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» Location : Mysore, Karnataka
» Architecture : Indo-Saracenic Style
» Originally Built Of : Wood
» Rebuilt in : 1912 AD

Monuments in Karnataka
» Gol Gumbaz
» Mysore Palace
more Monuments in South India

The Mysore Palace, built is Indo-Saracenic style with domes turrets, arches and colonnades, the palace is a treasure house of exquisite carvings and works of art from all over the world. The tastefully decorated and inticrately carved doors open into luxuriously decorated rooms.

The walls of the palace are painted with pictures of the Dassera processions and these paintings are painted in such a manner that from any angle you can see the procession coming towards you. The royal throne of the Wodeyars is displayed during the Dassera festival.

The palace has now been converted into a museum, which treasures the souvenirs, paintings, jewellery, royal costumes and other items, which were once possessed by the Wodeyars. It is said that the palace displays the largest collection of gold items, quantity wise. The Durbar hall of the palace has an ornate ceiling and many sculpture pillars which are said to have been painted with gold.

The palace was originally built of wood, which got burnt down in 1897 AD and was rebuilt in 1912 AD.

The Palace Lit Up
This profusely decorated and gilded palace is illuminated every Sundays and on holidays.

Regarding stay in delhi or service apartments in delhi

Are you visiting Delhi for a short trip or an extended stay and are looking for a comfortable vacation with ultimate services and home stay away from home? Then at a Palm Greens serviced apartments, you will have a living room to relax or entertain, space to work and if your mood takes you, you can prepare a meal. Hotels are great but a Fully furnished serviced apartment has much more for your service. With so much extra space at a serviced apartments, you will have space to relax and really enjoy your stay. Use our exclusive Corporate Service Apartments, Executive Serviced Apartments for business trip or extended stay and Fully Furnished service apartments for relocation or family vacation in New Delhi.

Features:

Fully furnished, equipped and air-conditioned service apartments.

Telephone, Internet Broadband connection.

Colored T.V.with 24 hrs. cable connection.

The kitchen has fridge, gas burner stove, toaster, water filter, microwave oven, electric kettle, etc. All crockery, cutlery and glassware.

Palm Greens service apartments are best suited for your stay at Luxurious service apartments, and Budget service apartments, in New Delhi.
For More Info contact@palgroups.com

Or visit us http://www.palgroups.com

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» Location : Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh
» Also Called As : The Arc De Triomphe Of The East
» Built By : Quli Qutub Shah
» Built In : 1591

Monuments in Andhra Pradesh
» Char Minar
» Golconda Fort
more Monuments in South India

A splendid piece of architecture standing in the heart of the city built by Quli Qutub Shah, in 1591. This magnificent monument is the unique symbol of Hyderabad. Charminar is often called as "The Arc de triomphe of the East". It is considered as the legendary masterpiece of Qutub Shahi's.

This beautiful structure derives its name from four intricately carved minarets, The four graceful minarets literally meaning 'Four Minars', soar to a height of 48.7m each, above the ground. It is located amidst the colourful shops of Lad Bazaar with its glittering traditional bangles in the old city. Enormous in its size, this imposing monument exudes a charm that is more than 400 years old.

A Representation Of Indo-Sarcenic Tradition
It was built with granite and lime-mortar. It is a blend of 'Cazia' and Islamic style of architecture. The intertwined arches and domes are examples of typical Islamic style of the architecture. The graceful floral motif atop the Charminar (Char Minar) is enchanting. The Charminar depicts the Indo-Saracenic tradition - a symbiosis of the Hindu and the Muslim traditions, which has woven the magic of a rich Deccan culture. The Charminar looks spectacular particularly in the nights when it is illuminated.

It offers an excellent panoramic view of the city and Golconda Fort, which makes the mind go back into time and recapitulates the past glory of Hyderabad during the Qutub Shahi times. Charminar has become an inseparable part of the history of Hyderabad.

The Qutub Shahi Reign
The history of Hyderabad begins with the establishment of the Qutub Shahi dynasty. Owing to the inadequacy of water and frequent epidemics of plague and cholera Quli Qutub Shah established the new city with the Charminar at its centre with four great roads fanning out in four cardinal directions.

The plan is a square, each side 20m long, while the four arches are 11m wide and rise 20m from the plinth. The four-storeyed minarets rise 20m from the roof of the massive monument and measure 24m from the plinth. The western section of the roof contains a mosque, ranking among the finest the gifted Qutub Shahi artisans ever built.

There are 45 prayer spaces with a large open space in front to accommodate more for Friday prayers. To the east of this space is a lovely verandah with a large open arch in the centre, flanked by smaller ones on both sides.

Places to stay in Hyderabad
Accommodation is available in the hotels at Hyderabad.

How to Get There
Air : Hyderabad being the capital city is well connected by air and has got its own airport.

Rail : Hyderabad has got its own railhead, which connects it to all the major cities within the state as well as in the country.

Road : Tourists can take city buses from any point of the city. Rickshaw's and Taxi's are the other modes of Transport to get to Charminar.

Regarding stay in delhi or service apartments in delhi

Are you visiting Delhi for a short trip or an extended stay and are looking for a comfortable vacation with ultimate services and home stay away from home? Then at a Palm Greens serviced apartments, you will have a living room to relax or entertain, space to work and if your mood takes you, you can prepare a meal. Hotels are great but a Fully furnished serviced apartment has much more for your service. With so much extra space at a serviced apartments, you will have space to relax and really enjoy your stay. Use our exclusive Corporate Service Apartments, Executive Serviced Apartments for business trip or extended stay and Fully Furnished service apartments for relocation or family vacation in New Delhi.

Features:

Fully furnished, equipped and air-conditioned service apartments.

Telephone, Internet Broadband connection.

Colored T.V.with 24 hrs. cable connection.

The kitchen has fridge, gas burner stove, toaster, water filter, microwave oven, electric kettle, etc. All crockery, cutlery and glassware.

Palm Greens service apartments are best suited for your stay at Luxurious service apartments, and Budget service apartments, in New Delhi.
For More Info contact@palgroups.com

Or visit us http://www.palgroups.com

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» Location : About 11-km, On The Western Outskirts Of Hyderabad City
» Famous For : Acoustics, Palaces, Ingenious Water Supply System, And Diamond Trade.
» Built By : Quli Qutub Shah In 1525
» Attractions : Taramathi Gana Mandir, Premathi Nritya Mandir, Sound And Light Show.

Monuments in Andhra Pradesh
» Char Minar
» Golconda Fort
more Monuments in South India

Golconda fort is a majestic monument, which lies on the western outskirts of Hyderabad city. It speaks of a great cultural heritage of 400 years and is regarded as a place worth visiting. Built by Mohammed Quli Qutub Shah in 1525, it stands as the epitome of Nawabi culture and grandeur.

History Of Golconda
Before the city of Hyderabad was founded the Deccan was ruled from Golconda fort. Founded originally by the Kakatiya's in the 13th century the existing structure was expanded by the Qutub Shahi kings into a massive fort with granite walls and ramparts extending some 5-km in circumference. The first three Qutub Shahi kings rebuilt Golconda, over a span of 62 years.

Shepherd's Hill" or "Golla Konda", as it was popularly known in Telugu, has an interesting story behind it. One fine day, on the rocky hill called 'Mangalavaram', a shepherd boy came across an idol. This was conveyed to the Kakatiya king, who was ruling at that time. The king got a mud fort constructed around the holy spot. Over a period of time this lowly construction was expanded by the Qutub Shahi kings into a massive fort of granite, which has been a silent witness to many historic events.

Attractions Within The Fort
One of the most remarkable features of Golconda is its system of acoustics- a hand clap at a certain point below the dome at the entrance reverberates and can be heard clearly at the 'Bala Hissar', the highest point almost a kilometre away, palaces, factories, water supply system and the famous 'Rahban' cannon, that was used during the last seize of Golconda by Aurangazeb, to whom the fort ultimately fell.

There is also supposed to be secret underground tunnel leading from the 'Durbar Hall' to one of the palaces at the foot of the hill. The tombs of the Qutub Shahi kings, built with Islamic architecture lie about 1-km north of the outer wall of Golconda. These graceful structures are surrounded by landscaped gardens, and a number of them have beautifully carved stonework. Not be missed is the Sound and Light show conducted by Andhra Pradesh Tourism.

Outside the Golconda Fort are two separate pavilions built on a rocky eminence - the 'Taramathi Gana Mandir' and the 'Premathi Nritya Mandir' from where the legendary sisters 'Taramathi' and 'Premamathi' resided. They gave their performance on a circular dais atop a two-storied structure, the 'Kala Mandir', which was visible from the king's durbar (king's court) on top of the Golconda Fort.

A Well Planned Architecture
The magnificent architecture of the Golconda fort is manifest in its acoustic system, the structural grandeur of the palaces and ingenious water supply system. The fort was famous for its diamond trade and the 'Kohinoor' diamond is said to have come from here. One is perplexed to see the meticulous details of the architecture and the fading gardens, which were once upon a time replete with sprawling lawns and playing fountains.

Golconda is built on a granite hill 120m high, and is surrounded by crenulated ramparts constructed of large masonry blocks weighing several tonnes. The design of the ventilation reveals the brilliant planning of the architects; they are designed to let in a flow of fresh cool breeze, which is a respite from the heat of summer.

The massive gates are studded with large pointed iron spikes to prevent elephants from battering them down. The outer wall surrounding the entire township of Golconda, is about 11-km long, and is strongly fortified. In its heyday, the 10-km long road from Golconda to outer Hyderabad was a fabulous market selling jewellery, diamonds, pearls and other gems, which were famous all over the world.

The Sound & Light Show in Golconda Fort
A new attraction at the fort is a sound and light show that brings the legend of Golconda to life. With a spectacular interplay of audio and visual effects, the story of Golconda unfolds over centuries of splendour. The show livens up the glorious past and it is an experience worth watching. The show is presented in English, Hindi and Telugu.

» Show Timings : Winter (November - February) 6:30pm, Summer (March - October) 7:00pm
» Duration : 55 minutes
» In English : Wednesday, Sunday
» In Hindi : Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday
» In Telugu : Thursday
» Closed on : Mondays
» Advance Booking : Available at Yatra Nivas, Secunderabad. Coach leaves Yatranivas at 5:00pm and returns from Golconda Fort at 8:15pm.

Places to stay in Hyderabad
There are numerous hotels available in Hyderabad.

How to Get There
Air : Hyderabad can be reached by air, from all the major cities of the country.

Rail : Hyderabad is well connected by rail to all parts of the country.

Road : There is a regular bus service to Hyderabad from many cities in southern, central and southeastern parts of the country.

City Transport : Golconda Fort is around 11-km from Hyderabad. Auto rickshaws and Taxis are available apart from luxury/semi-luxury buses, for local transportation.

Regarding stay in delhi or service apartments in delhi

Are you visiting Delhi for a short trip or an extended stay and are looking for a comfortable vacation with ultimate services and home stay away from home? Then at a Palm Greens serviced apartments, you will have a living room to relax or entertain, space to work and if your mood takes you, you can prepare a meal. Hotels are great but a Fully furnished serviced apartment has much more for your service. With so much extra space at a serviced apartments, you will have space to relax and really enjoy your stay. Use our exclusive Corporate Service Apartments, Executive Serviced Apartments for business trip or extended stay and Fully Furnished service apartments for relocation or family vacation in New Delhi.

Features:

Fully furnished, equipped and air-conditioned service apartments.

Telephone, Internet Broadband connection.

Colored T.V.with 24 hrs. cable connection.

The kitchen has fridge, gas burner stove, toaster, water filter, microwave oven, electric kettle, etc. All crockery, cutlery and glassware.

Palm Greens service apartments are best suited for your stay at Luxurious service apartments, and Budget service apartments, in New Delhi.
For More Info contact@palgroups.com

Or visit us http://www.palgroups.com

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» Location : 29 Kms North-West Of Thrissur, Kerala
» Popularly Known as : Dwaraka of the South
» Dedicated To : Lord Krishna
» Significance : Most Important Hindu Pilgrim Centre in Kerala

Temples in Kerala
» Guruvayoor Temple
» Kalpathy Temple
» Sabarimala Temple
» Thriprayar Temple
more Temples in South India

A temple, famous all over India as a pilgrim centre, dedicated to Lord Krishna popularly known as Guruvayoorappan. The Sreekrishna idol of this temple is believed to have been worshipped by Vasudevar and Devaki at Dwaraka. This shrine popularly known as ‘Dakshina Dwaraka’ (Dwaraka of south) is in the form of a rectangle. There are a lot of mural paintings around the ‘Shrikovil’ (Shrine).

Guruvayoor, where the famous Sree Krishna Temple is situated, is one of the most sacred and important pilgrim centres of kerala. The walls of the sanctum sanctorum are inlaid with exquisite mural paintings and carvings.

In Kerala, this is probably the only temple that hosts the maximum number of marriages and rice feeding ceremonies (the ritual first meal for infants). It was also the hub of the 'Guruvayoor Sathyagraha' , a historic movement demanding temple entry rights for the 'so called' lower castes.

The historic temple is shrouded in mystery. According to local belief, the temple was created by 'Guru', the 'preceptor of the gods' and 'Vayu', the 'god of winds'. The eastern 'nada' is the main entrance to the shrine.

In the 'Chuttambalam' (outer enclosure) is a 33.5-m tall gold-plated 'Dwajastambham' (flagpost). There is also a 7 m high 'Deepastambham' (pillar of lamps), whose thirteen circular receptacles provide a truly brillant spectacle, when lit. The square 'Sreekovil' is the sacred sanctum sanctorum of the temple, housing the main deity. Within the temple, there are also the images of Ganapathy, Sree Ayyappa and Edathedathy Kavil Bhagavathy. Only Hindus are allowed inside the temple.

Punnathoorkotta, which is at a distance of 2 kms from Guruvayoor is home of 50 temple elephants, offers unusual spectacles of the gentle pachyderm.

Timings
The temple is open 03:00 am to 01:00 pm & 04:30pm to 08:30 pm.

Conducted Tours
DTPC conducts daily tours from Guruvayoor Bhakti Marg Circuit. The tour starts from Guruvayoor in the morning.

It then proceeds to Thriprayar, Koodal Manikyam, Vadakkumnathan Temple, Chettuva and returns to Guruvayoor by late evening.

How to Get There
Air : Nearest international airport is at Nedumbassery (87 km).

Road : The place is well connected to neighbouring places by good motorable roads.

Regarding stay in delhi or service apartments in delhi

Are you visiting Delhi for a short trip or an extended stay and are looking for a comfortable vacation with ultimate services and home stay away from home? Then at a Palm Greens serviced apartments, you will have a living room to relax or entertain, space to work and if your mood takes you, you can prepare a meal. Hotels are great but a Fully furnished serviced apartment has much more for your service. With so much extra space at a serviced apartments, you will have space to relax and really enjoy your stay. Use our exclusive Corporate Service Apartments, Executive Serviced Apartments for business trip or extended stay and Fully Furnished service apartments for relocation or family vacation in New Delhi.

Features:

Fully furnished, equipped and air-conditioned service apartments.

Telephone, Internet Broadband connection.

Colored T.V.with 24 hrs. cable connection.

The kitchen has fridge, gas burner stove, toaster, water filter, microwave oven, electric kettle, etc. All crockery, cutlery and glassware.

Palm Greens service apartments are best suited for your stay at Luxurious service apartments, and Budget service apartments, in New Delhi.
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» Location : 3kms From Palakkad
» Dedicated to : Lord Shiva
» Famous For : The Annual Chariot Festival
» Significance : Houses The Oldest Shiva Temple

Temples in Kerala
» Guruvayoor Temple
» Kalpathy Temple
» Sabarimala Temple
» Thriprayar Temple
more Temples in South India

The Vishwanatha Swamy shrine, the oldest Shiva temple is situated 3 kms from Palakkad. The annual chariot temple is a gala event. The annual 'Ratholsavam' or Chariot Festival at Sree Viswanantha Swamy temple lasts for seven days.

On the last three days, beautifully decorated temple chariots are ceremoniously drawn through the streets by thousands of devotees whose soul stirring chants rent the air.

The festival is dominated by three magnificent chariots, bedecked with flowers and flags, each sanctified by the presence of the lord.

Teeming crowds of people and millions of hands try to reach out to be one of the privileged to have the honour of pulling the chariots, as they proceed in stately grandeur.

Regarding stay in delhi or service apartments in delhi

Are you visiting Delhi for a short trip or an extended stay and are looking for a comfortable vacation with ultimate services and home stay away from home? Then at a Palm Greens serviced apartments, you will have a living room to relax or entertain, space to work and if your mood takes you, you can prepare a meal. Hotels are great but a Fully furnished serviced apartment has much more for your service. With so much extra space at a serviced apartments, you will have space to relax and really enjoy your stay. Use our exclusive Corporate Service Apartments, Executive Serviced Apartments for business trip or extended stay and Fully Furnished service apartments for relocation or family vacation in New Delhi.

Features:

Fully furnished, equipped and air-conditioned service apartments.

Telephone, Internet Broadband connection.

Colored T.V.with 24 hrs. cable connection.

The kitchen has fridge, gas burner stove, toaster, water filter, microwave oven, electric kettle, etc. All crockery, cutlery and glassware.

Palm Greens service apartments are best suited for your stay at Luxurious service apartments, and Budget service apartments, in New Delhi.
For More Info contact@palgroups.com

Or visit us http://www.palgroups.com

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» Location : Western Ghats, Kerala
» Dedicated To : Lord Ayyappa
» Altitude : 914 m Above Sea Level
» Main Festival : Sabarimala Temple Festival

Temples in Kerala
» Guruvayoor Temple
» Kalpathy Temple
» Sabarimala Temple
» Thriprayar Temple
more Temples in South India

Sabarimala is a renowned pilgrim centre atop the rugged hills of the Western Ghats. This holy shrine is dedicated to Lord Ayyappa. The sanctum sanctoram nestles 914 m above sea level, amidst the virgin forest wilderness of the Western Ghats.

The Village of Sabarimala is named after Shabari who did severe penance in order to meet Rama who granted her wish for her devotion and faith during her penance.

The main pilgrimage is undertaken between November and January. Regardless of caste, creed, colour, they wear black dhotis and carry on their heads, bundles containing traditional offerings like coconut filled with ghee, camphor and rice.

The Main Festival
Sabarimala is one of the most important Hindu temples of Kerala. The Sabarimala Temple festival is celebrated in honour of Lord Ayyapan who is revered by all in India.

There are two main pujas called the Mandal Puja and the Makara Sankranti Puja, which are celebrated from November to Middle of January in Kerala, during which time the devotees perform austerities and penance.

The Penance
Devotees undergo rigorous penance and austere living before starting on the pilgrimage. Devotees wear black 'dhotis' and are bare-chested as they prepare for the pilgrimage to Sabarimala.

The temple is at the top of the Neeli hills and the devotees have to climb the treacherous route carrying their meagre provision in a bundle called "Iru Mudi" meaning in "two folds".

The distance from the base of the hill to the top takes about three days to cover and the most important part of the pilgrimage are the final 18 steps, which lead to the temple. The temple dome is covered with gold and the devotees break the coconuts before climbing the steps.

An Unmatched Instance of Religious Tolerance
Opposite the main temple complex, there is a smaller temple for the Muslim god called Wavar, who is an ally of Lord Ayyapa.

Signifying religious tolerance and harmony of the olden days, the devotees pay obeisance to Lord Wavar, on their way to the main temple. After the devotees complete their pujas and offerings, they return to the base of the hill and return to their homes.

The people making the pilgrimage for the first time are known as "Kanni Swamys" and the person leading the group is known as 'Guru Swamy' or the lead person of a team who is incharge of all the rituals.

Devotees take a ritual bath, while climbing up the hill in the holy river Pamba, which is believed to absolve one's sins.

Restricted Entry At The Festival Time
Only young girls who have not attained womanhood and old women who have reached menopause are allowed to worship at this time.

The men must vow to walk bare foot, not cut their nails and hair, sleep on the floor and practise absolute abstinence during the period of their penance.

How to Get There
Transportation is available upto Pamba, from where one has to travel a distance of 5 kms on foot. Devotees undertake rigorous penance, ritualistic vows and fasts before they visit the temple.

Regarding stay in delhi or service apartments in delhi

Are you visiting Delhi for a short trip or an extended stay and are looking for a comfortable vacation with ultimate services and home stay away from home? Then at a Palm Greens serviced apartments, you will have a living room to relax or entertain, space to work and if your mood takes you, you can prepare a meal. Hotels are great but a Fully furnished serviced apartment has much more for your service. With so much extra space at a serviced apartments, you will have space to relax and really enjoy your stay. Use our exclusive Corporate Service Apartments, Executive Serviced Apartments for business trip or extended stay and Fully Furnished service apartments for relocation or family vacation in New Delhi.

Features:

Fully furnished, equipped and air-conditioned service apartments.

Telephone, Internet Broadband connection.

Colored T.V.with 24 hrs. cable connection.

The kitchen has fridge, gas burner stove, toaster, water filter, microwave oven, electric kettle, etc. All crockery, cutlery and glassware.

Palm Greens service apartments are best suited for your stay at Luxurious service apartments, and Budget service apartments, in New Delhi.
For More Info contact@palgroups.com

Or visit us http://www.palgroups.com

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» Location : South Of Thrissur, Kerala
» Dedicated to : Lord Rama
» Temple Festival Held In : November / December
» Other Attraction : Snake Boat Race

Temples in Kerala
» Guruvayoor Temple
» Kalpathy Temple
» Sabarimala Temple
» Thriprayar Temple
more Temples in South India

Thriprayar Temple, located south of Thrissur is one of the important temples dedicated to Lord Rama.

The exquisite wood carvings, sculptures and Mural Paintings are an interesting sight. The temple festival is held in November / December and includes a parade of 17 elephants.

During the Onam festival in the months of August / September, there is a snake boat race. There are regular buses to Thriprayar from the Shakthan Thamburan bus stand.

Regarding stay in delhi or service apartments in delhi

Are you visiting Delhi for a short trip or an extended stay and are looking for a comfortable vacation with ultimate services and home stay away from home? Then at a Palm Greens serviced apartments, you will have a living room to relax or entertain, space to work and if your mood takes you, you can prepare a meal. Hotels are great but a Fully furnished serviced apartment has much more for your service. With so much extra space at a serviced apartments, you will have space to relax and really enjoy your stay. Use our exclusive Corporate Service Apartments, Executive Serviced Apartments for business trip or extended stay and Fully Furnished service apartments for relocation or family vacation in New Delhi.

Features:

Fully furnished, equipped and air-conditioned service apartments.

Telephone, Internet Broadband connection.

Colored T.V.with 24 hrs. cable connection.

The kitchen has fridge, gas burner stove, toaster, water filter, microwave oven, electric kettle, etc. All crockery, cutlery and glassware.

Palm Greens service apartments are best suited for your stay at Luxurious service apartments, and Budget service apartments, in New Delhi.
For More Info contact@palgroups.com

Or visit us http://www.palgroups.com

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» Location : At Chayavanam, Two Miles From Tiruvengadu, Tamil Nadu
» Presiding Deity : Lord Shiva

Temples in Tamilnadu
» Chayavaneashwara Temple
» Krishnapuram Temple
» Kumbeswara Temple
» Meenakshi Temple, Madurai
» Murugan Temple, Tirupporur
more Temples in South India

The Chayavaneswara temple is located in Chayavanam (Chaikadu), at a distance of two miles from Tiruvengadu and about a mile from the confluence of River Kaveri with the sea, known as "Kaveripatnam".

Much sanctity is attached to this temple and the pilgrims after ablution at the confluence worship Lord Chayavaneswara and seek his blessings. According to Hindu customary rites a bath at the confluence of a river with the sea is considered religiously meritorious.

Connection With Iyarpagai Nayanar
The temple attained legendary importance for its connection with Iyarpagai Nayanar, one of the sixty-three Nayanmars or Saivite saints of the South. The story goes that the Nayanar used to spend all his wealth for temples, feeding sadhus and satisfying their desires.

It so happened that once an old man approached him with the very absurd request to send his (Nayanars) wife to him as a gift. Without hesitation Iyarpagai Nayanar satisfied the desire of the old man. But this created commotion among his relatives, who never appreciated such a gift. However socially degrading it may be, he insisted upon his wife to follow the sadhu and she did so. The old man transformed into Lord Shiva, praised the Nayanar for his unstinted devotion towards Saivite saints and blessed him with liberation. Lord Shiva tests the depth of devotion of his devotees and rewards them when they stand the test.

How to get there
Metalled roads easily reach the temple from Shiyali, Vaitheeswaran Koil, Semponnar Koil and Akkur railway stations on the Chennai- Mayavaram line.

Places to stay in Tamilnadu
Accommodation is available at the choultries located near the temple.

Regarding stay in delhi or service apartments in delhi

Are you visiting Delhi for a short trip or an extended stay and are looking for a comfortable vacation with ultimate services and home stay away from home? Then at a Palm Greens serviced apartments, you will have a living room to relax or entertain, space to work and if your mood takes you, you can prepare a meal. Hotels are great but a Fully furnished serviced apartment has much more for your service. With so much extra space at a serviced apartments, you will have space to relax and really enjoy your stay. Use our exclusive Corporate Service Apartments, Executive Serviced Apartments for business trip or extended stay and Fully Furnished service apartments for relocation or family vacation in New Delhi.

Features:

Fully furnished, equipped and air-conditioned service apartments.

Telephone, Internet Broadband connection.

Colored T.V.with 24 hrs. cable connection.

The kitchen has fridge, gas burner stove, toaster, water filter, microwave oven, electric kettle, etc. All crockery, cutlery and glassware.

Palm Greens service apartments are best suited for your stay at Luxurious service apartments, and Budget service apartments, in New Delhi.
For More Info contact@palgroups.com

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» Location : About 6 Miles From Tirunelveli Town, Tamil Nadu
» Deity Worshipped : Venkatachalapati
» Known For : Sculptural Beauty

Temples in Tamilnadu
» Chayavaneashwara Temple
» Krishnapuram Temple
» Kumbeswara Temple
» Meenakshi Temple, Madurai
» Murugan Temple, Tirupporur
more Temples in South India

Krishnapuram is a small village in Tirunelveli district at a distance of about six miles from Tirunelveli town. In spite of the innumerable and wonderful temples in Tamil Nadu, Krishnapuram's temple holds its own, as far as sculptural splendour goes. Astonishing is the fact that 300 years later, the figures look alive and young. Interestingly, the Arulnigu Venkatachalapati temple houses statues of deities, as well as scenes from court life. Some of its pillars emanate interesting sounds, when tapped.

Veerappa Naick Mandapam
There is a Mandapam known as "Veerappa Naick Mandapam" on the northern side of the temple. There are two beautifully carved elephants adorning the entrance of this Mandapam. The six pillars at the centre of the Mandapam bear images of exquisite beauty depicting scenes from the Puranas.

Any visitor will be impressed by the dexterity with which each image in the Mandapam has been carved out. They are so life-like and their features and expressions so natural and real that a person will be under the impression that he is actually in front of living beings. Such beautiful idols can hardly be seen elsewhere. The stone for carving out the idols has been selected with such care that they produce melodious musical sounds when struck at different places. There are many good images of ingenious and rare workmanship in the Mandapam, which is just opposite the presiding deity.

Temple Of Lord Venkatachalapati
Lord Venkatachalapati has been installed here with Sri Devi and Bhoo Devi. Pujas and abhishekam are being conducted to the Lord daily and some important festivals are celebrated every year. There are a good number of images and idols of sculptural interest in the temple, attracting hundreds of visitors.

Representation Of A Princess And A Prince Being Abducted By A Kuravan And A Kuratti
There is another pillar containing the representation of a princess and a prince being abducted by a Kuravan and a Kuratti (gypsies) write nouns in caps, while an irate king or minister gives an angry chase and rescues them. The princess sits serene on the shoulders of the gypsy as if expecting rescue at any moment. The charger on one side of the pillar is depicted as if it would leap into life any moment under the whip of its rider. A lance has pierced the kuravan on his left flank and the blood flowing from the wound is represented in a red shade of stone.

The whole body of the man is twisted in an agony of pain. It is a marvel where the, sculptor got a model for his work. The other side of the pillar shows the princess's mother consulting a female palmist. The curves of the feminine body, its dress and ornaments have been depicted in luscious glory and with pointed attention to detail.

The same affectionate care has been bestowed upon the statue of Rati (Goddess of Love), the eternal beauty, full of an entirely human vanity, admiring herself and bearing a look of mixed self-satisfaction and serene contentment.

Representation Of The Story Of The Adventure Of Bhimasena With Purushamrigam
One of the pillars represents the story of the adventure of Bhimasena with Purushamrigam. To fulfill the ritual at an important yaga, Yudhishthira required the milk of Purushamrigam, a half-man, half-beast denizen of the forests, this creature is a devoted Shiva bhakta and Bhimasena achieved his purpose when it was in deep penance. But it's highly developed mental faculties found out the desecration committed by Bhima and it gave an angry chase.

Lord Krishna, without whom Pandavas would have been nothing, handed Bhima three stones, each of which was cast by him one after another. At each stone, a Shiva shrine sprang up and consequently Purushamrigam, being a sensitive Shiva bhakta, paused to offer worship to Lord Shiva and was consequently delayed in the pursuit of Bhima.

In spite of these efforts, the Pandava prince was captured when, with one foot already out of the forest, he was about to reach civilization again. Bhima could not escape the powerful grip of Purushamrigam and they both entered into an argument of jurisdiction and Purushamrigam, oddly enough consented to an arbitration of the dispute by Yudhishthira.

The latter took the responsibility for the whole act, granted the creature's right to act as it pleased in the forest region, and offered half his body in lieu of that part of Bhima's which was within the jungle when he was caught. Deeply touched by the devotion of Yudhishthira to Dharma, Purushamrigam freed Bhima and changed its cannibal.

Representations On Other Pillars
Karna (of Mahabharata) is shown in another pillar. A monkey is sitting on the shoulders of a beggar who is playing with it. On the other side there is a beautiful girl with a parrot in her hand.

A girl is dancing with a bouquet in her right palm and a fruit in her left palm. A knight is lying at her feet with a sword in his hand and a gypsy is sitting by her side with snakes around him. On the other side of this pillar, two lovers are found to be making gestures of love to each other.

Crowning another pillar is a remarkable carving combining an elephant and a bull. On the left is seen the tusker with its trunk raised, while on the right is the bull. The eyes are common, the lip of the elephant corresponds with the ear of the bull and the lifted trunk forms the hump of the bull. The two figures are thus interlocked in a clever composition of a tricky picture.

Representation Of Arjuna With A Flowing Beard Performing Penance With Bow And Arrow In His Hands
There is also another pillar with Arjuna with a flowing beard performing penance with bow and arrow in his hands. Though a monk, the representation impresses it with an appearance of a great and powerful knight.

the other side of the pillar, a sage is shown to be molesting a lady who, out of anger, is pulling down his beard. A lady is carrying away a handsome prince and an old lady with a sword in her hand is attacking a man who has been caught between her legs.

Places to stay in Tamilnadu
Accommodation is available at the moderate class and small budgeted hotels and lodges in Tirunelveli.

How to Get There
Air : The nearest airport is at Madurai, at a distance of 151-km.

Rail : The nearest railway station is at Tirunelveli, which is an important railway junction on the southern railway and is well connected to all major cities within and beyond the state.

Road : A good network of roads serves Tirunelveli. From Tirunelveli, there are regular buses to the temple. Taxis are also available.

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» Location : Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu
» Presiding Deity : Lord Kumbeswara
» Presiding Goddess : Sri Mangalambigai
» Festivals Celebrated : Mahamaham Festival

Temples in Tamilnadu
» Chayavaneashwara Temple
» Krishnapuram Temple
» Kumbeswara Temple
» Meenakshi Temple, Madurai
» Murugan Temple, Tirupporur
more Temples in South India

This is the largest and the oldest Shiva temple located in the center of the town of Kumbakonam. The presiding deity of this temple is Lord Kumbeswara and the presiding Goddess is Sri Mangalambigai. There is a shrine dedicated to Adi Vinayaka (Lord Ganesh).

The temple contains some wonderful pieces of sculpture and architecture. Its main Gopuram is 128 feet high and has many intricately carved sculptures on it. On a single block of stone in the Navarathri Mandapam all the 27 stars and 12 Rasis or Rashis (signs) have been carved out. The image of Lord Subrahmanya, enshrined in the part of the temple, is a rare specimen. It has six heads but only six hands holding different kinds of weapons. There is an excellent collection of silver vahanas (palanquins) used to carry the deities at festival times.

History Of The Temple
A Chola King built the temple and the temple building itself would seem to have been renovated by the Nayak King. Some of the old images like "Sri Ambal", "Sri Durgaiamman" and "Sri Kirathamoorti" bear the impress of the antiquity about them.

Legend Connected With The Temple
Tradition goes to say that during the 'Mahapralaya' (GreatFloods) after Dwaparayuga, a 'Kumbam' (Pot) full of amirtham and seeds for creation was set afloat by Lord Shiva. It was proclaimed by Shiva Himself that the place where the pot touched theground and had its rest would be considered as the holiest places in the world.

The nectar settled at two places one of which became the famous Mahamaham Tank. Out of the pieces of the broken pot Lord Shiva made out a ShivaLinga and entered into it. This is now enshrined in the temple, and hence the name Adi Kumbeswara, meaning - one who entered the Kumba or vessel long long ago.

Since the said Kumbam, as announced by the creator of the world, had its rest in this place, this ancient place is named as "Kumbakonam" after that Kumbam. Immediately after its rest Lord Shiva appeared in the guise of a hunter and broke thesaid Kumbam full of Amirtham with his arrow.

It is to be noted that this MahaLinga unlike other Lingas found in other temples, is not made of granite stone and as such Abishekams cannot be performed with watery substances lest it should dissolve the shape of the Linga (also spelt as lingam).

The Saivaite Saints, Appar and Sambandhar who flourished prior to the 7th century AD has sung devotional songs (Thevarams) in praise of the presiding deities of the temple.

The idol of Kirathamoorti is a special feature in the temple and it is a standing monument to commemorate the incidence that, Lord Shiva Himself has created the present MahaLinga.

Festivities
The great Mahamaham festival celebrated in honour of Lord attracts lakhs of people from far and wide and it takes place once in 12 years. It is celebrated on the conjunction of the moon with the Mahanakshatra and Jupiter crosses one Rasi or sign in about one year. It comes to Simha Rasi or Leo every 13th year and it is considered specially sacred. It is believed that on this auspicious day the tank receives supplies of water from the Ganges and eight other holy rivers and all the deities are said to remain present here on that occasion.

The Lord has a number of festivals round the year. Every year in the month of 'Maasi' (February-March) a festival is conducted and the image of Lord Kumbeswara is taken out in a procession. It is celebrated for 10 days during that period.

Others include, Theppam festival during Panguni (March - April), Sapthathanam during Chitirai month (April - May). During this festival Lord's idol will be carried in a palanquin to the nearby villages. Marriage festival for Lord Adikumbeswara and Goddess Mangalambigai is conducted in the month of 'Vaikasi' (May - June). Daily pujas are conducted six times from morning to evening.

Temple Timings
The temple is kept open from 5:30 in the morning and stays so till 12:00 in the noon. The temple usually remains closed during the noon hours, and reopens in the evening at 4:00 p.m. The temple closes in the night after the last pujas are performed by 8:00 p.m.

Places to stay in Tamilnadu
Accommodation is available at the ecomomy class hotels, lodges, and devasthanam cottages in Kumbakonam.

How to Get There
Air : The nearest airport is at Trichy (95-km).

Rail : Kumbakonam is well connected by rail with the major towns and cities of the state.

Road : Kumbakonam is just five and a half hours drive from Chennai and two and half hours drive from Trichy.

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» Location : Madurai, Tamil Nadu
» Deity Worshipped : Lord Somasundara (Lord Shiva) And Goddess Meenakshi
» Built By : The Pandyan King, Kulasekhara
» Festivals Celebrated : Meenakshi Kalyanam In April-May And The Teppam Festival

Temples in Tamilnadu
» Chayavaneashwara Temple
» Krishnapuram Temple
» Kumbeswara Temple
» Meenakshi Temple, Madurai
» Murugan Temple, Tirupporur
more Temples in South India

Madurai or "the city of nectar" is the oldest and second largest city of Tamil Nadu. This city is located on Vaigai River and was the capital of Pandyan rulers. The Pandyan king, Kulasekhara had built a gorgeous temple around which he created a lotus shaped city. It has been a center of learning and pilgrimage, for centuries. Legend has it, that the divine nectar falling from Lord Shiva's locks, gave the city its name - 'Madhurapuri', now known as "Madurai".

The Origin Of The Meenakshi Temple
The Sri Meenakshi Sundareswara temple and Madurai city originated together. According to tradition, Indra once committed sin when he killed a demon, who was then performing penance. He could find no relief from remorse in his own kingdom. He came down to earth. While passing through a forest of Kadamba trees in Pandya land, he felt relieved of his burden. His servitors told him that there was a Shivalinga under a Kadamba tree and beside a lake. Certain that it was the Linga that had helped him; he worshipped it and built a small temple around it. It is believed that it is this Linga, which is till under worship in the Madurai temple. The shrine is called the "Indra Vimana".

When the next Pandya, Malayadhvaja, and his queen, Kanchanamala, performed a sacrifice for a child, Lord Shiva caused Goddess Parvati Herself to step out of the fire as a little girl. She had three breasts. Lord Shiva told the couple that the third breast would disappear when she set eyes on he who was to be her husband. They were to name her "Thadathagai" and bring her up as if she were a boy.

Once Dhananjaya, a merchant of Manavur, where the Pandyas had arrived after the second deluge in Kumari Kandam, having been overtaken by nightfall in Kadamba forest, spent the night in the Indra Vimana. When next morning he woke up, he was surprised to see signs of worship. Thinking that it must be the work of the Devas, he told the Pandya, Kulasekhara, in Manavur, of this. Meanwhile Lord Shiva had instructed Pandya in a dream to build a temple and a city at the spot Dhananjaya would indicate. Kulasekhara did so. Thus originated the temple and city.

She succeeded her father to the throne at his death. She gained many military victories. Finally she marched on Kailasa itself. When she saw Lord Shiva, her third breast disappeared. The Lord told her to return to Madurai and said that He would marry her there. The divine marriage was celebrated. This is the theme much beloved of Madurai artists. There is a superb sculpture of this in the temple. The crowning of Meenakshi, for She was the same as Thadathagai, is celebrated as a festival in the temple.

The Lord performed many miracles at the wedding. These are described in a celebrated poem, the "Tiruviayadal Puranam". Under the name of "Sundara Pandya", the Lord ruled the land as a mortal. After sometime, crowning Lord Muruga, their son, who was named "Ugra Pandya", Sundara Pandya and Thadathagai went into the temple and assumed divine forms as "Lord Somasundara" and "Goddess Meenakshi" respectively.

About The Temple
While the temple originated in times to which no date can be assigned, the structures that are standing today date mostly from the twelfth to the eighteenth century. They occupy a vast space, 258 m by 241m. There are the two main shrines, no less than twelve Gopuras, a tank and innumerable Mandapas. At every turn there is superb sculpture, magnificent architecture.

Earliest References Of The Temple
Paranjothi Munivar wrote the Tiruviayadal Puranam in the sixteenth century. It is regarded as the temple's Sthalapurana. An earlier work adds a few celestial sports not included in the latter. These are, or rather were painted on the walls around the Golden Lily Tank. Some of the painted wooden panels are in the Temple Museum.

In the 14th century an invasion by Malik Kafur damaged the temple. In the same century Madurai was under Muslim rule for nearly fifty years. The temple authorities closed the sanctum, covered up the Linga, and set up another in the Ardhamandapa. When the city was liberated, the sanctum was opened, and, tradition says the flower garlands and the sandalwood paste placed on the Linga were as fresh as on the first day, and two oil lamps were still burning.

The earliest references available to any structure in this temple is a hymn of Sambhandar's, in the seventh century, which refers to the "Kapali Madil". The present inner walls of the Lords shrine bear this name today. In the early times the entire temple must have been confined to the area between these walls, and the structures must have been of brick and mortar.

Mudali Pillai Mandapa
The Mudali Pillai Mandapa follows the Chitra Gopura. Added in 1613, it is 183m long and 7.6m wide. On its wall are many puranic scenes. It used to be without any natural light, but windows were added in the last renovation.

The Golden Lily Tank
The lovely and historic Golden Lily tank then comes into view. It is from its banks that most popular photographic views of the temple are taken, showing the gigantic south outer Gopura. The northern corridor leads directly to the shrine of the Goddess. On its pillars are the images of some of the Sangam poets, of Kulasekhara Pandya, the first builder of the temple, and of Dhananjaya, who figures in the traditional story of its origin. There is no fish in the tank.

The corridors around the tank are rightly called the "Chitra Mandapa", for the walls carry paintings of the divine sports of the Lord, as narrated in the "Tiruvilayadal Puranam". They have been renewed from time to time. A short while ago there were paintings on wooden panels affixed over an older series. They have since been removed to the Temple Museum in the thousand-pillared Mandapa, leaving some dilapidated murals to view. It is impossible to ascertain the date of these.

It was in the sixteenth century that the corridors and the steps leading down to the tank were constructed; the northern corridor and steps in 1562, those on the east in 1573, and those on the south five years later.

Samagam Meenakshi Naicker Mandapa
A smaller Mandapa connects the large one with another large one with another large hall, called the "Samagam Meenakshi Naicker Mandapa", after its builder, a minister of Vijayaranga Chokkanatha (1706-32), who erected in 1707. In former times the temple's elephants camels and bulls used to be stabled here. A brass "Tiruvatchi" holding a thousand and eight lamps stands here, 7.6m high. Marudu Pandya, one of the early opponents of the growing British power, installed it.

The Meenakshi Naicker Mandapa is a huge hall, 42.9m long and 33.5m wide. It contains 110 stone columns, each 6.7m high. There are yalis in the capital and delicate reliefs below. Some of the carvings are unfinished.

The "Chitra Gopura", its name amply justified by its exquisite sculptures, 740 in number, stands over the entrance from this Mandapa into the shrine complex of the Goddess. It could have been the original entrance into the sanctum. Over seven tiers, and 35.6m high, it is the tallest of those over the shrine of the Goddess. It was built about 1570 by Kalatthi Mudaliar, a son of Aryanatha Mudaliar, who helped Vishwanatha Nayak, the founder of the Madurai Nayak dynasty, to consolidate his power. He rose from poverty and obscurity to the highest post after the Nayak. There are equestrian statues of him in two places in the temple, in the Pudumandapa and in the thousand-pillared hall. The Gopura was extensively renovated in 1960-63.

Ashta Sakthi Mandapa
It is a convention in this temple, different from that followed in others, that the devotee offers worship first to Goddess Meenakshi. Therefore, while there are four other entrances into the temple, under huge Gopuras in the four cardinal directions, it is customary to enter not through any of them but through a Mandapa, with no tower above it. This entrance leads directly to the shrine of the Goddess.

An interesting story is told of what an artist did in 1923 when adding some paintings there. In one of these depicting the coronation of Goddess Meenakshi, he included a figure of Mahatma Gandhi. The British authorities ordered that it be removed. What the artist did was to add to the lasting oil painting long locks of hair in watercolour so that a sage resulted. But shortly after, the locks disappeared and Gandhiji re-merged.

This Mandapa is an impressive structure, with a hemispherical ceiling. It is 14m long and 5.5m wide. There are bas-reliefs all over the place. Over the entrance one of them depicts the marriage of Goddess Meenakshi with Lord Somasundara. The Mandapa derives its name, the "Ashta Sakthi", from the fact it contains sculptures of the eight Sakthis (also spelt as Shakti). Those of the four principal Nyanmars were added during renovation of the temple in 1960-63.

Queen Rudrapathi Ammal and Queen Tholiammal, consorts of Tirumalai Nayak (1623-1659) erected the Mandapam. Tirumalai, the greatest of the Nayaks of Madurai, who were originally viceroys of the Vijayanagar Rayas, but who later made themselves virtually independent, was the grandest builder in the history of the temple and the city. Formerly, pilgrims used to be fed in this Mandapa.

The Unjal And Kilikatti Mandapas
Two Mandapas, the Unjal and the Kilikatti, stand on the farther way to the shrine of the Goddess. On their ceilings are more paintings. A celebrated mural, opposite to the entrance of the shrine, depicts the marriage of Goddess Meenakshi. The Kilikatti Mandapa derives its name from the fact that there are parrots in a cage here. On its walls are carvings of the divine sports. The most ornamental of the temple's Mandapas, it was built in 1623.

Near the flagstaff is a six-pillared structure, which is of historic interest. A famous poet, Kumaragurubarar, composed verses in praise of the Goddess at the request of Tirumalai Nayak. He recited the work in this part of the temple with Tirumalai present. As he was doing so, a little girl walked upto the Nayak, took a pearl necklace from his neck, gave it to the poet and disappeared. She was the Goddess Meenakshi Herself. There is a stone bell on the ceiling of the Mukhamandapa. The entire shrine measures 68.5m by 45.7m.

A Gopura of three tiers stands over the entrance from this Mandapa into the shrine of the Goddess. Built in 1227 by Vambathura Ananda Tandava Nambi, it is named the Vambuthurar Gopura after him. The shrine consists of a square sanctum, an Ardhamandapa and a Mukhamandapa. In the niches on the walls of the shrine are images of Iccasakthi in the south, Kriyasakthi in the west, and Jnanasakthi in the north. There are shrines of Vinayaka and Subramanya in the outer Prakara. They probably belong to the fifteenth century.

On the way to the Lord's shrine from here there are two Gopuras, the Nadu Kattu over the doorway leading from the Kilikatti Mandapa, and the Gopuranayaka, which rises above the actual entrance into the shrine. Each is of five storeys and perhaps belongs to the mid-sixteenth century.

Beyond the former, facing south, is a huge image of Lord Vinayaka, engagingly the "Mukkuruni Vinayaka" from the fact that a single enormous edible, the "Kozhukattai", made from 34 kg of rice, is offered to Him on Vinayaka Chaturthi Day. There is a tradition that the image was discovered when Tirumalai Nayak was digging the beautiful tank on the outskirts of the city, called the "Vandiyur Teppakulam" .

The Kambathadi Mandapa
The Kambathadi Mandapa, which contains the flagstaffs of the Lord's shrine, has, besides some of the most striking baroque sculpture in the country. It was originally built by Krishna Veerappa Nayak (1572-95) and renovated in 1877 by the Nagarattars, a class of Chettiars, who have built and renovated many a fane in Tamil Nadu.

This Mandapa encloses the Nandi shrine, two flagstaffs and the balipitha, has eight monolithic columns, which carry huge sculptures of the Lord in various forms. These includes Somasundara, the Protector of Markandeya, Nataraja, Chandrasekhara, Ardhanariswara, Dakshinamurti, Bikshatana, Somaskanda,Rudra, Ekapadamurti and Rshbaruda. There are also the ten incarnations of Lord Vishnu. It is here that the celebrated sculpture of Goddess Meenakshi's marriage is to be found. On either side of the entrance there are imposing monoliths of Bhadrakali, Agora Virabhadra, Agni Virabhadra and Urdhatandava. A carved ceiling made of a single stone covers the Nandi shrine.

Over the entrance into the shrine stands a Gopura of three storeys. It was originally built by a Pandya in 1168 and, therefore, is one of the oldest surviving structures in the temple. Flanking the entrance are huge dwarapalkas, each 3.6m high, made of a single stone each, and standing on a pedestal about 1.5m high.

The shrine is a square of 10.4m. Eight elephants, thirty-two lions and sixty-four sportive dwarfs support its base. On its outer walls there are prominent niches on the three sides, each projecting 1.8m. In the south there is Dakshinamurti in the west Lingodbhava, and in the north Durga. These niches are so big as to be small shrines. Stone elephants about 3m high flank each of them. There is always a concourse of worshippers in front of the Durga image. The Vimana above the sanctum is of three storeys. The Sikhara is plated with gold.

In front of the shrine there are successively an Antarala, an Ardhamandapa, a Mukhamandapa and a Mahamandapa so that this is virtually a temple by itself. The whole measures 128m by 94.5m. There are two Prakaras and five Gopuras. The outer walls are called the "Sundara Pandya Madil" and the inner ones, which measure 76.2m by 47.5m, the "Kapali Madil". The latter is referred to by Sambandar in the 7th century.

Thousand Pillared Mandapa
Among the other Mandapas in the temple is the celebrated thousand pillared one. Aryanatha Mudaliar, who bestrides a horse at the entrance, erected it in 1569. Measuring 76.2m by 73m, it contains 985 pillars. The central nave leads to a shrine of Lord Sabapati. On every pillar there are sculptures. These are varied iconographic interest. Among themselves they make a veritable pantheon. On the ceiling near the entrance there is a wheel, which gives the cycle of sixty years of Tamil calendar. Fergusson calls the Mandapa "The wonder of the place".

West of it is a small Mandapa added during the renovation of 1960-63. It commemorates Sambandar's reclamation of the Pandya to Hinduism. It contains a Linga and images of 'Sambandar', 'Mangayarkarasi', 'Kulachirayar' and 'Kun Pandya'. The second was the queen, the third the minister of the Pandya.

The Historic Shrines In The Prakaras
There are a number of historic shrines in the Prakaras. Opposite to an entrance into the first from the Mahamandapa there is one of Lord Sabhapathi. This is the famous Velliambalam where one of the Lord's divine sports took place when, at the request of the sages, Patanjali and Vyagrapadha, He danced as Lord Nataraja.

In the second Prakara a shrine, now called that of the Sangam poets, contains images of many of them. In the same Prakara there is a shrine apparently dedicated to Kariyamanikka Perumal, but now empty. Also in the same Prakara there is a row of fourteen small shrines, called the "isvarams". Many of them contain Lingas.

The Pudumandapa
Near the east outer Gopura stands the celebrated Pudumandapa. Built by Tirumalai Nayak between 1626 and 1633, it is a large hall, 100m by 32m, and contains a hundred and twenty four pillars. These magnificent columns carry bold reliefs. There are equestrians and yalis on the outer pillars, while at the centre there are portraits of ten Nayaks from Viswanatha, the first of them to Tirumalai.

There are, besides, some of the Tiruvilayadal scenes, the wedding of Goddess Meenakshi, Goddess Meenakshi as Thadathagai, and Ekapadamurti, among other themes. At the western end there is a canopied Mandapa, the Vasanta, where the images of the Lord and the Goddess are brought on certain festival occasions.

The Kalyanamandapa
The Kalyanamandapa, built by Vijayaranga Chokkanatha (who stands here in effigy) in the first decade on the eighteenth century, contains much excellent woodwork. It was originally open on all sides. In the center is a large platform, where annually the marriage of the Lord and the Goddess is celebrated. On two of the walls are two huge paintings of the "two worlds" of Hindu cosmogony, each about 1.8m in diameter.

The Gopuras Of The Temple
The Gopuras Of The Temple The four outer Gopuras in the four directions are marvellous works of art. They are of perfect proportions, though they were built at different time and though, moreover, they have been repaired and renovated from time to time. The Gopuras of Tamil Nadu, by themselves, form a chapter in the history of Indian Art. Some of the brightest pages are due to the towers of Madurai.

The West Gopura
The west Gopura was built in the fourteenth century, a troubled period in the history of the temple and the city following the Muslim invasions. It is difficult to believe that a venture of this magnitude could have been possible in that time of travail. But the sources of information are clear. They attribute the Gopura to a Parakrama Pandya. There were many kings of that name in the century. Since the famous Pandya crest of two carps appears on this Gopura, it may be accepted that the Pandyas did build it. This was their swan song in the temple, which will always be associated with their piety, munificence and glory. It is 48m high, rising on a base that is 31m by 14m. Like the three other Gopuras, it is of nine tiers.

The Southern Gopura
The most beautiful and the most artistic of the four, the southern, frequently photographed for its lovely eminence over the Golden Lily Tank, is also the tallest, 49m. Its stone base measures 32.9m by 20.4m. The tower sweeps in a graceful curve. It was built about the middle of the sixteenth century by Siramalai Sevvanthi Murti Chettiar, a scion of a family of Tiruchi, which has contributed much to the temple.

The Northern Gopura
The latest in date is the northern Gopura, which was built by Krishna Veerappa Nayak (1564-72). For some reason, it was without a Sikhara and was not plastered. Therefore, it was called the "Mottai" Gopura. The deficiencies were supplied in renovation about the end of the last century.

Such an ancient and renowned fane has attracted considerable literature and many beautiful traditions, apart from those narrated above. It is said for example Rous Peter, a Collector in the early decades of the last century, was so beloved of the people that they called him "Peter Pandya". Every day he would go round the temple on horseback. One night when he was asleep, there was heavy rain. A little girl woke him up and beckoned him outside his house. The girl then vanished. Peter, convinced that She was Goddess Meenakshi, presented valuable jewels to the temple.

Mariamman Teppakulam
Connected with the temple is the lovely tank called the "Mariamman Teppakulam", about 3 km to the east. It measures 345m by 290m, and has steps leading down to the water. In the center is a towered Mandapa, with four smaller Mandapas around it. The tank was excavated and the Mandapas built by Tirumalai Nayak. On his birthday a float festival of the images of the Lord and the Goddess is celebrated. On the other side of the road there is a famous Mariamman temple.

Other Temples In Madurai
§ Azhagar Koil
Located 21 km. northwest of Madurai is a Vishnu temple located on a picturesque wooded hill. Here Lord Vishnu presides as Meenakshi's brother 'Azhagar'. It is one of the few temples in the country built in tiers. The tower consists of 3 tiers depicting Lord Vishnu in 3 postures, sitting, standing and reclining. The shadow of the Vimanam never falls on the ground.

On entering the temple, one can see the life-size sculptures carved in the stone Mandapam built by Tirumalai Naicken. These are similar to those found in Madurai temple. The deity is known as "Kalazhagar" as he is the household deity of the Kallas, a low caste people.

Major Festivals Celebrated in Madurai
§ Meenakshi Kalyanam At Madurai
The annual solemnization of the marriage of Meenakshi with Lord Sundareshwar (Shiva) is one of the most spectacular temple festivals at Madurai's famous Meenakshi temple in Tamil Nadu. Car processions of the goddess and the god are some of the colourful features of this festival.

Meenaskhi Kalyanam, the wedding festival of Goddess Meenakshi and Lord Sundareshwar is celebrated for twelve days from the second day of the lunar month (i.e. two days after the new moon). This is a spectacular festival celebrated in the month of Chaitra (April-May).

The festival is characterized with royal decorated umbrellas, fans and traditional instrumental music. Scenes from mythology are enacted and the deities of Lord Shiva, Goddess Shakti and Goddess Meenakshi are taken out in a colourful procession. Thousands of devotees from all over the country gather in the city of Madurai on this occasion.

Places to stay in Madurai, Tamilnadu
Accommodation is available at the luxurious, moderate class and small budgeted hotels, devasthanam cottages, lodges, and dharmashalas in Madurai.

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

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

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.

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» Location : 45-km From Chennai, Tamil Nadu
» Presiding Deity : Lord Subramanya
» Significance : One of the 33 Major Temples Of Lord Muruga In Tamil Nadu
» Festivals Celebrated : Skanda Sashti In October-November, Margazhi Tiruvadirai, And Navaratri

Temples in Tamilnadu
» Chayavaneashwara Temple
» Krishnapuram Temple
» Kumbeswara Temple
» Meenakshi Temple, Madurai
» Murugan Temple, Tirupporur
more Temples in South India

Tirupporur (place of the sacred war) is one of the 33 major temples of Tamil Nadu dedicated to Lord Muruga, situated 25-km away from Chingleput and 45-kmfrom Chennai. Tirrupporur is an ancient temple dating back to the Pallava period.

Tirupporur is known by different names like Poriyur or Yuddhapuri or Samarapuri. It is believed that after vanquishing Soorapadman at Tiruchendur, Skanda destroyed the rest of the demons at Tirupporur.

History Of The Temple
Inscriptions dating back to the early 10th century as well as from the period of Vikrama Chola of the 12th century can bee seen in the temple. Tirupporur flourished but faded into oblivion for some time.

But Tirupporur was rediscovered and renovated by Chidambara Swamigal in the middle of the seventeenth century. Tirupporur was who is said to be a descendant of one of the poets of the "Tamil Sangam" of Madurai. Previously this place was a forest covered totally by Palmyra trees.

The image of the Lord Muruga (also spelt as Murugan) is believed to be as "Swayambhu Murti", which lay covered up by an anthill. Chidambara Swamigal is said to have discovered the image of 'Skanda' in the anthill, and then rebuilt the temple and reinstalled the image.

The temple was later on looked after by the decedents of Chidambara Swamigal and brought it to the present day fame.

The Legend
There are many legends related to Tirupporur according to one, Lord Vishnu and his consort Lakshmi were subjected to the curse of Kanva rishi. In order to liberate them from its effects Lord Shiva came to this place and relieved them from its effects.

Hence Tirupporur temple has a lot of significance where Lord Shiva and his son Muruga (also spelt as Murugan) are worshipped. The Sthalapurana also discloses that Lord Muruga with his consorts Valli and Devayanai granted protection to devas and expounded the meaning of Pranava to Agastya Muni at this place.

According to legend, Skanda enunciated the principle of pranava or reality to the devas here. The very concept of Pranavam is said to have worshipped Skanda here, and the hill behind the temple is known as "Pranava Malai". Legend also has it that Vishnu worshipped Shiva on the Pranava Hill. Legend also has it that Skanda worshipped Shiva as "Vanmeekeswara" to rid himself of the sin of having killed Soorapadman. Another legend has it that Skanda enunciated the principle of pranava or reality to the devas here. The very concept of Pranavam is said to have worshipped Skanda here, and the hill behind the temple is known as "Pranava Malai". Lord Vishnu worshipped Shiva on the Pranava hill.

Legend also has it that Skanda worshipped Shiva as Vanmeekeswara to rid himself of the sin of having killed Soorapadman.

About The Temple
This temple enshrines Skanda in several forms relating to legends from the Skanda Puranam. The foremost of these is the depiction of Skanda as a warrior, "Samhara Subramanya". He is also enshrined in the form of a child, expounding the meaning of the oneness of creation Om to his father Lord Shiva.

On the eastern side of the temple is sanctum sanctorum wherein one can see the 'Palmyra' tree and the anthill under it wherein is "Kanda Perumal" with "Valli" and "Devayanai" on a small Peetha. Chidambara Swamigal used to perform Abhishekam to these images. The image of the lord in the anthill is covered with Kavacha and other jewels but no Abhishekam (also spelt as Abhisheka) is performed for this deity.

There is a 24-pillared hall and a 30-pillared circular hall in this temple. There is a shrine to "Vembadi Vinayaka" under a Neem tree. The two sacred Teerthams (also spelt as Teerthas or Theertahs), "Saravana Poigai" and "Valliyar Odai" are on the southern side of the temple. On the eastern side of the Teerthams, there is a Mandapam of four pillars. There is also another Teertham by name "Pranavamritam".

Services And Festivities
The deity is offered four worship services each day. Skanda Sashti is celebrated in the month of Aippasi (October-November). Other festivals that are celebrated over here include "Margazhi Tiruvadirai" and "Navaratri".

Places to stay in Tamilnadu
Accommodation is available at the hotels in Chennai or at the small hotels in Chengalpattu. Being the capital city of the state, Chennai is well equipped with various kinds of accommodation options, varying from economic class to luxurious ones.

How to Get There
Air : Nearest airport is Meenambakkam in Chennai; it operates both national and international flights.

Rail : The nearest railway station is at Chennai, which is a major junction.

Road : Tourists can access Tirupporurur by road either from Chennai or Chengalpattu. Private taxis and regular buses ply from Chennai and Chengalpattu to Tirupporurur.

Regarding stay in delhi or service apartments in delhi

Are you visiting Delhi for a short trip or an extended stay and are looking for a comfortable vacation with ultimate services and home stay away from home? Then at a Palm Greens serviced apartments, you will have a living room to relax or entertain, space to work and if your mood takes you, you can prepare a meal. Hotels are great but a Fully furnished serviced apartment has much more for your service. With so much extra space at a serviced apartments, you will have space to relax and really enjoy your stay. Use our exclusive Corporate Service Apartments, Executive Serviced Apartments for business trip or extended stay and Fully Furnished service apartments for relocation or family vacation in New Delhi.

Features:

Fully furnished, equipped and air-conditioned service apartments.

Telephone, Internet Broadband connection.

Colored T.V.with 24 hrs. cable connection.

The kitchen has fridge, gas burner stove, toaster, water filter, microwave oven, electric kettle, etc. All crockery, cutlery and glassware.

Palm Greens service apartments are best suited for your stay at Luxurious service apartments, and Budget service apartments, in New Delhi.
For More Info contact@palgroups.com

Or visit us http://www.palgroups.com