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Shani Dham Temple Delhi Guide – Timings, Poojas, and History

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Shani Dham Temple is a famous temple dedicated to Lord Shani. The word Shani also denotes the seventh day or Saturday. It is situated at Chhatarpur Road, near Asola, Delhi which is 16 kilometres from the famous Qutub Minar. The temple is one of those rare temples in India that houses a natural rock Idol of Lord Shani.

Shani Dham Temple – Facts

Deity Lord Shani
Location Mehrauli, New Delhi, India
Best Time to Visit Saturday before 07:00 AM
Darshan Timings 5 AM to 10 PM (except Saturday)
4 AM to 12 AM (Saturday)
Entry Fees Free
Dress Code Traditional Wear
Festivals Special pooja on Shani Amavasya
Deepavali
Navratri

The idol of Lord Shani present here is the tallest statue of Lord Shani in the world.

Lord Shani holds a powerful influence on the astrology and religion of Hindus. Devotees visit this temple and pay homage to the deity. They offer prayers at the feet of the Lord to get rid of the problems. The Lord here has been lovingly named as ‘Datti.’

Shani Dham Temple Timings

The timings of Shani Dham Temple are:

Morning Darshan 5 AM to 2 PM
Evening Darshan 3 PM to 10 PM
Darshan Timings on Saturday4 AM to 12 AM
Shani Dham Timings
It takes an hour to worship the Temple.

Poojas and rituals at Shani Dham Temple

The poojas and rituals that are performed at Shani Dham Temple are-

  • Offering mustard oil (Telabhishek) to God Shani while chanting the following mantras:
    • Om Sham Shanishcharaya Namah
    • Om Pram Preem Prom Se Shanishcharaya Namah
    • Om Sham Shanishcharaya Namah
  • Devotees enchant Shani Mantra while moving around the idol (Shila Murty) in the temple.
  • Offering one’s footwear, embracing and kissing the idol is a traditional ritual.
Shani Dham Rituals
Believers offer Mustard oil (Telabhishek) to Lord Shani.

On every Saturday and on Shani Amavasya, special religious poojas are performed in the temple.

What is the significance of Shani Dham Temple?

The significance of Shani Dham Temple is –

  • On the top of the temple, the eight metalled largest radiant Shani idol has been established. As soon as one enters the main door, he explores the huge radiate idol of Lord Shani and the Shani rock too.
  • Before unveiling the idol of Shani, Sant Shiromani Shani Charanuragi ‘Datti’ Madan Maharaj Rajasthani Ji performed the enchanting of One Hundred Crores, and Thirty-Two Lakhs Shani Mantras on the sacred grove.
  • Since then, people believe that most of the problems are automatically solved when they pray at the temple.
  • People offer oil at the shrine of Shani. Some people offer 101 oil boxes or 1 quintal oil and few people even offer an entire tanker of oil to God Shani.
  • Devotees enchant “Om Sham Shanishcharaya Nameh” all the time. No devotee talks to one another. They indulge themselves in prayers and offerings.
  • Each devotee worships Lord Shani directly. Devotees perform circumambulation around his idol himself. There is no Priest, Pandit or a middle-man, between the devotee and Lord Shani. Each devotee is his own priest and the true feelings of him are the true mantras and their results are visible very shortly. 
The Idol holds the record of World’s tallest statue of Lord Shani

What is the history of Shani Dham Temple?

The history of Shani Dham Temple states that:-

  • The world’s largest Shani Idol was unveiled by Anant Shree Vibhushit Jagat Guru Shankracharya Swami Madhavasharam Ji Maharaj on 31st May 2003 at Asola, Fatehpur Behri, Delhi.
  • A Shani idol was also established at Pali, Rajasthan.
  • The temple since has been a great pious place of worship for devotees of God Shani.

What are the major festivals?

The major festivals are :

  • Navratri Pooja – Navratri, also known as Durga Pooja, is a festival celebrated in the honor of nine different forms of the Goddess Durga, for nine consecutive days. People worship the Goddess of Power during these days in order to seek her blessings and protection.
  • Deepawali Pooja – Deepawali, the festival of lights, is the festival of Goddess Laxmi, the Goddess of prosperity and wealth. People perform a traditional ‘Lakshmi Pooja‘ on the eve of Deepawali after sunset.
  • Special Pooja on Shani Amavasya – On each Shani Amavasya, rituals such as ‘Pitra Dosh‘ & ‘Kaal Sarpa Dosh‘ are performed at Shani Dham to the God. Devotees perform special worship and ‘Telabhishek’ on such occasions.
Shani Dham Festivals
Special Pooja on Shani Amavasya is performed at the Temple.

Believers offer mustard oil (Telabhishek) to Lord Shani. Telabhishek means bathing the idol of God Shani with mustard oil.

Legends of Shani Dham Temple

The legends of Shani Dham Temple are-

  • It is believed that whoever performs pooja to the God of this temple, their misdeed would be washed away forever.
  • Once the devotees enter the temple, no one talks to one another but stays in a silent pious chanting God’s name. No matter what the troubles are, they are left at the back. They are solved by their worshiping here and by offering oil to Lord Shani. 
  • No material from the exterior in the temple is allowed due to safety issues. The money collected is used for different generous works.
Shani Dham Legends
The Lord in the Temple is Lovingly named as “Datti”.

Architecture and design of Shani Dham Temple

  • Apart from the natural rock Idol of Shani Dev as the prime deity, the attractive statues of other Gods and Goddesses are also shafted.
  • On the top of the eastern part of Shani Dham, the largest beaming Shani idol has been established. The major door of this eastern part falls on the west side.
  • On North and south sides, there are Shani statues erected, in which Shani Maharaj is riding over a variety of rides.
  • There is a statute of Bhairav Dev on the left and the right sides of Shani Shila.
  • On the east side of ‘Shani Shila’, there is a large hall, in which the symbolic idols of the 12 Jyotirlingas are endowed. On top of this hall, there are huge metal statues of Lord Shani.
  • In another room, extraordinary astrological books and materials for Shani pooja are made accessible.
  • In the western part of ‘Shani Dham’, there are western faced huge Shani statues erected riding buffalo and vulture.
Shani Dham Architecture
The western part of the temple has a huge statue of Shani riding vulture.
  • On the right side of the two Shani Statues, the statue of Lord Hanuman is placed. It faces South. Opposite to this, there is a preparation for the devotees to take a bath.
  • On the west side of the hall, there is yet again a different big hall. In this hall, some extraordinary religious performances and the mediation meetings are held. In this big hall, there is an idol of Ardhanarishwar facing towards East. 
  • There is a huge library and a research center, in the Ashram Premises itself.

All types of questions related to Astrology, Ayurveda, Yoga, and the Tantra are being answered at the temple.

Activities at Shani Dham Temple

The Shree Shani Dham Trust is a non-profit, non-governmental social welfare volunteer organization. The Trust is committed in social welfare activities in different parts of India but is mainly focused on Rajasthan, and has worked in areas of Rajasthan affected by drought. Some of their social works are as follows:

  • Helping people affected by drought.
  • Providing free fodder for cattle.
  • Arranging food, clothes, and blankets to the needy.
  • Organizing free medical camps in remote parts of Rajasthan.
  • Pensions for the elderly and needy.
  • Scholarships for meritorious students.
  • Providing tricycles to the disabled.
  • Arranging potable water in the interior rural areas of Rajasthan.
Shani Dham Activities
The Shree Shani Dham Trust is a non-governmental social welfare volunteer organization run by the Temple.

How to reach Shani Dham Temple?

Here’s how to reach Shani Dham Temple :

  • Air: Indira Gandhi International Airport is the official airport of Delhi (17.4km).
  • Metro: Nearest metro stations to the temple are Chattarpur station (6.2 km) and Qutub metro station(9.1 km).
  • Rail: The three important railway stations of Delhi are New Delhi Railway Station (23.2 km), Old Delhi Railway Station (26.5 km) and Hazrat Nizamuddin Railway Station(22.0 km). 
  • Road: Several state government-run buses and taxis operate round the city which transports to the Chattarpur area. The three major bus stands in Delhi are Inter-State Bus Terminus (ISBT) at Kashmiri Gate (30 km), Sarai Kale-Khan Bus Terminus (21.4 km)and Anand Vihar Bus Terminus(31.6 km).

Where to stay near Shani Dham Temple?

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

There are several 3-star to 5-star hotels and lodges located around the mandir area which provide good accommodation options.

Where to eat near Shani Dham Temple Delhi?

There are many AC/Non-AC restaurants and dhabas around the Chattarpur area which serve healthy multi-cuisines.

What are some temples near Shani Dham Temple?

  • Lotus Temple –The Lotus Temple, located in Delhi, India, is a Baha’i House of Worship. The temple is built in the shape of a floating half-open lotus set amidst pools and gardens. It serves as the Mother Temple of the Indian subcontinent and has become a prominent attraction in the city.
  • Qutub Minar – Qutub Minar is a 73-meter tall tapering tower of five storeys, with a 14.3 meters base diameter, reducing to 2.7 meters at the top of the peak. The first three storeys are made of red sandstone and the last two are made of marble and sandstone.  
  • India Gate – The India Gate (originally called the All India War Memorial) is a war memorial located astride the Rajpath, on the eastern edge of the ceremonial axis of New Delhi, India, formerly called Kingsway.

Frequently Asked Questions about Shani DhamTemple-

What’s the best time to visit Shani Dham Temple?

The best time to visit Shani Dham Temple is on Saturdays.

Is photography allowed in Shani Dham Temple?

Photography is not allowed inside the Temple.

What’s the Shani Dham Temple darshan timing on Saturdays?

The Shani Dham Temple darshan timing on Saturdays are 4 AM TO 12 AM

What’s the address of Shani Dham Temple?

Maharishi Dayanand Marg, Sadhna Enclave, Panchsheel Park, New Delhi, Delhi 110017, India

What’s the most popular time to visit Shani Dham Temple?

The most popular time to visit Shani Dham Temple is 07:00 AM (daily)

What’s the average time spent in Shani Dham Temple?

The average time spent in Shani Dham Temple is 1 hr

Which attraction is normally visited before or after visiting Shani Dham Temple?

Bijay Mandal is normally visited before or after visiting Shani Dham Temple.

What are the metro stations available near Shani Dham Temple?

Nearest metro stations to the temple are Chattarpur station (6.2 km) and Qutub metro station(9.1 km).

Who unveiled the idol of Shani in Shani Dham Temple Delhi?

On 31st May 2003, the idol of Shani dev was consecrated by Anant Shree Vibhushit Jagat Guru Shankracharya Swami Madhvasharam Ji.

Can women offer oil to the diety in Shani Dham Temple?

Women can’t offer oil to the diety in Shani Dham Temple.

How many times the mantras were enchanted before the unveiling of the idol?

One Hundred Crores and Thirty-Two Lakh times the mantras were enchanted

Srinivasa Mangapuram Temple Guide – Kalyana Venkateswara Swamy – Timings, Poojas, and History

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Srinivasa Mangapuram temple is an ancient Hindu Vaishnavite temple present at Srinivasamangapuram which is 12 km from Tirupati in Chittoor District of Andhra Pradesh, India. The temple is dedicated to Lord Venkateswara, a form of Vishnu and is referred to as Kalyana Venkateswara Temple.

The presiding deity of the temple is Venkateswara who is also Kalyana Venkateswara. The deity will be facing west and is in standing posture with four hands with left two hands one in varada mundra and one holding Chakra and right two hands one in kati mudra and the other holding Shanka.

What is the history of Srinivasa Mangapuram Temple?

According to the history of Srinivasa Mangapuram temple, the temple itself is believed to have I existed from very ancient times and it is said that Sri Venkateswara is referred to even in the Rigveda. ‘Sri Venkatachala Mahatrnyam’ contains Puranic lores from the twelve Mahapuranas.

After celebrating the marriage of Lord Venkateswara Swamy with Goddess Padmavathi, he did not immediately return to the Tirumala hills. But instead he visited the sage Agasthya’s ashram to seek blessings. Yes, even the lord is humble enough to seek blessings from elderly and wise.

As it was scientifically wrong for the newlyweds to scale the hill for six months, the lord was unable to immediately return to the Tirumala mountain-temple. At this situation the sage Agastya suggested that Swamy Venkateswara along with his wife could stay at his humble ashram. Then, the Lord graciously accepted this request and blessed with the ashram with his presence for the entire six months.

About the temple history, this is no substantial indication about its construction. Devotees also believe that the ancient temple’s destruction took place in 1324, during the reign of Sultans. As per the inscriptions on the temple, one can say that the grandson of Sri Annamacharya, Sri Tallapaka Chinna Tirumala Acharya had renovated this temple during 16th Century. Moreover, Tallapaka Family maintained it over a long period of time.

Later it came under the administration of Archaeological Department, Government of India. Finally in 1967, it came under the control of TTD.

What is the significance of Srinivasa Mangapuram Temple?

Here’s the significance of Mangapuram Temple:

  • Sri Kalyana Venkateswara Swamy Temple is an alternative to those devotees who are unable to visit the Balaji Temple on the Tirumala Hills. Many newly-wed couples also come here to seek the lord’s blessing for a happy married life.
  • Sri Rama Temple, Sri Ranganayaka Temple, Sri Padmavathi and Sri Andal Temple are other shrines in this complex. Devotees can also find small shrines including Sri Sakti Vinayaka Swami, Sri Veerabhadra Swami, Sri Avanakshamma, Sri Parasareswara Swami and Sri Agastheeswara Swami.
  • According to Vaikhanasa Bhagavat Shasthram Lord Venkateswara’s idol is ‘Sthanaka yoga Viraha Murthy’. Sthanaka means Standing, Yoga means this idol is mainly for Rishis who wish to attain Mukthi, Viraha means without Sanka and Chakra.
  • The idol at Srinivasa Mangapuram is consecrated by Srikrishna Devaraya with the help of Vaikhanasa Priests at Tirumala so that He will be always in touch with the Lord Balaji as he is a diehard devotee of him. So it is a Pratista made by Humans. Whereas in the Tirumala Temple Lord Balaji is self existent and devotees believe that a self existent idol is more powerful than a Pratistitha idol.

What are the timings of Srinivasa Mangapuram Temple?

Here are the timings of Srinivasa Mangapuram Temple:

TimingsFromTo
General Darshan timings5:30 a.m7:30 p.m.
Kalyanotsavam11 AM12 PM
Sahasranamarchana7:30 a.m.
Sarvadarshanam(Throughout the day)

Which festivals are celebrated at Srinivasa Mangapuram Temple?

Some of the festivals celebrated at Srinivasa Mangapuram Temple are:

  • The premier focus of the Sri Kalyana Venkateswara Swamy temple is the “Kalyana Utsavam” every day.
  • The “Bramhostav” held during the months of February and March.  On this occasion the Lord Kalyana Venkateswara Swamy ascends on a Simha Vahanam (Lion Carrier Ratham) to be a drawn-along with the devotees.

How to Reach Srinivasa Mangapuram Temple?

Here’s how to reach Srinivasa Mangapuram Temple:

  • By road: it is 12km from Tirupati. Local buses and autos are available making the journey easier.

Where to stay nearby?

Some of the places where one can stay near Srinivasa Mangapuram Temple are:

  • Hotel Fortune Select Grand Ridge is one of Tirupati’s five star hotels at the intersection of Chennai-Bangalore highway, on the Tiruchanoor road. This hotel is just beside Shilparamam Theme Park..
  • Situated at a distance of 17 km from Tirupati Airport, KVP Residency is another place that provides ample car parking space. Sri Venkateswara Swamy Vaari Temple is at a distance of 25 km from the place.

What are some temples nearby?

Some of the temples near Srinivasa Mangapuram Temple are:

  • Kanipakum Temple:- You may visit one of the most important Vinayaka temple in south India, at a distance of 86 KM from the Sri Kalyana Venkateswaraswami Temple.
  • Tirumala Venkateshwara Swamy Temple:- It is at a distance of 12 KM. Frequent buses are available. Or you can reach through private vehicles.
  • Srikalahasti Temple:- It is at a distance of 60 KM. One can also cover this distance under one and a half hours with a private vehicle or taxi cab. Srikalahasti temple is famous for the Rahu Ketu Pooja.

Attukal Bhagavathy Temple Guide – Timings, Dress Code, and History

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Attukal Bhagavathy Temple is a very popular temple in Kerala. The temple is situated at Thiruvananthapuram. Attukal Bhagavathy Temple is also known as the women’s Sabarimala. It is visited by large number of women. Goddess Attukal Amma is the main deity. The Goddess has four arms, each bearing a spear, sword, skull and shield. The temple has beautiful architecture. In addition, it is- historic. It is a very clean temple.

Attukal Bhagavathy Temple authorities also do various social works. They arrange weddings for poor couples and give them dress and ornaments. Poor patients get medical help while students get scholarships.

History and Legend of Attukal Bhagavathy Temple

Various myths and history surround the Attukal Bhagavathy Temple.

  • It is believed that a few centuries back when the head of the Mulluveettil family. The head was known as Karanavar. He was performing his prayers one day when a young girl appeared. She requested him to help her cross the Killi River. The charisma and beauty of the girl made Karanavar believe that the girl is divine. He bowed in front of the girl and helped her cross the river. He also invited her to his home. While the family was busy preparing to receive the girl, she disappeared. That night the girl appeared in the dream of Karanavar. She ordered him to build her temple at Kavu. It is a place where animals and plants are not disturbed. As per the instructions the temple was built. This temple came to be known as the Attukal Bhagavathy Temple.
  • It is also believed that the little girl is Kannagi. She is an incarnation of Goddess Parvati. Kannagi is mentioned in the famous Tamil epic of Chipathikaram. She is the destroyer of evil. When she met Karanavar she was returning from Madurai. There She had destroyed the evil and was on her way to Kodungallor.

Significance of the Attukal Bhagavathy Temple

The Attukal Bhagavathy Temple is known for its architecture.

  • Attukal Bhagavathy Temple exhibits a blend of Tamil and Kerala form of architecture. The gateway of the temple is stunning with delicate work.
  • Furthermore, the temple has beautiful idols of Mahisasurmardini, Goddess Kali, Rajarajeshwari, Devi Parvati and Lord Shiva.
  • The walls are raced with mythological stories of India. There are ten incarnations of Lord Vishnu at the temple. These idols are known as the Dashavatara.
  • The two sides of the gopura depict the stories of Kannaki. The southern gopura of the shrine depicts the Puranic stories. These stories are also known as Dakshayaga.
  • There are two idols of the Goddess here. The original deity is adorned with golden ornaments and precious stones. The other one is placed just beside that.

Attukal Bhagavathy Temple Timings

  • Attukal Bhagavathy Temple opens at 4.30 am and closes at 8.30 pm. There is no entry fee to the temple.

Attukal Bhagavathy Temple Food Timings

Food is served at the temple on all the 1st days of the Malayalam calendar and on Sundays. Planning is going on to serve food every day. Devotees can also donate for this noble work.

Attukal Bhagavathy Temple Dress Code

There is no specific dress code to visit the temple. Only at festivals, people are asked to come in traditional dress.

Festivals celebrated at Attukal Bhagavathy Temple

Attukal Bhagavathy Temple reflects the rich culture and heritage of Kerala. The festivals celebrated here are.

  • Attukal Pongala: This festival witnesses one of the largest gatherings of women in the world. Almost 20 lakh women visit the temple every year. The crowd reached Guinness Book of World Records in 1997 when 1.5 million women offered Pongal.  Pongala is a divine festival. It is a ten days programme. The festival takes place during the Malayalam months of Makaram- Kumbham. This is generally February or March. The main ceremony is on the day when the Pooram star coincides with the full moon. People sing stories of Goddess Kannaki. The stories are known as Kannaki Charitam.
  • Kuthiyottam: This special festival is celebrated by the boys below the age of 12. It is performed in expectance of internal and external beauty, health, wealth and happiness. These boys are believed to be Goddess Mahisasurmardini’s wounded soldiers. On the 3rd day of the festival, these young boys start a seven-day penance to purify themselves. The penance includes ing at the temple. They also sleep on mats. Observe strict diet and prostrate 1008 times before the Goddess every morning.
  • Thalappoli: This festival is for the girls below the age of 12. The event starts on the Pongal day. Girls in traditional attire worship the Goddess. The festival gives internal and external beauty, health, wealth and happiness.
  • Vilakkukettu: This festival takes place from the 1st to the 9th day of the Pongala festival. Vilakkukettu refers to the decorated structures. These structures contain images and idols of the Goddesses. Devotees carry the structures every night of the festival to the temple. Musicians play traditional chendamelam music at the festival.
  • The Divine Procession: This is a grand procession. This procession consists of bright lights and colourful festoons. Devotees perform peacock dance, poykuthira dance, kolkali, theyyam and kumbha dance. They also display Kuthiyottam and Panchavadyam art forms. The deity of Goddess Attukal Bhagavathy is carried on a decked up elephant. The procession goes from the Attukal Bhagavathy Temple to the Sastha Temple of Manacaud. This festival is an integral part of the Kuthiyottam. The penance of the boys starts after the procession.
  • Maha Shivaratri: Worship of Lord Shiva is done with great pomp and show on Maha Shivaratri.
  • Vinayaka Chathurthi: Worship of Lord Ganesh is done on this occasion. Devotees do special worship on this day. Perform Kootu Ganapati Homam on this auspicious day.
  • Mandala Vratham and Pooja Vaypu are the other festivities of the temple.

Poojas and Rituals at Attukal Bhagavathy Temple

Worship at Attukal Bhagavathy Temple takes you to a different level of divinity. Every day is a celebration at this temple. The rituals practised here are.

  • Three steps of worship: The worship process is the same as the other South Indian temples at the Attukal Bhagavathy Temple. The process is divided into three parts. The beginning of the pooja is women lighting lamps. Pilgrims also worship the flag. The devotees then enter the temple to worship the deity.
  • Vedi Vazhipadu: This is a unique ritual performed at this shrine. The devotees can offer crackers to the Goddess.
  • Daily Pooja of Lord Shiva: Everyday devotees can offer Mrithyumjayahomam to the Lord.
  • Madan Thampuram Pooja: The pooja takes place every day. The pooja takes place at the Madan Thampuram’s Temple.
  • Akhandanama Japam: This means continuous chanting of Devi mantras. It takes place on 4th Sunday of every month.
  • Karthika: This refers to the pooja of the star of the Goddess. It takes place during the months of November- December.
  • Ayilya Pooja: This is the pooja of the Serpent God. Devotees can offer milk and flowers.
  • Aiswarya Pooja: This takes place on every full moon.
  • Nirayum Puthariyum: Also known as Ramayana Parayanam, this takes place during Karkadakam.
  • Vishnu: This event takes place on the 1st day of the Malayalam month.
  • Sahasrakalasham: This pooja is done during the months of March or April. Worshippers can choose different types of kalasham at this pooja.
  • In addition, devotees can ask for Bhajan, Kodi Archana, Leksharchana rituals.

How to Reach: Road, Rail and Air

The temple is easily accessible from all parts of the country. It is almost 20 minutes from the main city.

By Air: The nearest airport to the Attukal Bhagavathy Temple is the Thiruvananthapuram International Airport. It is at Valiyathura. This is approximately 7 km from the temple. There are regular flights between the city and Middle East countries, Male and Sri Lanka to Thiruvananthapuram from here.

By Rail: The nearest railway station is Trivandrum Central Railway Station. It is located at Thampanoor. The place is 3 km from the temple. Auto rickshaws are the best mode of conveyance from the railway station.

By Road: The temple is just at 1.5 km from the east fort bus stop. The Trivandrum central bus stand is at 2 km from the shrine. Metered autos can take you around the city. Tourists can also hire cabs to reach the temple. The temple authorities have also arranged regular bus service. Tourists can pre-book the bus tickets from the temple.

Hotels in Thiruvananthapuram: Where to stay

If you are looking for a place just to rest, then the Visrama Sankeetham of the temple can be of help. There are dormitories and rooms available within the temple complex. These are available on daily rent basis.

The Hotel Galaxy Inn, Hotel Silver Sand, Hotel Fort View are budget accommodation. These hotels are just 2 km from the temple.

Where to eat

Ariya Niwas specializes in vegetarian dishes. 

Nearby Temples

There are a number of ancient shrines near Attukal Bhagavathy Temple, Thiruvananthapuram.

  • Padmanabha Swamy Temple: This shrine lies at 2 km from the Attukal Bhagavathy Temple. As per myth, the trip to Attukal Bhagavathy Temple is incomplete without a visit to this temple. The presiding deity is Lord Vishnu. It is popular due to its magnificent architecture. The idol of Lord Vishnu is also astounding. The Lord is in a sleeping pose on a five-headed serpent. The serpent is Anant Nag. The temple authority allows only traditional dress. Men have to come in a dhoti. Women have to come in a sari. The temple is open from 10 am to 6 pm.
  • Kunnumpara Temple: The temple is at 4 km from Kovalam. This temple is known for its breathtaking beauty. The temple lies at a hilltop. It is also an ideal place to rest and meditate.
  • Sivagiri Mutt: This temple is at 3 km from Varkala. This place is also serene. The shrine was built in 1904. As per myth, Sree Narayana Guru attained enlightenment here. The Mutt remains open from 5.30 am to 12.00 pm. It is also open from 4.30 pm to 6.00 pm.
  • Karikkakom Chamundi Devi Temple: This temple is only 7 km from Trivandrum. The shrine is also known for its natural bliss. The main deity is Goddess Chamundi. She is an incarnation of Goddess Durga. The deity is unique and is made of five metals of copper, iron, gold, silver and lead. The temple also houses the idols of Rektha Chamundi, Bhala Chamundi, Yakshi Amma, Bhuvaneswari, Ayira Valli and Vinayaka. The temple is open from 5.00 am to 11.55 am. It is also open from 4.30 pm to 8.00 pm.
  • Madavoorpara Shiva Temple: This cave temple lies at 17 km from Trivandrum. Lord Shiva is the main deity. The shrine is important for its eighteenth-century rock-cut sculpture. These sculptures show the images of Lord Shiva and also his consort, Devi Parvati. The temple remains open from 9 am to 8 pm.
  • Santhigir Ashram: The beautiful architecture of the temple attracts tourists to the ashram. Moreover, it is near the central office of Trivandrum. It is in the shape of a blooming lotus. The ashram is over 100 acres of land and offers work, food to many people. People can also stay here. The health centre of the ashram preaches the benefits of Ayurveda, Sidha and Panchakarma. The temple is open from 10 am to 10 pm.

 Therefore Attukal Bhagavathy Temple is a nice place to spend a vacation.

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.

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.

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