Travel Guide to Famous Temples

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Dhari Devi Temple – Timings, Significance and History

September 23, 2019, Sasidhar Darla 1 Comment Filed Under: Char Dham Yatra, Uttarakhand Temples Tagged With: Devi Temples

Dhari Devi temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Kali. It is an ancient, spiritual temple located on the strands of the Alaknanda River between Srinagar and Rudraprayag in the Garhwal Region of Uttarakhand. The temple is the protector of the Char Dham (Kedarnath, Badrinath, Yamunotri, and Gangotri) in Uttarakhand.

Dhari Devi shrine is one of the 108 shakti sthals.

Devotees worship Goddess Dhari as the upper half of the idol. According to devotees, the goddess changes appearance from a girl, to a woman, and then to an old lady during the day. The lower half of the idol is located in Kalimath where she is worshipped as a manifestation of the Goddess Kali.

Dhari Devi Temple – Facts

Deity	Goddess Kali
Location	Kalyasaur, Uttrakhand, India
Best Time to Visit	November to June
Darshan Timings	6:00 am to 12:00 pm 2:00 pm to 7:00 pm
Entry Fees	Free
Dress Code	Traditional Wear
Festivals	Dussehra, Deepavali, Kartik Purnima, and Navratras

Dhari Devi Idol — The deity believed to change appearance during the day from a girl to a woman, and then to an old lady.

Dhari Devi Temple Timings

Here are the timings of the temple:

Morning Darshan	6 AM to 12 PM
Evening Darshan	2 PM to 7 PM

What is the significance of Dhari Devi Temple?

The significance of Dhari Devi lies in the place of Kalinath. The place where Goddess Kali killed the demon Raktabija and after that, the goddess had gone under the earth.

Dhari Devi significance — Goddess Kali killed the demon Raktabija at Dhari Devi Temple.

On June 16, 2013, people uprooted the idol of the goddess to make way for a 330 MW hydel project. After a few hours, a severe cloudburst took place which resulted in devastating floods and landslides washing away the entire shrine town and killing hundreds of people. As per the devotee’s beliefs, the place had to face the Goddess’s wrath as she was shifted from her ‘mool sthan’ (original abode).

A similar attempt in 1882 by a local king had resulted in a landslide that has flattened Kedarnath.

The deity believed to change appearance during the day from a girl to a woman, and then to an old lady.

What is the history of Dhari Devi Temple?

The history of the temple denotes a popular lore about the temple. It states that once because of the flood in the Alaknanda River and the idol of Goddess Kali got struck against a big rock. Afterwhich, the people of the “Dharo” village heard the divine voice of the diety and they fixed the idol of Goddess Kali at the spot, where the temple is present. After this incident, It’s known as the Dhari Devi temple.

Dhari Devi Temple History — Adi Guru Shankaracharya took rest and worshiped in the temple area when he was on an excursion.

Another lore states that when Adi Guru Shankaracharya went for an expedition, he took some rest in this area and worshiped. IF this is true then it is the possibility that this temple belongs to the Dwaparyug era. Priests have placed the idol in an open sky. Devotees believe that the idol of the goddess is not to be placed under a roof.

What are the festivals celebrated in Dhari Devi Temple?

The festivals celebrated at Dhari Devi are:

Dussehra – This is also called Vijayadashami, is a major Hindu festival. It is a celebration of the victory of good over evil. The day when Lord Ram killed Ravana and established peace and prosperity. As a ritual, devotees burn an effigy of Ravana.
Deepavali– It’s is one of the most prominent festivals celebrated in India. The festival indicates the triumph of light over darkness, of good over evil.
Kartika Purnima – It’s a Hindu, Sikh and Jain cultural festival, celebrated on the Purnima (full moon) day or the fifteenth lunar day of Kartik.
Navratri or Durga Puja– Navratri festival is a symbol of victory of good over evil. As per legend, goddess Durga defeated the demon king Mahishasura to save the world and restore Dharma.

Dhari Devi Temple Festivals — Navratri is a combination of two Sanskrit words – ‘nava’, which means ‘nine’ and ‘ratri’, which means ‘night’.

How to reach Dhari Devi Temple?

Here’s how to reach Dhari Devi:

Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun (136 km).
Train: The nearest railway station is Rishikesh (119 km).
Road: Buses are available to Srinagar from ISBT Kashmere Gate. From there, one can avail a bus or taxi to get to the temple.

Where to stay near Dhari Devi Temple?

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

Hotel Taj Himalaya, Khirsu– Hotel Taj Himalaya is an elegant hotel to stay in. It provides all the basic facilities with free Parking, Airport shuttle, restaurant and is good for kids.
Hotel Urvashi – Hotel Urvashi is a decent hotel that delivers all the basic facilities including free breakfast, free Parking, Restaurant, Room service and Laundry service too.
Shiv Shakti Lodge – The Shiv Shakti Lodge imparts a variety of facilities which include Concierge, easy Currency exchange, Fireplace(highlights), Wheelchair accessible entrance, Car/bicycle hire, and Sauna. They accept payment in cash, cheque and debit cards.

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

What are some temples near Dhari Devi Temple?

Some of the temples near-by are:

Neelkanth Mahadev Temple: It is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, in the Pauri Garhwal district of Uttarakhand. The main god of the temple is ‘Neelkanth’ who is a form of Lord Shiva and has a blue throat as an aftereffect of consuming poison. There is a Shivalingam here and devotees tie a thread around it while worshipping.
Vishwanath Temple, Guptkashi: This temple is present in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand and is in honor of Lord Shiva. It bears a resemblance to the Vishwanath temple of Kashi. Moreover, devotees believe that it is at this temple that Lord Shiva proposed Goddess Parvati to marry him.
Omkareshwar Temple, Ukhimath: Omkareshwar Temple Ukhimath is an ancient Hindu temple present in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand. It houses the deities Kedarnath and Madmaheshwar during winters (November- April) when the temples of Kedarnath and Madmaheshwar remain closed.

Frequently Asked Questions about Dhari Devi Temple-

What changes are made in Dhari Devi Temple after the flood?

The new temple is now being constructed at its original location. The height of the temple was raised so that it stood above the spouting Alaknanda river.

What’s the temperature in summer at Dhari Devi Temple?

The temperature is moderate here ranging from 20 to 36 degrees Celsius.

What’s the best time to visit Dhari Devi Temple?

The months between November and June are favorable to witness the calmness of the temple and it’s best to visit the place during any Hindu festival.

What is the mystery behind Dhari Devi Temple?

It is believed that natural calamities occur in the valley whenever anyone tries to shift the shrine from its said place.

How much is the distance from Srinagar Garhwal to Dhari Devi Temple?

The distance from Srinagar Garhwal to Dhari Devi Temple is 14.2 k.m

How much is the distance from Dhari Devi Temple to Kedarnath?

The distance from Dhari Devi to Kedarnath is 56 k.m.

How much is the distance from Rishikesh to Dhari Devi Temple?

The distance from Rishikesh to Dhari Devi Temple is 122.5k.m.

How much is the distance from Haridwar to Dhari Devi Temple?

The distance from Haridwar to Dhari Devi Temple is 146.8 k.m.

How much is the distance from Delhi to Dhari Devi Temple?

The distance from Delhi to Dhari Devi Temple is 368.1 k.m.

Valley of Flowers

September 25, 2019, Sasidhar Darla Leave a Comment Filed Under: Blog, Char Dham Yatra, Uttarakhand Temples

Valley of flowers is an Indian National Park in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. It is rich in flora and fauna that includes endangered and rare species of plants as well as animals. This diversity is a representative of a unique transition zone between the mountain ranges of Zanskar and Great Himalaya.

Valley of Flowers – Overview

Opening Timings of the Valley	8 am – 5 pm
Time required to see the valley	4 – 5 hours
Best Time To Visit	Mid of July to August
Entry Fee	20 rupees per person
Nearest Airport	Jolly Grant Airport
Location	Chamoli, Uttarakhand

Furthermore, the valley lies 20 km northwest of Nanda Devi National Park. Moreover, the valley is open for visitors beginning of June till the start of October.

The Uttarakhand State Forestry Department, the national Ministry of Environment and Forests, India are responsible to administer the valley.

What is the significance of Valley of flowers?

This picturesque valley is significantly popular as an amalgamation of 600 different species of flora. Moreover, 62 species of Asteraceae dominate the valley. However, 45 species from the valley are used for medicinal purposes by the villagers. Also, it is home to endangered fauna such as red fox, snow leopard, musk deer, etc.

Moreover, it provides aesthetic pleasure to visitors because of a rich variance of flora growing here. Moreover, on the religious front, it is a popular destination where yogis visit for meditation since ages. Also, locals believe that Gods and fairies inhabited the valley.

Significance of Valley of Flowers — This temple is worshipped across the valley of flowers.

Nanda Devi, the regional peak is worshipped throughout the valley as an epitome of the goddess who is believed to be one of the incarnations of Goddess Durga.

What are the timings of Valley of Flowers?

Timings	From
Open	8 am
Close	5 pm

What is the history of Valley of flowers?

The history of this valley traces back to 1931, prior to which it existed in seclusion. Hence, In 1931, three British mountaineers namely, Frank S. Smythe, Eric Shipton and R.L. Holdsworth lost their way while coming back from Mount Kamet. Fortunately, they came across the place which was full of flowers. Hence, they named it ‘Valley of flowers’.

In 1980, the Government of India declared Valley of Flowers as a national park under the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972, for the conservation of its flora and fauna.

The valley also is a part of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

How to reach Valley of flowers?

Here’s how to reach the place:

Air: Jolly Grant Airport is the nearest airport. It is 284.6 km away from Govindghat.
Train: The nearest railway station is Rishikesh. It is at a distance of 273 km from Govindghat.
Road: Buses to Rishikesh are available from ISBT Kashmere Gate. From there, one can avail buses or taxis to Govindghat. One has to complete a trek of 16 km from there to this divine valley.

Reaching Valley of Flowers — After Govindghat, one has to trek to reach this beautiful valley covered in flowers.

Where to stay near Valley of flowers?

Some of the places where one can stay near Valley of flowers are:

Hotel Heaven: The hotel offers all the modern facilities to its guests. Moreover, backed by a team of skilled professionals, the property ensures that all needs of guests are fulfilled timely.
Hotel Sudarshan Palace: This Hotel provides all luxurious to its guests. Moreover, both interiors, as well as the exteriors of the place, are a complete charm. Also, it is quite budget-friendly.
Shri Krishna Palace Hotel: This accommodation in Chamoli features a total of 36 well-maintained and spacious rooms. Additionally, this hotel in Chamoli provides a hygienic and comfortable stay.

What are some places to visit near Valley of flowers?

Some of the places one can visit near Valley of flowers is:

Hemkund Sahib: Hemkund Sahib (Formerly Gurudwara Shri Hemkund Sahib Ji) is a Sikh place of worship in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. The place is dedicated to the tenth Guru of Sikhism- Shri Guru Gobind Singh.
Badrinath Temple: Badrinath Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand. Devotees believe that the statue of the Deity Lord Vishnu placed inside the temple is self-manifested. Also, it is a part of the Char Dham Yatra in Uttarakhand.
Narsingh Temple, Joshimath: It is an ancient temple for Lord Narsimha, the fourth incarnation of Vishnu. Since the temple is a part of ‘Sapt Badri’, it is also popular as Narsingh Badri Temple.

Hidimba Devi Temple Guide – Timings, Poojas, and History

July 7, 2019, Sasidhar Darla Leave a Comment Filed Under: Himachal Pradesh Temples Tagged With: Devi Temples

Hidimba Devi temple (or Hadimba Temple), in honor of Bhima’s wife Hidimba, is in Manali, Himachal Pradesh. It is in the midst of a forest- Dhungri Van Vihar. The sanctuary is over a huge rock jutting out of the ground which the devotees worshipped as an image of the deity.

What is the history of the Hidimba Devi Temple?

According to the history of Hidimba Devi Temple, the complex was built in 1553. There are also a few local folktales that go around. One of them says that after Pandavas, along with Kunti Devi escaped the fire in the Lakh palace, they came to this area (current temple area).

At that time the rakhshasa king whose sister was Hidimba, ruled the place.

Bhima fell in love with her and married her. They eventually giving birth to their son Ghatotkacha. Hadmiba meditated in Dhungri region near Manali. She gained supernatural powers after her tapasya. She was very kind and thus became quite popular amid the locals. They erected a ‘pagoda’ style temple and dedicated it to her, Hadmiba Devi. Another legend says that Maharaja Bahadur Singh during 1552.

What is the significance of Hidimba Devi Temple?

The significance of the Hidimba Devi Temple is that it has a 24 m high tower. The three tiers of its square roofs are covered with timber tiles, while the conical roof is clad in metal. Moreover, Devi Durga forms the theme of the main doors carvings.

Further, the temple base consists of whitewashed, mud-covered stonework. An enormous rock occupies the inside of the temple, only a 7.5 cm (3 inch) tall brass image representing goddess Hidimba Devi.

According to a legend, in bygone days religious zealots would tie the hands of “sinners” by the rope and then swing them against the rock- thus a rope hangs against the rock.

70 m away a shrine exists dedicated to Ghatotkacha.

One of the prominent features of the temple is that inside the temple complex there lies the imprint of the feet of the Goddess on a block of stone. Also, when zooming into the area where the temple is present via Google Satellite, the imprint of a giant foot spans across the valley in the area near the temple.

What are the timings at Hidimba Devi Temple?

Here are the timings of Hidimba Devi Temple:

Timings	From	To
Open	8:00 a.m.	6:00 p.m.

What festivals are celebrated at Hidimba Devi Temple?

Some of the festivals celebrated at Hidimba Devi Temple are:

During the Hindi month of Shravan, a grand festival is organized. This festival is in the memory of the person who constructed it, Raja Bahadur Singh. Locals also know it as Bahadur Singh Re Jatar.
Another important festival or event held is the celebration of the birthday of Hadmiba Devi, on the 14^th of May, every year. At this time, the local women visit the Dungri forest area and celebrate with music and dance.

How to reach Hidimba Devi Temple?

Here’s how to reach Hidimba Devi Temple:

Air: The Bhuntar Airport at Kullu which is 10 km from Manali.
Rail: The closest narrow gauge railhead is at Jogindernagar. Also, the closest broad gauge railheads are Chandigarh and Ambala.
Road: Kullu and Manali both the places are on the National Highway No. 21.

Where to stay in Manali?

Some places where one can stay near temple are:

Khushboo Resorts at Manali is a famous place to stay. It has got excellent room services and suitable amenities. It is present at Border Road Officers Mess.
Hotel Hadimba Heights at Dhungri near Ghatotkach & Hadimba Temple is another grand place to check in. It has a wonderful homely atmosphere with serene natural surroundings.

What are some places to visit nearby?

Some of the places that one can visit nearby are:

Malana – Located in the state of Himachal Pradesh, India, Malana is an ancient solitary Indian village to the north-east of Kullu Valley. Three mountain passes connect the village to Kullu. The majestic peaks of Deo Tibba and Chandrakhani shadow the village.
Kullu is at a height of 1,230 meters above the level of the sea in the state of Himachal Pradesh and is also popular as the ‘Valley of Gods’. The scenic views, towering jungles, blue water rivers, apple orchards, and snow-kissed mountains are some of the major pointers which attract tourists to this location.

Pandalam Ayyappa Temple Guide – Timings, Poojas, and History

August 29, 2019, Sasidhar Darla 6 Comments Filed Under: Kerala Temples Tagged With: Other Temples

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

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

History and Legend of Pandalam Ayyappa Temple

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

Significance of Pandalam Ayyappa Temple

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

Pandalam Ayyappa Temple Timings

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

Rules to follow at Pandalam Ayyappa Temple

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

Festivals celebrated at Pandalam Ayyappa Temple

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

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

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

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

Poojas and Rituals at Pandalam Ayyappa Temple

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

How to reach: Road, Rail and Air

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

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

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

Where to stay

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

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

Where to eat

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

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

Nearby Temples

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

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

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

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

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

July 29, 2019, Sasidhar Darla 7 Comments Filed Under: Andhra Pradesh Temples Tagged With: Vishnu Temples

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

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

What is the history of Srinivasa Mangapuram Temple?

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

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

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

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

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

What is the significance of Srinivasa Mangapuram Temple?

Here’s the significance of Mangapuram Temple:

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

What are the timings of Srinivasa Mangapuram Temple?

Here are the timings of Srinivasa Mangapuram Temple:

Timings	From	To
General Darshan timings	5:30 a.m	7:30 p.m.
Kalyanotsavam	11 AM	12 PM
Sahasranamarchana	7:30 a.m.
Sarvadarshanam	(Throughout the day)

Which festivals are celebrated at Srinivasa Mangapuram Temple?

Some of the festivals celebrated at Srinivasa Mangapuram Temple are:

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

How to Reach Srinivasa Mangapuram Temple?

Here’s how to reach Srinivasa Mangapuram Temple:

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

Where to stay nearby?

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

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

What are some temples nearby?

Some of the temples near Srinivasa Mangapuram Temple are:

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