Place :- Tirumala (Tirupati)
Time of Arrival :- Saturday, Afternoon
Time of Departure:- Monday,7.00 am
Hotel Booked:- Tirumala (Saturday 12.00 to Monday 11.00)
How to Reach: Take LTT MAS Exp or any other train on Friday and reach to Renigunta Junction Saturday afternoon .
Renigunta Junction is 10km from Tirupati. Frequent buses are also available from Chennai to Tirupati which takes 4-5 hours to reach destination.
Flights for Tirupati are also available.
Take a bus from Tirupati to reach Tirumala between 3.30 AM to 11.00 PM by APSRTC which can be booked in advance and will take approx 1hr to reach
Place to Visit: Tirupati is famous for its Sri Venkateswara Temple dedicated to Vishnu, also known as Balaji in North India and Govinda in South India. The temple is located on top of Tirumala hills, while the town is located on the foothills. The Tirumala hill has seven peaks ("Sapthagiri"), said to represent the seven hoods of Adisesha, the serpent under whose hoods Vishnu resides in Vaikuntha. The temple of Lord Venkateswara is located on the seventh peak Venkatachala.
Story behind the donations: It is believed that Lord Srinivasa had to make arrangements for his wedding. Lord Kubera credited money to Lord Venkateswara (a form of the god Vishnu) for his marriage with Padmavathi. Together, Srinivasa and Padmavathi lived for all eternity while Goddess Lakshmi, understanding the commitments of Lord Vishnu, chose to live in his heart forever. In remembrance of this, devotees go to Tirupati to donate money in Venkateswara's hundi (donation pot) so that he can pay it back to Kubera. The hundi collections go as high as 22.5 million INR a day. Devotees offer gold as a token of their love for God.
While in Tirumala you will keep hearing the most pleasant Chanting of god ("OM NAMO NARAYANAYA").
Advance Book Special Darshan Ticket https://www.tirumala.org/# of Rs300 for 6.00pm and reach the queue at 5 pm and do the darshan. Ladies will need to wear traditional Indian sarees, or failing that, should bring a dupatta (long scarf) to wear across the neck. Men will preferable wear Dhoti and Sal to cover body
Famous:-
Place to Stay: - Try to book at https://www.tirumala.org/#
Best Time to Visit:- Throughout the year but try not to visit during summer season ( because of too much hot)
Eat:- Eat the prasadam ladoo which is world famous
Purchase:-
Do:-
Next:-
You start from Tirumala around 7.00am Monday morning and catch the bus to reach Tirupati Station to catch Train (16054) at 10.00 am. to Chennai Central
You start from Chennai Central and go to Chennai Egmore.
Take Sethu SF Express train from Chennai Egmore at around 17.50 to Rameshwaram 04.35
Place :- Rameshwaram
Time of Arrival :- Tuesday 4.35 am
Time of Departure:- Wednesday 8.00 am
Hotel Booked:- Rameshwaram near to Main Temple
(Monday 12.00 to Wednesday 11.00)
How to Reach: Take Sethu SF Express train from Chennai Egmore at around 17.50pm to Rameshwaram 04.35am
Annai Indira Gandhi Road Bridge
If you are coming to Rameswaram by car or by bus then this is the only way to access Rameswaram. Once this was the first of its kind sea bridge in the country. You get the best view of iconic Pamban Bridge from the top of this bridge. Tourists often stop on top to take their photographs against the backdrop of Pamban Bridge. Traffic cops try their best to keep the vehicles moving but people usually keep ignoring them and keep clicking photos. You can expect some traffic on this bridge due to this.
Pamban Bridge
This is a rail bridge with a bascule (draw) bridge which allows the two sides of the bridge to be retracted so that large ships can pass. If you are coming by train then you are going to use this bridge. This is one of the iconic structures of the town. While travelling over this bridge towards Rameswaram you will be able to see the reminiscence of the old railway line and some sections of the old bridge submerged in the water to the left side. This bridge was destroyed in a massive storm in the year 1964.
Place to Visit:
Ramanathaswamy Temple
The temple is open from 5 a.m. to 1 p.m., and 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. Ideally, Hindus who are on a pilgrimage should get an early start. The Spatika lingam darshan from 5 a.m. to 6 a.m is particularly auspicious.
After that come to hotel and start again at 8.00 am and try to cover all by 12.00pm.. Start with sea bath (Agni Theertham)
Note:- Keep a set of cloth with you and wrap it in a good way so that it will not get wet. After taking bath in all well, change your cloth and go to do darshan.
What makes Rameshwaram unusual is that although the town is predominantly associated with Lord Ram, its main temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Why? Lord Ram is said to have worshiped Lord Shiva, the destroyer, there to be cleared of sin for killing Ravan. Ramanathaswamy Temple is also remarkable because it has two lingams (symbols of Lord Shiva). One was brought from the Himalayas by Lord Hanuman upon Ram's request, and the other was created out of sand by Sita when the arrival of that lingam was delayed.
Those who aren't Hindu will be most interested in its magnificent hall of more than 1,200 carved sandstone pillars, which forms the outer corridor.
Taking a dip in the 23 theerthams (holy water bodies) in and around Ramanathaswamy Temple is an integral part of washing away sins. All are inside the temple premises except for Agnitheertham, which is located at the sea a few hundred meters before the temple's east gate. It's customary to bathe in all the theerthams (cost: 25 rupees and detail can be found at http://www.rameswaramtemple.tnhrce.in/index.html ) before worshiping the deity, although this is not compulsory. Bathing must be done in a set order, as directed by signs, starting at Agnitheertham first. It's believed that Sita bathed in the sea at that spot and offered prayers to Lord Shiva. Lord Agni (the fire god) also appeared there to convince Ram that Sita had been faithful to him while held captive by Ravan. Do note that you'll be required to change out of your wet clothes after bathing in the theerthams at the temple in order to enter the inner sanctum where the deity is. Facilities are provided.
|
S.No |
Name of the Theertham |
Place |
|
1 |
Mahalakshmi Theertham |
Location : South of the Hanuman Temple. |
|
2 |
Savithri Theertham |
Location : West of the Hanuman Temple. |
|
3 |
Gayathri Theertham |
Location : West of the Hanuman Temple. |
|
4 |
Saraswathi Theertham |
Location : West of the Hanuman Temple. |
|
5 |
Sethu Madhava Theertham |
Location : The Tank at the third corridor. |
|
6 |
Gandhamadana Theertham |
Location : In the area of the Sethumadhava Temple. |
|
7 |
kavatcha Theertham |
Location : In the area of the Sethumadhava Temple. |
|
8 |
Gavaya Theertham |
Location : In the area of the Sethumadhava Temple. |
|
9 |
Nala Theertham |
Location : In the area of the Sethumadhava Temple. |
|
10 |
Neela Theertham |
Location : In the area of the Sethumadhava Temple. |
|
11 |
Sanku Theertham |
Location : In the inner corridor of the Temple. |
|
12 |
Sakkara Theertham |
Location : In the inner corridor of the Temple. |
|
13 |
Brahmahathi Vimochana Theertham |
Location : In the inner corridor of the Temple. |
|
14 |
Sooriya Theertham |
Location : In the inner corridor of the Temple. |
|
15 |
Chandra Theertham |
Location : In the inner corridor of the Temple. |
|
16 |
Ganga Theertham |
Location : In the inner corridor of the Temple. |
|
17 |
Yamuna Theertham |
Location : In the inner corridor of the Temple. |
|
18 |
Gaya Theertham |
Location : In the inner corridor of the Temple. |
|
19 |
Siva Theertham |
Location : South of nandi Deva in the Temple. |
|
20 |
Sadyamirtha Theertham |
Location : In the Amman Sannathi. |
|
21 |
Sarva Theertham |
Location : In front of Lord Ramanatha's sannathi. |
|
22 |
Kodi Theertham |
Location : In the first corridor of the Temple. |
|
23 |
Agni Theertham |
Agni Theertham is referred to the sea shore near the temple. It is siad that Lord Ram had requested Sea Goddess to remain calm and sea is said to be obeying the same, now as well, sea was very quiet here. |
Ask a taxi/local sightseeing cab for local sightseeing and you will find most of the below mentioned will be covered. Also talk for Dhanuskodi. We can also skip wherever it is specifically mentioned.The whole journey may take 4-5 hours to complete so start the tour max by 2pm
Gandhamadhana Parvatham – Rameswaram This is a small temple located atop a small hillock and the highest natural point in the island. As per mythology, Hanuman took off towards Ceylon (Lanka) from here to fight the Ravana army. One can see the imprint of Lord Rama’s feet on a chakra here. The entire island of Rameswaram is visible from this point.
Rameswaram TV Tower: Once the tallest man-made structure in India (now the second) this television tower is the tallest television broadcast tower in the country. It can be seen from all over the town and its gigantic proportion can only be felt if you stand right at the bottom of the tower.(on the way, no need to specially said to cover it)
Sakshi Hanuman – Rameswaram You will find this small temple on the way towards Gandhamadhana Parvatham. It is 3 kms from the main temple, on the way to the Gandamadana Parvatham. This temple Is the place where hanuman delivered the good news of finding Sita to Rama with Satchi [evidence] the Choodamani a jewel that belonged to Sita. Hence this temple is called by this name. (can be skipped)
Sugreevar Temple/Theertham: It is situated on the way to Gandamadana Parvatham near the Doordarshan Kendra. Sugreeva is the elder brother of Vali,a mythical character in the Ramayanam. (can be skipped)
Satchi Hanuman Temple : It is 3 kms from the main temple, on the way to the Gandamadana Parvatham. This temple Is the place where hanuman delivered the good news of finding Sita to Rama with Satchi [evidence] the Choodamani a jewel that belonged to Sita. Hence this temple is called by this name. (can be skipped)
The Panchamukhi [Five-Faced ] Hanuman Temple : It is located just 2 kms from the main temple, the deity of the hanuman is drawn with senthooram (Vermillion). Idol of Lord Ram, Sita and Hanuman brought from Danushkodi during the 1964 cyclone are placed there. The Floating Stone used to build the Sethu Bandhanam or the bridge between India and Lanka too can be found in this temple. This is a Hanuman temple and has a massive black stone statue of Hanuman having five faces. According to legends Hanuman took five forms to extinguish five lamps simultaneously so as to defeat the demon Ahiravana who was the brother of Ravana.
Jada Theertham : It is located 3.5 kms from Rameswaram. It is believed that, Rama on his return from Lanka after Ravana Vadham, washed his Jada [hair] in this theertham to purify him before proceeding to worship Ramalingeswarar. Hence this holy water body is called Jada Theertham. (can be skipped)
Nambu Nayagiamman Temple : This temple is greatly venerated by the people of Ramnad District. It is situated 8 kms from the main temple in Rameswaram on the way to Dhanushkodi. (can be skipped)
Villoondi Theertham : This Theertham is 7 kms from the main temple on the way to Pamban. Legend has it that when Sita was thirsty and wanted to drink water Ram took his bow and pierced the ground with an arrow and sweet water emerged from the ground right next to the salty waters of the sea. Ram then buried his bow in the grounds here. You can still see a well at the spot which is believed to be the same spot from where sweet water had sprung up.Villoondi Teertham also has a fantastic clean beach and the waters out here are so clean and clear that you can see the bottom of the seabed. The water out here is very calm and is perfect for that swim. (can be skipped)
Lakshmana Teertham: As the name suggests there is a tank which is believed where Laxman took a bath before offering prayed to Shiva which is in form of a Linga and a temple has been built around it.Beautifully Painted Ceiling and Pillars Inside Lakshmana Teertham (can be skipped)
Rama Teertham: While marching towards Lanka to fight Ravana, Ram had stopped at this spot and taken bath here which is now a large tank. The temple next to it and people usually feed the fish that fill up this large water body. (can be skipped)
Sri Ekantha Ramaswamy Temple : Ram along with Laxman and the Vanar Sena had stopped here and rested while proceeding towards Lanka to fight Ravana. This place has a temple has a deity of Ram, Laxman and Sita and the Theertha is in form of a well. (can be skipped)
Runa Vimochana Teertham: This is one of the Teerthams and dedicated to Ganapati. It falls on the main road thus can be easily spotted. (can be skipped)
A.P.J. Abdul Kalam House:- This is a recent attraction and slowly growing in popularity. This is the house where Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam the Missile Man and Ex-President of India was born. To be specific not the exact same building but the original house which once stood here. The building that we now see has been expanded and modified. The multi-storied house has a museum dedicated to him and the upper floor is just a commercial shop trying to sell memorabilia and other sea shells. Surprisingly photography is prohibited inside very contrary to the original person who loved technology and still remember the video of him with his own Handycam filming beat the retreat festivities at New Delhi. Note that this building is a private property and not managed by the government. Relatives of the former president clearly saw the opportunity to use his name to get some business (can be attended after Danuskodi, if sufficient time is available)
Kalam Memorial:- This is the official memorial building which has been recently built around the grave of the former president. This place also serves as an official historical museum dedicated to him. Surprisingly again photography is not allowed and one needs to walk bear feet once inside. (can be skipped)
Dhanushkodi : Take water, snacks, cap/hat/scard with you.
18km from the main temple.The name Dhanuskodi literally means ‘end of bow’, which denotes the legend of Lord Rama and the Hindu sacred text Ramayana. The two seas, otherwise known as Ratnakaran and Mahodadhi, with their confluence is shaped like a bow while the strip of land resemble an arrow poised for release. Actually after coming back from Lanka, Vibhishana has requested Lord Ram to destroy the bridge which will safe the Lanka in future.Once upon a time visiting Dhanushkodi was like an adventure of the seas but now that has all gone thanks to the paved road from Rameswaram Town right till the tip of the lands’ end. When I had originally planned to visit Dhanushkodi only 4X4 vintage jeeps or minivans were being used to ferry tourists from Rameswaram and you basically had two options, either to book the entire vehicle all to yourself or wait for the vehicle to fill up with other passengers. These vehicles will then take you to Dhanushkodi Beach and wait for you to enjoy the natural beauty before returning.The journey was scary as often the vehicles will actually be travelling for miles in knee-deep sea water and often the tyres would get stuck. All these vehicles will be having an assistant whose main job would have been to lay wooden planks under the tyres to create traction. Since no regular vehicles were allowed these jeep and minivan owners had a virtual monopoly.In the year 2017 finally, the much promised paved road was opened and the boom in tourist suddenly spiked. You no longer needed to travel in specialized vehicles instead can take your own private or hired cars. For bikers riding all the way till Dhanushkodi is now a regular affair. If you really want to go the cheap way then just book an Auto and you are done.Before reaching the Ram Setu view point which is the last accessible land you will find the old Dhanushkodi Station on your left. This was damaged beyond repair during the 1964 super storm and was never rebuilt. Some structures that you can clearly make out are the Water Tank at the station along with few other smaller building around the station. At some places, you will also be able to see the old railway tracks. A little ahead to the right you will find the Old Church. The church has no roofs but the outer walls and the main altar still stands where they were before the storm hit. On weekends and holidays, this place can become extremely crowded and a small market crops up around the church selling sea shells and other memorabilia
Ram Setu View Point: Further down the road is the Ram Setu View Point or rather should say land’s end. Vehicles can go till a point post which you need to walk. All around from here you will be able to see just blue-green transparent clear water. Walk along the sandy path till the end and at a point, you will feel as if completely surrounded by water on all the sides. It is very dangerous to take bath or swim in these waters as this place is not a proper beach and the water though looks calm can be deceiving since there is a sudden steep 6 – 10 feet drop. Sri Lanka is just around 20 nautical miles from this spot and at a distance, you will be able to see few more sand dunes rising up from the bottom of the sea. As per temple records in the town of Rameswaram devotees from Lanka (Sri Lanka) used to come regularly on foot across the Ram Setu (Adam’s Bridge) till around 1300 AD. Post wish there were some major storms which raised the sea level and also shifted the soft seabed thus submerging this portion below the sea level.If you are a fish lover then the numerous shacks that line up around the main road would indeed be a treat to your taste buds. Just select the fish you want to have and bargain on a price.
You can see sangam of Bay of Bengal and Indian Ocean. Bay of Bengal which is calm and serene without any waves whereas Indian Ocean with roaring waves. Crystal clear blue water
Kothandarama Temple: Usually, a trip to Dhanushkodi will include a trip to the Kothandarama Temple also which will fall somewhere in between with detour. Even if you are not a temple fan do take this detour since on the way you will get some fantastic landscapes and seascapes. Historically this is a very significant temple since this is the only surviving structure from the 1964 cyclone which had completely erased Dhanushkodi from the map of the country and isolated Rameswaram from the rest of India. According to mythology, it is at this very place that the brother of Vibhishana the younger brother of Ravana had surrendered to Rama and sought refuge.
Famous:-
Place to Stay: -
Best Time to Visit:- Throughout the year but try not to visit during summer season ( because of too much hot)
Eat:-
Purchase:- Purchase sea products.
Do:-
Next:-
Take train/bus/taxi and start to Madurai as early as possible but latest by 10.00 to reach Madurai by 12.00.One passenger train is there at 11.15 which can be catch with preferable seat if reached station at 10.00. Check out Pamban Bridge and Annai Indira Gandhi Road Bridge
If you can taxi/Bus start by max 8.00 am, it will provide more good as it will give more time to visit Madurai.
Place :- Madurai
Time of Arrival :- Wednesday 04.00 pm
Time of Departure:- Thursday 09.00 am
Hotel Booked:- Madurai near to Meenakshmi Amman Temple
(Wednesday 12.00 to Thursday 11.00)
How to Reach: Madurai is well connected by trains to many parts of India like Chennai, Bangalore, Mumbai (Bombay), and Delhi. A train journey from Chennai takes 8 to 10 hours and is the preferred railhead.
Place to Visit:
|
Meenakshi Amman Temple: |
This is the focal point of Madurai. It is said that the city was built around the Shiva Lingam which is inside the temple. Madurai Meenakshi Amman Temple is a Dravidian style temple. The complex is spread over 15 acres, with 4,500 pillars and 12 towers and pretty massive. The temples four main towers and entrances face one of the four directions -North, South, East and West. The southern tower is the tallest one, stretches nearly 170 feet high. Inside the temple, there are two shrines. One dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi, also known as Goddess Parvati and other dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Temple Timings: Temple is open in the morning between 5:00 AM to 12:30 PM and 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM. Between 12:30 PM to 4:00 PM the temple is closed for Darshan. Go into Special Darshan Line if there is crowd. Latest Detail can be found at https://www.maduraimeenakshi.org/
According to legend as mentioned in the ancient Tamil text, Tiruvilaiyatarpuranam, the childless royal couple of King Malayadwaja Pandya and Queen Kanchanamalai yearned for a child. They wanted a son to continue the royal lineage and hence performed a Yajna to this end. But in a travesty of fate, they were blessed with a daughter who had the anomaly of having three breasts. The royal couple was aghast, but Lord Shiva blesses them and asks them to bring up their daughter like a son. “When she grows up and meets her husband, she will become normal”, said the God Shiva, consoling the King and Queen. The royal couple took heed of Shiva’s advice and the little princess who was already 3 years old when she emerged from the fire of the Yajna was brought up like a Prince in all respects. Soon the King makes her the Crown Prince and names her as his successor to the throne. One fine day, Shiva arrives, and the Princess assumes her form of Meenakshi, “the one with Fish Eyes”, and is united with Shiva. Legend has it that the celestial marriage of Shiva and Parvati in the form of Meenakshi and Sundareshwara was a grand affair with all the Gods and Goddesses showering their blessings and the Lord Vishnu, giving away the hand of the bride in marriage. This celestial marriage is commemorated even today with a special festival.
Procedure for Worship:
Worshipping Arulmighu Meenakshi Amman at first had been the manner of prayer traditionally.
Devotees should enter the temple through East Gopuram, pass along Ashtasakthi Mandapam, Meenakshi Nayakar Mandapam and Mudali Mandapam, take a bath in the Golden Lotus pond and wear clean clothes. Foremost, they must worship the Viboothi Vinayakar on the south of the sacred pond. From the southern bank, devotees could worship the golden pinnacles of Swamy and Amman temples. They can see the 64 miracles of Lord Shiva on the walls surrounding the pond. After worshipping Sithi Vinayakar, Kumaran and other deities in the parrot cage mandapam, must go round the altar at the Amman Sannidhi, and then enter the sanctum through the main entrance. Men and women should stand in separate rows and worship the deity. Devotees should meditate the five holy alphabets, recite the sacred names of the Lord, sing divine songs and go round the shrine.Under the auspices of the Temple administration, a girls higher secondary school called Arulmighu Meenakshi Sundareswarar Girls Higher Secondary School is being run near Teppakulam, Madurai. While going round the first corridor, Airavatha Vinayakar on the south east, Valla Vinayakar on the south west, Nirutha Ganapathy and Muthukumaraswamy and Chandikeswarar on the northwest must be worshipped. While going round the second corridor, the devotees could see a statue of Thirumalai Naicker in the east, kolu mandapam and Koodalkumarar sannidhi in the west.After worshipping Kumarar, the devotees should proceed to the second corridor of Swamy shrine. It is the normal practice toseek the permission of Nandiam Perumal to grant permission to enter the temple. After that the Anukgnai Vinayakar and the Nandi at the main entrance to the Swamy temple. After that the devotees should proceed along the six pillared pedestal and worship Chandrasekarar and other deities and the Natarajar who danced changing his legs at the Velliyambalam and then worship the Lord at the sanctum. While going round the first corridor of the Swamy temple, Vandhiyammai, Sivalingam, Sun, Kalaimagal, the Saints, Somaskander, various Lingams, Pitchadanar, Kasiviswanathar, Ellam Valla Siddhar, Durgai Amman, Kadamba tree, Kanagasabai Natarajar, Chandikeswarar, Atcharalingam, Mahalakshmi, Rathnasabai Natarajar, Vanniyum well, Lingam and Bhairavar should be worshipped in that order before coming out. On the north of the main entrance is the shrine of Arulmighu Palani Andavar. Having worshipped the deities including Sadayappar between the Nandhi Mandapam and coming round the hundred pillar hall, Agni Veeraputhirar, Ahora Veerapathirar, Ooothuva Thandava Moorthy and Badrakali, devotees should proceed to the Thirugnanasambandar mandapam and there offer worship to the four deities, Mangayarkarasiyar, Kulachirayar and Nedumaranayar and then after paying obeisance to the flag pole, they should sit down for a while. Later the idols of Hanumar, Krishnar and other deities on the pillars at the back and then enter the middle way and leave through Amman Sannidhi. Devotees proceeding the temple should bathe and wear Saiva symbols such as holy ash, Uthiraksham, and carry with them coconut, fruits, incense and other items of offering to the extent possible. It is the practice to meditate the holy scriptures, and recite the saced names of the deities while in the sacred premises.
Famous:- Madurai is famous for its temples built by Pandyan and Madurai Nayak kings in the Dravidian style of architecture. It is also one of India's most outstanding Hindu pilgrimage centres. Madurai is also called as City of Junction (Koodal nagaram), City of Jasmine (Malligai maanagar), Temple city (Koil maanagar), City that never sleeps (Thoonga nagaram) and City of four junctions (Naanmada koodal). Madurai is famous for its temples built by Pandyan and Madurai Nayak kings in the Dravidian style of architecture. It is also one of India's most outstanding Hindu pilgrimage centres. Madurai is also called as City of Junction (Koodal nagaram), City of Jasmine (Malligai maanagar), Temple city (Koil maanagar), City that never sleeps (Thoonga nagaram) and City of four junctions (Naanmada koodal).
Place to Stay: -
Best Time to Visit:- Throughout the year but try not to visit during summer season ( because of too much hot)
Eat:-
Purchase:-
Do:-
Next:-
Take TPJ TV SF train at 09.35am from Madurai station to reach Nagercoil Junction.
You can also take Taxi to go to Kanyakumari directly.
Anyhow try to reach Kanyakumari by afternoon
Place :- Kanyakumari
Time of Arrival :- Thursday afternoon
Time of Departure:- Friday afternoon
Hotel Booked:- Kanyakumari near to Bhagavathi Amman Temple
(Thursday 12.00 to Friday 11.00 )
How to Reach: Very well connected and served by rail to all major cities in India like Chennai, Trivandrum, Kochi, Bangalore, Bombay, New Delhi, Kolkata and Coimbatore. You can otherwise reach to Nagercoil Station. Buses are frequently available from Nagercoil to Kanyakumari. Try to express bus which is available within an walk of 10min from railway station.
One can also reach to Trivndum by air and come to Kanyakumari
Kanniyakumari Bhagavathi Temple
Wear Saree/Salwar Kameej with chuunri and Pant Shirt/Dhoti
The oldest and the most ancient landmark in this town is the temple of Goddess Kumari who prayed to Lord Shiva to be accepted as wife by him. The name of this place has taken after the name of the Goddess. During the British Raj, it was also known as 'Cape Comorin', probably a British spoilt version of 'Kumari', meaning virgin. The town is so small that an enthusiastic tourist can walk across the town.
Kanniyakumari Devi Temple is the main reason for naming the place as Kannyakumari or the "Land of the unmarried girl". This temple is close to the beach. As per legend, the demon king, Banasura, had become powerful, and could be killed only by an unmarried lady. Devi Kanniyakumari, a devotee of Shiva, wanted to marry the Lord. Lord Shiva promises to marry at an auspicious Brahma Muhurtham. Sage Narada, on request of the other Gods, takes form of a rooster, and crows before dawn on the particular day, indicating the day break. Lord Shiva, who was on the way to marry Devi, returns back stating that auspicious moment is complete. Devi Kanniyakumari fumes in anger and walks down in the garden to pacify herself. Devil Banasura is attracted by the Devi and tries to capture her. Already frustrated over cancellation of marriage, Devi Kanniyakumari in rage slays the demon and brings back peace to the World. The speciality of the temple is the diamond nose stud worn on the statue of Goddess, which was said to be highly dazzling, and confusing to sailors at high seas. Hence, the wall has been raised to block the view of the stud from the sea. The temple timing can be found at http://www.kanyakumaritemples.tnhrce.in/Kanyakumari/index.html (4.30am to 12.30pm and 4.00pm to 8.30pm)
Place to Visit:
Start morning
Vivekananda Rock :It is about 100 m from the shore, and a regular ferry service exists between the mainland jetty and the rock. The Rock has two Mandaps (halls); one belonging to Swami Vivekananda and the other belonging to a Holy Foot. The Holy Foot is a foot shaped carving found on the rock and is believed to be the footprint of Goddess Kumari who stood on this rock on one leg and performed the Tapasya (penance). The Rock memorial has a tall statue of Swami Vivekananda whose photographs are not allowed to be taken from inside the hall. Here you can see both sunrise and sunset and it is one of the main tourist attractions here. Golden Hues of the Horizon are very impressive with a silhouette of the Rock Memorial. Timings: 7:30AM to 4PM. You should enter main gate to the jetty for ferry before 4PM, after that entry is denied. Nobody is allowed there after sunset, so if you were planning an evening visit hurry up and leave well before sunset so as to watch it from the beach. The last ferry leaves the island around the sunset time with all the remaining visitors as well as the staff. The ferry tickets are ₹34 for a ride per head. Children below 5 years are free, there is no half ticket. The Rock Memorial has an entrance ticket of ₹20 per head. The first stop of the ferry is the Vivekand Rock. People get off here for the Rock and those done with their visit get on to the ferry for its next stop at Thiruvalluvar Statue. From the Thiruvalluvar statue, the ferry returns to the boarding jetty. The ferry operator asks that you don a life saving jacket and drop it in the bin at the next stop while getting off. This is only done in letter and not in the spirit of safety.
Thiruvalluvar Statue is dedicated to arguably the greatest Tamil poet, philosopher, and saint Thiruvalluvar. The rock supports a huge statue of the saint carved out of many rocks that were then joined together. It was inaugurated in 2000. The statue is about 133 feet tall which corresponds to 133 chapters in the greatest epic written by the saint – Thirukkural. Tourists can climb up to the feet of the statue. The view from this point is quite breathtaking! It is a very entertaining and enlightening piece of work and inspires one to lead a very principled and moral life. It is a must read for anyone who visits this place and it is advisable to spend at least half an hour specially dedicated for this exercise.
'Triveni Sangam' (confluence) of the three oceans (Bay of Bengal + Indian Ocean + Arabian Sea) - See the sunrise/sunset
Or
View Tower- See the sunrise/sunset
Gandhi Mandapam Such is the beauty of Kanyakumari that a lot of people find themselves attracted to it. Mahatma Gandhi too could not resist its charm, and there is a place here dedicated to him called Gandhi Mandapam. This is the place, as told by locals, where one could witness the 'Triveni Sangam' (confluence) of the three oceans (Bay of Bengal + Indian Ocean + Arabian Sea). Gandhi arrived here and succumbed to the beauty of the place as described in his beautiful words inscribed below his portrait in the Mandapam.
One can also visit which is at very near to Kanyakumari. We have not able to visit these places because of time constraint.
Padmanabhapuram Palace- The biggest wooden palace in Asia. Situated near Thuckalay, at the foot of the Veli Hills, it was the erstwhile capital of the Princely State of Travancore. The fort complex contains several important buildings like the King’s council Chamber, Thai Kottaram, Natakasala and a heritage museum. This is one of the property under the Kerala Government in Tamil Nadu. The other one is the Guest house in Kanyakumari. There is an entrance ticket of Rs. 25 for Indians and Rs 200 for foreigners. It will take approximately an hour to one-and-half hours to see this palace. Ticket Timings: 9:00 am to 1:00 pm and 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm.
Suchindram Temple- This temple is dedicated to Stanumalaya (Shiva, Vishnu, Brahma). The 135 feet tall Gopura is carved into thousands of high relief, exquisitely rendered images of deities and transcendental pastime scenes. Inside the temple you can watch the 18 feet Hanuman Statue and the musical pillars.
Vivekanandapuram which is the headquarter of Vivekananda Kendar. Bit of info – The center spreads over an area of 100 acres. It was founded by Eknathji Ranade for Swami Vivekananda. There is a well stocked library within the premises. It is well connected. Buses are also regularly available from Vivekanandapuram to Kanyakumari. You can enjoy absolutely breathtaking views of sunrise from the beaches of Vivekanandapuram. It has its own boarding & lodging facilities, a post office and a bank on its premises.
Famous:-
Place to Stay: -
Best Time to Visit:- Throughout the year but try not to visit during summer season ( because of too much hot)
Eat:-
Purchase:- Can purchase straw hats, conches, sea shells, cheap electronics
Do:- Try to see atleast sunrise/sunset from Trivani Sangam/ View Tower
Next:- Take taxi to reach you
Place :- Trivandrum
Time of Arrival :- Friday night
Time of Departure:- Saturday 11.00 am
Hotel Booked:- Trivandrum
(Friday 12.00 to Saturday 11.00)
How to Reach: Thiruvananthapuram/ Trivandrum is the capital city of the Kerala. Thiruvananthapuram means "City of Lord Anantha" (the serpent on which Lord Padmanabha/Vishnu reclines). The city is well connected with the major cities in India by Indian Rail. A long distance bus station is located next door to the railway station. Buses ply to all major towns and villages in the state
Place to Visit:
Roughly 17 km from Trivandrum, Take local bus to reach.
Start by 2.00pm after taken lunch on Friday. Keep a set of extra cloth before moving from hotel
First go to Light House of Light House Beach to see a panoramic view of Kovalam.
After that spend sometime in the Kovalam/Hawa beach.Kovalam means a grove of coconut trees and true to its name the village offers an endless sight of coconut trees.Kovalam has 3 major beaches in its 17 km coastline. The southernmost, known as the Lighthouse Beach is the most popular of the three. Many hotels, restaurants, lodges and shops are located here. It is frequented by outsiders who stay and enjoy Kovalam. The Northern most crescent, (with the different names Main Beach/Leela Beach/Samudra Beach) - is crowded on weekends, is very popular with the locals, day-travelers, and passing-by tourist buses. During the week it's quiet. Hawa Beach in between is among one of the beaches in India where topless sunbathing is tolerated and well appreciated by the locals. The tourism department provides a vigilant life guard service on both Lighthouse and Hawa beach. The Kovalam beach sand is partially black in colour due to the presence of Ilmenite and Monazite and this colouration is off-putting for some visitors and also causes the dry sand to heat up particularly fiercely, so you might want to consider bringing some footwear if you don't want to walk in the sea.
Sri Padmanabhaswamy Temple
Start early in morning around 6.00am
Dress code for men is just Kerala Mundu (White Dhothi) with the body uncovered waist-up and for Ladies Saree/Salwar Kammej with chunri
Try to see inside the main arena of the temple, the diety in 3 stages - Hand, Navel (with the Lotus carrying Brahma) and Feet
You can check the timing of temple at http://spst.in/ (3.30am to 12.00 noon) (5.00pm to 7.30pm)
The temple has many structures inside, like musical pillars, golden mandap, 500 pillared corridor famous for its sculptures and large collection of temple mural paintings. The temple has a large clear pond called Padmatheertham, which is also landmark. The deity is Maha Vishnu in a rare reclining posture, called as "ananthasayanam" or the lord's sleep. The temple has a huge role in history of Kerala, with the presiding deity even being crowned as Emperor of Travancore in 18th century and all the rulers ruling the state in the name of the deity. The royal crown of Travancore, is preserved inside the temple, though seeing it is a rare. The temple does not use any lighting generated by an electrical source and has no light bulbs or tube-lights. The only lighting is either natural or from oil lamps, which is quite minimal. The use of electronic items is prohibited in the temple. This temple is open only for Hindus, and even the Hindus admitted inside have to follow rigorous dress code and customs. Dress code for men is just Kerala Mundu (White Dhothi) with the body uncovered waist-up. Dhotis are available for one-time rental or for sale from nearby shops. Women are required to wear an Indian Sari or Kerala Mundu (The idea is that your legs must not be visible separately). Entrants would also be asked to store their bags, umbrellas, etc., at a nearby counter. This temple belongs to the Travancore Royal Family and is guarded by the Palace Guards of Travancore. Beware of presence of large number of professional touts at the entrance of temple, who attempt to forcibly sell puja plates with flowers, incense, oil lamps to first timers and tourists. Inside the main arena of the temple, you can view the diety in 3 stages - Hand, Navel (with the Lotus carrying Brahma) and Feet. The garbhagriha or the sanctum sanctorum of Sree Padmanabhaswamy temple is located on a stone slab and the main idol, which is about 18 ft long, can be viewed through three different doors. The head and chest are seen through the first door; while the hands can be sighted through the second door and the feet through the third door. The marvelous idol of Sree Padmanabhaswamy is seen reclined on the mighty five hooded serpent Anantha. The supreme God is in conscious cosmic slumber with the head positioned to the south and the feet to the north. Anantha (or the endless) spreads its hoods above the head of the Idol. The three coils represent the three characteristics of mankind Sattva, Rajas and Tamas and its five hoods indicate the Panchendriyas(five senses) or the five elements(Panchabhootas). From the navel of the Lord emerges a lotus on which Lord Brahma, the Creator, is seated. Just below the stretched right arm of the Lord is the Shiva Linga of the Destroyer. Brahma, Vishnu(Padmanabha) and Shiva represent the ‘Srushti, Stithi and Samharam’
Famous:-
Place to Stay: -
Best Time to Visit:- Throughout the year but try not to visit during summer season ( because of too much hot)
Eat:-
Purchase:-
Do:-
Next:- Take night flight from Trivandrum to reach to your home.
