wife Sita, brother Lakshmana and whole vanara (monkey) sena has visited  Sasthamcotta to pay their reverence to Sri Dharma Sastha.

Padanilam Temple: Nooranad Padanilam Temple is located in Alappuzha district and is around 18 km from Kayamkulam. The word Padanilam means “land of war” . It is located on the banks of river Achankovil. The Padanilam temple is one of the important centres of worship in Kerala. The presiding deity of the temple is Lord Parabrahma. Shivaratri is the main festival in the temple. Thousands come to the temple on that day to see the kavadiyattam for Lord Subrahmanyan in the morning. Padanilam Temple and its surroundings witnessed many historical wars. Once there was a war between the south and the north. During the war, soldiers from both sides died in large numbers. They were buried in the chira near the temple.

Oripurathu Bhagavathi Temple: Orippurathu Bhagavathy Kshetram Mandir or temple is devoted to its main holy deity goddess Devi. This ancient temple is frequented by thousands of devotees of Goddess every year. The temple has a history of more than one thousands of years. It is said that the temple was constructed during the 17th century. The annual festival of the temple had been started during the 18th of century. However, the supreme deity of the temple is goddess Bhagavathy yet some other important god and goddess are also worshipped here such as Lord Ayyappan, Yakshi, Lord Krishna, Nagarajavu and Madasamy. The sacred temple is not only famous for its religious significance but also for its amazing architecture that shows the unique architecture of Indian style. In the main sanctum sanctorum, devotees can see two sacred idols which are made of important Krishna Sila.