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Tawang Monastery, Arunachal Pradesh

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Tawang Monastery
Tawang Monastery

The Tawang  Monastery is also known in Tibetan as Galden Namgey Lhatse. It means ‘celestial paradise in a clear night’. This monastery is the largest monastery in India and the second largest in the world. The monastery is located in Tawang city of Tawang district in Arunachal Pradesh. It is situated in the valley of the Tawang River, in the northwestern part of Arunachal Pradesh.

The Tawang Monastery was founded in 1680-1681, Merak Lama Lodre Gyatso. It was built in accordance with the wishes of the 5th Dalai Lama, Ngawang Lobsang Gyatso. The monastery is situated on a mountain at an altitude of over 3000 m. Tawang Monastery is one of the most important Buddhist sites in the world.

Tawang Monastery is a big monastery with living quarters, a museum, institutions and libraries. The Monastery can hold a capacity of 700 monks and is currently home to around 450 lamas.

What is the history of the Tawang Monastery?

In Tibetan, ‘Ta’ means ‘horse’ and ‘wang’ means ‘chosen’. Therefore, the name Tawang means chosen by a horse. According to the legends, Merak Lama was having difficulty in finding a good place to build the monastery. He once rested in a cave where he prayed, seeking divine guidance. When e came out, he found his horse missing. After searching for a while, he found the horse, grazing at the top of a mountain. Merak Lama realized it as a good spot where the monastery could be built.

The full name of the monastery is thus Tawang Galdan Namgye Lhatse. It means ‘The site chosen by the horse is the divine celestial paradise’.

What is the architecture of the place?

  • Entrance and outer walls: At the entrance to the monastery there is a Kakaling, which is a colorful gate structure. It is a ‘hut-like structure’, with side walls built of stone masonry. The interior walls of the Kakaling have murals of divinities and saints painted on them. The roof features Mandalas. Ahead of the main gate of the Kakaling to its south, is another entry. On the main entrance to the monastery, there are huge walls. The outer wall is 925 feet in length, with heights varying from about 10–20 feet.
  • Main buildings: The monastery is three-storied. It is built like a large mansion. There is a large assembly hall, ten other functional structures and 65 residential quarters for students, Lamas and monks. There is a center for Buddhist cultural studies. The monastery also has a school. The walls of the monastery have a profusion of  Buddhist deities and saints.
  • Main temple: The main temple is known as the Dukhang. ‘Du’ means ‘assembly’ and ‘Khang’ means ‘building’. It was built in the year 1860-61. An 18 feet image of Buddha is deified which is gilded and decorated.

Tawang Monstery

What are the festivals celebrated in the Tawang Monastery?

Choksar, Losar, Ajilamu, and Torgya are the main festivals that are held in the monastery.

  • Choksar: In this festival, the Lamas recite religious scriptures in the monasteries. Following which, the villagers carry the scriptures on their back and circumambulate their agricultural land. They seek blessings for the good yield of crops without any infestations by pests and to protect against attack by wild animals.
  •  Losar: This festival marks the beginning of the Tibetan New Year. In this festival, people visit the monastery to offer prayers.
  • Torgya: This festival is also called Tawang-Torgya. It is an annual festival that is exclusively held in the monastery. The objective of the festival is to ward off evil spirits. It ushers prosperity and happiness to the people in the ensuing year. It is held according to the Buddhist calendar days of 28th to 30th of Dawachukchipa, which corresponds to 10 to 12 January of the Gregorian calendar. It is a Monpa celebration.

How to reach the Tawang Monastery?

Air: The nearest airport is located in Tezpur. It is at a distance of 387 km. The nearest international airport is located in Guwahati. It is at a distance of 480 km.

Train: The nearest railway station is Rangapara Railway Station. It is at a distance of 383 km. Rangapara Railway Station is directly connected to about 88 stations.

Road: Tawang Monastery is well-connected by road to all places.

What is the best time to visit the Monastery?

  •  Summer- March to June: This is the best time to visit Tawang. The temperature ranges between 5 degrees Celsius and 25 degrees Celsius. The days are pleasant and nights are colder.
  • Monsoon- July to September: It is mostly wet during monsoon season. There is rainfall all over and the temperature drops. However, this place looks even more beautiful during this season.
  • Winter- November to February:  The temperature sometimes drops near the freezing point. The temperature gets around 10 degrees. The coldest month of winters is January.

Thiruvanchikulam Shiva Temple Guide – Timings, Dress Code, and History

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Thiruvanchikulam Shiva Temple located is one of the major Shiva temples in Kerala. This temple is in fact more than 2,000 years old. Thiruvanchikulam Mahadeva temple is famous for the various manifestations of Lord Shiva, who is also the main deity of the temple. The Thiruvanchikulam Shiva Temple also has many minor shrines dedicated to various Gods and Goddesses.

There is a Namaskara Mandapam, with 16 pillars in front of the Sreekovil, which is one of the major attractions of this temple. The Thiruvanchikulam Shiva Temple is well stored with ancient murals, wood carvings and Salabhanjikaas (sculptures) which are worth seeing.

Devotees attend Palliyara poojas held just before the Thiruvanchikulam Shiva Temple closes on the full moon nights. Devotees pray for a happy married life and are blessed with children. The idol is considered to be of Uma Maheswara as revealed to Sage Parasurama. The Siva idol is just about 4 inches above the ground level and is in the form of a half-circle. Among the Siva temples, the Thiruvanchikulam Shiva Temple is called Arathali temple with its abridged form of Sivalingam in ‘Vadakkekottaram’ ( palace in the northern side).

History of Thiruvanchikulam Shiva Temple

This place was the capital of Chera dynasty ruled here till the 13th century. The ancient seaport town Musiris and the Sree Kurumba Bhagavathy temple are the first things one notice in Kodungallur. The Thiruvanchikulam Shiva Temple is believed to be built by Cheraman Perumal, a legendary Chera king.

It is also believed that Cheraman Perumal and his minister and friend Sundaramoorthy Nayanar left their life in the temple. There are two idols in Thiruvanchikulam Shiva Temple, considering as two ‘upadevas’ (sub gods), of them. This is the temple having the largest number of Upadevas in Kerala.

Lord Ganapathy, Cheraman Perumal, Sundaramoorthy Nayanar, Brangiradi, Sandhyavelakkal Sivan, Palliyara Sivan, Sakthi Panchakshari, Bhagavathy, Goddess Parvathy, Lord Parameshwara, Prodhosha Nrithya, Sapthamathrukkal, Rishabham, Nandikeshan, Unni Thevar, Lord Ayyappan, Lord Hanuman, Nagaraja, Lord Pashupati, Nadakkal Sivan, Lord Subramanya, Goddess Durga Bhagavathy, Goddess Ganga, Konnakkal Siva, Kottarathil Thevar, Nagayakshi, Dakshinamoorthy, Althara Gopudan Swamy etc are worshipped here along with Lord Shiva.

Thiruvanchikulam Shiva Temple had undergone several invasions in the flow of time. The Dutch and The Tipu Sulthan of Mysore are the prominent ones, who demolished this temple during their invasions. The Thiruvanchikulam Shiva Temple was renovated in 1801 AD. It is believed that the main idol of worship, Siva linga is brought from Chidambaram Rameshwara temple. It was one of the most popular Shiva temples in South India.

Thiruvanchikulam Shiva Temple suffered war damages in 1670 and in the late 18th century. In the late mediaeval Thiruvanchikulam was under the ruler of Cochin but occasionally, the Zamorin of Calicut had usurped the control. 

The saint Sundaramoorthy Nayanar and Cheraman Perumal (both were close-friends) worshipped Lord Shiva leading to eternal bliss. They reached Kailas by riding on a 1000-tusked white elephant by Nayanar and on a blue horse by Perumal. Both of them have shrines in the Thiruvanchikulam Shiva Temple. This event was taken place on Swati day in the month of Karkidakam (July/August) and special Poojas are performed in these shrines.

Umamaheshwara once appeared in this place where Vasuki (serpents) stood guard. The Lingam here is said to have been self-incarnated. It is of 4-inch length, 12-inch diameter and in semi-circle form. There is water around as synonymous to Ganga.

Significance of Thiruvanchikulam Shiva Temple

Thiruvanchikulam Shiva Temple has the oldest reference in history in old Tamil Sangam literature. Thiruvanchikulam Shiva Temple is one of the oldest Shiva temples in South India where Lord Shiva is said to live along with his whole family. This temple has got a healthy relation with Chidambaram temple in Tamil Nadu.

A Brahmin had taken away Vasuki who stood guard to Umamaheshwara in a palm-leaf umbrella to his home for worship with the blessings of Umamaheshwara. This Brahmin family later became rich and their Mana famed as Pampummekkatt (serving of snake) Mana. This Mana is about 6-km east of Mahadeva temple. It is very famous for serpent Gods. People from all over Kerala and beyond visit here for the solution of problems connected with serpents.

The majestic gateway is decorated with carvings of elephants, gods and goddesses. Only the left side of the entrance there is a stone carving of Shiva and Parvathi as right and left respectively. Inside the enclosure, there is a porch with carvings dedicated to the characters of the great Hindu epic of Ramayana.

Thiruvanchikulam Shiva Temple Timings

  • Thiruvanchikulam Shiva Temple opens at 5 AM and closes at 8 PM. The afternoon break timings are from 11 AM to 5 PM.
  • The day starts with Palliyunarthal (waking up of the lord) at 3.00 AM.  Then there is escorting the lord and his consort from Palliyara to Mukhamandapa. Other rituals involve Changing of Nirmalyam, Abhishekam (ablutions), and leading them to the Moolasthana, Usha pooja, Dhaara. It is the accompaniment of Rudram. There is Pantheeradi pooja, Navakam, Panchagavyam, Uchapooja and closing of the temple for noon at 11.30 AM.
  • The sanctum opens again at 5.00 PM. Changing of Nirmalyam followed by Abhisheka, Deeparaadhana, Athazha pooja, escorting the lord and consort to Palliyara. Finally conducting Palliyara pooja (Dampathi pooja).

Festivals celebrated at Thiruvanchikulam Shiva Temple

The annual festival is celebrated for 8 days in the Malayalam month of Kumbham (February–March). It ends with the Arattuin the sea on the new moon day. Aanayottam is also conducted as part of the festival. The hoisting of the Thiruvanchikulam Shiva Temple flag atop the flagstaff (Dwajastambham) about 70 feet high marks the beginning of the festival.

Maha Shivaratri: It is the most famous festival celebrated at Thiruvanchikulam Shiva Temple that attracts a huge number of devotees. Thiruvanchikulam Shiva Temple houses images of other gods and goddesses in small shrines in the temple premises. The fourteenth day of every lunar month or the day before the new moon is known as Shivratri. Among all the twelve Shivratris that occur in a hindu calendar year, Mahashivratri, the one that occurs in February-March is of the most spiritual significance.

On this night, the northern hemisphere of the planet is positioned in such a way that there is a natural upsurge of energy in a human being. This is a day when nature is pushing one towards one’s spiritual peak. It is to make use of this, that in this tradition, we establish a certain festival which is night-long.

Thiruvanchikulam Shiva Temple Sevas and Poojas

  • The main offering in the Thiruvanchikulam Shiva Temple is ‘Shankabhishekam’ (pouring ‘Shanku’ flowers on the idol. The main event in the Thiruvanchikulam Shiva Temple is ‘Dhambathi Pooja’ (couple offering), in which worships the Siva-Parvathy dual and lead them to the ‘Palliyara’ (their personal bedroom).
  • It is believed that the ‘Palliyara Darshanam’ give the bliss to overcome hurdles in a good marriage and child fertility.
  • The shrikovil walls bear murals portraying Lord Ram and other mythological characters in five panels. The exterior of Palliyara walls also has mural paintings. Out of 274 Shaivite Thiruppathies in India, this is the only one in Kerala.

How to reach Thiruvanchikulam Shiva Temple

By Air: The nearest airport to Thiruvanchikulam Shiva Temple is at Nedumbassery International Airport at Kochi. It is at a distance 35 km away. Taxi services are available from Kochi to Kodungallur costing about Rs 500. Kochi airport is well connected to all major airports in India and also connected to many foreign cities. Direct flights are available to Chennai, Delhi, Mumbai and Bangalore.

By Rail: The nearest railhead to Kodungallur is located at Iringalakuda, at a distance of 16 km away. Iringalakuda is well connected with other major railway stations. It is in the main route connecting Kochi and Palghat. Taxi services are available from railway station to Kodungallur at a fare of about Rs 300.

By Road: Kodungallur is well connected by KSRTC buses and private transport buses. The city is connected to Kochi (35 km), Thrissur (38 km) and Guruvayur (45 km). Tourist deluxe luxury buses are available from many cities including Chennai, Bangalore, Trivandrum and Kozhikode to Kodungallur.

Where to stay

Vedic Village Resort: This resort provides with necessary amenities such as the internet, 24-hour front desk, air conditioning, parking, travel desk, 24-hour security, and doctor on call. Ayurvedic spa of the resort help transforms and rejuvenate your body, mind and soul. Food Court serves authentic Kerala cuisines by re-creating the unique recipes.  All the rooms are unique and exude a charismatic appeal.

Aswathy Hotel: All the rooms in this hotel provides with first-class amenities in a warm, relaxing atmosphere. The elegantly furnished multi-cuisine restaurant serves both buffets and menu of Indian dishes. The lobby provides guests sitting facilities for the visitors.

Where to eat

In Kerala food is served on a banana leaf. Almost every dish prepared in Kerala has coconut and spices to flavour the local cuisine. That gives it a sharp pungency that is heightened with the use of tamarind, while coconut gives it its richness.

There are different restaurants such as City Majlis Restaurant, Relax Muziriz Kitchen, Thaninaadan Samudra Family Restaurant, Classic Durbar Greens and many more.

Nearby Temples

Ayyappan temple: The Ayyappan Temple is dedicated to Lord Ayyappa is a sacred shrine of the town. Lord Ayyappa is an incarnation of Lord Vishnu and is considered very sacred in South India. Devotees believe that Lord Ayyappa was the foster son of King Pandalam.

Kurumba Bhagavathy Temple: The temple is more known for its fame and mythological importance. The shrine is dedicated to Goddess Bhadrakali (an incarnation of Goddess Durga). The idol of the goddess Bhadrakali in the temple is unique as it has eight hands with various attributes. One is holding the head of an Asura, another a sword, next an anklet, another a bell, and so on. The temple also houses the images of Lord Ganapathi and Lord Veerabhadra. Bhagawati Temple is also referred to as the abode of Kannaki. The later was believed to be an incarnation of Kali and as a result, a temple was erected in her memory in Kodungallur.

Mata Amritanandamayi: The Mata Amritanandamayi Math (MAM) is an international charitable organization that aims at the spiritual and material development of mankind. It is also home to an international community of more than 3,000 people. Permanent residents include monastic disciples and families from all over India and abroad. Inspired by Amma, they have dedicated their lives to attaining the goal of Self-realisation and serving the world. It is here that they live with Amma, imbibing her teachings, practising meditation and participating in selfless service.

Sivakrishnapuram Temple: Sivakrishnapuram Temple is one of the oldest temples near Kodungallur in Edavilangu. In front of the Sanctum Sanctorum is the Namaskara Mandapam with six pillars. The sanctum Sanctorum has Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati posing together. Lord Shiva is locally called “Uma Maheshwara”. It comes under the Cochin Devaswom Board and is managed by the devotees of Edavilangu. The temple is dedicated to Lord Siva and Lord Krishna.

Kottappuram Cathedral: The Kottappuram Cathedral is a Roman Catholic Church. The church is beautifully built in the typical Roman style of architecture and is extremely well-maintained. There is a missionary school in the church premises for the underprivileged. This particular church has a deep relationship with the ancient port city Cranganore(Muziris). Cathedral was in the name of Arch Angel Saint Michael.

Mahamaya Temple

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If you really wish to visit a religious place this summer, trying going to Mahamaya Temple. Mahamaya Temple is located in Ratanpur in Chattisgarh. This temple falls in Bilaspur district. Mahamaya Temple is located aside lakes and has a marvellous panorama. This temple is culturally rich and has a great architectural work done all over it. Mahamaya Temple is located in Ratanpur which is located in Chattisgarh. Legends  say that this temple was built in the 12th-13th century. Mahamaya Temple is dedicated to the Goddess Mahamaya. This temple enshrines an amazing dual idol of Goddess Mahamaya. The front image is of Mahishasurmardini  and a rear statue of Saraswati which is supported by 16 columns.

Many archeologists and historians had their eyes on Mahamaya Temple because of its beautiful architectural work. Apart from being surrounded by lush green hills and ponds, Ratanpur town is crowded by devotees twice a year. People come here during Navratra to take blessings from their beloved goddess: Goddess Mahamaya Devi.

Mahamaya Temple in 25km away from the city of Bilaspur located in Chattisgarh. It is located on the Bilaspur-Ambikapur state highway. The Mandir has ancillary temples, palaces, domes and forts, each having a story behind it.

Because of its beauty one should definitely take the camera with themselves to capture the moment. The Temple is beautifully built which is the main cause of tourist attraction. The red stones by which this Temple is constructed makes it more beautiful. This temple is constructed on 16 columns and has various beautiful ponds around it. One should come here as this scenario helps in relaxing and rejuvenates the mind.

Mahamaya Temple 1

Mahamaya Temple History

  • Mahamaya Temple is dedicated to Goddess Mahamaya which has a dual statue of Goddess Lakshmi and Saraswati.
  • This temple was built in 12th-13th century under the reign of Kalchuri King Ratandev I. Apart being the king, Kalchuri King Ratnadev I was also the founder of Haihaiyavansi kingdom.
  • Legends say that the king built the temple at the spot where he had darshan of council of Goddess Kali. Maha Kali, Maha Saraswati and Maha Lakshmi were earlier worshipped here.
  • Within the campus one can easily find Lord Shiva’s and Hanuman’s temple. Ratanpur state traditionally has Mahamaya as their Kuldevi. Recently architectural department renovated the temple.
  • Vikram Samvat built this temple in 1552 and one can also find that this place is beautifully surrounded by many ponds which help in adding its beauty. This temple was beautifully built with red stones by Kalchuri King Ratandev who was the king at that time.

Significance of the Mahamaya Temple

  • The style in which Mahamaya Temple is built is known as Nagara style of Architecture. This temple is facing North and is located beside a huge water tank.
  • The scores of ancillary temples, palaces, forts and domes can now be seen which was once housed ad templed by the royal house of Ratanpur Kingdom.
  • We can also find the temple of Kantideval which is considered to be the oldest. It is believed that this temple was built by a spartan named Santosh Giri in 1039.
  • This temple has 4 gates and has beautiful carvings. It has 18-inch thick boundary wall surrounding it from all the four sides. Legends say that this temple was built in the 12th century.
  • Mahamaya Temple is all together supported by 16 stone columns. The idols which have been kept here has been taken from rundown or broken temple of the earlier century. Some of them were also taken from Jain Temples.
  • There are many smaller statues in the campus of Gods and Goddesses like Lord Vishnu, Mahakali, Bhadrakali, Lord Hanuman, Surya Dev, Lord Shiva and Lord Bhairav. Legend says that the first Puja and Abhishek were done in this temple by the Kalinga King.
  • Around the temple, there are many other temples which are equally rich in history and architecture. They are named as Mahamrityunjaya Panchmukhee Shiv Mandir and Kanthi Dewal. There is another important temple known as Panchmukhee Shiv Mandir which is believed to be the origin of Mahamaya Temple. This temple is extremely magnificent and is made of red stone.
  • Inside a temple one can find Kanthi Dewal temple and the temple main pond is the splendid dual statues of Goddess Mahamaya. The front image is called Mahishasurmardini and the behind statue is believed to be that of Goddess Saraswati. But if looked casually then the rear image are often overlooked. On behalf of all the devotees, Jyoti Kalashas are lit in various halls by the Temple Trust.

Mahamaya Temple Timings

  • The Darshan in Mahamaya Temple starts from 6 am to 8:30 pm everyday. During normal days, it does not take more than half an hour in darshan but it takes more time during Navratra. This is because there are a large number of devotees during Navratri.
  • Devotees do not need to pay any amount of money for darshan. This is free of cost. Bhoj is offered at 12 pm for half an hour. So during this time devotees, entry is strictly prohibited.
  • If a person visits this temple, he/she needs to take ample time with them. Apart from darshan, one can also take part in special events which are conducted by the Trust. During Navratra, Darshan is opened till 12 am.
  • After you buy puja samagri, go to the free shoe care. This is run by the Trust. Before going for darshan you should remove your shoe. The Trust will provide you a token for the set of shoes you gave. The caretaker will take care of your shoes till you come back from Darshan.
  • There is water tap present in the campus which provides water to the devotees. The devotees need to clean their mouth, face, hand and feet before entering the Mahamaya Temple. Though this ritual is not cmpulsory, but devotees follow it for the sake of cleanliness of the temple campus.
  • After this, you need to stand in the qeue for Darshan. It may take some time depending on the day you visited the temple. It takes a lot of time for darshan during Navratra. People from various parts of India come here on Navratra to see Jyotikalash being lit to please the Goddess Mahamaya.
  • Temple Kalbhairava is considered to be the guardian temple. People believe that those who visit Mahamaya Temple should also visit Kalbhairava Temple to complete their pilgrimage.

Festivals celebrated in Mahamaya Temple

  • Chaitra Navratri– According to the Hindu Calender, Chaitra Navratri is celebrated on the first day of the calender. This festival is celebrated from 1st to 9th day of Chaitra month Shukla Paksh. The 9th day is celebrated as Ram Navami which is Lord Ram’s birthday.
  • Vasanta Navratri– This festival is celebrated in Autum this is why it is called Vasant Navratri. Vasant means Autum in Hindi. Vasant Navratri usually falls in the month of April but it may differ according to the Hindu Calender.
  • Maha Navratri– This festival is very famous and this is why it is celebrated across India. Maha Navratri is celebrated equally important as other festivals in Chhattisgarh. There is a lot of crowd in temples on this festival. People come from various parts to offer prayer.

How to reach- Road, Rail and Air

  • By Air– The nearest is in Raipur which connects all the major cities like Mumbai, Delhi and Nagpur. This place is connected with international flight services.
  • By Rail– Bilaspur is a zonal headquarters of the Indian Railway as a result of which it can be suitably connected with trains too.
  • By Road– After taking a train till Bilaspur one can easily take a taxi or bus till Ratanpur. The taxi can easily take you inside the temple campus which is half a kilometre away from the highway.

Where to stay

Apart from this, one can also look for hotels to stay. There are many private organizations who provide accommodation to the devotees. These private organization has a very nominal charge. They have additional facilities like Homely food, the internet and hygienic surrounding which is suitable for stay. One can easily find hotels near Temple at a very reasonable price.

Where to eat

The Temple provides food to its devotees. They are free of cost and all the expenses incurred are borne by the Trustees. Once the daily Puja is over, devotees are allowed to move for food.

Apart from the prasad provided in the temple, one can also have food from hotels outside the campus. These hotels provide clean and hygienic food. There are various other places to eat food. There are many hotels and cafe which provide food keeping the taste and needs of the devotees.

Nearby Temples

  • Ram Tekri Temple-Ram Tekri Temple is a very popular spot for tourists. It is a perfect place to visit with your family. This place is very good for recreation as it will fill you with spirits of adventure. There are various popular spots which will help you in making memories. Ram Tekri Temple is not only a place for sight seeing but also helps you in rejuvenating. One should definitely carry his/her camera when travelling to this place.
  • Maa Mahamaya Devi Temple– This is another important tourist destination in Ratanpur. People come all over India to visit this place. One should definitely visit this place while visiting Ratanpur. This temple has a dual statue of Goddess Mahamaya. This temple has a very beautiful architectural work and is the most religious celebrated temple.
  • Kanthi Dewal Temple: This temple is octagonal in shape. It is said that Kanthi Dewal Temple is a school of Hindu and Moghul architecture. All its walls are made of red stone and decorated by sculptures. The important sculpture which you can find here is of a lady feeding a child, Shaal Bhanjika, a Kalchuri king and   Lingodhbhava Shiva. Inside the temple, there is Shiv Lingam which is considered as Source of Divine Energy according to the Hindu Dharma.Apart from Ram Tekri Temple, Kanthi Dewal Temple and Maa Mahamaya Devi Temple, there are many other temples which can be visited being in Ratanpur. There are many tourist destination that is visited when travelled to Ratanpur. Apart from temples, there are many other places that can be visited here. There are places like Achankmar Wildlife Sanctuary, Naya Lake Semartal, Shri Hanuman Ji Temple, Sunga Lake, Sagar Lake and many more.This temple has a lot of reasons to be on the bucket list of travellers. Mahamaya Temple of Ratanpur has all those things which a person needs while travelling a place. Mahamaya Temple is culture as well as architecture. It is surrounded by ponds which add beauty. There are other temples in the campus because of which a devotee need not go too far. The Temple Trust provide world class accommodation as well as food.

Tali Shiva Temple Guide – Timings, Poojas, and History

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Tali Shiva Temple is the oldest temple in Kozhikode, Kerala. The temple is in the middle of Kozhikode town and was built during the 14th century. The temple worships Lord Shiva. The deity here is a blended form of Goddess Uma and Lord Shiva. It is known as Uma Maheshwara.

History and Legend of Tali Shiva Temple

  • This 400 years old temple paints the picture of religious India.
  • The shrine was constructed at the end of Dwaparayuga. Saint Parasurama built this temple. Saint Parasurama is believed to be an incarnation of Lord Vishnu.
  • As per another myth, the Tali Temple was a small temple in a village. 50 Namboothiri families looked after the temple.
  • The temple gained importance 1500 years ago. It was under the Zamorins. The Zamorins executed the Namboothiri families and took over the temple. They were also called Sailabdheswara. Sailabdheswara means the lord of the mountain and the sea. Swamy Thirumulpad made the temple within his palace complex. After some time, another Zamorin, Manavikraman gave the temple its present shape. The temple is still looked after by them.
  • The temple was almost damaged when Tipu Sultan invaded Kozhikode in the 18th century. Again the shrine was renovated in 1964.
  • Revathi Pattathanam function started at this temple. Eminent people and philosophers came to this function. Bharatha Meemamsa, Prabhakara Meemamsa, Vedanta Meemamsa and Vyakarana were discussed at the functions. During the 15th and 16th centuries, eighteen poets came to this function. This function also takes place at present.
  • Moreover, the temple is a God gift to locals. They believe that the temple has brought richness to Kozhikode.
  • Some historians believe the temple was made even before the city was built.

Significance of Tali Shiva Temple

  • The Tali Shiva Temple is historically important. It is a treasure house with numerous deities and beautiful built.
  • This is a two storied sanctum. It is in the chariot form and is decorated with mural paintings.
  • The temple is protected by large walls on all sides, which are in the form of an elephant belly.
  • Also, there are fine granite sculptures within the temple complex. These sculptures show Lord Shiva. Also, birds and animal sculptures are present. These portray different stories from the Puranas.
  • Moreover, there is a Jyotirlingam in the sanctum. 5 of the 12 Jyotirlingas are located in and around Pune in Maharashtra. Umamaheshwara, Tali Ganapathy, Thevarathil Ganapathy and Thrumandhakunnu Bhagavathy are also there within the inner walls. The outer walls have deities of Lord Ayyappa, Thevarathil Bhagavathy and Lord Naga.
  • There is a separate Lord Vishnu temple within the complex. The temple also has its own Dwajastambam.
  • The idol of Sreevalayanad Bhagavati is also present in the Lord Vishnu temple.
  • There is another small temple. The presiding deity is Narasimha Moorthy. This temple is at the southern part of the Vishnu Temple.
  • The northern part has the Eranjipuram. It is also beautiful with lights from all sides.
  • The main temple has four main parts. The Dwajastambam refers to the flag poles. People also believe these are connections of heaven to earth. The Anakottil is the flag staff platform. It was built for the elephants. The gopurams are large. These gateways are another treat to eyes with intricate carvings, while the Deepasthambhum is the beautiful lighting pillars.
  • The various temples within the complex are Sivakshetram, Nalambalam and Krishnakshetram.

Tali Shiva Temple Timings and Poojas

Like any traditional Hindu temple, the Tali Temple opens during the early morning. It opens at 4.30 am and is open till 11.00 am. The temple again opens at 5.00 pm and closes at 8.30 pm. Furthermore, there are five different religious programs that take place every day at this temple.

  • Nadathurakkal Abishekam is the first puja. It starts at 4.30 am. This puja takes place at Sivakshetram.
  • Dhara Usha pooja takes place at Sivakshetram. This worship is at 5.30 am.
  • Ganapathihomam puja is at 6.00 am. It takes place at the Nalambalam temple.
  • Ravilathe worship is at 6.30 am. The puja takes place at Sivakshetram.
  • At 7.00 am and 7.15 am, Seeveli Pooja takes place both at Sivakshetram and Krishnakshetram.
  • Navagraha Pooja along with Mrithyunjaya Homam takes place at 7.30 am. It is at Sivakshetram temple.
  • Pantheeradi Puja is at 8.00 am and 9.00 am. This is first at Krishnakshetram shrine and then at Sivakshetram. Lakshminarayana Pooja also takes place at Krishnakshetram but at 8.30 am.
  • Ucha Pooja takes place at 9.45 am and then at 10.00 am; first at Krishnakshetram and then at Sivakshetram.
  • Seeveli worship takes place at 10.30 am and then at 10.45 am; first at Krishnakshetram and then at Sivakshetram.
  • Nadayadaykkal worship is at 11.00 am. It takes place at Nalambalam.
  • Nadathurakkal occurs at 5.00 pm. This takes place at Krishnakshetram and Sivakshetram.
  • Dheep Aaradhana is at 6.30 pm. This takes place at Krishnakshetram and Sivakshetram. This is a sacred moment as the priests worship with traditional towered oiled lamps and to the beats of drums.
  • Umamaheshwara Puja and Bhaghavathi Seva take place at 7.00 pm. It is both at Sivakshetram and Nalambalam.
  • Athaazha puja is at 7.30 pm. It is first at Krishnakshetram and then at Sivakshetram.
  • 8.00 pm is the time for Seeveli at Sivakshetram.
  • The day ends with Trippuka, Nadayadaykkal at 8.30 pm. It takes place at Krishnakshetram and Sivakshetram.
  • Vazhipadu is a special puja. It takes place on special requests of the devotees. People interested in performing this puja need to book 3 days before the date. Also, worshipers can book for Vazhipadu online.
  • Appam, Vilakku, Maala, Nei Vilakku, Pin Vilakku, Ganapathi Homam, Ashtadravya Ganapathi Homam, Mrithyunjaya Homam, Dhara, Karuka Homam, Koovala mala, Uma Maheswara pooja and Ada are some of the special worships.

Food Timings

Appam is a tasty snack available at the temple after worship. This is popular as Prasadam.

Tali Shiva Temple Dress Code

Devotees need to come in traditional wear. People with jeans and western dress cannot enter the temple. You can hire a traditional dress (Mundu) from the temple counter. Also, men cannot come within the temple with shirts. They can drape a Veshti instead of a shirt.

Festivals celebrated at Tali Shiva Temple

Locals call festivals as Utsavam at the Tali Temple.

  • Revathi Pattathanam: This festival still takes place at the temple. This cultural program is a seven days function. It is during October or November. As per myth, the Zamorins started the festival as a penance of killing the Namboothiris. Performing scholars also get rewards.
  • The largest festival is during the Malayalam New Year. The festival is for seven days. People worship Lord Shiva during this time.

How to reach: Road, Rail and Air

As the temple is at the centre of the town, it is easily accessible from all parts of Kerala. Kozhikode is 184 kms from Kochi, 191 kms from Coimbatore, 232 kms from Mangalore, 359 kms from Bangalore and 378 kms from Trivandrum.

By Air: Kozhikode is just 23 km from the Calicut International Airport. This airport is connected to the various Indian metropolitan cities and gulf countries. There are private cabs available from the airport area which can take you directly to the temple.

By Rail: Kozhikode has own railway station. Therefore, there are regular trains from Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Chennai and Bangalore to the place. Mngla Lksdp Exp, Kerala S Kranti, Ypr Cannanore Exp, Mangalore Exp Ypr Cannanore Exp are some of the express trains travelling on a daily basis to Kozhikode.

By Road: There are several tourist buses that travel from Karnataka and Kerala to the Tali Temple. Besides these private air conditioned buses, you can also avail buses from KSRTC. The buses connect important cities like Chennai, Bangalore, Mangalore and Trivandrum to Kozhikode. Both luxury and semi-deluxe buses are available. If you are travelling via road on your own private car or bike, you can opt for the routes like Lakkidito, Nilamburto, Thalasseryto, Pattambito, Tholpettyto, Bandipur National Park to Kozhikode.

Where to stay

The Tali Temple has great importance in the religious life of the people in and around Kerala. Hence there are several hotels near the shrine for people from all classes. The Gateway Hotel Beach Road, Khaleej Residency, Chamundeshwari Tourist Home and Malabar Palace are some of the hotels just at 0.4 kms from the Tali Temple.

Where to eat

There are multiple food courts near the shrine. The Arya Bhawan and Aryabhavan Restaurant are just 0.3 km from the temple. Both these eat outs serve vegetarian food. Hotel Rahamth, KTDC and Hotel Komala Bhavan are just 0.2 km from the temple and serve both vegetarian and non-vegetarian food. You can also buy banana chips and Shastha chips near the temple.

Nearby Temples

Kozhikode is a pilgrimage and has many temples around.

  • The Balasubramania Temple: Just beside the Tali temple, there is an old temple. The presiding deities here are Balasubramania and Lord Ganesha.
  • Varakkal Devi Temple, Kozhikode: Lord Parasurama built this as the last Devi temple. This is the 108th temple built by the saint. As per myths, Parasurama ploughed the area and Goddess Varakkal appeared. The temple is at the shores of the Arabian Sea. Vavu Bali is the largest festival here. Devotees perform funeral rites during the festival. The temple is open from 5.00 am to 12.00 pm and again from 5.30 pm t0 8.00 pm.
  • Valayanad Devi temple: This temple is at Govindapuram. The place is at 6 km from Kozhikode. As per myths, the Zamorins built this temple. They were not able to get control over Govindapuram and were able to do so only after worshipping the Goddess. Lord Shiva, Ayyappa and Vigneswara are the other deities here. Priests follow the Saktheya tradition here. There is also a ‘Sreechakra’. Sivayogi Thayyavur Sivasankar made the ‘Sreechakra.’ Makaram is the annual festival here. This takes place for 8 days. Guruthy Tharpanam is also practised here.
  • Pattalapalli: It means the Soldier’s Mosque. This is a four storied building. It has a domed roof and a round hall. There is a library and a well.
  • Mother of God Cathedral: This church is at the Beach Road of Kozhikode. It has a Gothic built. Italian architects built the temple. There are spiral colonnades and the curved arches on the doors and the windows at the church. There is also a 200 years old picture of St. Mary here.

The best part of travelling to the Tali Shiva Temple in Kozhikode is that you can visit the place any time of the year. The natural beauty of the place changes with every season. Visit the Tali temple to increase the joy of life.

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

, Filed Under: Andhra Pradesh Temples Tagged With:

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.