SIVA TEMPLES IN TAMILNADU.

LORD SIVA GOD OF ALL
Lord shiva is the Supreme, Which does not have any parents Which never takes birth Which is all alone without association with any of the creatures or creations enjoying in the Self. God is the only one Who is dependable for anybody / anything to surrender to as It is the only perennial Being. Hence God is the Lord of all creatures (lives/souls). For this reason the Lord is hailed as pashupati (Lord of living beings).

Natarajar Temple, Chidambaram
Chidambaram Temple is a famous Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located in the heart of the temple town of Chidambaram, 58 km south of Pondicherry in Cuddalore District, the east-central part of the Tamil Nadu state of southeastern
The Chidambaram Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva (Siva) in His form of the Cosmic Dancer, Nataraja is a temple complex spread over 40 acres in the heart of the city. It is an ancient and historic temple dedicated to Lord Shiva Nataraja and Lord Govindaraja Perumal, one of the few temples where both the Shaivite and Vaishnavite deities are enshrined in one place.
The Pallava king Simhavarman,is a well known renovator of this temple. He also known as Hiranyavarman who lived in 5th century A.D. It is one of the few examples of Dravidian architectural and sculptural styles built up over the centuries including that built by the Cholas.
To the follower of Shaivism (Saivism) or the saivaite, the very word koil (Tamil- "temple") refers to Chidambaram. In the same way, to the followers of Vaishnavism it refers to Srirangam or Thiruvarangam.
Festivals
A whole year for men is said to be a single day for the Gods. Just as six poojas are performed in a day at the sanctum sanctorum, six anointing ceremonies are performed for the principal deity - Lord Nataraja in a year. They are the Marghazhi Thiruvaadhirai (in December - January ) indicating the first pooja , the fourteenth day after the new moon ( chaturdasi) of the month of Masi ( February - March) indicating the second pooja, the Chittirai Thiruvonam ( in April- May), indicating the third pooja or uchi kaalam , the Uthiram of Aani (June- July) also called the Aani Thirumanjanam indicating the evening or the fourth pooja , the chaturdasi of Aavani (August-September) indicating the fifth pooja and the chaturdasi of the month of Puratasi ( October - November) indicating the sixth pooja or Arthajama.
Of these the Marghazhi Thiruvaadhirai ( in December-January) and the Aani Thirumanjanam ( in June-July ) are the most important. These are conducted as the key festivals with the main deity being brought outside the sanctum sanctorum in a procession and include a temple car procession followed by a long anointing ceremony. Several hundreds of thousands of people flock the temple to see the anointing ceremony and the ritualistic dance of the Lord when He is taken back to the sanctum sanctorum. There are references in Umapathy Sivam's 'Kunchithaangristhavam' that the Maasi festival also had the Lord being carried out in procession. However, the same is not in vogue these days.

Ramanathaswamy Temple

Ramanathaswamy Temple is a famous Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located in the island of Rameswaram (Devnagri, Tamil) in the state of Tamilnadu, India.Sri Ramanathaswamy temple is situated close to the sea on the eastern side of the island, which is in the shape of a conch. The island is connected with the main land at Mandapam by an awe-inspiring rail bridge and a road bridge. In ancient days, the shrine was only a thatched hut. Over the centuries, the small shrine was gradually developed into what it stands today as a massive and magnificent structure According to Shaiva mythology, Lord Rama is believed to have prayed to Lord Shiva here to absolve any sins that he might have committed during his war against the demon king Ravana. The temple along with Viswanathaswamy temple, Varanasi is one of the holiest Hindu shrines that has to be visited in one's lifetime and is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas the holy abodes of Shiva.
To worship Lord Ramanatha or Ramalinga, the hallowed sand Linga made by Sita and installed by Sri Rama, pilgrims enter through the eastern gopuram. They offer prayers to Lord Anjaneya smeared with sindhoor. Then comes the Nandi Mandapa, which houses the flag staff and the Nandi. The stuccoed massive image of the bull is made of lime stone, measuring 17.5 feet high, 23 feet long and 12 feet wide. On either side of the Nandi, one finds interesting sculptural representations of the ocean gods Mahodathi and Ratnakara. The sanctum is flanked on either side by shrines of Vinayaka and Subramanya. Inside the sanctum, we worship Sri Ramanathaswamy. It is said this Linga contains marks of Hanuman’s tail, with which he tried to uproot it in a fit of anger. The Linga is decorated with silver kavacha. It is customary to offer abhisheka to the Lord with holy Ganga water.
In the front mandapa, there is a canopy, carved under which are images of Rama, Sita, Lakshmana, Hanuman with the two Lingas brought from Kailas, and Sugriva, appearing to be informing Rama about Hanuman’s return. In three other canopies in the front hall, we find exquisitely-carved figures of Hanuman, Gandhamadhana Linga and Agastya Linga.
Parvathavardhini
She is the consort of Lord Ramanatha and is enshrined separately to His right. There is a Sri Chakra installed inside. Special significance is attached to a Devi shrine situated on the right of the Lord’s shrine. In Madurai, too, the shrine of Meenakshi is situated to the right of Lord Sundareshwara. On Fridays, an especially decorated image of Parvathavardhini is taken round the temple corridor in a golden palanquin.
Vishwanatha & Visalakshi
To the north of Ramalinga shrine, Lord Vishwanatha or Vishwalinga has a separate shrine. This is one of the two Lingas brought from Kailas by Hanuman. As per tradition, pujas are first performed to Vishwalinga and then to Ramalinga. In the first inner corridor, Visalakshi, consort of Vishwanatha, is enshrined.
Sayanagruha (Palliyarai)
This is in the north-eastern corner of the corridor around the Visalakshi shrine. The gold image of the Lord is ceremoniously brought here every night from the main shrine and placed in the Oonjal (swing) by the side of the Devi’s golden idol. The Sayana puja and the early morning puja, when the Lord is taken back in a procession to the sanctum, are worth witnessing.
Jyothirlinga
In the first inner corridor, devotees offer worship to the venerated Spatika Linga, installed by Vibhishana. This Linga is the southernmost among the 12 famous Jyothirlingas in the country.
Sethumadava
There is a legend associated with this shrine. Once there ruled a Pandya king by name Punyanithi. As he had no issues, he along with his queen undertook a Sethu Theertha Yatra. Soon he found a baby girl in the palace garden and adopted her as his daughter. As years passed, the princess reached marriageable age. One day an old Brahmin from Kashi, holding Ganga water, appeared in the palace garden and sought her hand in marriage. The king got angry and ordered the old Brahmin to be kept chained in the temple corridor. That night the king had a dream in which he realized that the old man in chain was none other than Lord Vishnu with his daughter, Goddes Lakshmi, by his side. He fell at the Lord’s feet and sought forgiveness. He gave his daughter in marriage to Lord Vishnu at Rameswaram. He is known as Sethu Madhava or Shwetha Madhava (as his image is made of white marble). In Kashi, Lord Vishnu is worshipped as Bindu Madhava.

Fomous Siva Temples in Tamilnadu, INDIA

Famous Siva temples in Tamilnadu , INDIA
KANYKUMAI
Kanyakumari is located at the southern tip of the Indian subcontinent. The small temple dedicated to Kanyakumari, or the youthful form of the primeval energy Shakti (Mother Goddess) is located on the seashore, in the town known by the same name.
Kanyakumari Temple The temple overlooks the shoreline. It is dedicated to Parvati as Devi Kanya, the Virgin Goddess who did penance to obtain the hand of Lord Shiva. The deity, Devi Kanyakumari is' the protector of India's shores' has an exceptionally brilliant diamond on her nose ring which is supposed to shine out to sea. The temple: The black stone image of Kanyakumari in the sanctum bearing a garland is an enchanting one. Of particular significance is the glittering nose ring that is visible from a distance. Legend has it that the light emanating from this nose ring misguided arriving ships and caused them to crash onto the rocky coast. There is a door now, to the east of the shrine which is opened only five times a year. There are also shrines to Vijayasundari and Balasundari, friends and playmates of the Goddess in her youthful form. There are a total of 11 theerthams associated with the temple in the ocean surrounding the area. The confluence of the seas, at the southern tip of the subcontinent has been held sacred for centuries.
Alvar Tirunagari Temple Alvar Tirunagari is a well-known Vaishnav temple of Kanyakumari. At this location, a tree has been enshrined. The temple has a historical relevance. It is believed that Saint Namalvar sat under this tree to attain enlightenment. He had sung songs that were written in praises of the temple. The temple is dedicated to Lord Adinatha, who was the first Jain Thirthankara. There is a musical instrument called nadaswaram in the temple. This wind instrument, made out of stone is played during pujas and festivals and is quite popular in south India.
A large number of pilgrims travel from Kanyakumari to Alvar Tirunagari temple to offer their prayers.
The Alvar Tirunagari Temple is dedicated to Lord Adinatha - the first Jain Thirthankara. It is visited by devotees who come from far and away as it is one of the renowned and historical Vaishnavaite temples in India.
A tree has been enshrined here. The Saint Namalvar attained enlightenment while sitting under this very tree. As part of his offering, he had sung devotional compositions that had been written in praise of the Alvar Tirunagari Temple.
There is also a musical wind instrument instrument called nadaswaram in the temple. Made out of stone, the nadaswaram is played during pujas and temple festivals
Tourist Attraction in Kanyakumari
Padamanabhapuram Palace
Padamanabhapuram Palace complex is located in at Padmanabhapuram Fort, close to the town of Thuckalay in Kanyakumari District, Tamilnadu. It is about 20 km from Nagercoil, and about 50 kilometers from Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala. The palace complex is inside an old granite fortress around four kilometers long. The palace is located at the foot of the Veli Hills, which form a part of the Western Ghats. The river Valli flows nearby.
The palace was constructed around 1601 A.D by Iravipillai Iravivarma Kulasekhara Perumal who ruled Travancore between 1592 A.D. and 1609 A.D. In the late 18th century, the capital of Travancore was shifted from here to Trivandrum, and the place lost its former glory. However, the palace complex continue to be the best examples of traditional Kerala architecture, and some portions of the sprawling complex are also the hall mark of traditional Kerala style building art. The Padamanabhapuram Palace complex consists of several structures:
Mantrasala, literal meaning, King's Council Chamber Thai Kottaram, literal meaning, Mother's Palace - believed to have been constructed before 1550 Nataksala, literal meaning, the Hall of Performance, or of Performing Arts A four-storeyed building at the centre of the Palace complex Thekee Kottaram, literal meaning, the Southern Palace
Mahatma Gandhi Memorial
The place has been associated with great men like Swami Vivekananda and Mahatma Gandhi in whose names memorials have been here. They are very beautiful and add to the attraction of this place. The beautiful Gandhi Memorial completed in 1956, is situated as a memorial to the Father of the Nation. An urn of Mahatma Gandhi was kept here for public to pay homage before immersion. Mahatma Gandhi visited Kanyakumari twice in 1925 and 1937. Mahatma Gandhi visited Kanyakumari in January 1937. In 1948 his ashes were immersed in the sea waters in Kanyakumari. In commemoration of this event a beautiful monument has been constructed here. Its central shape is 79 feet high representing the age of the Mahatma at the time of the sun at Mid day on 2nd October would fall on the peedam through a hole in the roof. The memorial was transferred to the administrative control of the Public (Information and Public Relations) Department from Public Works Department of Government of Tamil Nadu in the year 1978.
Visting Hours -7 AM To 7 PM . Entrance Free

Thiruvalluvar Statue

Thiruvalluvar is the immortal poet of Tamil Nadu and has given to the world Thirukkural. The memorial statue of Thiruvalluvar is in Kanyakumari. The pedestal of the statue is of 38 feet height and the statue over it is 95 feet tall with a grand total of 133 feet for the entire sculpture. The 3 tier pedestal known as Atharapeedam is surrounded by an artistic Mandapa known as Alankara Mandapam with 38 feet height. Surrounding the Alankara Mandapa stand 10 elephant statues signifying 8 directions with earth and space down. The father of Sri. Rama, the hero of Ramayana was called Dasaratha as he was able to charioteer in ten directions. To help the tourists to worship the holy feet of Thiruvalluvar 140 steps are constructed inside the Mandapa. The pedestal with a height of 38 feet represents the 38 chapters in the Book of Aram in Thirukural and the statue of 95 feet on the pedestal represents the total chapters in Porul (70 chapters) and Inbam (25 Chapters). Thus the statue symbolically, and artistically signifies that the theme of Porul and Inbam are based on Aram. Visting Hours -8 AM To 4 PM . Kamarajar Manimandapam
Another monument Kamarajar Manimandapam was raised and dedicated to Late. Sri. Kamarajar, The freedom fighter, Former Chief minister of Tamil Nadu, President of Indian National Congress. He was popularly known as Black Gandhi among the masses and king maker during congress regime. This monument was constructed where his ashes were kept here for public to pay homage before immersion into the sea. Visting Hours -7 AM To 7 PM . Entrance Free
Vivekananda Rock Memorial

Vivekananda Rock Memorial is another place in Kanyakumari which attracts large number of tourists. As its name implies, it is essentially a sacred monument, built by the Vivekananda Rock Memorial Committee to commemorate the visit of Swamy Vivekananda to “Shripada Parai” during 24th, 25th and 26th December 1892 for deep meditation and enlightenment.
From very ancient times, the rock has been regarded as sacred place. In Puranic tradition, it has been known as “Sripada Parai: meaning the rock, that has been blessed by the touch of Shripada feet of the Goddess.On the rock, is a projection similar in form to a human fort and a little brownish in complexion, which has traditionally, been revered as a symbol of Shripadam. According to legend, it was on this rock that Goddess Kanyakumari did Tapas.
The memorial consists of two main structures, viz (i) Vivekananda Mandapam and (ii) Shripada Mandapam.
Vivekananda Mandapam:- This Mandapam consists of (1) Dhyana Mandapam, i.e., Meditation Hall with six adjacent rooms (2) Sabha Mandapam or the Assembly Hall including Pralima Mandapam (statue section) two rooms, a corridor and an open Prakaram round the Sabha Mandapam (30 Mukha Mandapam (Portion) and (4) the Front Entrance steps with two rooms and a corridor below the steps.
Shripada Mandapam:- This square hall consists of (1) Garbha Graham i.e., (Sanctum Sanctorum) (2) the Inner Prakaram (3) the Outer Prakaram and (4) the Outer Platform all around. Both the Mandapams are so designed that the vision of Swamiji in the statue would be seen direct towards the Shripadam. Visting Hours -7 AM To 4 PM . Entrance Fee - Rs 10 . Ferry Fee Rs 20 for adult .and Rs 10 for studentsSuchindrum Suchindrum is a small village about 12 km. from Kanyakumari and about seven kilometres from Nagercoil. This holy place is located on the bank of the river Pazhayar, adjoining fertile fields and coconut groves and the temple is dedicated to Sri Sthanumalayan. The word denotes Siva, Vishnu and Brahmma as. Sthanu represents Siva, Mal represents Vishnu while Ayan represents Brhamma i.e. Siva, Vishnu and Brhamma in “One Form”.
Suchindrum means the place where Indra attained ‘Suchi’ i.e., purification. The Sthalapurana has it that Indra suffered a curse from sage Gowthama, when he stealthily cast amorous glances at Ahalya the wife of Gowthama. Not able to suffer the mortification brought about by the curse. Indra had to seek immediate redemption. He came to ‘Gnana Aranya’ as this place was then called and offered worship to Lord Shiva. Relieving Indra of his curse, Lord Shiva granted him of his wish that the place where he attained purification should henceforth be called ‘Suchindrum’.
Another story goes to say that the Trimurthys i.e. Brhamma, Vishunu and Shiva, cajoled by their divine consorts came down to the earth to test the chastity of Anusuya, wife of sage Athri at Gnana Aranya. The Gods for this misadventure had to suffer a surse form the Rishipatni and to undergo the purification process, before they could be restored to their former glory.
It is said that Thanumalaya Swamy temple is the only shrine dedicated to the Trinity in India. The present structure of the temple is the work of a number of persons spread over a number of centuries. It is a complex of many beautiful structures constructed at various times and is one of the best specimens and a store house of the Dravidian style of art and architecture.

Udayagiri Fort

The fort was rebuilt in the reign of Marthandavarma, the Venad King, during 1741-44. Under the supervision of De Lannoy, the Belgian General, who served as the Chief of the Travancore army; East India Company’s troops were stationed there till the middle of the 19th century. Foundry for the manufacture of guns, mortars and cannon balls were also established within the fort under the supervision of the General.
In the early days, the fort was of strategic importance. Prisoners captured in the campaign against Tippu were confined in this fort for sometime. It is further said that a brass gun 16 ft. long bored as a 22 ponder, found in the fort could not be removed even for a few yards by a large number of people, even with the help of 16 elephants.
A village has come up in front of the fort. The people who live here, are mostly agriculturists. A few of them are engaged in trade. Pottery making is the chief Industry among a section of the people. Now, the District Administration, with the help of Forest Department has set up a Biodiversity Park over here. Tourists can see deer, ducks, fountains, birds and over 100 varieties of trees inside the fort.
Mathoor Hanging Bridge
The Mathoor Hanging Trough is the tallest as well as the longest trough bridge in Asia, having a height of 115 feet and a length of one kilometre. Constructed in 1966, this bridge has become a place of tourist importance and hundreds of tourists visit this place. This is situated in Mathoor, hamlet of Aruvikkarai revenue village in Thiruvattar Panchayat Union.
The bridge has been constructed at Mathoor across the river Parazhiyar at a cost of Rs. 12.90/- lakhs and the trough canal (Pattanamkal canal) on the bridge carries water for irrigation from one side of a hill to the other side of a hill. The trough has a height of seven feet with a width of seven feet six inches. The canal is being shouldered by 28 huge pillars. By the unrelented efforts of late Thiru. K. Kamaraj, the former Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, this canal was constructed as a drought relief measure and for the development of agriculture in Vilavancode and Kalkulam Taluks. The District Administration has recently put up a staircase from top to the bottom of the bridge and also built a children's park and bathing platforms over hereSt. Xavier Church St.Xavier an outstanding and dedicated priest visited the coastal areas of Tamil Nadu from Goa, he never missed the opportunity of visiting Kottar in Kanniyakumari district which was a celebrated commercial centre at that time. During his stay at Kottar, he used to worship St. Mary in the small temple. He was popularly known as “Valiya Pandaram” among the people of Kottar. While he was at Kottar, he averted the invasion of Padagas on the people of Venad which was appreciated by the king, who became closer to the Priest. In recognition of Xavier’s services, the king allotted a land to him for the purpose of constructing a catholic church at Kottar. There was already a church in 1544 in the same place, where the St. Xavier’s church stands now.
The church records show that the church was built in the year 1600 A.D. In the year 1865, the Church was enlarged and the shrine of our lady was also renovated and vaulted over. In 1930, the church was raised to the status of a Cathedral.
In 1942, in commemoration of the fourth centenary of the arrival of St.Xavier in India, a beautiful tower to the saint, a grotto to Out Blessed Mother and a small shrine to St.Ignatius who sent him to India were constructed in the Cathedral premises. In 1955, the church was further extended and the chapel of Our Lady was incorporated into the enlarged church.
The Church of St. Xavier enjoys a great fame as a place of miracles from early times. The annual festival is celebrated during the month of November – December lasting for 10 days.

Padmanabhapuram Palace
The ancient historical town Padmanabhapuram is one of the four municipalities in the district is 55 Km. south of Trivandrum, about two km. east of Thuckalay and 35 km. from Kanyakumari on the Trivandrum-Cape Comerin road. This town is surrounded by a fort with an area of 187 acres. The ancient capital of Travancore might be constructed before AD 1601. The palace with an area of seven acres, is situated in the very centre on the Padmanabhapuram Fort, amidst hills, dales and rivers. The palace which is situated in Kanyakumari District is under the control of a Curator of the Archaeological Department of Kerala Government.
The fort which was built with mud originally was dismantled and reconstructed with granite by Maharaja Marthanda Varma. The height of the walls varies from 15’ to 24’ according to the inclination of the ground.
Entrance Hall:- The entrance to the main edifice is controlled by another ornamental gateway with retainers for watch and ward. The gabled entrance has wooden ceiling profusely ornamented with lotus medallions. The most striking feature of the entrance is the clock-tower which is one of the oldest in India erected in 1832 A.D. and still continues to be in working order.
The first floor the Poomuham has a council chamber or Mantrasala which is meant for holding discussions with ministers and prominent citizens. The floor off this hall, which is polished with the admixture of coconut shell ashes, eggs fermented in molasses and lime reflects the figure like a mirror. Next to the Mantrasala is the Dancing Hall which was used exclusively for the members of the royal family.
Adjacent to the Council Chamber and to the south of dancing hall is the dinning hall called “Uttupura”, with two floors (the ground and the first) each measuring roughly 78 by 6 metres and it would accommodate about 2000 people at a time. Feeding of about 2000 poor persons, it is said, was done here every day and so the king was called ”Dharmaraja”.
Uppirika Malika : - The most attractive building in the whole palace is the ‘Uppirika Malika’ which consists of three storied. ‘Uppirika’ is the abbreviated term of ‘Muppirika’ which means the residence of the eldest member of the family. A wooden cot is erected on the top most floor in the belief that “Lord Vishnu” the chief deity. The first floor contains a wooden cot made of 64 medicinal plants, on which Maharaja used to sleep. The medicinal cot was presented to Maharaja “Marthanda Varma” by the Dutch East India Company in 1750, as a mark of friendship.
The Navarathri Mandapa: - To the west of the Zuppirika Mandapa is the Navarathri Mandapa which is a spacious hall of exquisitely beautiful granite pillars with drooping pendants reminiscent of the Nayakar style of architecture. In the Navarathri Mandapa, performances of Bharatha Natya and musical recitals took place in the royal presence.
Pechiparai Dam
About 43 km. from Nagercoil this dam has been constructed. This dam in Kalkulam Taluk, was built during the days of the Maharaja Sri Moolam Thirunal across the river Kodayar. The construction of the dam was designed on the pattern of the Periyar dam in the Madurai district. The length of the dam is 425.1 mts. It has a catchment area of 204.8 sq.km. There is a camp shed provided at the dam side for the visitors. The weather is very pleasant and hence attracts a large number of tourists.
The reservoir is surrounded by dense forests which are famous for their valuable trees and rich would life such as tiger, elephants, deer etc. A hill tribe, small in number known as ‘Kanikars’ dwell in the dense forests around the lake.
Peer Mohammed Durha
There is a durha named ‘Peer Mohamed Oliyullah Durha’ at Thuckalay named after the great philosopher Mohamed Appa, who was born in Tenkasi of Tirunelveli District. After spending sometime in spiritual pursuits in Peermedu of Kerala State he came and stayed at Thuckalay. Being a Tamil poet of great eminence, he wrote many books on philosophy. He had intimate relationship with the Kings of Chera dynasty. It is said that he laid foundation stone for the Padmanabhapuram Granite Fort.
The Anniversary of the great philosopher poet is celebrated every year on a grand scale on the full moon day in the month of Rajap. Both the people of Kerala and Tamil Nadu attend the celebrations on large numbers irrespective of their caste, creed and religion.
Tirparappu Water Falls
The Kodayar makes its descend at Tirparappu and the water fall at this place is about 13km. from Pechiparai dam.
The river bed is rocky and about 300 feet in length. The water falls from a height of nearly 50 feet and the water flows for about seven months in a year. The whole bed above the falls is one rocky mass which extends up to a distance of about quarter of a kilometer upstream where the famous Thirparappu weir has been constructed for supplying water to the paddy fields. On either side of the river, on the left bank of the river in between the water falls and the weir, there is a temple dedicated to Siva enclosed by strong fortification. The District Administration has recently constructed a swimming pool for children over here which is very popular among the children.
Maruthuva Malai
The Maruthuva Malai also known as the Marunthu Vazhum Malai – the abode of medicinal herbs, forms from part of the western ghats. According to tradition, the Maruthuva Malai is a fragment of the Sanjeevi Mountain, a piece of which fell down here, and it was carried by Hanuman from Mahendragiri to Srilanka for healing the fatal wounds of Lakshmana, the brother of Rama, the epic hero. It stretches for more than a km, reaching a height of 800 feet at the highest point. It is about 11km. from Nagercoil.

Chitharal
Chitharal is a small village situated at a distance of 7 Kms., from Marthandam and 45 Kms, from Kanyakumari. It is famous for the Rock-cut temple. Hillock at Chitharal has a cave containing Rock-cut sculptures of Thirthankaras and attendent deities carved inside and outside dating back to 9th Century A.D. It was converted into Bagavathy Temple in the 13th Century A.D. Cars and Vans can go upto the foot of the hill. One has to walk for about 10 minutes to reach the temple. The Jain images have been preserved Central Archeological Survey of India

Muttom Beach
The famous beach at Muttom is located about 16 kms from Nagercoil and 32 kms from Kanyakumari. Muttom is famous for its beautiful landscaping and high rocks dipping into the sea at the beach-side. The sun set view point at Muttom is one of the most Panoramic view points in the district. Another attraction of Muttom is the century old light-house built by the British. However so far this beautiful beach has always been unsafe for the tourists since the rocks on which tourists go to see the sea view are slippery and a number of fatal accidents have occurred over the past few years. The district administration, decided to put protective stainless steel fencing across the entire dangerous areas and also to put up small open huts at the rock tops for the tourists to sit and watch the massive sea waves leisurely with protection from sun and rain. The fencing work and the small huts have already been completed to the delight of the tourists who mob the beach in hundreds during week ends. Sitting benches have also been constructed in a circle for the elders to chit-chat, relax and enjoy the sun set. Seeing the response of the tourists, the district administration has sanctioned for the construction of a toilet complex, a small shopping complex and a children's park at a cost of Rs.11.60 lakhs and there are plans to undertake sculpture - works across the rocks to add to the ambience of the area.
Sanguthurai Beach
Sanguthurai is a beautiful beach resort and is very convenient for the local population of Nagercoil. It is only about 10 kms from the city. Unfortunately no infrastructure facilities were available in this beach. The district administration has now sanctioned a project for putting up of a children's park, seating facility, open huts (Kudils) with Terracotta roofs and lighting facility at the beach at a cost of Rs.6.00 lakhs. The entire work has been completed. It is also proposed to put up a few shops for Women Self Help Groups at the site, which can provide eatables to the on coming tourists at the beach side.

Vattakottai (Circular Fort)
VATTAKOTTAI (Agasteeswaram Taluk): Vattakottai, a granite fort six kilometres north-east of Kanyakumari cape, forms the terminal of a line of ramparts known as the South Tranvancore lines built by Marthanda Varma to serve as defence for Nanjil Nadu. It is rectangular in shape and covers an area of about three and a half acres. The fort is enclosed by walls 25 to 26 feet high, including the parapet, 29 feet thick at the front, 18 feet at the corners and 6 feet at the rear. The portion running into the area is the most strongly built under the orders of De Lannoy during the reign of Mathandavarma (1729-58). About 1810 A.D. the British forces under the command of St. Leger marched into Nanjilnad through the Aramboly pass and demolished the defence lines. The small river by the side of the fort, and the green vegetation all around add to the scenery of the fort and has now become a holiday resort and picnic centre.
It is said that there is a subway or tunnel about four feet width, supposed to connect the padmanabhapuram palace. Now the tunnel has been closed. On the northern side of the fort is found a slop to being the canon from the lower to the upper part of the parapet of the fort. There is well of about 6’ diameter. The whole wall around the fort is repaired and fresh mortar is being applied. Literary or epigraphical evidences are not in store to know much about Vattakotai. However, from the evidence left by the fort itself, it may be presumed that his fort was the military base to protect the Kumari port which was a rich pearl harbour. Since the emblem of the Pandya Kings was ‘Fish’ and we find this emblem in some of the places of the fort, it can be safely concluded that the Pandya Kings had control over this fort for sometime.
Next to Vattakottai, we can see the traces of a light house in Leepuram being called so after Colonel Lee who has destroyed most of the Kadukkarai Kanyakumari Fort in 1806. This is a picnic spot, the sea is calm and suitable for bathing.
Chothavilai Beach
This beach is about 10 Kms from Kanyakumari, is one of the best natural beaches of the district. The beach has shallow water and High sand dunes on the back ground. The District Administration has through its own funds and through the funds of MPLAD scheme, put up rest shelters, kudils and a view tower over here for the benefit of tourists. The tourists can reach the beach through the newly laid coastal road which is a very beautiful drive along the sea-coast.
ULAKKAI ARUVI
Ulakkai Aruvi is a natural waterfall situated in Azhagiapandipuram village of Thovalai Taluk. Water is available in this water fall in the summer season. Many tourists come here for bathing and to enjoy the nature. The pathway to this waterfall lies in the Reserve Forest.
MUKKADAL
This is a natural dam constructed by T. Chitirai Maharaja. If supplies water to Nagercoil Municipality and it is also proposed to get water from here for Suchindrum and Kanniyakumari. It is very picturesque spot and ideal for picnics by groups.
BAY WATCH (Water Theme Amusement Park), Kanyakumari
The water theme amusement park at sunset point offers a unique way to experience the exotic grandeur of Kanyakumari in its integrals. Baywatch comes up with a wholesome family entertainment saga of rapturous experience, which leaves you at a point of nonstop excitement in a thrilling and bewitching water world. Great fun styles equaling international standards keep you on the ecstatic brink of frenzy. Fun loaded rides like Bumping Car, Sky Cab, Crazy Chairs, Hot Tea Cups, Giant Wheel, Columbus, Wave pool, Milky Way, Multiple Splash, Kids Pool are some of our attractions. The location being a prominent place of national integration, by all means, Baywatch has become the abode of leisure, happiness laughter, family gatherings, etc. The search for providing unique and multiple entertainment facilities that match with international standards pave the way for introduction of India’s first Wax Museum, which is line with the Madam Tussauds Wax Museum at LondonSunrise and Sunset. Kanyakumari is the only place in mainland India where you can see both sunrise and sunset over the sea. Don't miss either of these

Mannarsala -Chakkulathukavu-Malliyur kshetra darsanam

SABARIMALA THEERTHA YATRA

our new pilgrimage tour's to Sabari mala -booking started.
from November 14th to December 24th 2008.

MANNARSALA-CHAKKULATHUKKAVU-AMBALAPUZHA PUNYA DARSANAM-

MANNARSALA-CHAKULATHUKKAVU-AMBALAPUZHA PUNYADARSANAM- ( 13th February 2010 to 14th February 2010)

Ambalapuzha Sri Krishna Temple
Ambalapuzha is 14 km south of Alappuzha town.Ambalapuzha’s fame is attributed to this temple. The 16th century-built temple is very famous in South Kerala and its prasadam (deity’s food given to devotees as a token of blessing), Palpayasam (milk kheer), more commonly known as Ambalapuzha Palpayasam is mouth-watering and very famous throughout Kerala. The deity of the temple situated on the banks of Ambalapuzha River is Sri Krishna. Ambalapuzha itself means the river of temple (ambala means temple and puzha means river). The birth of this temple is twined with fascinating stories. The Champakasseri King, Moolam Thirunal Devanarayanan, and his mentor Vilwamangalath Swamiyar while cruising in a boat in Ambalapuzha river heard music tune of a flute from the bank. They shored the boat and moved forward towards the music emanting point when they noticed a beautiful boy playing the flute sitting on a branch of a peepul tree. The religious stalwart Vishwamangalam concluded that this child is none other than divine Krishna. Both, the king and the mentor, prostrated before the child after circumambulating the tree. When they rose from the ground the child was not there. Vishwamangalm lost no time to advice the king to build a temple for Sri Krishna at the spot. A temple thus soon came up there.
There is a conflicting story behind the installed idol. The king ordered idol was not installed as the priests noticed some inaccuracies in the sculpting. Instead, an idol was borrowed from a temple and installed. This is one version. The other version is that the inaccuracies of the king orderd idol was corrected and installed the same. Let it be either way. The idol is of a smiling naughty boy. The idol was brought by a boat and the Chambakulam Boat Race in June/July is in commemoration of this. The 3 ft high idol is always seen covered in sandalwood paste.
King Devanarayanan placed his crown at the feet of Lord Krishna in this temple and dedicated his kingdom to the Lord. The last king of Devanarayanan’s dynasty placed the keys of his granary and treasury before the Lord after his defeat by Travancore.
The walls around the sanctum sanctorum are beautiful with paintings of Dasavathra (ten incarnation of Vishnu).
The main festival of the temple is the 10-day Arattu Utsavam in Meenam (March/April). Processions by several caparisoned tuskers accompanied by vadya-melams (percussion instrument musics) and performances of Velakali, a martial art form, are the main attractions. The procession ends with enchanting fireworks. During the festival devotees are offered a feast and the diners are treated with utmost honour. It is believed, Lord Krishna presents incognito to dine along with the devotees
CHAKKYLATHUKAVU
Chakkulathukavu is 18 km from Ambalapuzha on the Thiruvalla Road. The temple is in Neerattupuram, near Chakkulathukavu. The deity is Devi. This temple has a peculiar ritual performed once in a year. On this day, the first Friday of Dhanu (December/January) the priests wash the feet of female devotees who have undergone 10-day fast. This system is stemmed from the belief the female devotee visiting on this particular day is the incarnation of Devi. After washing the feet flower is showered and camphor aarti is given. As a gimmick for popularity, recently the temple authorities have started inviting female VIPs on this day.
All Fridays are important here. Every Friday the female devotees bring their relatives addicted with alcohol, drug or gambling. Once they swear, touching Devi’s sword, to renounce the habit, they automatically clutch the habit, the experienced confirm.
The elder priests here do a peculiar astrology- pronouncement based on seven betel leaves and two arecanuts brought by the devotee. The devotees stun by the accurate predictions. The priests also prescribe remedy for the ill-effects daunting the devotees.
The Pongala offering is supposedly prepared jointly by the devotees and Devi.
The Pongala is prepared by females. It is prepared in earthen pots on temporary brick stoves and deadwood pieces are used as fuel. The Pongala food is prepared by unboiled rice – either as rice kheer or as rice preparation with coconut adding no sweet agents. There will be thousands and thousands of stoves stretching out to several kilometers around the temple. The stoves are positioned in lines on either side of the roads and pathways.
The main festival is Pongala on Thrikarthika day in Vrichikam (November/December). The Ponkala literally means food offering to the deity. There is a great fascinating story behind the Ponkala. In the dense forest the temple was created by a Vedan (a tribal) and his family. They could not prepare their food in time as they were busy in temple work. Undeterred, they prayed before the Devi, and moved out to prepare the food. When they reached the spot of food preparation, they could not believe their eyes as they found the utensils full of prepared food. They realized, the food was prepared by the worldly powerful Devi. The amazed Vedan and the family prayed deeply to save them from all evils. At this moment an incognito voice pronouncing Makkale (children) the food is prepared by me, the Amma (mother), for you; I am extremely happy with your ardent devotion to me and am extremely happy; I shall always be there with my devotees.
As a finale there is a ritual of burning of Karthika stambam (pillar). The stambam is made of dried leaves of coconut tree, banana, elanhi (a tree usually found in temple compounds) and old attires and crackers.
The Pongala festival is attended by lacs and the arrangements are elaborate

Haripad Subramanya Temple
Haripad is 15 km away from Ambalapuzha. The temple built in 16th century was eaten by a fire many years later. The idol was spared by the fire. The temple was rebuilt by the Travancore king with additional shrines for some other deities in the courtyard.
This temple is very famous and attracts a good number of pilgrims. There is an interesting story surrounding the idol. A Brahmin in the village had a dream to the effect there is an idol of Subrmanya in the nearby Kandaloor lake. The Brahmin along with the village chieftain traveled criss-cross in a boat in the lake to locate the idol. Ultimately they spotted a flower scattered spot where, they guessed, is the idol. Divers searched the spot and located a four-armed idol. The idol was brought to the shore and installed it after constructing a temple. The event of bringing the idol from the lake is celebrated annually with a boat race in the Payippad River on the 4th day of Onam in Chingam (August/Septrember). The temple celebrates two festivals – Chithira festival in April and Avani festival in August/September. Both the festivals are larger crowd pullers

Sree Nagaraja Temple At Mannarsala
One of the most important centre of snake worship in Kerala, temple situated 35 Km away from Alappuzha located near Haripad on the Alappuzha-Kollam route. The temple is surrounded by about 16 acres of thick green forest. The King of Serpents is the diety. On the asterism, 'Ayillam' of each Malayalam month, the 'Sarpakalam Pattu' is conducted. This ritual involves drawing the figure of the Serpent God on the floor using vegetable colours.
A two day festival is celebrated by the temple with great religious fervour. On the second day by noon, the 'Ezhunnallathu' (royal outing) ceremony is conducted when the idol of 'Nagaraja' is carried by the priests and taken round the temple in a procession. A large crowd of devotees with 'urili' (vessel) and colourful parasols participate in it. The entire jungle setting of the temple reverberates with the full throated chanting in praise of the Serpent God.
Thirunakkara Shiva Temple:
Situated in the centre of Kottayam town. :It is built in Kerala style architecture. The ‘koothambalam’ – traditional temple theater – is one of the best in Kerala. The paintings on the wall are commendable
Bhagawathi Temple at ChottanikkaraChottanikkara is located at 15 km away from Ernakulam and 3 km from Thripunithura. This shrine is one amongst the most reckoned in Kerala. Goddess Rajarajeshwari more commonly known as Bhagawathi is the deity. Many have experienced the power of this deity to cure mental disorders.
There is wide spread belief that Goddess Mookambika of Kollur in coastal Karnataka visits Chottanikkara daily during early morning rituals as she is pleased with the rituals here. The goddess returns to Kollur in time to accept the rituals there. Based on this belief, most of the devotees assemble just before the start of early morning pooja (ritual). During Sabarimala season this temple is overcrowded by pilgrims to Sabarimala.
Kuzhikkavu Bhagawathi, Shiva, Ayyappa and Ganapathy are the sub-deities here.
Mahadevar TempleTemples of Kerala

The Ettumaanur Mahadevar temple is one of the most celebrated Shiva temples in Kerala, and is on the Ernakulam Tiruvanandapuram railroad south of Kottayam.

Legend has it that Khara (of the Khara Dhooshana demon duo) of Ramayana worshipped Shiva at Chidambaram and obtained from him three Shivalingams and journeyed holding one shivalingam on each hand and one in his mouth. He sojourned at Vaikom, and set the shivalingam on the ground and to his dismay realized that it had gotten rooted to the ground. Kharan therefore installed the other two shivalingams at Ettumanur and Kaduthuruthy. It is believed that visiting these triad of temples in a single day is of great significance.
Legend also has it that Khara installed an image of Krishna in the north western corner of this temple.
There are several other legends associated with this shrine. Legend has it that Shiva created a deer and set it to play in an island; when Parasurama reclaimed land from the sea, this island is said to have become part of what is Kerala now. The isle of the deer is referred to as Harinadweepa. The malayalam word for deer is Maan, and hence this place came to be known as Maanoor.
Legend has it that this is a very ancient shrine and that it was in wilderness thanks to a curse of Lomaharsha rishi, a disciple of Vyasa, and that worshipped was restored here by Vilwamangala swamy who is associated with several other temples in Kerala. Inscriptions testify to renovations that were carried out in the 16th century CE here.
The temple: The west facing temple here has a circular sanctum covered with a conical copper plated roof crowned with a kalsam. The mukhamandapam in front of the temple bears two images of Nandi, one of stone and another of metal. Although there is no shrine to Parvati, the rear of the sanctum is revered as Parvati's shrine.
A rectangular circumambulatory passage surrounds the sanctum. The sanctum bears wood carvings of superior workmanship portraying legends from the Ramayana and the Bhagavata puranam.
Also of great workmanship are the murals on the western entrance to the temple; mention must be made of the painting of the dance of Shiva.
There are also shrines to Saasta, Ganapati and Dakshinamurthy in the temple.
A golden staff, visible from a distance is in front of th e shrine.
At the entrance to the temple is a large metal lamp; visitors make offerings of oil and the soot that collects from the burning of the oil is believed to have medicinal value.
Festivals: The 10 day long festival in the malayala month of Kumbham concluding on the Ardra asterism is the temple's annual festival.
On the eigth day of the festival, the processional image of the deity is taken to a specially decorated site in the north east corner of the temple, when thousands throng to visit the shrine.
On this day, a unique treasure of the temple (offered by the Maharaja of Travancore) - the seven and a half elephants (ezhara pon aana) representing the eight dik paalakas or the guardians of the cardinal directions are displayed. Seven of these golden elephants are two feet in height while the eighth is a foot high.
The Abode of Grace

The Malliyoor Sree MahaGanapathy Temple in Kottayam district, Kerala is the sacred abode of the all - encompassing divine presence of Lord Ganesha and also a coveted destination of lakhs of pilgrims from all over India. The endearing elephant - headed Lord Ganesha, the son of Siva and Parvathy, enjoys prime place among all the gods in the Hindu pantheon. He is Parabrahma incarnate, the God of Wisdom and Learning, the Remover of all Obstacles and is worshipped first, any other god. The Malliyoor Sree MahaGanapathy Temple is in comparable in the conception of the presiding deity as Vaishnava Ganapathy, with a young Sree Krishna seated on the lap of Lord Ganesha. This unique and powerful infusion of the Vaishnava spirit in the Ganesha idol is the supreme achievement of the devoted penance of the much-revered main priest of the temple, Brahmasree Bhagavathahamsam Malliyoor Sankaran Nampoothiri. Today thousand of devotees flock to the feet of Vasihnava Ganapthy at Malliyoor seeking eternal salvation form the bonds of Karama and solace from the evils of Kaliyuga. HistoryThe Malliyoor Maha Ganapathy Temple is believed to have come into existence much before the Perumals exercised their sway over the southern peninsula. The pre-Perumal historical records have many references to the importance of this place of worship.
The story goes that a deeply devout and saintly Brahmin brought the idol over here from an unidentified and unspecified pilgrim centre some where in the North, centuries back. The family-deities Anthimahakalan and Yakshi worshipped by the once-powerful administrators of the temple also find a place inside the temple complex. The temple is jointly administrated by two families, the Aryappally mana and Vadakkedam Mana. In course of time the two families were merged to Malliyoor and the Temple when went through a period of misfortune and penury, the Malliyoor family bearing a brunt of it. But they worshipped Lord Ganapathy with unwavering devotion even when the temple was without a root over the sanctum sanctorum and the family having a hand to mouth extensive.
For quite some time in the past there was no structure except the sanctum sanctorum. A thatched shed served as the temple kitchen. But when that was eaten away by the elements the priest concerned cooked rice in his home kitchen and brought it to the temple as offering. This arrangement too later crumbled along with the priest's own adobe. For about seven years after that, the temple was opened only once in a month to light the lamp and offer cooked rice to the deity.
Once again a small house came up for the priest on a piece of plot donated by Brahmasri Kaithamattom Nampoothiri. Finally, the priestly family managed to have a hand-to-mouth existence, but the temple continued to be in its dilapidated state.
In 1136 Brahmasri Sanakaran Nampoothiry's father passed away. In the following months of his penance and abstinence, the renovation of the temple was taken up under the supervision of 'Uamplakkad' Nampoothiry, as per the architectural specifications of Palakkad Krishna Varier. The sanctum sanctorum thus got a roof. A fairly wide structure came up around the sanctum sanctorum. A kitchen, pantry and a short wall enclosing all these was soon completed. Then the work languished. These frequent interruptions might be indicative of a divine message. Astrologers were called in. It was found that Durga was demanding a place for herself in the temple. So a separate abode was erected for Durga Devi. Propitiatory and other traditional rituals were performed in the following days.
The pious Sankaran Nambpoothiri then prostrated himself at the feet of supreme deity of grace and bounty, Sree Guruvayoorappan. He started to recite the holy text, 'Sree Maha Bhagavatham' in front of Ganesha and offering to his Lord. His intense prayer and the total supplication resulted in the infusion of the spirit of Mahavishnu into the idol of Ganesha. It was the finding of astrology.
The deity here is conceptualised as Beeja Ganapathi, the trunk twisted rightward and carries on its tip a lemon, the hands hold an axe, a rope, a horn and a laddu, cradling little Sree Krishna in his lap. The Vaishnava spirit permeates the entire atmosphere.
Mahadevar TempleTemples of Kerala

The Vaikom Mahadevar temple is one of the most celebrated Shiva temples in South India. Vaikom is located at a distance of 33km south of Ernakulam and 40 km north of Kottayam on the railroad between Ernakulam and Tiruvanandapuram.
Offering of prathal, or food is a form of worship here. In ancient times, feasts used to be cooked and offered to all devotees; Vaikom Mahadever is also referred to as Annadaana Prabhu.
The Deity: Shiva - Vaikom Mahadevar manifests himself as Dakshinamurthy in the panthirathi pooja in the morning. He is worshipped as Kiraata Murthy during the Uchcha pooja at noon and as Satchitananda in the evening.
Legend has it that Khara (of the Khara Dhooshana demon duo) of Ramayana worshipped Shiva at Chidambaram and obtained from him three Shivalingams and journeyed holding one shivalingam on each hand and one in his mouth. He sojourned at Vaikom, and set the shivalingam on the ground and to his dismay realized that it had gotten rooted to the ground. Kharan therefore installed the other two shivalingams at Ettumanur and Kaduthuruthy. He entrusted the shivalingam at Vaikom to the care of Vyagrapadar. Vaikom therefore acquired the name Vyagrapuri which ultimately became Vaikom for short.
At Triprayar, north of here (near Thrissur), Rama is held in worship as the slayer of the demon Khara.
Legend has it that Shiva appeared in front of Vyagrapadar under a peepul tree, south of the eastern gateway on the morning of Ashtami in the dark fortnight in the month of Scorpio. This incident is commemorated in the annual Vaikattu Ashtami festival.
Legend also has it that Parasurama, the incarnation of Vishnu built this temple and set up the worship protocol here.
It is believed that the Tiruvilaiyaadal associated with the tamil saint poet Manikkavaacakar, where jackals were miraculously transformed into horses - occurred here.
The temple: The elliptical sanctum here is covered with a copper plated roof crowned with a golden kalasam. The height of the wall of the sanctum is just about a third of that of the roof. The building dates back to the 11th century, and the wooden panels and the murals date back to the 15th and 18th centuries respectively. The mukhamandapam in front of the sanctum houses the nandi. The wall of the inner prakaram is lined with columns of lamps (vilakkumaatam) on a wooden framework. The flagstaff rises to a height of 317 feet. The Uttuppura or the dining hall is on the northern side of the sanctum. There is a shrine to Pananchikkal Bhagawati in the outer prakaram.
Festivals: As mentioned before, the annual festival is celebrated in the month of scorpio, and the twelfth day of the festival is Vaikkattu Ashtami. Each day witnesses special rituals, elephant processions, music and dance performances etc. The Ashtami festival involves a special darshan in the wee hours of the morning under the peepul tree, a feast at noon and a procession at night from the nearby Udayanapuram Subramanya temple. This procession involves the meeting of Shiva and Subramanya in celebration of Subramanya's victory over the demons. Deities from nearby temples also converge at this procession amidst elephants, lighted torches and musicians. The two kilometer long procession takes about 3 hours to complete and it reaches the northern gate of the Vaikom temple at about 130 AM. Subramanya and Vaikom Mahadevar then circumambulate the temple and then a touching farewell is enacted as Subramanya returns to Udayanapuram.
The aaraattu festival on the 13th day takes place at a tank, near the temple, and the deity from Udayanapuram participates in it too.
No poojas are carried out on the Ashtami festival inside the temple as it is believed that Mahadeva fasts, feeds guests and prays for his son's victory in the battle against demons.
Kaduthuruthy Mahadeva Temple The temple is situated mid-way between Vaikom and Ettumanoor. Kaduthuruthy is a small town, the northern and western parts of which are spread over by Vembanattu backwaters. During the tenth century this place was under the administration of Pandya Kings. However, it was divided into Vadakkumkoor and Thekkumkoor. Kaduthuruthy became the headquarters of Vadakkumkoor dynasty. The rulers were the supporters of Zamorins. When Marthanda Varma conquered Vadakkumkoor, he showed respect to the rulers by giving them pensions. Gradually this dynasty was declined and removed from the pages of Kerala history.
As it has been mentioned earlier in this book when describing the history of the Vaikom temple, Kharasura had got three idols of which the one he took in his mouth, had been placed at Kaduthuruthy, marking the origin of a temple on the top of a small hill. Now this temple comes under the Travancore Devaswom Board.
The Sivalinga of the temple faces to the east. It is the smallest of the three Sivalingas, only 3” tall. The mandapam in front of the shrine has got an array of wood carvings. The story of ‘Karthaveerarjuneeyam' has been carved and displayed here with architectural elegance. About 300 years ago most part of the temple was consumed by fire, but the mandapam, with its splendid carvings, was remained unhurt. While the fire was spreading out, the chief priest clasped the idol at his breast and cried aloud, but the flames of fire had put an end to his life. An idol of this chief priest had been erected at the northern part of the shrine in order to commemorate the event. At the southern side there stands an idol of Sree Ganapathy. Besides, Dharma Sastha, Goddess Durga had also been placed at the temple.

ALATHIYUR -KADAMPUZHA PUNNYA DARSANAM.

New Temple Package- Alathiyur-Kadampuzha- Dated 1st october 2008

ALATHIYUR HUNUMAN TEMPLE
H = Humility (Serenity and Simplicity) A = Administration (Truth and Ethics)N = Nobility (Sincerity and Loyalty)U = Understanding (Knowledge and Respect)M = Mindful (Kindness and Compassion)A = Accomplishment (Strength and Determination)N = Nishkama-karma (Selfless Service to All)
The Hanuman Temple is located at Alathiyur 12 km from Tirur in the Malappuram district of Kerala. According to legend, the Purumthrikkovil idol of Hanuman was consecrated by Sage Vasastha 3000 years ago in 1000 BC. Over the years the custodians of the temple were Alathiur Grama Namboodiri, Sri Vittath Raja, and the Zamorin Raja of Korikode
Legend related to Alathur Hanuman Temple
Even though the main deity of the temple is Sri Rama this temple is famous and known as a Hanuman temple. Sage Vasatha installed the temple at the place where Sri Rama gives instructions to Sri Hanuman before his going to Lanka in search of Sita. The idol of Hanuman is adjacent to the main temple of Sree Rama. Sree Hanuman stands leaning forward as if to hear his master’s words with a club in his hand. The temple of Sri Lakshmanan is situated a few metres outside the main temple. It is believed Sri Lakshmanan was keeping away allowing Sri Rama and Hanuman to talk confidentially. Here there is a platform commemorating Sri Hanuman’s jump over to Lanka over the sea. In one end of the platform there is a Long Granite stone (Symbolizes the Sea) where devotees run on the platform and jump over the long Granite Stone. It is said that doing this jump in this temple brings great luck, health, long life, and wealth to all who perform this jump. Sri Hanuman of Alathiyur not only eliminates all mental agonies and fear of his devotees but fulfils all their desires.
Special Pooja: Neyvedyam - Aval. Ph: 0494-2430666

KIRATHA MOORTHY TEMPLE-THIRUVEGAPURA

The Padinjarepattu Mana of Thiruvegapura is a very ancient Nambudiri Illam (House). They are famous astrologers, experts in Vettila Jyothisham - prediction using betel leaves and Poojas and Homams .From the distant past they are all Upasakas of Lord Vettekkaran. The mana is situated near the bank of Thutha puzha, (River Thutha) surrounded with small hills and green forests, 5 Kilometer away on Valanchery Pattambi Road in Palakkad district The name of the Bust stop is "Ambala Nada" ( The Temple gate of Thiruvegapur Siva Temple).The nearest railway station is at Kuttippuram and Airport is Calicut.The nearest Towns are Valanchery and Pattambi. Thousands of devotees are coming every year to worship Lord Vettekkaran Temple inside this Mana.
During the 14 year stay of Pandavas in the forest, As advised by Veda Vyasa , Arjuna went to Himalays to practice austerities for the purpose of getting new weapons from the Devas. On his way he met his father Indra. Indra advised him to do penance unto Siva. Arjuna did penance to obtain grace of Siva.
Siva under the guise of a hunter (Kirathan) and accompanied by his divine Spouse Umadevi, entered the forest in pursuit of game. The chase grew fast and furious, and presently a wild boar started charging Arjuna, who shoot an arrow into it with his Gandiva at this same moment that the Hunter Siva transfixed it with a shaft from Pinaka, his bow.
Arjuna shouted in loud voice " who are you?. Why are you ranging in this forest with your wife?. How dare you shoot at the game I had aimed at?"
The Hunter replied as though in contempt. "This forest, full of game, belongs to us, who live on it. You do not look tough enough to be a forester; your limbs and bearing bespeak a soft luxurious life it is rather for me to ask what are you doing here". He also added that it was his shaft that had killed the boar and that, if Arjuna thought differently, he was welcome to fight about it.
Nothing could please Arjuna better. He jumped up and showered snake-like arrows at Siva. To his amazement, they seemed to have no effect on the hunter and fell back hurt less like storm driven rain from a mountain peak. When he had no more arrows, he started to strike Siva with his bow, but the hunter seemed not to heed it and wrenched with ease the bow out of Arjuna's hand and burst into laugher. Arjuna, who had been disarmed with humiliating ease by one who seemed an ordinary hunter of the forest, was struck with amazement, almost amounting to doubt, but nothing daunted, he drew his s word and continued the combat. The sword was shivered to pieces on the hunter's adamantine frame. There was now nothing to do but to grapple with the formidable un known; but here again he was out matched. The hunter caught him in an iron clasp so close that Arjuna was quite helpless.
Worsted and over mastered, Arjuna humbly sought divine and meditated an Siva, and as he did so, a light broke on his trouble mind, and at once he knew who the hunter really was.
He fell at the feet of the lord and in a broken voice of repentance and adoration, he prayed for forgiveness. "I forgive you" said Siva smilingly and gave him back Gandiva, as well as the other weapons, of which he had been deprived. He also bestowed on Arjuna the marvelous Pauspata weapon
Arjuna's body, battered in this unequal combat, was made whole and perfect by the divine touch if the three eyed god and became a hundred fold stronger and more brilliant than before

THIRUVANAYA NAVAMUKUNDA TEMPLE

Thiruvanaya Navamukunda Temple, near Ponnani in Malappuram district is situated on the banks of the river Bharathapuzha.
Holding immense historical importance, this is the place where 'Mamangam', a grand assembly of the rulers of Kerala was held here once every 12 years, in olden times.
This extravagant festival was held for the last time in 1755 AD. Today, Thirunavaya temple is also a famous pilgrim centre.
The ten-day annual festival at the Thirunavaya Navamukunda Temple, dedicated to Navamukunda (Lord Vishnu), begins with Kodiyettam and concludes with Arattu. The last three days are the most auspicious..

Kadampuzha Bhagavathi Temple
Kadampuzha literally should mean Kadam river. The fact is otherwise; there is no river at all. The deity here is goddess Durga, who, it is believed possesses immense curative and rewarding powers. Besides thousands of pilgrims coming daily to seek blessings, hundreds of new vehicles too come here to seek blessings to ward off mishaps during their life in the roads. The idol placed in the sanctum santorum, below several stairs, is small and always flower covered.
The temple has a guest house for the convenience of devotees coming from far away places. There is a dormitory for which the charge is very nominal, Rs 20. There are ten double rooms (Rs 200), 6 deluxe rooms (Rs 350) and 2 suites (Rs 500).
Though the temple is very famous all over Kerala, there is no major festival. The only festival, if it is a festival, is on Karthika day of Malayalam month Vrichikam (November-December). During this day there is Annadhanam (food gifting) to over 10000 devotees.
aruda Temple:Located at Taripangode in Chamravattom Road. This is the only temple in India dedicated to Garuda, the carrier of Vishnu. The temple set in picturesque surroundings also accommodates a rare shrine in which Vishnu is worshipped in his Koorma (tortoise) avatar positure. The temple is ornated by golden snakes around it, presenting an impressive sight.

Navamukundan TempleLocated at Thirunavaya. This 6000-year old temple is known as Kashi of the South. The deity of the temple, on the banks of Bharatapuzha, is Lord Vishnu. It is very famous and popular for the performance of last rites for the departed. The temple became ideal for the rites as Bharatapuzha flows over the temple steps, making it very convenient to flow the rites’ remains in the water. The exquisite sculptures carved around sanctum sanctorum are splendid. Ten avatars of Lord Vishnu are carved on the top row against the wall as below the slopped roof. Just below the row sculptures depicting Lord Shiva, in his kirata (tribal) avatar, blessing Arjuna with Pashupati Astra neatly placed.
There is a structure left side of the gate which was built for the Samuthiri (Zamorin) kings to watch the cultural mega event called Mamankam once in every 12-year on the sprawling banks of Bharatapuzha. The Mamankam was originally initiated at Ponnani port as a trade fair. The event used to witness by all the rulers under Samuthiri. The people of Malappuram insist that the Mamankam was originated by a Valluvanad king who ruled that region and the Samuthiri was in fact wresting the right to conduct it. The rivalry between the two was a historical fact. There is a stage called Nilapadu Thara where the Samuthiri used to sit. His soldiers used to position around him. Valluvanadu king on his part will send his soldiers to challenge Samuthiri. The fight always was a losing one to the king. To humiliate the king, bodies of the soldiers were dumped into a well nearby. When the well overfilled with corpses an elephant was ordered to foot them down. Today this notorious well is known as Mani Kinar (Kinar in Malayalam means Well). The remains of Nilapadu Thara is reduced to a slab of stone which too is not noticeable as the weeds rest on it.

ONAM CELEBRATIONS

The celebration of Onam is a tribute to Mahabali's Sacrifice.Onam celebrations which last ten days being with a colour ful reception to King Mahabali

The Legend of King Mahabali is the monst popular and the most facinating of all lengends behind Onam. In ancinet times Kerala was rules by an asura King Mahabali who was very wise and greatly love by the people.Because of jealously , the king of gods, Indra hatched a plot to oust Mahabali. To execute the scheme Vishnu disuised humself as a Brahmin boy, Vamana and went tothe asura King Mahabali agreed to request .Vamana immediately began to grow as big as the universe and with two steps, he covered the earth , the heavens and the entire world.He looked at Mahabali to place his third step and the the king offered his head for Vamana to place his foot.Vamana pushed Mahabali down to the ground

and before he disappeared Mahabali asked vishnu for a born to come to the earth

once a year to see his people and the request granted.

The celebration of Onam is a tribute to Mahabali's sacrifice .Onam celebrations which last ten days begin with a colourful reception to King Mahabali is supposed to visit his kingdom on the 2nd aday, which is the most important day of the festival .Earthen mounds, which look somewhat like square pyramids, representing Mahabali and Vishnu are place the dung plasted courtyards and beautifully decorated with flowers.The legend isbelieved to have happend at Trikkakara , a place 10 km from Cochin on the Edapally -pookatupadi road which according to mythology was the legendary capital of King Mahabali.The Temple in Kerala withthe deity of Trikkakara Appan or Vamana Murthy who is Lord Vishn u humseld in disguise.

Onam Rituals

Religious and traditional people of Kerala sincerly follow all the customs and traditions set by their anceitors.A number of cultural programmes dances , songs and feasts , mark the festival.festivities of Onam continue for ten long days off all these days most important onces are the first day, Atham and the last or tenth day Thiruvonam.

Nalambalam Theertha Yatra

Nalambalam is a set of four hindu temples in Kerala. In malayalam, Nalu means four and Ambalam means Temple. These are the temples for the Rama brothers of Ramayana.Visiting nalambalam is considered to be a sacred event during the Malayalam month of Karkidakam

Nalambalam Yatra is the visit of four temples of Rama brothers. It starts with visiting the Rama temple in Triprayar and ends with Shatrughna Temple in payammal of Thrissur district. There is a temple for Lakshmana at Moozhikkulam and for Bharata at irinjalakkuda.

Nalambalam Yathra starts with the visit to Sree Rama temple at Triprayar and ends with the visit to Payammal Sree Shatrughna Temple. People use to visit a temple of Lord Krishna named Elambalakkattu at Edakulam while going to the Shathrugna temple

The first temple to be attended is the Thriprayar –where Lord Siva is the deity-see the “Nirmalyam” at 3 AM there, and proceed to Iringalakuda to attend the “usha pooja” at the Koodal Manikya temple where Bharathan –a rare deity in temples is installed, then “Utcha pooja at Moozhikkulam Lekshmana Perumal temple comes as the third, then the fourth and last temple at Payammal Shatrukhna temple to attend “Deeparadhana” there.
The completion of this blissful journey seeing four great temples all rich in history and interesting mythologies at a stretch and attending the poojas and rituals performed there will be an experience for the whole life. At this time when vehicles are popular even old people can perform it without much difficulty

Thriprayar temple at Thriprayar near Thrissur

The idol of Sree Rama was installed at this temple by the side of the river “Thivra” (Thiru purayar) meaning sacred river. The origin of the river is described in a beautiful mythology. Lord Mahavishnu during his “Vamana incarnation” visited this place and he found no water to wash his legs as the whole place was dry and desolate.

Vamana took the water from his “kamandalu” (a small round vessel used by sanyasis to carry water) and poured the water to wash his legs, that source of water never went dry but kept on flowing as the Thiru Purayar or the Thriprayar (river of divine source) as it is called now

Koodalmanikyam Temple

Koodalmanikyam Temple is the only Hindu temple in India where Bharata (Lord Sangameshwara), the brother of Sree Rama is worshiped. This beautiful ancient temple is situated in Irinjalakuda a small town in Trissur district of Kerala state, south India.

The speciality of this temple is that there is only one place of worship, even Ganapathy is not be found inside the temple. Usually all big temples in India will have more than one deity inside the temple, especially Sree Ganapathy

Lekshmana Temple of Thirumoozhikulam

The deity of Lekshmana is also a rarity. It is situated at Moozhikulam between Alwaye and Mala. The mythology behind the name of this place goes like this. Once upon a time on the banks of river Poorna there an old Sanyasi by name Haritha Maharshi lived to undergo penance and meditation.
Lord Mahavishnu got impressed by the dedication of the yogi and appeared before him. That was the beginning of the “Kali yuga” (as per the Hindu calendar of all the yuagas Kaliyuga is the last one and that is present yuga in which we all are living) and the advices given by Mahavishnu were the ideal ways to lead life in this kali yuga.

These advices are said to be “thiru mozhi” meaning sacred words. And the place got its name as “thirumozhi kalam” –kalam meaning a stage. Later as years passed by thirumozhikalam became “Thirumoozhikulam”.

The Thirumoozhikualam Lekshmana Perumal temple had a superior status and it had a command over the other local temples. It attracted most of the Tamil Vaishnavite pilgrims who visited ancient Kerala. The temple had a bylaw by name “Moozhikulam katcha” which applied to all other temples of Kerala

Shatrughna Temple

The Shatrughna Temple is situated at Payammal, which is 6 km from the Koodalmanikyam temple at Irinjalakuda in Thrissur District of Kerala in India. This is one of the few temples in India that is dedicated to Lord Shatrughna

WAYANAD

The natural scenic beauty of Wayanad and its rich natural resources offer several opportunities for adventure tourism. The hills rocks and valley which make the very unique character of Wayanad provide a lot for catering to the ever increasing demand for adventure tourist.
Wayanad, One of the fourteen districts in Kerala (India) is situated in an elevated picturesque mountainous plateau in Western Ghats. It lies between north latitude 11degree 26’28’’ and 11degree 48’22’’ and east longitude 75 degree 46’38’’ and 76 degree 26’11’’. The name Wayanad has been derived from the expression 'Vayal nadu' - the village of paddy fields. When the state of Kerala was formed in 1956, Wayanad was part of Kannur district. Later South Wayanad was added to Kozhikode district and then on November 1, 1980 North and South Wayanad joined together to form the present Wayanad district.This mountain district is in many ways the most picturesque in the state, with its rolling hills covered with tropical rainforest. Wayanad also contributes richly to its fortunes, thanks to the flourishing cultivation of many spices, as well as Tea, Coffee and Cocoa. Wayanad is situated at a height of 700 to 2100m above sea level and is home to many species of animal and plant life. Temperatures range from 12 to 25 degrees centigrade. This district also has the added advantage of linking Kerala with the golden triangle of South India : Bangalore, Mysore and Ooty. This high altitude district is characterised by the cultivation of perennial plantation crops and spices. The major plantation crops include coffee, tea, pepper, cardamom and rubber. Coffee based farming system is a notable feature of Wayanad. Coffee is grown both as pure crop and as mixed crop along with pepper. Pepper is grown largely along with coffee in the north eastern parts of the district, especially in Pulpally and Mullankolly areas. Coffee in Wayanad (66,999 ha.) shares 33.65 per cent of the total cropped area in the district and 78 per cent of the coffee area in the state. Other major crops are rubber(63,015 ha.), coconut(59,452 ha.), cardamom (38,348 ha.), tea (31,792 ha.) cassava and ginger. A recent increase in the area under coconut cultivation is noticed in the lower elevations. Paddy is cultivated in 22,772 hectares of land. The rice fields of Wayanad are in the valleys formed by hillocks and in majority of paddy lands, only a single crop is harvested. Ginger cultivation in Wayanad has also substantially increased in recent times and the ginger produced is mainly marketed in the form of green ginger. Homestead farming assumes importance in this district. The average size of holdings are 0.68 ha. A variety of crops including annuals and perennials are grown in these small holdings. The crops include coconut, arecanut, pepper, vegetables, tuber crops, drumstick, papaya, etc. and fruit trees like mango and jack. The crop patterns/crop combinations prevelant in this district are not based on any scientific norms. Therefore scientific cropping patterns suitable for the agro-ecological situation is to be recommended.

BANASURA SAGAR DAM

This is the largest earth dam in India .The topography here is such that many islands will be formed in the upstream of the dam when the dam is full. These isalnd with the background of the Banasura hill will provide a hyponotizing sight to tourists.

CHEMBRA PEAK
The hills, rokcs and valleys which contribute tothe very unique charachter of Wayanad provide a lot for adventure tourism .Trekking to the Chembra peak is a risky mountaineering endeavor, Chembra peak, the highest hill in Wayanad , near Meppady town. Trekking to the top of this peak takes almost a day .Toursists can also stay one or two days at the top of the peak in temporary camps.

EDAKKAL CAVE

This location of breath taking beauty is three kilometres from Ambalavayal which is 25kms from kalpetta.The edakkal cave in the Ambukuthy mountain is not a cave in the real sense ,as stated in the India Antiquary and quoted in the district Gazetter , Kozhikode it is only a cleft about 96ft.long and 22 ft wide in the rock .It is a fissure made by a corner of rock .It is a fissure made by a corner of rock splitting off from the main body due to some natural causes .The depth of both the cleft and fissure is 30ft what makes it a cave to the ordinary observer is the fact that in the other portion of the large cleft, an enormous tock , weighing several tones, has fallen forming a roof over large part of it.The rock wall contains some interesting carvings which represent human and animal figures and objects of human use and symbols.These carvings speak of a highly civilized people of pre-historic age and inspires the archeologists and historians to rewrite the history of wayanad and kerala as whole.

Kuruva Island

The Kuruva island 950 acre 3s of ever green forest on the tributesof east flowing river Kabani,is an ideal picnic spot, far away from the disturbances of city life.The island in unihanited.Rare species of birds ,orchids and herbs are the sovereigns of this supernal kingdom .It is 17 kilomters east ofManathavady and 40 kms north west of Sulthan Bathery.

Lakkidi

One of the highest locations in Wayanad, Lakkidi also commands a picturesque scenery .It is about 58kms north east of Kozhikode and 5 kms south of Vythiri.Lakkidi , the gatway of Wayanad, lies a top Thamarassery. a ghat pass at an elevation of 700m above mean sea level .The lofty mountain peaks , the gurging stream. luxuriant vegetation and the birds eye view of the deep valley on the south, with its winding roads, are breath taking.The 12kms long journey from Adivaram to Lakkidi through ghat road with nine hairpin bends amidst thick
forest , is a facinating experience.

Muthanga wild life sabctuary

Muthanga , which is 16 kms east ofSulthan Bathery, is located vert near to the Karnataka boarder, Wild forests covering an area of 345 sq kms from the Muthanga wild life Sanctuary; the biggest aboad of wild animals in Malabar.Elephant spotted bear etc, are found in this sanctuary .The forest department has facilites for providing elephant rides to tourists here.

Pakshipathalam

In the Brahmagiri hills at Thirunelli, is a Challenging tourists spot for anh
adventure seeking tourist.To reach Pakhipathalam seventeen kilometers have to be covered through wild forest .The deep rock caves, formed amonth the thick blocks of rocks at the northern top end of Brahmagiri , are the abode of various birds and wild beasts.

Pookot Lake

It is a natuaral fresh water lake brimmed with evergreen mountains .The weather here is salacious; the scenic beauty hypnotizing and the nature , unspoiled ,Pookot Lake tourist resort in Vythiri is the most sort after toursit spot of Wayanad.This is an aquarium and a green house here.Boating facilities also are available.

Sentinel Rock Water Fall

This waterfall is at Vellarimala village near Chooralmala in Meppadi Panchayat.It is a picnic spot as well as a trekking centre .The sentinel rock, a rock of morethan 200m in height is ideal for rock climbing.

Soochippara Waterfall

The waterfalls at Soochippara near Meppadi is really a treasure of nature , yet to be discovered .The stretches of waterfalls ranging at places from 100 to 300 feet height is a treat to the eyes .the pool below provides for water rafting swimming , bathing , etc.
Thirunellveli Temple
Situated 29kms north east of Manathavady under the Brahmagiri hills in the reserve forests.

Famous temples in Kerala

Guruvayur Temple.

Located 29 km north-west of Thrissur District in God's Own country Kerala, Guruvayur is one of the most important pilgrimage centres of South India.Guruvayur is alos called the Bhoolokavaiunta- the heaven on Earth!

The Square Sreekovil is the sacred sanctum of the temple , housing the main deity of Lord Krishna ,an incarnation of Lord Maha vishnu .It is at this temple that Melpathu Narayana Bhattathiri composed his well known Sanskrit devotional poem Narayaneeyam .The temple is renowned for its healing powers .Several offerings are made to the deity here for the simple Archana (offering of flowers) to the expensive and elaborate Udayastamana Pooja or Thulabharam whre a devotee is weighed against offering of bananas , sugar jaggery or coconuts .Guruvayur is the site for weddings ceremony of a child .Thsi is probably the only site for serveral wedings and Annaprasanam th first feeding ceremony of child.

With in the temple, tehre are also the idols of Ganapathy, Sree Ayyappa and Edathedathy Kavil Bhagavathy. Only Hindus are allowed inside the temple .The walls of the sanctum sanctorum are inalaid with exquisite mural painting s and carvings .The eastern nada is the main entrance to the shrine.

Just is front of the temple there is a huge tower of light,It has thirteen discs including basement oandis 24 feet in height .There are for Deepasthambams made of brass, inside th temple .One at northern wing was smashed by the Gajarajan Kesavan .The eastern tower , Kizhakke Gopuram (eastern tower) is 33 feet and atinjhare Goupuram (western tower ) is 27 feet in height .

In the chuttambalam (outer enclosure) isa the tall 33.5 m high plated wajasthambam (flag post) tehre is also a tm hgih dispastambham (pillar of lamps) , withits thirteen circular receptacles, which provide a truly gorgeous spectacle when lit.The temple is dedicated to Krishna known here as Guruvayurappan or the Lord of Guruvayur.