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Somnath Mahadev Jyotirling Temple in Somnath Gujarat -Among One of 12 Jyotirlinga in India -Live Darshan

Here is Some Information about Mahadev Jyotirling Temple in Somnath Gujarat India. 

Location : In Prabhas Kshetra near Veraval in Saurashtra, Gujarat
Address  :  Shree Somnath Trust,Somnath Prabhas Patan -
Pin code : 362 268
District : GIRSO MNATH, Gujarat.
Built in : about 7 Century
Built by : Morden temple built by Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel
Dedicated to : Lord Shiva
Significance : One of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva
Photography: Not allow
Entry: Free
Live Darshan: Click Here
Festivals: Maha Shivratri
Visiting Timing: 30 Mins
Architectural style: Hindu temple architecture
Best time to visit: between October to March
Timing : .Darshan  from 6:00 am to 9:00 pm and the
Aarti timing is 7:00 am, 12:00 Noon and 7:00 pm.
Light & Sound show: Ticket Cost is Rs 25/- per head and Half Ticket is Rs 15/-
Official Website : http://www.somnath.org/
email : somgh 11@gmail.com

More Information about Mahadev Jyotirling Temple

Somnath temple, a highly admired temple, is one of the main 12 Shiva temples in India. Wonderfully adorned Jyotirlinga with flowers, silver and gold beautification is a special attraction in this temple. The aarati puja at this temple is rejuvenating and is best for spiritual enlightenment. Ringing of bells, beating drums and cymbals make the occasion reverberating with Shiv Bhajans. Somnath Temple stands as a symbol of rich cultural heritage of India. The mention of this ancient temple has been made in the scriptures like 'Rig Veda' of the Hindu origin. The term Somnath suggests 'the protector of Moon God'. Lord Shiva is depicted here in the form of a Jyotirlinga (linga of light), as the protector. The incredible temple of Somnath is called as 'the Shrine Eternal' since, the temple has been shattered for not less than six times and every time, it has been reconstructed. It is advised by the Somnath Temple management that dresses such as mini-skirts, revealing tops, shorts, etc. should be avoided. Smoking is not allowed inside and around the temple premises.

Legends of  Somnath Mahadev Jyotirling Temple
Somnath Temple has a legend behind its establishment. It is believed that Lord Chandra (Moon God) was very proud of his beauty. Due to this reason, he was cursed by his father-in-law Daksha, to get smaller. In order to get rid of this curse, Moon God prayed to Lord Shiva at Prabhas. Lord Shiva became happy with the penance of the Moon and reduced the curse to an extent. This incident led to the periodic waning of moon.

History of Somnath Mahadev Temple

Maintaining the original site, the present temple is said to have built for the seventh time. The first temple of Somnath is regarded as a structure in Gold, made by Moon God himself. In the 7th century, Somnath Temple was reconstructed by Maitraka kings of Vallabhi in Gujarat. The second structure was destroyed by the Arab governor of Sind by the name of Junayad in 725. Again in 815, the third structure was built by Nagabhata II, who was a Pratihara King.

This structure was erected out of red sandstone. In 1024, the temple was raided by Mahmud Ghazni, who took camel-loads of jewels and valuables from here. The Paramara King Bhoj of Malwa and the Solanki King Bhima of Gujarat (Anhilwara) took the initiative to rebuild the temple during 1026-1042. For the fifth time, the wooden structure was replaced with a stone structure by Kumarpal.
Consequently, the temple was destroyed in 1297 by the Sutanat of Delhi and once again in 1394. The last attack was made by the Mughal Emperor, Aurangzeb in 1706. The present temple was built in 1995 by Shree Somnath Trust in the company of the Government of India. Today, Somnath Temple is under the maintenance of Shree Somnath Trust.

Architecture of Somnath Temple

The seven-storied structure of Somnath is tall to 155 feet. Constructed in the Chalukya style of architecture, Somnath Temple reflects the expertise of the Sompuras that are master masons of Gujarat. The temple is sited in such a manner that no mass of land can be seen from Somnath seashore till Antarctica. This information is presented in an inscription, written in Sanskrit, on the Arrow-Pillar of the sea-protection wall at the temple.
In the words of Dr. Rajendra Prasad (the first president of India), "Somnath Temple signifies that the power of creation is always greater than the power of destruction". The great history and religious importance of Somnath temple attracts pilgrims as well as tourists from India and abroad.

Troubled times and Hindu Resilience in rebuilding the Somnath Temple

This grand temple of Somanath came under the attack of the Muslims several times. In the year 722, Junamad, the Sindh Subedar attacked it for the first time and looted innumerable items from its treasure.
The beautiful statue of Somanath, can be seen from the center because of the miraculous magnetic power. Ghajni Mohammed, destroyed this statue on Friday, the 11th of May 1025 AD. From then onwards, Ghajni Mohammed came to be known as the “Statute Destroyer” (Iconoclast). On that day, he plundered and looted a treasure worth 18 crores.
In 1297 AD, Allauddin Kkhiji sent his Sardar Altaf Khan to Somanath on a mission of destroying and putting down the Somanath Mandir. The Somanath Temple was subjected to series of attacks starting in 1479 AD by Mohammad Begada, Mujaffar Shah, II, in 1503 AD, and finally by Aurangazeb, known to be the most intolerant towards other religions, in 1701 AD, where in, the temple was totally destroyed, plundered and looted in a most horrible way. A large number of people were killed mercilessly and a lot of money stolen.
 
In 1783 AD Sadhvi Alalya devi Holkar, a great devotee of Siva, built a new temple for Somanath after India become independent, the lion of Gujarat, Sardar Vallabhai Patel renovated the Somanath Temple on the advice of Kakashaheb Gadgil of Maharashtra with its revived Indian architectural beauty for which it became an unique example. It drew the attention of the world.
The Somanath Jyotir Linga statue was reinstated (Pran Pratishta) on Friday the 11th May 1951 at 9.46 A.M. It was done by the then President of India, Honourable Dr. Rajendra Prasad, to the tune of the Veda chanting of Vedamurti Tarka Teertha Lakshman Shastri Joshi, in a grand manner.
This primary Jyotir Linga located in India, is the cynosure of all Indian pilgrims. It is always crowded with lakhs of devotees. A large number of Sadhus and pious men can be met there. With the offerings of devotees, the Somanath Temple’s grandeur is revived. In spite of being subjected to destruction by intolerants, the faith of Indian devotees, dedication and their love was never destroyed. Shri Somanath Jyotir Linga stands as the legendary example of the same.
The temples 15th memorial and the ancient monument located on the sea side of Kahiavad near Prabhaspattan. There are many famous mythological stories attached to them. The sun temple is the most ancient of all. There is no presiding deity in it, but the architecture of temple is so exquisite, that even by seeing the ruins one can imagine.
Saint Agastya, is supposed to have drunk the entire sea near Prabhasapattan. Mythological heroes like Janamejaya, Pandavas, Ravana are supposed to have visited Prabhasapattan Teerth. In the month of Magha (sometime in February) on the day of Shivaratri, Somanath Jyotir Linga festival is celebrated with great aplomb.

Nearest Visiting Places  

Shree Purshottam Temple- 500 Mtr
The Gitamandir -500 mtr
Laxminarayan mandir- 500 mtr
Triveni Sangam - 500 mtr
Shashibhushan Mahadev Temple
Goloke Dham
Kameshwar Mahadev Temple
Hinglaj Mata Gufa


Room Booking : Click Here



Central Booking office For General Enquiry on Guest House Room Booking

Mobile No : +91-94282 14914 (8 Am To 9 Pm)

email : somgh 11@gmail.com
Tanna Guest House : +91-2876-231212
Lilavati Guest House: +91-2876-233033
Maheshwari G.House:+91-2876-233130
Sagar Darshan G.H. : +91-2876-233533
 

Bhimashankar
Nageshwar
Rameshwaram
Trimbakeshwar
Vaidyanath

Video of Somnath Jyotirlinga Temple

  

Nearest Hotels and Restaurants of Somnath Jyotirlinga

  • The Fern Residency Somnath
  • Hotel Ambar
  • Lords Inn Somnath
  • Hotel Somnath Atithigruh
  • Shree Somnath Maheswari Samaj Atithi Gruh
  • Sagar Darshan - Somnath Trust
  • The Grand Daksh
  • Hotel Somnath Sagar - AC Restaurant
  • Hotel Sun Plaza
  • Blue Coriander
  • Tea Post
  • Sai Chatkazz
How to Reach Somnath Mahadev Temple

By Road: A good network of roads connects Somnath to the different important places in the state of Gujarat. The state capital Ahmadabad is 400 km away; Junagadh, Bhavnagar and Porbandar are at a distance of 85, 266 and 122 km respectively but all of them are well linked to Somnath by roads and buses ply on these road routes. In fact Bombay which is 889 km from Somnath is also connected to it by road.

By Rail : Veraval is the nearest rail head which is merely 7 km from Somnath. A special train "Somnath Express" runs from Ahmadabad to Veraval. Ahmadabad is the state capital of Gujarat and is well linked by rail not only to different places in the state of Gujarat but also to many of the prime cities in India. All you have to do is to take a train to Ahmadabad from any part of the country and then catch the corresponding train to Veraval. From Veraval, just get into a bus or else hire a car or auto to reach Somnath.

By Air:  The nearest airport is Keshod. Located at a distance of about 55 km from Somnath, this domestic airport is well connected to Mumbai. There are flights at regular intervals from Mumbai to Keshod. Mumbai is in turn well connected to all important cities in the country as well as to various other important places in the world. After reaching Keshod airport one can easily avail of any local means of transportation like bus or else hire a car to reach Somnath.

Picture Gallery of Somnath Temple











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Tirumala Tirupati Balaji (Sri Venkateswara) Temple in Tirupati Andhra Pradesh India

Here is Some Information about Tirupati Balaji Temple in Andhra Pradesh India.


 Location : Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh
Address: S Mada St, Tirumala, Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh 517504
Phone: 0877 227 7777
Architectural style: Dravidian architecture
Dedicated to: Sri Venkateswara
Built in : 300 AD
Coordinates : 21°21'59"N 70°20'28"E
Entry: Free
Photography: Not Allowed 
Also Known as: Tirupati Tirumala Balaji Temple
Famous as : World's Richest Temple
Significance : Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam
Architectural: Dravidian Architecture
Nearby cities: Junagadh, dhoraji
Famous as :World's Richest Temple
Official Website : www.tirumala.org

More Information about  Tirupati Balaji Temple

Tirupati is situated at 67-km from Chittoor in the state of Andhra Pradesh,India. Tirupati is one of the important pilgrim centres in India. The ancient and sacred temple of Sri Venkateswara is located on the seventh peak,Venkatachala (Venkata Hill) of the Tirupati Hill. This historic shrine of Sri Venkateswara is famous all over the country and attracts pilgrims from all over the country who stand in line for hours together to obtain a glimpse of the presiding deity for a few fleeting seconds.
The shrine is located on a hill at Tirumala,a cluster of seven hills known as Seshachalam or Venkatachalam with an elevation of 853m (2,800ft.) above the sea level. It is said to be the richest temple in the world. This temple is a vibrant cultural and philanthropic institution with a grand history spanning several centuries.
All the great dynasties of rulers of the southern peninsula paid homage to Lord Sri Venkateswara in this ancient shrine. The Pallavas of Kancheepuram (9th century AD),the Cholas of Thanjavur (a century later),the Pandyas of Madurai,and the kings and chieftains of Vijayanagar (14th - 15th century AD) were devotees of the Lord.
Tirupathi is a fine example of dravidian temple architecture. The 'gopuram' or tower of the Tirupati Temple shows a characteristic feature of Dravidian architecture. The 'Vimana' or Cupola over the sanctum sanctorum is covered entirely with gold plate and is known as "the Ananda Nilayam". The Shrine consists of three 'Prakarams' or enclosures. The outermost enclosure contains the 'Dhvajastambha' or the banner post and,among others,the statues of Vijayanagara king Krishnadevaraya and his consorts,and of Todarmal,the minister of Akbar.
The idol of the deity,the full figure of Lord Venkateswara or 'Venkataramana' or 'Srinivasa' or 'Balaji' has the attributes of both Vishnu and Shiva,preserving and destroying aspects of the Hindu Trinity.

History Tirupati Temple

There is ample literary and epigraphic testimony to the antiquity of the temple of Lord Sri Venkateswara.All the great dynasties of rulers of the southern peninsula have paid homage to Lord Sri Venkateswara in this ancient shrine. The Pallavas of Kancheepuram (9th century AD), the Cholas of Thanjavur (a century later), the Pandyas of Madurai, and the kings and chieftains of Vijayanagar (14th - 15th century AD) were devotees of the Lord and they competed with one another in endowing the temple with rich offerings and contributions. It was during the rule of the Vijayanagar dynasty that the contributions to the temple increased. Sri Krishnadevaraya had statues of himself and his consorts installed at the portals of the temple, and these statues can be seen to this day. There is also a statue of Venkatapati Raya in the main temple.

After the decline of the Vijayanagar dynasty, nobles and chieftains from all parts of the country continued to pay their homage and offer gifts to the temple. The Maratha general, Raghoji Bhonsle, visited the temple and set up a permanent endowment for the conduct of worship in the temple. He also presented valuable jewels to the Lord, including a large emerald which is still preserved in a box named after the General. Among the later rulers who have endowed large amounts are the rulers of Mysore and Gadwal.

After the fall of the Hindu kingdoms, the Muslim rulers of Karnataka and then the Britishers took over, and many of the temples came under their supervisory and protective control.

In 1843 AD, the East India Company divested itself of the direct management of non-Christian places of worship and native religious institutions. The administration of the shrine of Sri Venkateswara and a number of estates were then entrusted to Sri Seva Dossji of the Hatiramji Mutt at Tirumala, and the temple remained under the administration of the Mahants for nearly a century, till 1933 AD.

In 1933, the Madras Legislature passed a special act, which empowered the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams(TTD) Committee to control and administer a fixed group of temples in the Tirumala-Tirupati area, through a Commissioner appointed by the Government of Madras.

In 1951, the Act of 1933 was replaced by an enactment whereby the administration of TTDC was entrusted to a Board of Trustees, and an Executive Officer was appointed by the Government . The provisions of the Act of 1951 were retained by Charitable and Religious Endowments Act, 1966.

Tirupati  Balaji Temple Architecture

There are number of small shrines inside the premises apart from the main sanctum sanctorum. The entire temple is constructed in Dravidian style. There are three enclosures which are called 'Prakarams' and a dome on the main shrine called as ''Vimana'. Other main attraction of the temple are the statues of Vijayanagara King Krishnadevaraya and his spouse. The idol of the deity, the full figure of Lord Venkateswara or 'Venkataramana' or 'Srinivasa' or 'Balaji' has the attributes of both Vishnu and Shiva, preserving and destroying aspects of the Hindu Trinity.

The Daily Rituals

It is estimated that every day around 60000 pilgrims visit the temple everyday and on any special day, the number easily touches 200000 mark. People have to wait in long queues to get a view of the deity completely ornamented from tip to toe. Devotees have to take a dip in the Pushkarini tank, the waters of which are considered sacred and highly praised in the Puranas before entering the temple. The day starts with the suprabhata darshanam as early as 3 AM and ends with the ekanta seva around 1 AM when the Lord is put to bed in a velvet mattress spread over a swing cot suspended by gold chains.

Festivals at Tirupati
 
The annual festival, Brahmotsavam is celebrated with great pomp and festivity for nine days in the months of September. The festival attracts pilgrims from all parts of India and abroad. The fifth and the ninth day holds the Garudostavam and the Rathotavam festivals respectively.

Tourist Attractions Near Tirupati Balaji Temple

There are many temple must visit is closed from Tirupati Balaji Temple are Sri Bhu Varaha Swamy Temple, Sri Bedi Anjaneya Swamy Temple, Sri Padmavathi Devi Temple, Sauanrri Prasanna Venkateshwara Swamy Temple, Sri Govindarajaswami Temple , Sri Kapileswara Swamy Temple, Sri Kodanda Ramaswamy Temple.

Nearest Hotels and Restaurants of  Tirupati Balaji Temple

Hotel Raj Park Tirupati 3.0 Star Hotel
18-1-5/4, T.T.D By-Pass Road , near Nandhi Circle, Tirupati
0.4 km from Tirumala Temple (Tirupati Balaji Temple)

Woodside Hotel
20, G.Car Street, Tirupati, India
0.4 km from Tirumala Temple (Tirupati Balaji Temple)

Vihas Hotels 4.0 Star Hotel
Tirumala Bypass Road , #18-8-40/B, Leela Mahal Center, Tirupati
0.7 km from Tirumala Temple (Tirupati Balaji Temple)

Hotel Sindhuri Park 3.0 Star Hotel
14-2-118, 119 T.P. Area, Tirupati
8.3 km from Tirumala Temple (Tirupati Balaji Temple)

Pai Viceroy Hotel 3.0 Star Hotel
Tirumala Bypass Road, 18th Ward, Ramachandra Nagar, Tirupati
9.3 km from Tirumala Temple (Tirupati Balaji Temple)

PSR Hometel
Tirumala Byepass Road, opp T.T.D. Srinivasam Complex, Tirupati
9.3 km from Tirumala Temple (Tirupati Balaji Temple)

Idli Factory
G. Car Street Tirupati
0.5 km from Tirumala Temple (Tirupati Balaji Temple)

Zodiac
Tiruchanoor Road Hotel Fortune Select Grand Ridge
12.6 km from Tirumala Temple (Tirupati Balaji Temple)

Minerva Coffee Shop
Near Railway Station Flyover, Renigunta Road
9.9 km from Tirumala Temple (Tirupati Balaji Temple)

Hotel Mayura
No. 209, T.P. Area
11.1 km from Tirumala Temple (Tirupati Balaji Temple)

Rainbow - Pure Vegitarian
Shilparamam Tiruchanoor Road
12.7 km from Tirumala Temple (Tirupati Balaji Temple)

Vanam Restaurants
Opp. S.V. Zoo Park
6.9 km from Tirumala Temple (Tirupati Balaji Temple)

Annamaya Restaurant
8.3 km from Tirumala Temple (Tirupati Balaji Temple)

Bhimas Paradise
33-37, Renigunta Road
9.9 km from Tirumala Temple (Tirupati Balaji Temple)

How to Reach Tirupati Temple

By Road : Tirupati temple can be reached from Tirupati by bus services. It is linked with important cities like Hyderabad, Banglore,Chennai,, Vijayawada,and Lepakshi through good roadways.

By Rail : Tirupati temple is well connected by roads and proper transport services to the nearest railway station situated at Tirupati. It is connected with Hubbi, Hyderabad, Chennai, Kolhapur etc.

 By Air : The nearest airport is at Renigunta 15 km from the temple. Tirupati is connected by air with Hyderabad, Chennai and Bangalore.

Picture Gallery of Tirupati Temple


Temple Darshan


Google Map of  Tirupati Balaji Temple


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Meenakshi Temple in Madurai Tamil Nadu India

Here is Some Information of Madurai Meenakshi Temple in Tamil Nadu India.


 Location : Madurai,Tamil Nadu
Built in : 17th Century A.D
Built By : Nayak rulers
Area : 65000 Sq.miters
Height: 52 m
Architectural style: Dravidian architecture 
Also known as: Meenakshi Amman Temple 
Significance: One of the sacred abodes of Goddess Parvati
Famous For: World Renowed Meenakashi Temples
Phone: 0452 234 4360
Delicated to : Goddes Meenakshi and Lord Shiva
Festival : Include Teppam festival, the annual Float Festival,Masi Mandala Utsav
Coordinates: 10°3'31"N 76°39'8"E
Nearby cities: Thodupuzha, Kuttampuzha, Anakulam - Chittur Sangam

More Information about Meenakshi Temple Madurai

The world renowned Meenakshi Temple is situated in Madurai, the second largest city in Tamil Nadu. It is at 450 km from Chennai and 435 km from Bangalore.It is one of the most ancient cities in India with an active history of over 2500 years. It is also known as the Athens of East.currently it is an important pilgrimage site and a commercial centre. The significance from the tourism angle is evident from the fact that 10-20 thousand visitors come here everyday.
 In the ancient times, pearls and cotton textiles gave it its commercial significance, while it was the intellectual centre of entire Southern India.
It was here that during the Non-Cooperation Movement of 1921 A.D., Gandhiji decided to wear only Khadi The city is also famous for jasmine (Madurai Malli) flowers and cosmetics made from it.This big temple is situated in a huge complex spread over 65,000 square metres. Here there are 12 Gopurams, 4 belonging to the main temple, and 8 to the other shrines which are relatively smaller in size. The biggest Gopuram is the southern one which is 170.6 feet tall. Generally the temple is entered in from the eastern Gopuram. A little ahead is the Swarn Kamal Sarovar (golden lotus lake) in which pilgrims bathe before proceeding into the temple. The belief is that the Tamil Sangams were organised on the banks of this lake. The temple has several mandaps where various festivals are held. Besides, there are also temples of other Gods and Goddesses like Vinayak, Subramaniam etc.

History of  Meenakshi Temple Madurai

In the ancient times, Madurai organised 3 Sangams (assembly of scholars).
It was supported by 197 Pandyan kings according to the tradition. Shrinivas Iyengar states that these Sangams were held between 500 B.C. and 500 A.D.Panini’s Ashtadhyayi and Kautilya’s Arthshastra have a reference of Madurai.
Megasthenes has written in Indica that the Pandya kingdom was known for pearls and was ruled by Pandiya, the daughter of Krishna.The Roman author Stravo has also written about the Pandya king sending an ambassador to the kingdom of Augustus Caesar.shaiv saint Sambandar, a contemporary of Pallav king Mahendra Varman, has mentioned about the Kapal Temple which is currently in the Meenakshi Temple campus.Between 920 and 1223 A.D., it was under the Cholas followed by the Pandyas for the next 100 years.
In 1311 A.D., Malik Kafur attacked the city and plundered the temples. In 1323 A.D., it was merged with the Delhi Sultanate by Jauna Khan (Mohammad bin Tughlaq) , the son of Ghayasuddin Tughlaq.
During the times of Bukka-I (1356-1377), Kumar Sampan merged it with the Vijaynagar Empire.
After the fall of Vijaynagar, the Nayaks controlled the region of which the first one was the famous Tirumal Nayak (1632-1659) during whose reign most of the parts of the temple were built.
Madurai came under the British rule in 1780 A.D. George Procter was appointed as the first collector.

Special Features of the Temple   

The Temple Towers or The Gopurams The temple has 12 temple towers also known as the Gopurams. The outer towers of the temple work as landmarks of Madurai.
 
➤Gopura

The Gopuras or the Pyramidal gates have an enormous height of more than 50m. The entrance to the temple complex is indicated by towering gateways at the four cardinal points, while lesser gopuras lead to the sanctums of the main deities.

➤Stucco Work

After every 12 years, the figures of deities on the tower are reconditioned, repainted and ritually reconsecrated.


➤Ashta Shakthi Mandapam 

To enter the temple through the eastern gateway, one has to first enter the Asta Shakti Mandapam (Hall). Built by Thirumalai Nayakar's wives Rudrapathi Ammal and Tholimamai. Next to this hall is the Meenakshi Nayaka Mandapa, a spacious columned hall used for shops and stores. This hall has a dedicated lamp-holder with 1,008 lamps, which are lit and decorated on festive occasions. The sculptures on the pillars tell us about some of the miracles of Lord Shiva and also the story of Meenakshi's birth and her life as the princess of Madurai.

➤Meenakshi Nayakkar Mandapam   

 Adjacent to the Ashta Shakthi Mandapam, this big hall consists of 110 pillars carrying the figures of a queer animal with a lion's body and an elephant's head called Yalli.

➤Potramaraikulam (Golden Lotus Tank) 

The Potramaraikulam temple tank is an ancient tank where devotees take bath in the holy water. It is believed that the area around this tank was the meeting place of the TamilSangam - the ancient academy of poets. The tank is encircled by a pillared corridor. There are steps that lead down to the tank, enabling worshippers to take bathe in it.

➤Oonjal Mandapam   

Menakshi TempleThe Oonjal (swing) Mandapam and Killikoontu (parrot cage) Mandapam are situated on the western side of the tank. The golden idols of Meenakshi and Sundareswarar are seated on the swing in the Oonjal Madapam every Friday and hymns are sung as the deities swing to and fro. There many parrots in the Kilikoontu Mandapam who have been trained to repeat Goddess Meenakshi's name. The 28 pillars of the Mandapam are the most interesting parts, exhibiting some excellent Sculptures of figures from Hindu mythology.

➤Swami Sundareswarar Shrine   

The Shrine of Lord Sundareswarar (Shiva) the consort of Goddess Meenakshi is to the north of Kilikoontu Mandapam . There's a gigantic idol of Sri Ganesh called Mukkurini Pillaiyar on the way. There's a stump of a Kadamba tree, in the outer pragaram (corridor outside the main shrine), which is said to be a part of the same tree under which Indra worshiped Shiva linga. There's also Kadambathadi Mandapam in the outer corridor and big hall called 'Velli Ambalam'. There's also an idol of Nataraja (Shiva as the Lord of Dance), covered with silver leaves. Thus this hall is named as Velli Ambalam (Silver Hall).

➤Vasantha Mandapam   

Built by Thirumalai Nayakkar, the mandapam is the venue of the Vasanthosavam - the Spring festival, celebrated in Vaikasi (April/May). The pillars present at the mandapam has elaborate sculptures of Lord Shiva, Goddess Meenakshi. There are scenes from their wedding as well as the figures of ten of the Nayak Kings and their consorts. The Vasantha Mandapam is also called Pudhu Mandapam.

➤The Thousand Pillar Mandapam   

The thousand pillar mandapam is regared as the 'wonder of the palace'. There are around 985 beautifully decorated columns. Each pillar is beautifully sculptured and presents the glory of the Dravidan sculpture. This hall also houses a Temple Art Museum, where you can see icons, photographs, drawings, etc., exhibiting the 1200 years old history. Other than this mandapam there many smaller and bigger mandapams in the temple.

Timing For Meenakshi Amman Temple Madurai
  • Open Days: Open All days of the week
  • Morning: 5:00 AM to 12:30 PM
  • Evening: 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Pooja Timings at Meenakshi  Temple Madurai
  • Thiruvanandal pooja Morning: 05:00 to 06:00 AM
  • Vizha pooja Morning: 06:30 to 07:15 AM
  • Kalasandhi pooja Morning: 06:30 to 07:15 AM
  • Thrikalasandhi pooja Morning: 10:30 to 11:15 AM
  • Uchikkala Pooja (Noon Pooja): 10:30 to 11:15 AM
  • Maalai pooja Evening: 04:30 to 05:15 PM
  • Ardhajama Pooja: 07:30 PM to 08:15 PM
  • Palliyarai Pooja: 09:30 PM to 10:00 PM
Hotels and Restaurants of  Meenakshi Temple Madurai

Simap Residency 2.0 Star Hotel
12 A/1, Meenakshi Kovil Street, Next to Central Bank, Madurai
0.2 km from Sri Meenakshi Temple Madurai

Hotel Nambi
89/1, West Avani Moola Street, Opp to Madurai Radha Transport, Madurai
0.3 km from Sri Meenakshi Temple Madurai

Hotel Kathir Palace 2.0 Star Hotel
14, Dhanappa Mudali Street, Madurai
0.4 km from Sri Meenakshi Temple Madurai

The Golden Park
28,29 West Perumal Maistry Street, Madurai
0.5 km from Sri Meenakshi Temple Madurai

Abinaya Lodge
198, Near Meenakshi Amman Temple, West Masi Shreet, Madurai
0.5 km from Sri Meenakshi Temple Madurai

Rathna Residency Hotel
109, West Perumal Maistry Street, Madurai
0.6 km from Sri Meenakshi Temple Madurai

Hotel Boopathi
16 - 17 Perumal Tank (E), Town Hall Road, Madurai
0.6 km from Sri Meenakshi Temple Madurai

Gopu Iyengars Restaurant
1, West Chitrai Street Near Meenakshi Temple Madurai
0.1 km from Sri Meenakshi Temple Madurai

Hotel New Manorama Restaurant
42A East Chithirai Street Mman Sannathi
0.1 km from Sri Meenakshi Temple Madurai

Hotel Durga Bhavan Restaurant
30 East Chitrai Street Hotel Durga Bhavan, Near Indian Bank, Simmakkal
0.1 km from Sri Meenakshi Temple Madurai

Chetty Nadu Mess
21, Thiyagi Thayammal Street North Chitrai Street
0.3 km from Sri Meenakshi Temple Madurai

Sri Shank Wala Restaurant
No 19/28, Near South Masi Road Jadamuni Koil Street
0.3 km from Sri Meenakshi Temple Madurai

Pandian Restaurant
8 Vengalakadai Street, East Masi Street Near Raj Mahal Jewellers
0.3 km from Sri Meenakshi Temple Madurai

Murugan Idli Shop
No 196, Near Pothys & Jos Alukas, West Masi Street
0.5 km from Sri Meenakshi Temple Madurai

Sree Mohan Bhojanalaya
33,Dhanappa Mudali street, West Tower Street, Opp Hotel Temple View
0.4 km from Sri Meenakshi Temple Madurai

How to Reach Meenakshi Temple Madurai

By Road: There are excellent roads connecting Madurai to all parts of South India. Madurai city has 5 Major Bus Stands- Periyar Bus Stand, Anna Bus Stand, Palanganatham Bus Stand, Arapalayam Bus Stand, Mattuthavani Bus Stand. From Madurai town buses, suburban buses, taxis, auto rickshaws and cycle rickshaws are available to reach the temple.

By Rail : Madurai has direct rail connections to Bangalore, Coimbatore, Kollam, Chennai, Rameshwaram, Thanjavur, Tiruchirappalli, Tirunelveli, Tirupathi and Tuticorin.

By Air : Madurai is connected by air with Mumbai and Chennai. Madurai airport is 10-km away from the city.

Pictures Gallery of Meenakshi Temple Madurai


Google Map of  Meenakshi Temple Madurai


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Golden Temple(Harmandir Sahib Gurdwara) in Amritsar Punjab India

Here is Some information about Golden Temple Amritsar in Punjab india.


 Location : Amritsar, Punjab, India
Address: Golden Temple Rd, Atta Mandi, Katra Ahluwalia, Amritsar, Punjab 143006
Phone: 0183 255 3957
Architectural style: Sikh architecture
Built in During : 1574-1601
Built By : Guru Ram Das
Significance : Most revered shrine of the Sikhs
Entry: Free
Phone : Temple Manager: 0183/255-3953, -3957, or -3958Information
Photography: Not allowed in inside the Temple
Temple timing  : 24 hours open
Office: 0183/255-3954
Official website : www.goldentempleamritsar.org
Festival Celebrate : Baisakhi,
Known as: Golden Temple of Amritsar, Harmandir Sahib, Hari Mandir

 More Information about  Golden Temple in Amritsar

Amritsar, literally meaning "holy pool of nectar" is the spiritual and cultural centre of the Sikh Religion. The GoldenTemple, also known as Sri Harmandir Sahib was initiated by the fourth Guru of Sikhs, Guru Ramdas Jee and completed in 1601 by his successor Guru Arjan Dev Jee. There is such a spiritual embodiment of the higher being that even the non believer is seduced by the hypnotic melody of the Paath. Listen to it and all your sorrows will be washed away and you will reveal your own inner spirit. Oh Ye of little faith, release yourself from your day to day suffering and embrace the true Guru. Listen to the immortal story of bliss on Paath. The temple (orgurdwara) is a major pilgrimage destination for Sikhs from all over the world, as well as an increasingly popular tourist attraction.

Generally, one can find picture of Golden Temple in the homes of almost every Sikh round the World. The Sikhs wish to pay a visit and obeisance to Harmandir Sahib. The advent of the Darbar Sahib is associated with the history and ideology of the Sikhism. The architecture of the temple encompasses various symbols that are linked with other places of worship. These symbols portray the sense of forbearance and approval, which is put forward by the Sikh philosophy.

History of The Golden Temple Amritsar

Construction of the Golden Temple began in 1574 on land donated by the Mughal emperor Akbar. The building project was overseen by the fourth and fifth Sikh Gurus. The temple was completed in 1601, but restoration and embellishment continued over the years. The temple had to be substantially rebuilt after it was sacked in the 1760s.
In the early 19th century, 100 kg of gold were applied to the inverted lotus-shaped dome and decorative marble was added. All this gold and marble work took place under the patronage of Maharaja Ranjit Singh. The legendary warrior king was a major donor of money and materials for the shrine and is remembered with much affection by the Sikh community and Punjabi people.
In June 1984, Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi ordered an attack on armed Sikh militants holed up in the Golden Temple. Over 500 people were killed in the ensuing firefight, and Sikhs around the world were outraged at the desecration of their holiest site. Four months after the attack, Gandhi was assassinated by her two Sikh bodyguards, leading to a massacre followed in which thousands of Sikhs lost their lives.
The Sikh community refused to allow the central government to repair the damage to the temple, instead undertaking the work themselves. Although most of the damaged been repaired, the incident has not been forgotten. Many people in Amritsar are still anxious to explain the Sikh side of the story to visitors.

Attraction of The Golden Temple Amritsar

Despite its great sacred status, the Golden Temple is open to visitors, like all Sikh temples. The only restrictions are that visitors must not drink alcohol, eat meat or smoke in the shrine. And unlike many other Indian temples, visitors to the Harmandir Sahib are made to feel truly welcome and not pressured to buy anything. The information office left of the main gate gives helpful advice and information, as well as booklets on Sikhism.

Most visitors to the Golden Temple, whether Sikh or not, are humbled by what is quite simply the most tangibly spiritual place in the country. Arrive with a few good hours set aside and get lost in its magical beauty. Visitors must leave their shoes at the facility near the entrance, cover their head (bandanas are provided, or you can buy a souvenir bandana from a vendor), and wash their feet by wading through the shallow pool before entering.
The most famous and sacred part of the Golden Temple complex is the Hari Mandir (Divine Temple) or Darbar Sahib (Court of the Lord), which is the beautiful golden structure at the center of a large body of water. The gold-plated building features copper cupolas and white marble walls encrusted with precious stones arranged in decorative Islamic-style floral patterns. The structure is decorated inside and out with verses from the Granth Sahib (the Sikh holy book).
The water that surrounds the Hari Mandir is a sacred pool known as the Amrit Sarovar (Pool of Nectar). The temple is reached by following the Parikrama, which circumscribes the sacred pool in a clockwise direction. Connecting the pathway with the Hari Mandir is a marble causeway called the Guru's Bridge, which symbolizes the journey of the soul after death. The gateway to the bridge, the Darshani Deorhi, has magnificent silver doors.
The fascinating scene inside the Hari Mandir is televised throughout India for Sikh viewers. Amidst a crowd of fervent and solemn devotees, scriptures from the Holy Book are sung beneath a canopy studded with jewels. A chauri (whisk) is continually waved above the Book as lines of Sikhs pay their respects by touching their foreheads to the temple floor and walls, continuing in a clockwise direction at a relaxed pace.
Another major highlight of the Golden Temple complex is the Guru-ka-Langar, adining hall where around 35,000 people a day are fed for free by temple volunteers. Everyone is invited to join this communal breaking of bread. All participants sit on the floor, regardless of caste, status, wealth or creed, powerfully symbolizing the central Sikh doctrine of the equality of all people.
Guest quarters are also available for international Sikh visitors (for a nominal fee), and at least 400 simple rooms are provided (free of charge) to Sikh pilgrims.
In the Central Sikh Museum at the main entrance, galleries display images and remembrances of Sikh gurus, warriors, and saints; it includes some graphic portraits of the torture and execution of gurus.

Architecture of  Golden Temple

Built on a square platform, Golden Temple looks celestial with its gilded appearance. The temple has doorways on its each side. Darshani Deori is an arch that stands at the shore end of the boardwalk. The door frame of the Darshan Deori extends to 10 ft in height and 8.6 ft in breadth. The panes of the door are festooned in an artistic manner. It leads to the boardwalk (bridge), which takes to the main shrine of Shri Harmandir Sahib.

The boardwalk is linked with the 13 ft wide feet 'Pardakshna', which is a circumambulatory path. This path runs round the main shrine and escort to the 'Har Ki Pauri' (Steps of God). At the first floor, the reading of Guru Granth Sahib goes for 24*7 hours. The façade that faces the bridge is ornamented with recurring cusped arches. On the top of it, there is a low fluted 'Gumbaz' (Dome) with lotus petals motif at its base. The inverted lotus at the zenith supports the 'Kalash' that has a striking 'Chhatri' at the end.
The remarkable architecture of Swarn Mandir is often cited as the finest architectural specimens of the world. Amrit Sarovar (Pool of Nectar) is the main attraction of this temple, which is believed to have water with curative properties. People from far and near come to take this holy water of Amrit Sarovar. The Golden Temple is a religious place of spiritual importance and significance. Devotees from all over the world come to pay their homage at this blessed place.

Nearest Hotels and Restaurants of  Golden Temple  Amritsar

Hotel Darbar View
Bazar Mai Sewan, near golden temple, Amritsar
0.1 km from Harmandir Sahib or The Golden Temple

Hotel Randhawa International 3.0 Star Hotel
J & K Road, Amritsar
0.1 km from Harmandir Sahib or The Golden Temple

Hotel CJ International 2.5 Star Hotel
Near Golden Temple, Amritsar
0.2 km from Harmandir Sahib or The Golden Temple

Hotel A J Golden Crescent 2.0 Star Hotel
19 Brahmbutta Market, Amritsar
0.2 km from Harmandir Sahib or The Golden Temple

Abode UNA Xpress
Opp. Jallianwala Bagh, Near Golden Temple, Amritsar
0.3 km from Harmandir Sahib or The Golden Temple

Hotel Grace 2.5 Star Hotel
35, Braham Buta Market, Sarai Golden Temple, Amritsar
0.3 km from Harmandir Sahib or The Golden Temple

Hotel City Heart 3.0 Star Hotel
Near Golden Temple, Amritsar
0.3 km from Harmandir Sahib or The Golden Temple

Hotel Heritage Inn Amritsar 3.0 Star Hotel
1234, Baba Attal Road, Amritsar
0.3 km from Harmandir Sahib or The Golden Temple

Hotel Royal Inn 2.0 Star Hotel
49 Brahm Butta Market, Near Sarai Guru Ram Das, Amritsar
0.3 km from Harmandir Sahib or The Golden Temple

Sitara Niwas Hotel
Near Golden Temple Sarai, Amritsar
0.3 km from Harmandir Sahib or The Golden Temple

Hotel Prems Paradise 3.5 Star Hotel
Kesri Bagh Near Hanuman Mandir, Amritsar
0.4 km from Harmandir Sahib or The Golden Temple

Hotel Robin 3.0 Star Hotel
2458 / 3, Niwan Bazar, Amritsar
0.4 km from Harmandir Sahib or The Golden Temple

Hotel Sita Niwas 2.0 Star Hotel
61 Sita Niwas Road, Amritsar
0.4 km from Harmandir Sahib or The Golden Temple

Brother's Amritsari Dhaba
Near Golden Temple Adjacent to Jallianwala Bhag
0.2 km from Harmandir Sahib

Sanjha Chulha Restaurant
Near Golden Temple Katra Ahluwalia, Bazar Bikanerian
0.2 km from Harmandir Sahib

Wah Ji Wah
Golden Temple Road
0.2 km from Harmandir Sahib

2 States Restaurant
Golden Temple Road Opp, Mcdonalds
0.2 km from Harmandir Sahib

Neelam's
Near Bagh Jallianwala, Golden Temple Road
0.3 km from Harmandir Sahib

Mc Donalds
Jallianwala Bagh Golden Temple
0.4 km from Harmandir Sahib

Rajasthani Chat Bhandar
Chowk Katra, Near Jallianwala Bagh, Town Hall
0.4 km from Harmandir Sahib

Kesar da Dhaba
Chowk Passian Near Town Hall
0.6 km from Harmandir Sahib

Bille Di Hatti
Bartanwala Bazar Gpo
0.3 km from Harmandir Sahib

Pizza Hut
Jalianwala Bagh Near Jalianwala Bagh
0.4 km from Harmandir Sahib

Giani Ice Cream
Opposite Jalianwala Bagh Near Golden Temple, Darbar Shaib
0.4 km from Harmandir Sahib

How to Reach Golden Temple Amritsar

By Rail : Amritsar is directly connected to Amritsar via rail route. It takes about 8 to 10 hours to reach Amritsar by train.

By Road : Grand Trunk Karnal Road connects Delhi to Amritsar. Regular buses are available from I.S.B.T. Delhi to Amritsar. You can choose from local, semi deluxe, deluxe and super deluxe buses offered by bus station.

By Air : The airport at Amritsar named Raja Sani International Airport offers excellent services. The airport is well connected by other parts of the country by regular flights. Now Jet Airways, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan and Air India also offer flights to Amritsar from Delhi, Birmingham and London.

Picture Gallery of Golden Temple Amritshar 


Google Map of Golden Temple Amritsar



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Konark Sun Temple in Konark Orissa

Here is Some information about Konark Sun Temple in Konark Orissa.




 Location: Konark (Konarak) Village Orissa, India
Known As : Black Pagoda & Konarak
Dedication: Surya (sun god); Brahman
Built By : King Narasimhadeva
Built in : 1250 AD
Presiding Deity : Surya Or The Sun God
Timing : Open from sunrise to sunset


More Information about  Konark Sun Temple



Konark is one of the well known tourist attractions of Orissa. Konark, Konark houses a colossal temple dedicated to the Sun God. Konark is also known as Konaditya. The name Konark is derived form the words Kona - Corner and Arka - Sun; it is situated on the north eastern corner of Puri or the Chakrakshetra. Konark is also known as Arkakshetra.

This temple built in 1278 CE by the Ganga King Narasimha Deva is one of the grandest temples of India and was referred to as theBlack Pagoda. The ruins of this temple were excavated in late 19th century. The tower over the Garbagriha is missing, however theJagmohana is intact, and even in this state, it is awe inspiring.


History of Konark Sun Temple
The Sun Temple at Konarak was built in about 1250 AD by the East Ganga kingNarasimhadeva. It is thought he built the temple to commemorate military successes against Muslim invaders.
According to local legend, the temple has a great aura of power that comes from two very powerful magnets said to have been built into the tower - magnets that allowed the king's throne to hover in mid-air.
European mariners sailing off the coast used the temple's tower for navigation, but dubbed it the Black Pagoda for the frequent shipwrecks that occurred along the coast. They attributed the disasters to the legendary magnets' effect on the tidal pattern.
Konarak was sacked by the Muslim Yavana army in the 15th century. The central statue enshrined in the temple was smuggled away to Puri by priests, but the Sun Temple was badly damaged in the attack.
Nature took over the destruction from there. Over the centuries, the sea receded, sand engulfed the building and salty breezes eroded the stone. It remained buried under a huge mound of sand until the early 20th century, when restoration began under the British.
British archaeologists uncovered the lower parts of the temple that had remained well preserved beneath the sand and restored what they could of the rest of the ruins. Trees were planted to shelter the temple from the damaging winds and a museum was opened to display whatever sculpture wasn't left in situ or sent to Delhi, Calcutta and London.
In 1924, the Earl of Ronaldshay proclaimed the newly-revealed temple to be "one of the most stupendous buildings in India which rears itself aloft, a pile of overwhelming grandeur even in its decay."

Attraction of Konark Sun Temple



The Konark Sun Temple takes the form of a huge chariot for the sun god Surya, with 12 pairs of stone-carved wheels and a team of seven galloping horses (only one of which survives intact).
The temple also symbolizes the passage of time, which is under the sun god's control. The seven horses, which pull the sun temple eastwards towards the dawn, represent the days of the week. The 12 pairs of wheels represent the 12 months of the year and the eight spokes in each wheel symbolize the eight ideal stages of a woman's day.
The main entrance to the complex is on the eastern (sea-facing) side, in front of the Hall of Offerings (bhogamandapa). This was a later addition to the complex and was likely used for ritual dance performances, as its walls are carved with sculptures of musicians and dancers as well as erotic scenes.
The sanctuary tower was once the centerpiece of the Konark Sun Temple, but today it is no more than a jumble of sandstone slabs off the western wing. The imposing structure with the pyramidal roof that now takes center stage is actually the porch (jagamohana).
The roof of the porch has three tiers covered in statues, mostly musicians and dancers sereneding the sun god during his daily passage through the heavens. Sculptures on the bottom platform include a Shiva Nataraja, performing the cosmic dance. The interior is now blocked up.
Just beyond the porch is a double staircase that leads to a shrine containing astatue of Surya, the sun god. The beautiful image is carved of high-quality green chlorite stone and is one of the masterpieces of Konarak. Surya wears tall riding boots and is accompanied by a small figure of Aruna, the charioteer, at his feet. From here you can climb down into the remains of the inner sanctum, where the deity was originally enshrined.
The surfaces of the temple are carved with exquisite stone sculptures with a wide variety of subjects, including many erotic scenes based on the Kama Sutra. Erotic sculptures are found especially in niches halfway up the porch, along the sides of the platform and around the doorways of the main building.
Similar sculptures can be found on the temples of Khajuraho in Madhya Pradesh. The erotic art most likely symbolizes the ecstatic bliss enjoyed by the soul when it unites with the divine, but there are a number of theories on the matter.
Other sculptures decorating the temple's exterior include deities, animals, floral patterns, voluptuous women, mythical beasts and aquatic monsters. The 24 giant wheels are beautifully carved and each of the eight spokes bears a medallion containing figurative carvings.
Friezes above and below the wheels depict military processions and hunting scenes, with thousands of rampaging elephants. Look for the giraffe in the top frieze along the south side of the platform - this proves that Konarak traded with Africa in the 13th century.

Entrance Fee


Citizens of India and visitors of SAARC (Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Maldives and Afghanistan) and BIMSTEC Countries (Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Thailand and Myanmar) - Rs. 10 per head. 

Others: US $ 5 or Indian Rs. 250/- per head 

children up to 15 years free

How to Reach Konark Sun Temple 


By Road : An extensive road network of within Konark, connects it well to the rest of the country via National highways and State highways linking it with Puri, Bhubaneswar and other cities in Odisha (Orissa) and its neighboring states.

By Rail : Located in the twin cities of Puri and Bhubaneswar, the railway stations at Konark is well linked with almost all the major destinations in India by regular trains.

By Air : The Bhubaneswar airport is the most expedient point for entering the city with a number of flights connecting Konark with Kolkata, Delhi, Hyderabad, and Chennai plying on a regular basis.


Picture Gallery of Konark Sun Temple











Google Map for Konark Sun Temple






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