Travel Guide to Famous Temples

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Chamundeshwari Temple Mysore Guide – Timings, Poojas, and History

September 15, 2019, Sasidhar Darla 2 Comments Filed Under: Karnataka Temples Tagged With: Devi Temples, Shakti Peetha

Chamundeshwari Temple of Mysore is a landmark of the temple architecture of Karnataka. You can get a sight of the Chamundeshwari Temple from a distance as the Chamunda hills rise to a height of 3489 feet. Located in close proximity to the Mysore Palace, this temple is dedicated to Goddess Chamundeshwari, also known as Goddess Durga. Goddess Chamundeshwari, the fierce incarnation of Shakti is the deity of the Mysore kings for hundreds of years.

The Chamundeshwari Temple is considered one of the 18 Maha Shakti Peethas and is known by the name of Krouncha Pitham; Shakti Peethas refer to the sites on which the body parts of Goddess Sati fell when Lord Shiva was carrying her and wandering through different places in deep morose. It is believed that the hair of Goddess Sati fell at the site where the Chamundeshwari Temple has been constructed. It is named after the name of the place; the site was known as Krouncha Puri during the Puranic times. The deity is seated on a lion with a trident in her hand, which is pierced into the demon Mahisasura. The buffalo lies in the body of the asur.

The Chamundeshwari Temple was built during the Hoysala rule in the 12^th century. The temple is enormous and there are 1000 steps to reach the hilltop to the temple. The Chamundeshwari Temple comes with a seven-storied Gopura. The interiors of the sanctum are spectacular with numerous intricate carvings. While the statue of Goddess Chamundeshwari is said to be made of gold, the entrance gates are made of silver. The Chamundeshwari Temple is a quadrangle structure, built in the Dravidian style of architecture. The temple can be segregated into different parts, like the doorways, Navaranga Hall, Antharala Mantapa and Prakara. The Gopura consists of a small tower, known as Vimana while the Shikaras come with glittering golden Kalashas. The inside of the entrances of the Chamundeshwari Temple is adorned with images of Lord Ganesha, while the images of Dwarpalakas, that is, doorkeepers seem to guard the goddess.

There is also a Kalbhairab temple within the temple complex, dedicated to Kalbhairab, another incarnation of Lord Shiva. The Kalbhairab temple also features a huge granite statue of Nandi, the Vahana of Lord Shiva. With a height of 15 feet and length of 24 feet, this idol is adorned with bells.

History and Legend of Chamundeshwari Temple

The temple is the oldest temple in the hills of Mysore. It is not only a bearer of the rich cultural history of South India but also has several myths revolving around its foundation.

It is believed that demon Mahisasura tortured the people of Mysore and hence the goddess rose to her power to destroy the evil forces and relieve the people.
The temple had been built almost 1000 years ago and was the home deity of the monarchs of Wodeyars.
The place where the temple is located was known as Trimuta Kshetra, meaning a place surrounded by eight hills. The Chamunda Hill lies at the western part of the group. It is believed that Lord Shiva used to reside at the Mahabaleshwar temple and hence this hill was named as Mahabaladri.
The deity of Devi Chamundeshwari is in a seated posture with eight shoulders, known as Ashta Bhujas. This deity is considered to be very old, being established by sage Markandeya.
It is believed that when Krishnaraja Wodeyar III was blessed by the Goddess Chamunda, he decided to build the beautiful Gopura in 1827 AD. He also gifted a Simha Vahana, that is, the vehicle of the goddess along with other animal vehicles to the temple.
The proof that the temple was revamped by Maharaja Krishnaraja Wodeyar III lies within the temple complex. There is a large 6 feet statue of the king in religious apparel along with his three wives, Ramavilasa, Lakshmivilasa and Krishnavilasa within the shrine.

Significance of the Chamundeshwari Temple

Being one of the oldest shrines of Mysore, the Temple is visited by thousands of pilgrims every year. Chamundeshwari Temple holds a significant place in the religious facet of Karnataka.

It is believed that Goddess Chamunda, the slyer of demon Mahisarsura and Chanda, Munda fulfills all the wishes of the devotees.
The route to the Chamundeshwari Temple is through dense jungles and hence, visitors can view breathtaking natural beauty and is a great bird watching area.
Visitors can get a panoramic view of Mysore from the Chamunda hilltop. The Mysore Palace looks imposing when lit with lights during the festive season of Dusshera from the hilltop.
The statue of Mahisasura near the Chamundeshwari Temple is an amazing piece of architecture.
The Chamundeshwari Temple is also important due to the small footprints of the goddess that is found within it, along with a flagstaff.
The rare images of Anjaneya, Nandini, and Kamalini also enhance the importance of the Chamundeshwari Temple.

Chamundeshwari Temple Timings

A strict schedule is followed at the Temple for worship and offerings.

Time for visiting Devi Chamundeshwari is from 7.30 am to 2 pm in the morning, again from 3.30 pm to 6 pm in the afternoon and again from 7.30 pm to 9 pm in the evening.
Abhisheka Timings are from 6 am to 7.30 am in the morning and again from 6 pm to 7.30 pm in the evening on all days except Fridays. On Fridays, the timing is from 5 am to 6.30 am.

Chamundeshwari Temple Food Timings

Free meals are served at the Temple and the meal is known as Dasoha.
After worshipping the goddess, laddu is offered to the devotees. Cleaning drinking water is also available for visitors.
Plastic bags are not allowed within the temple complex to keep the hill areas and the waters clean.

Festivals celebrated at the Chamundeshwari Temple

Temple is one of the important shrines of Mysore and hence are marked with major religious celebrations.

Navaratri Festival: Navaratri is celebrated to mark the success of the goddess in demolishing the demon and hence is an important affair. Devotees line up at the Chamundeshwari Temple to offer their prayers during the festival. This festival is also known as the Mysore Dasara festival.
Rathothsava Festival: 10 days after Dusshera, this festival takes place. On the auspicious day of the full moon, known as Ashwayuja Purnima, this car festival takes place. The deity of goddess Chamundeshwari is mounted on the vehicle. A representative of the royal family of Wodeyar draws the chariot in a symbolic manner following the rituals and then the vehicle along with the deity is taken around the Chamundeshwari Temple.
Theppothsava Festival: Thousands of devotees gather at the Chamundeshwari Temple to witness the pious celebration of Theppothsava, which means the floating festival. The festival takes place in the night and the deity of Devi Chamundeshwari is taken round the Devi Tank on a boat. As lights fall on the crystalline waters of the tank, a magical environment is created.

Poojas and Rituals at Chamundeshwari Temple

The worship of the goddess is a glamorous affair at the temple. Multiple priests are engaged in the worship of the deity. The royal family donates gifts to the temple to maintain the pomp and show of the shrine.
Coconuts, fruits, and fresh flowers are the popular ingredients in the worship of goddess Chamundeshwari.
Ashada Shukravara, that is, the first Friday of the Hindu lunar month is considered auspicious and devotees folk here to check out the special puja.
Devotees may also request for special sevas like homas, abhishekas, and utsavas by intimating the temple committee prior to two days.
Devotees can also offer saree to the goddess by 30 days prior intimation to the Chamundeshwari temple committee.

How to reach: Road, Rail, and Air

By Air: The nearest airport to the Chamundeshwari Temple is the Bangalore airport. You can get direct buses and taxis to Mysore from here.
By Train: The Mysore Junction is the nearest railway station to the Chamundeshwari Temple. You can get trains to the city from the other towns and there are auto-rickshaws, cabs, and buses available for your next part of the journey to the Chamundeshwari Temple.
By Road: Though located at an elevation, the Chamundeshwari Temple is connected with a proper motorable road. There is also a different route to the Chamundeshwari Temple through the Nanjangud side. There are buses available to the Chamundeshwari Temple from all parts of the Mysore city. Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) plies buses to the temple every day with a time gap of 30 minutes from the City Bus Stand. You may also hire cabs to the temple; it is a 10-12 kilometers drive from the Mysore city.

Hotels in Mysore: Where to stay

The Chamundeshwari Temple committee maintains a guest house for the devotees. This 20 room guest house comes with decent amenities. Mysore is an important city of Karnataka and hence tourists can find both deluxe and budget hotels easily near the Chamundeshwari Temple. Radisson Blu Plaza, The Viceroy Comforts, Ginger Mysore, United 21 Mysore, Pai Vista, and Royal Orchid Metropole are to name a few.

Where to eat

There are several vegetarian restaurants around the Chamundeshwari Temple. From hot dosas to piping hot coffee, you can get both authentic South Indian and other types of dishes out here. Visitors can also enjoy pizzas at the nearby food joints. Vinayaka Mylari, The Foodie Restaurant, Hotel RRR Restaurant, Little Woods and Corner House are some of the popular restaurants near the Chamundeshwari Temple.

Nearby Temples

Mysore is known for its beautiful palaces and sacred shrines. Some of the other temples worth visiting the city are:

Narayanaswamy Temple: Located near the Chamundeshwari Temple is this temple. The temple is dedicated to Lord Cheluva Narayana Swamy, also known as Tirunarayana. The inscriptions on the pillars of the shrine are invaluable.
Prasanna Krishnaswamy Temple: Dedicated to Lord Krishna, this temple houses 40 bronze statues of gods and goddesses. The murals which adorn the walls of the temple are jewels of the Mysore painting school.
Lakshmiramana Swamy Temple: Dedicated to Lord Nambinarayana, this ancient shrine has interesting facts revolving around it. The temple is also famous for its beautiful statues.
Mahabaleshwara Temple: Also located at the Chamundi Hills, this temple is in close proximity to the Chamundeshwari Temple. Dedicated to Mahabaladri, this temple is impressive with images of Sapta Matrikas, Nataraja, Parvathi, and Bhairava.

The Chamundi Village located near the temple is also an attraction of the place due to its unique lifestyle and simplicity.

Ahobilam Temple Timings, Poojas, and History

March 9, 2020, Sasidhar Darla 5 Comments Filed Under: Andhra Pradesh Temples Tagged With: Vishnu Temples

Ahobilam Temple is dedicated to Lord Narasimha and is located in the Kurnool district of Andhra Pradesh. There are two sects – the upper Ahobilam and the lower Ahobilam. In total there are nine Narasimhasthalams. They are:

Jwala Narasimha
Ahobilam Narasimha
Malola Narasimha
Kroda Narasimha
Karanja Narasimha
Bhargava Narasimha
Yogananda Narasimha
Chatravata Narasimha and
Pavana Narasimha.

Also, the main temple- Ahobilam Narasimha Swamy temple is a holy place that enthralls visitors every time they visit the place. It is a majestic sight to see through bare eyes. The temple is also one of the earliest, falling under Narasimhasthalams. It is at a distance of 70km from Nandyal and 150 km from Kurnool.

What is the history of the Ahobilam Temple?

According to the history of Ahobilam temple’s, there is a legend according to which this is the place where Lord Narasimha blessed Prahlada and killed the demon Hiranyakshipu. Mythology says another story that Lord Vishnu once appeared as half-lion and half-man which is one of his incarnations.

The Devas seeing him shouted crying “Ahobala” (powerful) and “Ahobila” (the cave where currently the sanctum is located) . so this place thus got its name Ahobilam or Ahobala.

What is the significance of Ahobilam Temple?

The significance of Ahobilam Temple is that:

The temple follows the Vadakalai mode of worship.
The shrine of the Ahobilam temple is on the top of the first range and is also popular as Upper Ahobilam and down below is the Lower Ahobilam.
The “sacrosanctum” at Upper Ahobilam was carved out of a big egg-like rock with mandapams.
According to beliefs, the presiding deity is a ‘swayambhu’.
The Lord is also popular as ‘Ugra Narasimha’ or the ‘Fierce One’ as the Lord appears in his fierce avatar.
Also, there are two Devis residing within the temple. They are Goddess Lakshmi and Goddess Senjulakshmi.
The temple also projects intricate stone art where the entire history of its building has been carved out in the stone form. The temple also is the abode of Adivan Sathagopulu.
Also, the tower above the sanctum sanctorum of the temple is famous as Guhai Vimanam and the Pushkarani (temple tank) of this temple are Pavanasini, Bhargava, Indra, Nrisimha and Gaja Pushkarani.

What are the timings of the Ahobilam Temple?

Here are the timings of Ahobilam temple:

Timings	From	To
Open	5:30 a.m.	8:30 p.m.

Which festivals are celebrated at Ahobilam Narasimha Swamy Temple?

There is one major festival famous as Brahmotsavam whose celebrations take place with much grandeur and splendour during the month of February.

How to reach Ahobilam Temple?

Here’s how to reach Ahobilam Temple:

Road: The state buses from Hyderabad, Tirupati, Chittoor, Cuddapah, Kurnool, Nellore and Chennai are available.
Rail: Nandyal town (74 km. on Guntur-Hubli line) and Cuddapah (118 km. on Madras-Bombay line) are the ones to avail.
Air: Hyderabad and Tirupati are the nearest airports where regular flights are available.

Where to stay nearby?

Here are some places where one can stay near Ahobilam Temple:

The Haritha Hotel at Ahobilam is a great place to check-in. It is a very suitable and homely place.
Malolan guest house at Sannithi street, Ahobilm is another place where one can stay. It also has a very soothing atmosphere with great amenities.

What are some temples nearby?

Some of the temples near Ahobilam Temple are:

Bhargava Narasimha Temple is on a hill near a pond popular as Bhargava Theertham where Bhargava Rama performed his penance. Hence the Lord of the temple is Bhargava Narasimha Swamy.
Yogananda Narasimha Temple is another place at a distance of 2km from Lower Ahobilam. it is the place where Lord Narasimha appears in yogic posture.
Further, The Prahlada Varda temple has its design as per the architectural style of the Vijayanagar Temple. Moreover, it is in the Lower Ahobilam and primarily dedicated to Prahalada Varada. A beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Venkateswara also exists in the southwest direction of the Narsimha temple.

Dhyan Badri – Sapta Badri

June 29, 2022, Sasidhar Darla Leave a Comment Filed Under: Char Dham Yatra, Uttarakhand Temples Tagged With: Sapta Badri, Vishnu Temples

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

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

Dhyan Badri – Facts

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

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

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

What are the timings of Dhyan Badri?

Here are the timings of the temple:

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

What is the significance of Dhyan Badri?

The significance of Dhyan Badri is that-

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

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

What is the history of Dhyan Badri?

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

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

Devotees also believe that Shri Adi Shankaracharya established Kalpeshwar Temple.

What are the festivals celebrated at Dhyan Badri?

Some of the festivals celebrated at Dhyan Badri are:

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

Adi Badri Festivals — Makar Sankranti and Krishna Janmashtmi are celebrated at the temple.

How to reach Dhyan Badri?

Here’s how to reach Dhyan Badri:

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

Where to stay near Dhyan Badri?

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

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

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

What are the other Sapta Badri destinations?

The other Sapta Badri destinations are:

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

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

Kanipakam Sri Varasiddhi Vinayaka Temple – Timings, Poojas, and Entry Fee

September 13, 2019, Sasidhar Darla 6 Comments Filed Under: Andhra Pradesh Temples Tagged With: Ganesha Temples

Kanipakam Temple is one of the holy abodes of Lord Vinayaka (Ganesha) – the beloved son of Shiva and Parvati. It is present on the banks of river Baahuda, in Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh. Ganesha is the controller of ‘Ganas’, the remover of obstacles, and the Lord of wisdom. It is usually visited when one is visiting Tirumala Balaji Temple.

Vinayaka Temple is also known as Sri Varasidhi Vinayaka Swamy Temple.

The word ‘Kanipakam’ originates from two Tamil words – ‘Kani’ meaning ‘wetland’ and ‘Pakam’ meaning ‘flow of water’. The idol of ‘Swayambhu’ Vinayaka is inside ‘Kalyani’, a lake in which the idol was originally found. ‘

It is believed that the main idol of this temple, Lord Vinayaka is self-manifested; hence it is also called with the name of Swayambhu Sri Varasiddhi Vinayaka Swamy Temple.

The Kanipakam temple has Chola architecture, with a simple yet elegant Gopuram for the temple complex that houses temples of two other deities – Sri Manikanteshwara and Sri Varadaraja Swamy.

Kanipakam Sri Varasiddhi Vinayaka Temple – Facts

Deity	Lord Vinayaka (Ganesha)
Location	Kanipakam Sri Varasiddhi Vinayaka Temple,Kanipakam, Irala Mandal, Chittoor, Andhra Pradesh, 517001, India
Darshan Timings	04:00 A.M.- 09:30 P.M.
Dress Code	Traditional Wear
Festivals	Brahmostavam, Deepotsava

What are the timings of Kanipakam Sri Varasiddhi Vinayaka Temple?

Here are the timings of Kanipakam Temple:

Timings	From	To
Morning Darshan	4 AM	11 AM
Evening Darshan	12 PM	9:30 PM

Kanipakam Sri Varasiddhi Vinayaka Temple Entry Fee

Purpose	Fees
Aksharabhyasam	Rs.116/-
Namakaranam:	Rs.116/-
Balasara	Rs.116/-
Anna Prasana	Anna Prasana
Vahana Pooja	Rs.50/- to Rs.150/-
Sashwatha Kalyanotsavam	Rs.5116/-
Sashwatha Unjal Seva	Rs.7500/-
Sashwatha Abhishekam	Rs.7500/-
Sashwatha Ganapathi Homam	Rs.7500/-
Sashwatha Nityarchana	Rs.1516/-
Sashwatha Free Prasadam	Rs.1516/-

Daily Pooja / Sevas Timings of Kanipakam Temple:-

Name of the Seva	Timings
Suprabatham & Bindu Teerthabishekam	4:00 AM to 5:05 AM
Palabhishekam	5.45 PM to 6.15 PM
Ganapathi Sahasra Namarchana	6.00 AM
Panchamrutha Abhishekam	5.30 AM to 6.00 AM 9.00 AM to 10.00 AM 11.00 AM to 12.00 PM
Ganapathi Homam	9.00 AM to 12.00 PM
Nitya Kalyanotshavam	11.00 AM to 12.00 PM
Ganapathi Modaka Pooja	Before 12.00 PM
Phodasa Ganapathi Pooja	Before 12.00 PM
Moola Mantraarchana	Before 12.00 PM
Unjala Seva	6.30 PM to 7.30 PM
Pavalimpu Seva(EkanthaSev)	9.30 PM to 10.00 PM
Nijaroopa Darshan	5.00 AM to 5.30 AM 7.00 AM to 7.30 AM 8.30 AM to 9.00 AM 10.30 AM to 11.00 AM
Athi Seeghra Darshan	5.00 AM to 5.30 AM 7.00 AM to 7.30 AM 8.30 AM to 9.00 AM 10.30 AM to 11.00 AM 4.30 PM to 5.00 PM
Poolangi Seva	Thursday Only

What are the legends of Kanipakam Sri Varasiddhi Vinayaka Temple?

According to the legend behind Sri Vara Siddhi Vinayaka Temple:-

There were three brothers, each suffering with one deformity; one was dumb, another deaf and the third one was blind.
In spite of the difficulties, they worked on a small piece of land, cultivating it so as to earn their livings.
However, one day they when they were trying to get water from well using the Piccota system, they found out that the well had dried up.
Hence, one of the brothers started digging the well further. During that process, an iron hit a stone formation. This filled the well with blood.
Brothers were shocked with the sight of blood in the well, as they witnessed the sight; their physical disabilities got automatically cured.
When the villagers came to know about the miracle, they tried to further deepen the well.
In spite of constant trying they couldn’t do it as by then Lord Vinayaka’s idol had self-manifested itself, emerging out of the water of the well.

legends — Self-manifested Lord Vinayaka’s idol

It is also believed that the Lord Vinayaka idol at Kanipakam has been growing in size on a daily basis. At present devotees can see up to the abdomen and knees of the Lord Vinayaka.
Hence, it is seen that the Lord’s idol has outgrown the armor or Kavacham which was offered about 50 years ago by Smt. Lakshmamma.

What is the history of Kanipakam Sri Varasiddhi Vinayaka Temple?

Kanipakam Vinayaka Temple’s history goes back to the 11th century. It is said the temple was built in the 11th century, during the reign of Cholas by the Chola King Kulothunga Chola.
Later, the original temple was renovated and expanded further during the Vijayanagara Dynasty in the 13th century.
It is built on the banks of River Bahuda, which also has a legend behind it. According to the legend, Sankha and Likhita, two brothers were going to Kanipakam to seek the blessing of the Lord.
However, during their journey, the younger brother Likhita, unable to bear his hunger plucked a mango from the mango grove and in spite of his elder brother’s advice ate the fruit.
Seeing this, the elder brother informed the King, asking for the rightful punishment to his brother for the sin he had committed.
Resultantly, Likhita lost both his hands owing to the punishment given to him. Later, when both the brothers resumed their pilgrimage and went ahead to take a dip in the water of the river near Kanipakam, the younger brother regained both his arms.
Since then, the river was named Bahuda, which means the human arm.

What is the significance of the Kanipakam Sri Varasiddhi Vinayaka Temple?

The significance of Kanipakam Temple is that Lord Ganesh is ‘Varasiddhi Vinayaka‘ here because he fulfills the ardent wishes of his devotees when they offer prayers with devotion and sincerity. Also, there are several occasions when a person voluntarily admitted to wrong-doing acts on entering the temple.

This sacred shrine of Kanipakam temple is widely believed to be an upholder of truth and justice. The aura of the Divine Almighty is such that or takes a dip in the holy water. It is as if the Lord evokes a sense of fearful guilty conscience in the mind of the person and makes him genuinely repent for the same.

To this day, the temple solves everyday quarrels between villagers by the two people taking a ‘Pramanam‘ – a special oath in which they take a dip in the Pushkarini and testify before the Lord.

Devotees who wish to give up bad habits like smoking or excessive drinking – take a bath in the holy place and take an oath in the Kanipakam temple by contributing Rs. 516/-. This is a Seva popular as ‘Pramanam’.

What are the festivals celebrated at the Kanipakam Sri Varasiddhi Vinayaka Temple?

Some of the festivals celebrated at Kanipakam Temple are:

Brahmostavam: It takes place for a duration of twenty-one days. During the evenings, devotees take the ‘Utsava Moorthi’ into the town in different kinds of colorful Vaahanas (vehicles) on all days – Hamsa Vaahana (Swan), Mayura Vaahana (Peacock), Mooshika Vaahana (Mouse), Shesha Vaahana (Snake), Vrishabha Vaahana (Bull), Gaja Vaahana (Elephant), Pushpa Pallakki (Flowered palanquin), Vimanotsava (Airplane), to name a few.

festival-1 — Brahmostavam takes place for a duration of twenty-one days.

Deepotsava: It is the celebration involving the floating of lamps in the Kalyani. It is another important festivity and the temple looks magnificent amidst hundreds of floating lamps, under the starry sky.

festival-2 — Deepotsava is the celebration involving the floating of lamps in the Kalyani.

How to reach Kanipakam Sri Varasiddhi Vinayaka Temple?

Here’s how to reach Kanipakam Temple:

Air – One can avail direct flights to Tirupati from Hyderabad and Chennai only.
Rail – Mysore – Tirupati Fast Passenger operates daily, departs Bangalore at 8.15 PM and reaches Chittor at 2.30 AM.
Road – Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (APSRTC) runs daily buses between Bangalore and Chittoor.

Where to stay nearby Kanipakam Sri Varasiddhi Vinayaka Temple?

The Temple Management runs 6 guest rooms and Tirumala Tirupathi Devasthanams Trust runs the operations of 14 rooms for devotees. Another accommodation complex with 100 rooms is under construction. Besides the Temple accommodation, several private hotels and lodges also provide good quality accommodation to the devotees, in Chittoor city.

What are some temples nearby Kanipakam Sri Varasiddhi Vinayaka Temple?

Some of the temples near Kanipakam Temple are:

Manikanteswara Temple: The ancient temple of Manikanteshwara exists since the times of the Chola King Kulothunga Chola. People believe that he built 108 temples of Shiva, to obtain relief from the sin of killing a Brahmin – “Brahma Hatya Papam’. Famous for the Chola architecture, the exquisite sculpture of the idol adds on another striking feature to the divine altar.
Varadaraja Swamy Temple: This Kshetram of Lord Ayyappa, also known as Harihara is a landmark in the surroundings, owing to the vast temple compound structure and the architectural marvel in the temple complex, that also houses two other deities – Sri Anjaneya Swamy and the Nava Grahas.
Ardhagiri Sri Veeranjaneya Swamy Kshetram – Present at a distance of 15 km from Kanipakam, this holy shrine dates back to Threta Yuga or the times when Lord Rama fought against Ravana the abductor of Sita. Devotees also believe that the Lord fulfills the wishes of those who pray overnight on a full moon night. Cultural programs take place throughout the night for the benefit of the devotees.

Frequently Asked Questions about Kanipakam Sri Varasiddhi Vinayaka Temple

What are the timings of Kanipakam Sri Varasiddhi Vinayaka Temple?

04:00 A.M.- 09:30 P.M. is the timings of the temple.

What is the history of Kanipakam Sri Varasiddhi Vinayaka Temple?

The temple was constructed in the early 11th century CE by the Pandian King Maravarman Sundara Pandian and a Siva temple by Kulothunga Chola I.

If you have any questions about the Kanipakam Temple , please leave a comment below, and we will get back to you within one hour.

Jio network in Uttarakhand – Kedarnath, Badrinath Coverage

January 28, 2020, Sasidhar Darla 1 Comment Filed Under: Char Dham Yatra

How is Jio network in Uttarakhand?

It is recommended not to carry Jio during the Char Dham Yatra. This is because you would face a lot of service issues. BSNL is the best network for Char Dham Yatra. Airtel also works well. However, there are chances of not getting the connection everywhere.

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It is best to carry a BSNL sim as the other networks including Jio don’t work properly in the Char Dhams and the major cities.

As the Char Dhams of this Yatra are located in the Himalayan terrain, you will lose network in many places. However, these networks work the best among all.

The more you travel and go towards the elevation, the chances of losing the network connectivity increases. As you move towards the city like Rudraprayag, Uttarkashi etc, you will get back the network connection.