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Vaikom Mahadeva Temple Guide – Timings, Poojas, Dress Code, and History

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Vaikom Mahadeva Temple is located in the Kottayam district of Kerala. This famous temple worships Lord Shiva. This guide explains the significance of Vaikom Mahadeva Temple, timings, poojas, history, dress code and the best time to visit Vaikom.

Vaikom Mahadeva Temple Video

History and Legend of Vaikom Mahadeva Temple

The Vaikom Mahadeva Temple has various stories revolving around its construction.

  • Vaikom has other names. As per Bhargava Purana and Sanalkumara Samhita, the place is Vaiyaghra geham and Vaiyaghra puram.
  • As per myth, saint Vyaghrapada saw Lord Shiva here. On Vritchika, which is the Krishna paksha, Lord Shiva along with Goddess Parvati came to saint Vyaghrapada. Hence people started calling this place as Vyaghrapadapuram. Later, when the Tamil language became popular here, people started calling it as Vaikom.
  • Another myth states, Lord Shiva gave three Shiva Lingam to Kharasura. He gave him these lingams to attain myoksha. Kharasura was carrying one Shiva Lingam on his right hand, one in the left hand and one was hung from his neck. When the demon was returning from the Himalayas to south he felt tired. Hence, he kept the Lingams on the ground and sat to rest. When he got up he could not lift the Lingams. A voice from the sky said that the Lingams will stay there and help people to attain myoksha. Thus, after attaining myoksha, Kharasura gave the responsibility of the Lingams to saint Vyaghrapada and left the place. The Lingam which was in the demon’s right hand is at Vaikom. The Lingam which was in the left hand is at Ettumannoor and the one which was hung in the neck is at Kaduthuruthy. Locals believe if you can visit all the three temples on a single day it is equal to visiting Lord Shiva in Kailash.
  • Also, saint Parasurama worshipped this Shiva Lingam. After worshipping this Shiva Lingam for several years, saint Vyaghrapada went on a pilgrimage. Saint Parasurama was passing by this place one day when he saw a Siva Lingam in water with holy rays. He understood this as the Shiva Lingam placed by Kharasura. Hence he worshipped this Shiva Lingam to attain myoksha.
  • Also, saint Parasurama built the Vaikom Temple here. All the customs at this temple are plans of Parasurama.
  • This is the oldest temple of Kerala where people worship Lord Shiva regularly. In all these years the Pooja took place daily with no break. Locals believe that the Shiva Lingam is from the Treta Yuga.
  • People believe Lord Shiva is present in three forms at the Vaikom Mahadeva Temple. Once in the morning, once in the noon and once in the evening. In the morning He is in Sri Dhakshinamoorthy form. He grants knowledge, wisdom and understanding to the devotees in this form. At noon he is in the form of Kiratha Moorthy. In this image, he gave Pashupathastra to Arjuna. Arjuna was the warrior hero of Mahabharata. Also, in this form Lord Shiva removes all dangers and grants success in all work. At evening, He is in the form of Shakti Panchakshari. In this form, he is with his family, Goddess Parvati, Lord Ganesha and Lord Karthikeya. Hence, in this form Lord Shiva blesses devotees all worldly pleasures.
  • Pilgrims get holy ash as prasadam at the Vaikom Mahadeva Temple. People call this as Vaikkathappan. As per myth, this ash can cure people of hysteria, poison and wounds.
  • There is a pond in the north of the temple. As per myth, once saint Parasurama came to worship here. He saw people suffering and asked Lord Shiva to help them. He requested him to create a Theertha so that people can bath in its water to wash away sins. As per belief, this is the pond which Lord Shiva created from the Ganges from his hair.
  • There is a well at the northeastern part of the temple. This well also has a myth. Once saint Nidagha came to Vyaghrapada, requesting him to make him his disciple. Saint Vyaghrapada taught Nidagha hymns of Lord Shiva. Once they were worshipping Lord Shiva and Lord Ganesha on Ashtami day. Lord Shiva was happy with the hymns and he came to perform Anand Thandava at the northeast part of the shrine. While dancing a few drops of water fell from his hair. Lord Shiva gave a name to this as Sivananda Theertha.
  • There is also a pond at the eastern side of the temple. As per a myth, once two Brahmins from Kanyakumari, Shankara and Mukunda came to Vaikom while they were travelling to Kashi. While Shankara was busy having food at the shrine and listening to the Bhajans, Mukunda left him to travel to Kashi. After a few days, Shankara felt lonely and was sad as he could not take a bath in River Ganges. Hence he fell in severe fever. He prayed to Lord Shiva and as a result, Lord Shiva came to him in sleep. The Lord asked him to take a bath in the eastern pond to fulfil his wish. Shankara took bath in the pond the next morning and he felt as if he was bathing in the Ganges. Hence this pond is as good as the River Ganges. People call this pond as Arathihara Theertha.

Significance of Vaikom Mahadeva Temple

The temple is important in the history of Kerala with its wonderful architecture and rich history.

  • The Vaikom Mahadeva Temple is one of the three powerful Shiva temples of Kerala. The other two temples which fall in this list are Ettumanoor Siva Temple and Kaduthuruthy Thaliyil Mahadeva Temple.
  • Locals believe that worshipping at these three shrines before Ucha Pooja, Lord Shiva grants all wishes.
  • Also, both Shaivaites and Vaishnavaites worship at this temple.
  • The temple is over 8 acres of land. The temple has four walls while the premises is levelled by river sand.
  • There is a golden flagstaff at the temple. Near the Balikalulpura there is a stone image. This is Lord Ganesha’s statue. The Balikalulpura refers to the sacrificial stone. The inner roof of the Namaskara Mandapa shows stories from Ramayana. There is a single rock-cut statue of Nandi. Nandi is the vehicle of Lord Shiva.
  • The Sreekovil is the main room of the temple. This room is covered with copper sheets. Also, there is a front chamber in this room. This is the Mukha Mandapa. This chamber is built with stone and wood. There is also a second chamber. This chamber is built with stone and is square in shape. The Shiva Lingam is kept here.
  • The Shiva Lingam is six feet in height. It is of black stone. The Lingam wears chandrakala. It is crescent. The Lingam also has three eyes, nose and four hands. Gold ornaments decorate Lord Shiva.

Vaikom Mahadeva Temple Timings

  • Vaikom Mahadeva Temple opens early in the morning. It is the Saraswati Yama time. It is generally 4 am.
  • After worshipping Lord Shiva at noon, the temple remains closed till 5 pm.

Vaikom Mahadeva Temple Food Timings

Everyday food is served after the afternoon worship. It is known as Nivedya.

Vaikom Mahadeva Temple Dress Code

As per the Vaikom Mahadeva temple dress code, men should wear dhoti and no shirt (only Angavastram). Women devotees should wear a sari, churidar, pavadai chattai or salwar kameez. Devotees will not be allowed to enter the Vaikom Mahadeva temple wearing informal attire like jeans, shorts or T-shirts.

Festivals celebrated at Vaikom Mahadeva Temple

  • Vaikkath Asthami: This is the most popular festival at the Vaikom Mahadeva Temple. This festival takes place in either November or December.
  • Shivaratri: This is also a popular festival at the temple.

Poojas and Rituals at Vaikom Mahadeva Temple

This temple has some unique customs which takes place in no other temple.

  • The day starts at the Vaikom Mahadeva Temple with bathing Lord Shiva.
  • There are three worships that take place in the morning, namely, Usha Pooja, Ethirthu Pooja and Panthiradi Pooja.
  • Ucha Pooja takes place in the afternoon. Abhishekas with names Panchagavyam and Navakam take place during the afternoon worship.
  • Athazha Pooja takes place at evening.
  • Offerings to Lord Shiva are made through poojas. People call these worships as Dravya Kalasa and Margazhi Kalasa poojas.
  • Special worships take place on Monday and also on occasions of Thiruvathira, Pradosha, Krishna Paksha Ashtami and Pournami. On these special days and on Sankarama the deity goes on Rushabha Vahana for the evening worship.
  • Also, hymns from the holy books, Vedas, are recited while worshipping Lord Shiva.
  • You have to take six steps to reach the sanctum of Lord Shiva. These six steps depict the six emotions, namely, Kama, Krodha, Lobha, Moha, Madha and Mathsarya.
  • Prathal is a unique offering made to Lord Shiva. The cooking takes place in the big kitchen.
  • The Ghattium recitation is another special custom of Vaikom Mahadeva Temple. In this custom, a Brahmin carries a silver rod fixed to a Rushabha. He then stands with this light in front of Lord Shiva and recites slokas.

How to Reach: Road, Rail and Air

Vaikom Mahadeva Temple is easily accessible from all parts of Kerala.

By Air: The closest airport is Cochin International Airport. It is about 76 km from the Kottayam district.

By Rail: The Vaikom Road Railway Station is the nearest rail line. The Kottayam is also not far. It is only 25 km from the temple.

By Road: The Vaikom Mahadeva temple is only 33 km from Ernakulam. Also, Kottayam is only 40 km from the temple. There are regular bus services from Kottayam, Ernakulam, Kozhikode, and Thiruvananthapuram to Vaikom. The Vaikom bus stand is on the Ettumanoor – Ernakulam Highway.

Where to stay

Shri Kailas Tourist Home, Kalakkal Tourist Home, Shree Vaikathappan Tourist Home, Motel Araam, Devaswom Guest House, Kottaram, Sree Narayana Tourist Home and Whitegate Residency are hotels very near to the temple. These hotels also offer all basic amenities and food.

Where to eat

Vaikom Mahadeva Temple is very popular in Kerala. Hence there are many eat-outs near this shrine. Hotel Anandabhavan, Indian Coffee House, Hotel SNV Sadanam, Hotel Hari Hara Vilasam, Whitegate Residency and Valiyakavala are famous for food. These hotels are both economical and hygienic.

Nearby Temples

There are some important temples near the Vaikom Mahadeva Temple.

  • Chottanikkara Bhagavathi Temple: This shrine worships Goddess Rajarajeswari. The temple is near Ernakulam City. Moreover, the temple observes a special custom for maidens. They offer silk and pendent to get married.
  • Udayanapuram Subrahmanya Temple: This temple worships Lord Subramanya. People believe worship at Vaikom Mahadeva Temple is incomplete without worshipping at this shrine. Moreover, a procession from Vaikom Mahadeva Temple to the Udayanapuram Subrahmanya Temple takes place on Vaikathu Ashtami festival. Also, the temple is famous for its intricate carvings and mural paintings.
  • Ettumanur Shiva Temple: This shrine is at Ettumanur. It worships Lord Shiva. Many people visit this temple to fulfil their wishes. Also, the temple is popular for its fine sculptures. There are two statues of Nandi, one in copper and the other in stone.
  • Kaduthuruthy Thaliyil Mahadeva Temple: This temple also has one of the Shiva Lingams that Lord Shiva gave to Kharasura. The temple celebrates a 10 days’ festival.

Hence the Vaikom Mahadeva Temple is a must-visit to know more about the Hindu religion. The temple is divine and as per belief, can fulfil wishes. Last but not least; enjoy some time boating over the clean waters of Vaikom Lake.

Thiruvenkadu

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Thiruvenkadu (Adhi Chidambaram) is in Nagapattinam district of Tamil Nadu. It is one of the nine Navagraha temples in South India. The presiding deity here is Lord Shiva, famous  as Venkaatunadar and Sri Swetaranyeswarar. His consort(Ambal) is Bhrama Vidya Nayaki. Nataraja’s dance here also popular as Hasti Natanam. 

What is the history of Thiruvenkadu?

There is a legend that associates with the history of Thiruvenkadu. A demon Maruthuvan, received boons from Brahma and then tortured devas. The Devas went to Shiva for freedom from the demon. The Lord advised the Devas to go to Thiruvengadu and live there in disguise.

Shiva also sent his vehicle Nandhi and defeated the demon. The demon injured Nandhi with his trident.

Lord Shiva converted his anger into the Agoramurthy form. On seeing the Lord, the demon surrendered at his feet and begged his pardon. He also prayed that those worshiping Agoramurthy would not have enemies at all.

Achuthagapanar bathed in the three tanks, worshiped Thiruvengadar and hence, the lord blessed him with a child. This child came to be known as Meikandar and became the chief of Santhana Kuravars.

Vedarasi, a brahmin had placed his bundle of food in the hollow of a tree. A snake residing in the hollow spewed poison on the food.

Unaware of this, Vedarasi gave this food to a vedic priest, who died of the poison. This brahmin was absolved of his Brahmahathi Dhosham by worshipping Lord Siva of Thiruvengadu.

The legend continues:

When Thirugnanasambandar reached the borders of Thiruvengadu, the whole place looked like Sivaloka and the sands Sivalingas.He hesitated to place his legs on this holy land and cried Oh! Mother. On hearing his voice, Goddess Periyanayaki appeared there and took the child on her laps. Moreover, the idol of Periyanayaki with Thirugnanasambandar is majestically present in the temple.

Thiruvengadar, the son of Sivanesan and Gnanambigai, with the blessings of a Siva Muni received Siva Ditchai and a Siva Linga and hence became famous as Pattinathu Adigal.Indra having killed Virudhasuran, worshiped Lord Thiruvengadar and was absolved of his sins.

Also, Sage Durvasar gifted a mala to Indra. However, Indra in his vanity threw it on his white elephant Iravadam which stamped the mala under its feet. Durvasar cursed Indra. Afterwards, Indra realizing his folly formed a tank -Thadagam in Thiruvengadu and worshipped a Siva Linga. Lord Siva blessed him and he reached Indraloka again.

Suwedakedu on realizing that he was to die in his eighth year reached Thiruvengadu and performed Siva pooja. As soon as he saw Yama, he held on to the Siva Linga tightly. Yama on seeing Thiruvengadar, ran away in fear.

What is the significance of the Thiruvenkadu Temple?

Here’s the significance of Thiruvenkadu Temple:

  • Lord Shiva possesses three eyes – Chandra, Surya and Agni. Since the eyes bless the tanks, the Theertham(tanks) are also famous as Soma Theertham ,Surya Theertham and Agni Theeertham. Bathing in these tanks and worshipping the Lord here for one “mandalam” (45 days) is also relieves couples from problems in relation with childbirth.
  • One of the three deities is Aghoramurthy or Aghora Veerabhadramurthy the most fierce among the five representations of Lord Shiva. There are also several shrines of significance including those to Ma Durga and Ma Kali. The saints Appar,Sundarar,Sambandhar and Manikavasagar have sung in praise of this temple.
  • Further, those who visit Thiruvengadu will find relief from puthira dosham, poor studies, mental instability, nervous disorders. Knowledge, music, astrology, maths, sculpting, medicine, language skills are the beneficial aspects of Budan.

What are the timings of Thiruvenkadu Temple Temple?

Here are the timings of Thiruvenkadu Temple:

Timings From To
Morning Darshan 6 AM 12 PM
Evening Darshan 5.30 PM 9.30 PM

What are the festivals celebrated at the Thiruvenkadu Temple?

Some of the festivals celebrated at the Thiruvenkadu Temple are:

  • Indira Festival: The Indra Jatra festival honours the recently deceased and pays homage to Indra and Dagini for the coming harvests. 
  • Gokulashtami: Janmashtami, the birthday of Lord Krishna is celebrated with great devotion and enthusiasm in India in the month of July or August.  All over India this day also includes devotional songs and dances, pujas, arti, blowing of the Conch and rocking the cradle of baby Sri Krishna.
  • Ganesh Chaturthi: Ganesh Chaturthi also known as Vinayaka Chaturthi is one of the important Hindu festivals celebrated throughout India with a great devotion. This day is the birthday of Lord Ganesh, the son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. 
  • Purattasi Viratham: Purattasi is an important Tamil month like Aadi, while Aadi month is for Amman Puratasi is for Perumal. Further, Lord Vishnu devotees consider Purattasi as the ideal month for thanking Lord Vishnu for preserving the Universe at the end of Kali Yuga. Hence, the devotees gather in large number at Lord Vishnu temples and offer special prayers.
  • Skanda Shashti: Skanda Sashti is a six-day South Indian festival to Skanda, the Lord of Religious Striving, also known as Murugan or Karttikeya. It begins on the day after the new moon in the month of Karttika (October/November) with chariot processions and pujas invoking his protection and grace. 
  • Pongal: Pongal is a harvest festival, celebrated by the people belonging to Hindu faith. On this occasion, people thank the Sun God for abundant agricultural crops. The festival is most popular in the state of Tamil Nadu. Pongal celebrations take place from January 13 to 16 every year.

How to reach Thiruvenkadu Temple?

Here’s how to reach Thiruvenkadu Temple:

  • Air: The Trichy International airport is the nearest airport, 8 km away from Tanjavur. Bangalore and Chennai airports are also nearby. 
  • Road: Buses are available from Sirkali and Mayiladuthurai. 
  • Rail:  Trichy Junction is nearby, 58 km from Thanjavur. Regular trains are also available from Trichy to Chennai and Madurai.

Where to stay near Thiruvenkadu Temple?

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

  • PAMS Contact: 30/B Town Extension Road, Mayiladuthurai, Tamil Nadu 609001
  • Hotel Sadhabishegam Contact: 6/18A, Sannathi Street, Thirukadaiyur, Nagapattinam, Tamil Nadu 609311
  • Seahorse Hotel Contact:  Opp Police Reserved Camp, Public Office Rd, Kadambadi, Nagapattinam, Tamil Nadu 611001
  • Hotel VPN Residency Contact: Main Road, Maha Kulam Stop, Velankanni, Tamil Nadu 611111
  • Grand Neyatt Hotel Contact: Manara North Street, Nagore, Nagapattinam, Tamil Nadu 611002
  • Nagore Residency Contact: Kalmatu St, Nagore, Nagapattinam, Tamil Nadu 611002

Where to eat near Thiruvenkadu Temple?

Some of the places where one can eat near Thiruvenkadu Temple are:

  • Murga Restaurant Contact: Nagapattinam District, Nagapattinam, Tamil Nadu
  • Thiru Valluar Restaurant Contact: Nagapattinam District, Velankanni, Tamil Nadu
  • Alfa Restaurant Contact: Nagapattinam District, Velankanni, Tamil Nadu
  • Hotel Seagate Family Restaurant Contact: Nagapattinam District, Velankanni, Tamil Nadu

What are some temples near Thiruvenkadu Temple?

Some of the temples near Thiruvenkadu Temple are:

Sri Suvedharanyeswarar Swami Temple: Swetharanyeswarar Temple is a Hindu temple located in the town of Thiruvengadu near Sirkazhi. The main deity is Shiva – Swetharanyeswarar (lord of white forest) while the goddess is Brahma Vidya ambal. There is a separate Sannidhi for Bhudhan (mercury).

Sri Mullaivananathar temple: This is an ancient Siva temple about 20 kms East of Thanjavur dedicated to Sri Mullaivananathar as well as Sri Karparakshambigai. Moreover, it is a huge temple that spreads over a wide expanse with imposing Gopurams and a tank in front of it. Devotees also believe that childless people who worship here with devotion and faith get the blessing of pregnancy and pregnant women of safe deliveries. Unmarried women also pray here for their marriages. 

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Badami Cave Temples Guide – Timings, Poojas, and History

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Badami Cave Temples are a part of the glorious rock-cut temple architecture of India. These cave temples are located at Badami, a small city in the Indian state of Karnataka. Badami Caves Temple is located at the western banks of an artificial lake, known as Agastya Lake, while River Malaprabha flows at 3 miles away from the site.

The temples are safeguarded by an earthen wall with stone flights. The northern and southern part of the Badami Cave Temples is safeguarded by forts, which were built later than the rock-cut temples. The Badami Cave Temples consists of Buddhist, Jain, and Hindu temples. These cave temples represent the Chalukya style of architecture and are some of the oldest Hindu temples of the country, dating back to the 6th century. The Badami Cave Temples are recognized by UNESCO as world heritage sites.

Badami Caves Temple

History and Legend of Badami Cave Temples

The Badami Cave Temples of Karnataka is a part of the golden phase of ancient India.

  • The Badami Cave Temples of Karnataka were constructed during the 6th to the 8th century by the Chalukya dynasty.
  • There are four primary caves, namely, Cave 1, Cave 2, Cave 3 and Cave 4.
  • These caves are constructed out of Badami sandstone.
  • The Cave 1 was the first excavation by the Chalukya artisans, which took place in the 550 AD.
  • The epigraphy, that is, rock inscriptions in the Kannada language over the Cave 3 depicts explains the time of construction of this cave temple. Based on this information, the time of construction of the other cave temples of Badami.
  • The epigraphy over Cave 3 informs that the cave temple was built by Mangalesha, during the hindu lunar calendar of Saka 500.
  • Besides these four caves, another two caves were discovered. Cave 5 is considered to be a Buddhist cave.
  • There are several theories related to the statue discovered in Cave 5, which is a natural cave.
  • One of the theories states that this carved statue is that of Lord Buddha. The chauris of the temple depict Bodhistavas. Later the temple was converted into a Hindu shrine of Lord Vishnu and Lord Buddha was marked as the ninth avatar of the Lord, which is evident from the white paintings on the face of the statue.
  • Another theory states that Cave 5 was always a Hindu cave, dedicated to Mayamoha, also known as the Buddhavatara Vishnu.
  • As per another theory, the statue is of a Jain deity.
  • According to archaeologist Henry Cousens and A. Sundara, it is a statue of an ancient monarch, as it is adorned with non-Buddhist ornaments, like rings, necklaces, and a chest band. The statue is also found to wear the Hindu sacred thread.
  • The latest excavation took place in 2015. This led to the discovery of Cave 6.
  • Cave 6 lies approximately 500 meters away from the other five came temples. This cave temple is a Hindu temple, comprising of 27 fine sculptures of Hindu deities.

Significance of the Badami Cave Temples

The Badami Cave Temples of Karnataka not only forms an important tourist destination of the country but also the place where the religious beliefs of India have been beautifully portrayed.

  • The Cave 1 of the group of Badami Cave temples is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The Cave 1 is similar to a normal temple complex, with an open L shaped courtyard, a verandah, a pillared hall and a comparatively small sanctum that has been engraved into the center of the rear wall of the cave.
  • Cave 1 is significant for exquisite sculptures. The sculptures depict the family of Lord Shiva, constituting Goddess Durga, along with the two sons, Lord Ganesha and Lord Kartikeya. The interior of Cave 1 is adorned with the sculptures of this mythological family.
  • The western part of the cave temple comes with some of the most well-known sculptures of the site. There is a small grotto at this side. The Northern part of the grotto represents the 18 armed posture of dancing Shiva, also known as the Tandava form of the deity. These 18 armed dance posture represents the 9 postures of the famous Indian dance, Bharatnatyam.
  • Another part of the cave temple consists of the Ardhashivara image, which is a composite form of Lord Shiva and his wife, Goddess Parvati. The image is flanked by the fine sculptures of Goddess Parvati, Bhringi, the follower of Lord Shiva and the Vahana (vehicle) of Lord Shiva, Nandi.
  • The other side of the Cave 1 treasures a life-size sculpture of Lord Vishnu, in the form of Harihara along with the fine sculptures of his consort, Goddess Lakshmi and an image of Goddess Parvati.
  • The pedestal of Cave 1 is adorned with the dwarf incarnations of Lord Ganesha; each sculpture depicting a different mood of Ganesha.
  • The ceiling of the verandah of Cave 1 depicts the five hooded sculpture of Nagaraja, flanked by the beautiful image of the celestial couples.
  • The pillars of the Cave 1 are also intricately carved. Besides the bead garlands, the pillars are decorated with images of Lord Narasimha, Lord Ganesha and small depiction of dream animals, known as iha mrigas in Hindu mythology.
  • The inner face of the front beam of the verandah of Cave 1 depicts the glorious wedding ceremony of Goddess Parvati to Lord Shiva.
  • The eave of the cave temple is decorated with fine sculptures of small animals.
  • The Cave 1 and Cave 2 temples were constructed following the Northern Deccan style of architecture.
  • Cave 2 is the replica of Cave 1 in its layout. This cave temple is primarily dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
  • The Cave 2 consists of a large sculpture of Trivikrama, which is an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. The deity has one foot on the ground while the other is directed to the north.
  • This cave also comprises other Avatars of Lord Vishnu, like Baraha and Krishna.
  • The entrance to Cave 2 is adorned with the sculptures of two armed guardians, which surprisingly are seen to hold flowers instead of weapons.
  • The columns of Cave 2 temple are adorned with stories of mythological battles, scenes of Samudra Manthan, images of Gajalakshmi, Lord Brahma and Vishnu, Bal Katha of Lord Krishna. The ceiling of Cave 2 is engraved with the image of a wheel with sixteen spokes along with swastika symbol and flying couples.
  • Cave 3 is the largest cave of the group. This Cave temple is also dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Cave 3 is adorned with intricate carvings and each part of the cave temple narrates the mythological stories related to Lord Vishnu. This cave temple consists of a large Lord Vishnu statue seated on serpent Seesha.
  • Cave 3 also depicts some of the Vesara styles of architecture. There are colored frescoes and paintings at the Cave 3 temple, along with motifs of Yantra Chakra, that is, geometric symbols.
  • The cave depicts both Shaivism and Vaishnavism, due to the fused image of Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva known as Harihara. The brackets of this cave temple are intricately carved with human figures, standing under trees.
  • Cave 4 of the Badami group of cave temples is dedicated to Jainism. This cave temple is situated at a higher level than the other temples.
  • The back of this cave temple treasures a sculpture of Mahavira seated on a lion throne. The statue is flanked with images of attendants with fans, saldulas and makara heads.
  • The end wall of Cave 4 consists of a large statue of Lord Parshvanath, with a multi-headed cobra as his crown. The sculptures of Indrabhuti Gautama, Bahubali with snakes encircling both the images exhibit the finesse of Indian architecture. The inner walls of this cave temple consist of images of Jain Tirthankaras, Yakshas, Yakshis, and Padmavati.
  • The Cave 3 and Cave 4 temples exhibit the Northern Nagara and Southern Dravidian style of architecture.

Badami Cave Temples Timings

  • Badami Cave temple complex is open from dawn to dusk.

Festivals celebrated at the Badami Cave Temples

Festivals are not celebrated at the Badami Caves Temple. Badami is a culturally important city and several festivals are celebrated around the year.

  • The Banashankari Temple Festival is celebrated near Badami during the months of January and February.
  • The Virupaksha Temple Car Festival is celebrated at Pattadakal in the month of March.
  • Mallikarjuna Temple Festival is celebrated at Pattadakal during the months of March and April.

Poojas and Rituals at Badami Cave Temples

The Badami Cave Temples are world heritage sites and at present pooja is not performed at these temples.

How to Reach: Road, Rail, and Air

The Badami Cave Temples are located 1 km from the main town. The site is easily accessible via air, rail, and roads.

  • By Air: There are two airports located near Badami. The nearest airport to Badami is located at Hubli, Karnataka, which is 106 km from the city. The other airport is Belgaum, which is 150 km from the city. These airports are connected to the international airport of Bangalore and Mumbai. There are taxis and buses available at the airport which directly can take you to Badami.
  • By Train: The nearest railway station to the Badami Cave Temples is the Badami railway station. This railway station connects the important cities of Bangalore, Hubli, Bijapur, Gadag, and Solapur to Badami. The nearest junction to Badami is Hubli railway station, which connects with other cities of the country. There is also direct railway connectivity from Bangalore (Yashawantapura Junction) to Badami. The Badami railway station is located at 5 km from the railway station.
  • By Road: Badami is directly connected to Hubli, Dharwad, Belgaum, Bangalore, Bagalkot, Hampi and Bijapur via road. While Pune is at 470 km from Badami, Bangalore is at 464 km and Hyderabad at 420 km. Besides private and government buses, tourists can avail taxis to reach the Badami Cave Temples. Visitors can enjoy unique tonga rides (horse-driven vehicles) from the bus stand to the temple complex, while the auto-rickshaws are a faster mode of communication within the city.

Hotels in Badami: Where to Stay

Badami is a popular tourist destination and hence there are hotels of all price ranges. Hotel Badami Court, Hotel Rajsangam and Hotel Mookambika Deluxe are some of the decent hotels at Badami, which provide you with basic amenities and ensure a comfortable stay.

Where to Eat

Besides vegetarian food, both Chinese and continental cuisines are available at the eat-outs of Badami.

Nearby Temples

Badami treasures several ancient temples. Tourists can explore the following temples besides the Badami Cave Temples.

  • Bhoothanatha Temples: Located at the banks of Agastya Lake, these temples are also built with sandstone. Dedicated to Lord Bhoothanatha, an incarnation of Lord Shiva, this temple complex also depicts fine carvings of Jain figures and avatars of Lord Vishnu.
  • Mahakuta Temple: Located just a few kilometers from Badami, this temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Built in Badami Chalukya style of architecture, this temple is important for the two inscriptions, one is the Pillar inscription and the other is the Porch inscription; these inscriptions narrate the history of the Chalukya dynasty.
  • Sri Veerabhadra Temple: Located at Godachi, a village of the Belgaum district, this temple is dedicated to Lord Veerabhadra. A fusion of Chalukya and Vijaynagara architectural style, the site is known for the Godachi Jatra fair, held during November- December, the Hindu month of Karthik.
  • The Banashankari Amma Temple: Located at the Bagalkot district, this temple is dedicated to Goddess Parvati. Built in the Dravidian style of architecture, the temple exhibits the unique deity with eight arms, seated on a lion while the defeated demon lies at her feet.
  • Aihole: This city of Karnataka is popularly known as the ‘cradle of ancient Indian architecture.’ With 125 temples, this city depicts Nagara and the Dravidian style of architecture.

Hence, visit Badami Cave Temples to turn the pages of golden India.

Kapila Theertham Tirupati Guide – Timings, Poojas, and History

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Kapila Theertham is located in Tirupati. Sri Kapileswara Linga is the self-created form of Lord Shiva which is also known as the Svayambhu form of Lord Shiva. There is also a sacred lake Sarovara that came into existence in front of Kapila Theertham temple. It came through the opening created by the lake Kapila maharishi arrived on the earth. From 1008 theerthams in Tirumala, Kapila Theertham Temple is the only holy theertham that is located at the foot of Tirumala hill. This theertham is very sacred and devotees visit this temple in a large number.

Kapila Theertham History

  • The description of Kapila Theertham temple goes back to 10th century. It also has been referred as the ancient inscriptions of Kulottunga Chola Kingdoms. The history of this temple also depicts that many great empires and sages have worked for the development of the temple which included Pallava kings, Vijayanagara kings and Tirumala Mahants.
  • As the kapila theertham temple comprises of seven lakes, it is also known as the Seshachalam. The seven peaks are called Seshadri, Neeladri, Garudadri, Anjanadri, Vrushabhadri, Narayanadri and Venkatadri. The temple is situated on Venkatadri which is the seventh peak and so it also is known as the ‘Temple of Seven Hills.’
  • Medieval history The Pallavas of Kanchipuram (9th century AD), the Cholas of Tanjore (10th century), and Vijayanagara pradhans (14th and 15th centuries) were committed devotees of Lord Venkateswara. During the invasion of Srirangam by Malik Kafur in 1310–11 AD, the Ranga Mandapam of the temple served as the shelter for the presiding deity of Srirangam, Ranganatha Swamy.
  • Later, under the rule of the Vijayanagara emperors, was when the temple gained most of its current wealth and size, with the donation of diamonds and gold.
  • In 1517 Vijayanagara ruler Sri Krishna Deva Raya, on one of his many visits to the temple, donated gold and jewels. This enabled the Vimana (inner shrine) roofing to be gilded. Statues of Sri Krishna Deva Raya and his spouse stand in the premises of the temple. After the decline of Vijayanagara Empire, kings from states such as Mysore and Gadwal gave ornaments and valuables to the kapila theertham temple.
  • There are many stories associated with the manifestation of the Lord in Tirumala. The temple has a murti (deity) of Lord Venkateswara, which it is believed shall remain here for the entire duration of the present Kali Yuga.

Significance of Kapila Theertham

  • There is a big statue of Nandi that is seated when one enters to the darshan of Kapileswara Swamy Temple. Also, there are seven hills of Tirupati, Kapila Teertham waterfalls and a sacred lake directly ahead.
  • The huge Kapila Theertham Temple stands at the mouth and the mountain cave in a steep and vertical face where waters of the mountain stream Paapa Vinasam fall as the huge waterfall Kapila Theertham or Alwar Theertham. It is a very calm and beautiful place where you can enjoy nature with the divine.
  • On the auspicious occasion of full moon day of the Karthika month, all the teerthas ( holy water) on the three worlds of heaven, earth and underworld converge on the Kapila Teertham. If you take a dip in the holy water during this period, you will be released from the worldly bonds of sin to attain Moksha at the mercy of Lord Shiva.
  • In earlier times, devotees used to bathe in the Kapila teertham before climbing the holy hills, and even the footpath for the ascent used to begin here. However, the hill being steep here, it was quite a difficult climb, and hence, the steps were moved to the present location near Alipiri.
  • During the month of Kartika on the occasion of its “mukkoti” on the ‘Purnima‘ (full moon) day, all the teerthas situated in the three world’s merge into this Kapila Teertham at noon for ten ‘Ghatikas'(one ghatika is equivalent to 24 minutes).It is believed that persons bathing in it at that auspicious time will attain salvation from the cycle of birth and death (‘Brahmaloka’).

Kapila Theertham Temple Timings

  • The Kapila Theertham Temple is open from morning 5:00 AM to evening 9:00 PM.
  • The morning puja or the Suprabhatam starts from 5:00 AM to 5:30 AM followed by the Abhishekam till 6:30 AM.
  • The Alankaram or the puja of the lord takes place from 6:30 AM to 7:00 AM. The devotees have to pay an entry fee of Rs. 5/- to participate in the Archana and Harathi.
  • Kapila Theertham Temple is open for all for the Sarvadarshanam from 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM and 5:30 PM to 8:00 PM. There is also an Ekantha Seva performed from 8 AM to 8:15 PM.
  • There are different Weekly and Monthly pujas that are performed. Every Monday there is Rudrabhishekam performed from 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM by paying the entry fee of Rs. 50/-.
  • There is Navagrahabhishekam performed on every Saturday from 5:30 PM to 6:30 PM. There is Ekadasa Rudrabhishekam performed every month from 4:30 PM to 7:30 PM.
  • If one wants to perform Nithyabhishekam permanently then he will have to pay Rs. 542/- for it and for one year it costs Rs. 42/-.

Kapila Theertham Temple Food Timings

The timing for Anna Prasadam is from 5:00 AM to 3:30 PM and from 5:00 PM to 10:30 PM when free and unlimited food is offered to all the pilgrims. The Anna Prasadam center is next to the Sri Hygreevar Swamy Temple at Thiru Mada Street. The food here is served in Banana leaf with a variety of options. The cooking is done using Solar Electricity and the quality of the food is well maintained.

Dress Code at Kapila Theertham

Men should wear White Pancha, Dhoti/ Kurta, Pyjama. Women should wear saree with blouse/ Punjabi Dress with Dupatta/ Half saree/

Festivals celebrated at Kapila Theertham Temple

  • Karthika Deepam: Karthika Deepam is celebrated when the full moon is in the conjunction with the constellation Karthika. This constellation appears as the group of six stars. These six stars are considered as the six celestial nymphs, who reared the six babies, who were joined together to form six faced Subramanya Swamy. He is therefore called the Kartikeya. This festival also celebrates Lord Shiva appearing as an endless flame. This festival is celebrated as an auspicious way, and people light the lamps at Kapila Theertham falls the highest point.
  • Skanda Sasti: This festival is celebrated on the sixth day in the bright half of the month of Aippasi in Saivite temples all over Tamil Nadu. It commemorates the destruction of evil by the supreme general Kartikeya who is the son of Lord Shiva. The devotees undertake fasts, prayers and devotional singing to Lord Muruga. The devotees stay in the temple for these six days. The events leading to the conquest of the Asuras are dramatized and enacted.
  • Float Festival: Float Festival is celebrated on the night of full moon between mid-January and mid-February each year. The ornamented icons of both the deities God Sundaresa (incarnation of Lord Shiva) and Goddess Meenakshi (Incarnation of Parvati) are taken out in a splendid possession. Devotees are clothed in yellow and red and they dance among the crowd and spray colored water on each other. After the possession, the icons are floated around the temple tank. This festival attracts pilgrims all over the country.
  • Arudra Darsanam Utsavam: This festival takes place on the full moon night and also considered as the longest night of the year. Unmarried women fast during the daytime and will break the fast after the moon rise. The dancing form of Lord Shiva is taken out on the possession. The cosmic dance of Lord Shiva is enacted on the day.
  • Mahashivratri: This festival signifies the marriage of Lord Shiva and Parvati. It is celebrated in February or March. The devotees keep fast on this day and there are possessions that are held on this day. There are also some special pujas that are performed during the day and the temple is decorated very beautifully. There are large queues of the people to seek the darshanam.

Besides these festivals, the other festivals that are celebrated with great enthusiasm are Vinayaka Utsavam, Annabhishekam and Kamakshi Devi Chandana Alankaram.

Poojas and Rituals at Kapila Theertham

Following are the Poojas and rituals that are performed on the Kapila Theertham Temple:

  • Abishekam: Abhishekam is conducted by the priests, by pouring libations on the idol of the deity being worshipped along with chanting of the mantras.
  • Alankaram / Archana: Alankaram or Archana includes decorating the idol of the lord with ornaments.
  • Sarvadarshanam: Sarvadarshanam means Darshan for all. Devotees stand in the queue to attain the darshan of the lord.
  • Rudrabhishekam: Rudrabhishekam is believed to be a very good Homam performed with powerful mantras and it fulfills all the wishes of the person who gets it performed.
  • Navagrahabhishekam: Navagraha Puja is a Vedic ritual that produces tremendous positive energy and helps people to gain the courage to face any situation in their lives. The Vedic ritual performed traditionally for these nine planets (Navagrahas) dilutes the negative influences and infuses peace and prosperity.
  • Ekadasa Rudrabhishekam: This is a more elaborate Pooja of Lord Shiva. Shiva has eleven forms of Rudra. In this Pooja, all the 11 Rudras are worshiped.

How to reach Tirupati: Road, Rail, and Air

  • By Air: The airport of Tirupati is in Renigunta about 15 kms away from the main city, where flights can be found regularly from Chennai, Bangalore and Hyderabad. Then taxis can be used to move from the airport to the city which costs about Rs 300. The International airport nearest to Tirupati is in Chennai, which can be reached from any cities in India and abroad.
  • By Train: The Railway station to reach Tirupati is in Tirupati itself and connects by trains to Chennai, Bangalore, Visakhapatnam, Mumbai and Madurai which is a common balaji temple route. Another railway station can be found 15 kms away at Renigunta. It is in the Trivandrum – Delhi route that the railhead of Renigunta falls and, therefore, is reached from all cities in India.
  • By Road: APSRTC runs free buses from the Tirupati Railway station to Alipiri, with a frequency of 30 minutes. The Free bus services, operated by TTD in tirumala are known as “Dharma Wadhams” There are 12 such buses that pass through cottages, choultries, temples and other places in Tirumala. Even the KSRTC buses are available from towns in Karnataka to reach tirupati.

Hotels in Tirupati: Where to stay

There are different Guest houses that are available where one can stay. There are several large choultries with free rooms for families to stay in reasonable comfort. Electricity and water are provided free of charge. Besides these, the other guest houses are Padmavathi Guest House, Sri Venkateswara Guest House and VarahaSwami Guest House.

Hotel Bliss: Near Ramanuja Circle,Renigunta road, Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh 517501

Sri Kapileswara Residency: SKR Residency, Near Kapiltheertham Circle, Tirumala Bypass Road,  Opp. Tirumala Hills, 517507 Tirupati, India.

Nearby Temples

  • Sri Venkateswara Swamy Temple (Tirumala): Is located at 20.5 KM apart, which can be covered under an hour.
  • Srinivasa Mangapuram: Srinivasa Mangapuram is an important temple connected with Tirupati. These temples are connected through 13 KM, with distance covered less than thirty minutes.
  • Srikalahasti Temple: Is located at a distance of 39 KM. This distance passing through the National Highway and state highways can be covered less than one hour. This temple is well known for it’s famous Rahu Ketu Dosha Pooja.

Mangalagiri Panakala Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple Guide – Timings, Poojas, and History

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Mangalagiri Temple is dedicated to Lord Narasimha and located in Andhra Pradesh. There are three Narasimha Swamy temples in Mangalagiri – the Panakala Narasimha Swamy on the hill, the Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy at the foot of the temple and the Gandala Narasimha Swamy at the top of the hill.

Mangalagiri is one of the 8 Mahakshetrams where Lord Vishnu manifested himself. Originally this place was popular as Thotadri where Devi Lakshmi did tapasya. During Vijayanagara Kingdom, this place was also famous as Mangala Nilayam. Mangalagiri Temple is a sacred place where a devout person can find peace and bliss.

What is the history of Mangalagiri Temple?

According to the history of Mangalagiri Temple, a very intriguing story revolves around how the mountain came into existence. The hill looks like an elephant in shape. Hrasva Srungi, the son of the king Pariyatra, visited all holy places for the purpose of regaining normal bodily stature.

He finally came to Mangalagiri and stayed there for three years to fulfil his penance. His father came to take him back home but he to serve Lord Vishnu for eternity took the shape of an elephant and remained at the place. Devotees also believe that all the Devas asked him to stay at the place so that he can attain Moksha and salvation in his life.

What is the significance of Mangalagiri Temple?

Here is the significance of Mangalagiri Temple:

  • Sri Channapragada Balaramadasu constructed the steps to the Mangalagiri Temple in 1890.
  • On the right side of the steps to reach the Mangalagiri Temple, there lies a stone inscription by Sri Krishnadeva Raya of Vijayanagar and further up, one can see the foot prints of Mahaprabhu Chaitanya.
  • A temple of Lord Panakala Lakshmi Narasimhaswamy  is there at midway of the steps where there is only the face with the mouth widely open.
  • Behind the Mangalagiri Temple there is the abode of Sri Lakshmi, to the west of which there is a tunnel that, according to beliefs, can lead you to the great Vundavalli caves on the banks of the Krishna.
  • Panakala Narasimha Swamy is the God Who Drinks Panakam.
  • Also, the god is self-existent here.
  • The God takes jaggery water as an offering served by a conch. When the Jaggery water is actually poured into the mouth of the Lord, a gargling sound is there as if the Lord is actually drinking it.  The sound becomes shriller and shriller when the Lord is drinking.

What are the timings of Mangalagiri Temple?

Here are the timings of Manglalagiri Temple:

TimingsFromTo
Open7 am8:30 pm
morning Archana7:00 a.m7:30 a.m.
Panakam and seva darshan7:30 a.m1:00 p.m.
Mahanirvedana 1:00 p.m

What are the festivals celebrated at Mangalagiri Temple?

Some of the festivals celebrated at Mangalagiri Temple are:

  • The Panakala Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Brahmothsavam is the grand annual festival. Devotees believe that  Dharmaraja started the celebration at the behest of Lord Krishna. The celebrations take place for 11 days during the months of February-March.
  • Srirama Navami, Hanumajayanthi, Narasimhajayanthi, Vaikunta Ekadasi, and Mahasivarathri are other festivals. On Mahasivarathri, the Lord goes on a procession on a small chariot.
  • Further, the Phalguna Suddha Purnima that happens on Chaturdasi, commences the marriage of Santha Narasimha Swamy, and Sridevi and Bhoodevi.

How to reach Mangalagiri?

Here’s how to reach Mangalagiri Temple:

  • Air: the nearest airport is Vijayawada airport. It is also connected by Hyderabad and Vishakapatnam.
  • Rail: Vijayawada also connects with all major cities in India so the rail route is frequently availed.
  • Road: Vijaywada also connects well with Madras, Nellore, Vizag and other cities.

Where to stay in Mangalagiri?

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

  • Fortune Murali Park Hotel- this hotel is along the banks of the Krishna River and overlooks the Indrakiladri Hills. Fortune Murali Park Hotel is three kilometers from the Vijayawada Railway Station and 20km from the airport.
  • The Gateway Hotel, M.G.Road is another grand place to check in. It has an welcoming atmosphere with luxurious decorum.

What are some places to visit near Mangalagiri Temple?

Some of the places one can visit near Mangalagiri Temple are:

  • Kanaka Durga Temple is a siginificant temple in Vijayawada. On Friday evenings, the priests dress the goddess in silken finery.
  • At Amararama Temple, Lord Shiva is also worshipped as Amaralingeswara Swamy or Amareswara Swamy, along with his consort Bala Chamundika. This Temple along with the Draksharama Temple in Draksharamam, Ksheerarama Temple in Palakol, Somarama Temple in Bhimavaram and the Kumararama Temple in Samalkota, forms the holy Pancharama Kshetram.
  • The Undavalli Caves are a great architecture of cave complex. A cluster of 64 caves of black rock make the place truly magnificient. They also hold lovely figurines made of monolithic black granite rock. Moreover, the most notable is the stunning image of a reclining Vishnu.

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