Erattai Thirupathy

Tholaivilli Mangalam:


Two temples together are known as Erattai Tirupathy dedicted for Raghu and Kethu. When nectar was distrubted among Devas and Asuras, two of the asuras were in the Devar group and got the nectar from Vishnu, who punished him but they were given the posts as Grahams.


That is the reason why there are two temples with different deities for both relating to the place of Raghu and Kethu.

One is Tholaivillai Mangalam Devarbiran and the other one is Tholaivilli Manglam Aravindha Lochanan.

1. Devarbiran temple:
   
   
   This place is one of 108 Divya Desam, it is fourth temple of Nava tirupathy known as Erattai Thirupathy, and the Kshetram is reffered to Kethu Bagawan.
   
   
   
   The place is about 34 kms from Thirunelveli, And 3 kms from Azwar Thirunagari. The temple is near River Thamirabarani with two Prakaram.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Main deity is known as Devarbiran in standing posture and Thayar known as Karunthadak kanni. Teertham is Varuna teertham, and River Thamirabarani. Sthala vruksham of the temple is known as Vila maram.
   
   
   
   As we enter into the temple we see Dwajsthambam, and Garudazwar in a small sanctum near it facing main deity Deverbiran in the sanctum.
   
   Perumal is seen with Sanku and chakra in two hands, and the other two hands as Abhya varadha hastham and Kadi hastham. Thirumagal to his heart so there is no separate sanctum for Thayar in this temple. Urchavar is seen as Sreenivasan with Sreedevi and Bhoodevi here.
   
   
   
   Importance in this temple is one who worship the Lord of this place the soul attains Mukthi.
   
   
   
   Purana : Once a Gandrava named Vidyadharan and his wife were deeply immersed in love at this place and they did not respect Deva Guru who was passing over the place. He was annoyed and cursed them to become Thulai and Vill. (thulai means Tharusu, balance).
   
   
   
   Once they were out into normal state they realized their mistake, they worshipped Guru and asked for remedy to get out of his curse. He asked them to stay as Thulai and Vill inside the mud and penance at the place known as Kethara Nilayam
   
   
   
   When a muni by name Suprabar, visits the place and clean the place for
   Yagnam to be performed by him, he will find you in the cleaning process and the moment he lifts you will be back to your form.
   
   
   
   As it was predicted Suprabar muni choose this place for his yagnam and he found Thulai and villi, when he took it in hand turned out as gandarva and his wife. Since the Devas (Gandravas) did their penance and blessed, the place was known as Devarbiran. Muni Suparabar requested Lord to stay in this place and bless devotees.
   
   
   
2. Aravindalochanan:
   
   
   
   This is one of the temples of Erattai Tirupathy and is considered important for Ragu Bagawan. This temple is near Devarbiran temple.
   
   
   
   Main deity is known as Aravindalochanan, Chentamarai kannan and his consort Karundhadang Kanni. Teertham is Aswini teertham.
   
   
   
   Purana says Muni Suparabar was worshipping Devarbiran with Lotus flowers with good fragrance, which Lord liked. He followed the muni to find the place from where he was getting the flowers for him.
   
   
   When he saw the place he was happy and wanted to stay back in the place. Muni built a temple for him and worshipped him daily as he did for Devarbiran. Since the lord liked Lotus flower and his eyes are like Lotus he is known as Chentamarai Kannan.
   
   
   
   When Avirbagam (things which are included in Homam) is given it was taken by Devas. Aswini Devars did not get any Avirbagam. He complained and was asked to penance and worship Aravindalochanan. As a result they were blessed and given Avirbhagam. Since they were using the pushkarni it was named after them.
   
   
   
   As per Bramanda puranam Sathya seelar was living near River Ganges. He had three sons and one of his sons Vepidhakan was suffering of leprosy. Naradha muni asked him to have a dip in Aswini teertham at Tholaivili Mangalam and worship Aravindalochanan.
   Vepidhakan did as he told. He recovered and attained moksha.
   

Vara Gunamangai of Nava Tirupathy, Nattham, Thirunelveli

1. Varaguna mangai:
   
   
   This place is popularly known as Nattham. This is 2nd kshetram of Nava Tirupthy and one of 108 Divya Desam.
   
   
   The place is important for Chandra Graham. The kshetram is considered as Mokshapuri. The temple is near the bank of River Thamirabarani, about 2kms distance from Sri Vaikundam.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Main deity is Sri Visayasana perumal in sitting posture on Adiseshan with his consort Varaguna mangai. We see Sridevi and Bhoodevi inside the main sanctum. There is no separate sanctum for Thayar in this place.Teertham is Agni teertham.
   
   
   
   The main Raja gopurm is of 5 stories. There is a Dwajasthambam as we enter in. There is a small separate sanctum for Garuda near the Dwajasthambam facing Perumal inside the sanctum.
   
   
   Azwars and Achayars are seen inside in the mandapam here. They say the soul attains Moksha, when death occurs here.
   
   
   
   Purana: Romesa Muni was penancing here in this place for a long time with his disciple. There was a greedy fisherman living in the same place. He was hated by the villagers.
   
   
   One day he died due to snake bite and his soul as a jyothi left for moksha which was witnessed by the desiple of Romesa muni. He was surprised and he went to his guru and asked for an explanation.
   
   
   Guru told in his previous birth fisher man was King of Vidarpa desam, and due to his bad company he had the birth of fisherman in his next janma. Due to the good deeds of his ancestors he was born in this kshetra, and attained moksha. This was the main reason.
   
   
   
   Purana says there was a Brahamim named Vedavith who lived in Punyakosha Agraharm near River Reva. After rendering his services to his parents, and teacher he started penancing about Thirumal. He did not get the result for a long period and he was sad.
   
   
   
   Lord Kesavan came in the form of Brahmin and asked him to do his penance at Nattham. When he did here, Lord revealed himself to Vedavith and gave him Paramapadham which he wanted.
   
   
   As per request of Vedavith, Lord stayed back as Vijasanan in this place to bless his devotees who visited here.

[Moksham][Vijayasana Perumal] [Paramapadham][Nava Tirupathy]

Puliangkudi Temple of Nava tirupathy, Thirunelveli district

1. ThiruPulingkudi :
   
   
   One of Nava Thirupathy temple and one of 108 Divya Desam.
   The place is near to Sri Vaikundam situated on the banks of River Thamirabarani. The temple has two prakarams.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Main deity is Sri Bhoomipalaka Perumal on Adiseshan in relaxed posture with his consort Bhoomidevi, and Sridevi Thayar seen near his feet in sitting posture. The idol of perumal is about 12’ length. We see Brahma on lotus flower with its stem coming out from nabikamalam of perumal.
   
   
   
   Urchavar here known as, Sri Kaichina Vendhan with his consort, Bhoomidevi, and Sridevi Thayar. There is no separate sanctum for Thayar here. They are at service to Perumal inside the main sanctum.
   
   
   As we enter through main raja gopuram we see Dwajasthambam with small Garudan sanctum. This place is refered to Budha graham of Navagrahas.
   
   
   
   Purana says once Perumal and Sridevi were going around the universe on Garuda. They happen to see a place with natural beauty. They landed down and were taken up by the greenery and the river flowing beside.
   
   
   They stayed back for a long period, in the mean while Bhoodevi was searching for perumal. She came to know about there whereabouts and she felt jealousy. She started penancing at padala lokha, to gain the love and affection of perumal.
   
   
   
   Once when she was not there,in the earth, the seasons were not proper, draught was there and human beings suffered. Devas approached Perumal and asked him to solve the problem.
   
   
   
   Perumal went to Padhala Lokam and blessed Bhoodevi. She realized her mistake and she understood that both Sridevi and bhoodevi are equal to him. They decided to share and do service for him. That is the reason we see perumal with both of them in the santum.
   
   
   The Budha graham is destined for knowledge. Since Bhoodevi acquired her knowledge
   from perumal, who told her both of them are equal to him. This is the reason for considering it as a Budha graha sthalam.
   
   
   
   Purana says once a Brahmin named Yagna sarma performed a big yagam which was headed by Sons of Vashista Muni. Yagna sarma did not pay homage to people who helped him in performing the yagnam. They got angry and cursed him to become a Rakshas.
   
   
   Once Indra was performing yagam at this place Puligkudi kshetram and the rakshas was disturbing them in doing the yagam. Lord Vishnu came on Garuda and klled him with his gadha. After his death he was blessed by perumal and attained Moksha.

Sri Vaikundam temple of Nava tirupathy, Thirunelveli.

1. Sri Vaikundam:
   
   
   The temple is one of 108 Divya Desam, and one of Navatirupathy.
   The place Srivaikundam is about 26 kms from Thirunelveli town on the banks of River Thamirabarani. This is Soorya graha kshetram of Nava Tirupathy.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   The temple main Raja gopuram is of 9 stories with three prakarams around the main sanctum.As we enter we pass through mandapam with pillars. There is a sanctum forSri Ramar and Sreenivasar.
   
   
   Near dwajasthambam garudazwar is seen. We see Lakshmi Narashimar and Dasavathara sculptures.
   
   
   Main deity is Sri Vaikundanadhan in standing posture with Adiseshan’s five heads like an umbrella for him. Normally we see him in relaxing posture when he is with Adiseshan, but this is the only place where he is standing which is unique.
   
   
   
   There are two Thayar sannidhi. One is Vaikundavalli Thayar and the other one Soranadha Nayaki Thayar. Teertham of this temple is Brugu teertham, River Thamirabarannnni, and Kalasa teertham.
   
   
   Other deities in the temple are Santhana Garudan, Krishnan, Lakshmi Narashiman, Manavala Mamuni, Thiru Venkatamudayan and Hanuman.
   
   
   Urchavar of the temple is known as Kallarbiran with Sridevi and Bhoodevi placed inside the sanctum in front of main deity.
   
   
   
   
   Purana says once rakshas Somukan took the Vedas from Brahma. To get back the Vedas Brahama penenced here and got it with lords blessings.
   
   
   There was a thief Karadushanan who used to give half of his wealth which he steals. Once he was arrested and put into jail when he tried to steal in palace. He thought of Vaikundanadhan at the time when he was caught.
   
   
   
   So Vaikundanadhan appeared as Karadushanan in front of King and discussed about principles, and created a good opinion about him. King thought he was a yogi at this time Lord revealed himself. King and the thief became friends and so here
   
   
   urchavar is known as Kallarbiran.
   There is a mandapam with pillars to which we see beautiful sculptures carved.
   

Srivilliputthur Andal temple.

1. Srivilliputthur:
   
   
   One of 108 Divya Desam temples.
   The place is about 4kms from Virudhunagar, and 75 kms from Madurai.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Main deity is Rangamannar and Thayar Andal.
   
   
   Importance of the temple is it is the birth place of two Azwars,
   One is Periyazwar and the other Andal.
   
   
   The temple is of two portions Nachiar Temple and Vadapathrasai temple.
   There is a garden inbetween the two temples, which was cultivated by Periyazwar.
   
   
   He found Andal as a child in this garden. The garden is taken of even today.
   This was the garden from where daily Andal use to pluck and make garland for Rangamannar.Periyazwar’s house is the place where Andal Nacchiyar temple is found now.
   
   Perumal temple is of two floors.
   
   
   We find Narashima Perumal sanctum. Here we see Dasavathara moorthy and Azwars.
   We climb few steps to reach the second floor and enter in artha mandapam, were we see Utsava Moorthy, Chakkratzwar and Kannan.
   
   
   Inside the main sanctum perumal is seen in sleeping posture on Adiseshan, with Sridevi and Bhoodevi under Vada vruksham.
   
   
   To the side walls inside the sanctum we see sudai chirpam (sculptures) of Garuda, Surya, Thumburu, Naradha, Sanath Kumarar, Brahma, Sankarar, Gandharvas, Chandra, Madhukaitapar, Brugu and Markendeyar. All these are painted with colours. Andal and garuda are seen to either side.

Thiruthangal Nindra Narayana perumal temple, Sivakasi.

Thiruthangal:



One of 108 Divya Desam.



The temple is about 4kms distance from Sivakasi, 20Kms from Virudhunagar, and 20Kms from Srivilliputthur situated on a small hillock. The temple is about 5000 old.









Main Deity is Narayana perumal in standing posture with his consort Chengkamala thayar in separate sanctum. Teertham is papavinasa teertham and vimanam Deva Chandra vimanam.




We see Ranganadhar in reclined posture with Sridevi and Bhoodevi in a cave temple. Lord Ranganadhar is painted with color. All main deities are painted with colour in this temple.



Brahma, Brugu and Markandeyar are seen in picture form. Urchava vigraha of Ranganadhar with Sridevi and Bhoodevi is seen inside the sanctum.
As we go around Chengkamala Thayar is seen in different sanctum in standing posture.



We come in front of dwajasthambam and steps are seen to either side. As we go up there is a big hall and in the sanctum we see Nindra Narayanaperumal. Sridevi and Neeladevi are to left and Bhoodevi and Jambavathi are to right side of perumal. Markendeyar is seen in sitting posture to right side, we see garudazwar and Vishvakshenar standing posture to left side. Brugu Maharishi, Anirudha and his wife Usha is seen inside the sanctum.



As per purana, once there was a discussion among Sridevi, Bhoodevi and Neeladevi as to know who is best among them. Finally Sridevi left the place and reached this holy place Thiruthangal and meditated Narayana manthram.


Vishnu was pleased with her and fulfilled her wishes. Since Sridevi stayed here this place was known as Thiruthangal. Later on Bhoodevi and Neeladevi also joined Narayanaperumal in this place.


Garuda is with four hands here which unique. He has Amirtha kalasm to one hand and sarpam in another hand. The other two hands are joined together bowing to lord

As per purana Anirudha and usha got married in this place.

Thiru Meyyam temple , Pudhukottai district.

1. Thiru Meyyam:
   
   
   
   This is a cave temple about 20 kms from Pudhukottai.
   This temple is one of 108 Divya Desam.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Pudhukottai District is the only district where we find lot of cave temples in Asia. All the temples were mostly to pallava regime. Here we find temple for Lord Vishnu and a temple for Lord Siva is seen, in the same mountain in two different caves.
   
   
   
   
   Here the mountain itself is considered as Vishnu and Siva, which is one more example for Siva and Vishnu are one and the same.The temple was built by Narashima Pallavan. The temple is older than Sri Rangam temple and hence it is known as Adi Rangam.
   
   
   
   Main deity is Sathyagiri nadhan in standing posture, and his consort Senbagavalli or Uyavandha Nachiayar. Utsavar is known as Meyappar. Jack fruit tree is sthala vruksham of the temple. As we go around we see Chakkratzwar, Andal, Krishna, Lakshmi, and Narashimar sanctums.
   
   
   
   Inside the cave here we see Anantha sayanam of Vishnu Moorthy, carved to the mountain rock. Here we find Perumal in relaxing posture which is about 30’ length and this is supposed to be the lengthier idol in Asia.
   
   
   
   
   He is relaxing on 5 headed snake known as Adiseshan, and at the back to the rock we see Garuda, Chitrguptan, Markandeyar, Brahma, Devas, Rishi, Kinnaras, and rakshasas Madhu, kaitabar. Bhooma devi is seen sitting under the leg, Lakshmi Devi on his chest with his left hand holding her close to him, and the right hand on Adiseshan in the form of patting him.
   
   
   
   Purana says Madhu, Kaitabar came to attack Vishnu, Bhoodevi and Sridevi were afraid of asuras and we see Bhoodevi hiding under his leg and Sridevi to the chest. Adiseshan in anger spelled out poison air and defeated them. This incidence is also carved beautifully in the cave temple.

Temples of Neimisaranyam

1. Hanuman Mandir
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Hanuman Ghat is the place on top of a small hill where we see Viswaroopa Hanuman carrying Sri Rama and Lakshmana on his shoulders. We had to climb few steps to the main sanctum. Near the entrance to left we see Makardwaj (son of Hanuman). In front of Sri Hanuman sanctum we see idols of Sri Rama, Sita and Lakshmana
   
   
   
   
   
2. Sukha Maharishi temple
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   This is near Hanuman Mandir. Here we see Sukar in bronze idol in a separate sanctum. In front of this sanctum we see a room in which books of all 18 Puranas and Vedas are preserved.
   
   
   
   
3. Balaji Temple
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Here as we enter we see Dwajasthambam, and we enter into a hall where we see Balaji in main sanctum and Padmavathy Thayar in different sanctum.
   
   
   
   
   
4. Durga temple:
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Durga Devi is considered as sister of perumal here. In the main sanctum we see Durga Devi and as we go around we come across another small sanctum in which we see Durga matha in Aruruvam, which is supposed to moolavar and nothing is clear to vision.
   
   
   
   


5. Chakkra teertham
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   This is in round shape and we have hectogn sort of pond around the chakkra teertham. we have steps to reach the water in the pond. The steps are too slippery. This is the pushkaram of this place. We have a sanctum for SriChakkrtazwar and Sri Rama, Sita and Lakshmana.
   
   
   
   



6. Ahobila Matt:
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   One of Ahobila Matt jeeyar attained paramapadham here and as a rememberence they have a sanctum for him. The sanctum is in the mutt premises. We have darshan of Sri Lakshmi Narashimar idols to which pooja’s are performed by a preist.
   
   
   
   Priest family takes care of the piligrims who visit the place. There are rooms to stay and food is arranged in mutt, if informed in advance. This is only for Brahmin community.
   

Devadhana perumal Temple, Neimisaranyam , UP.

1. Neimisaranyam
   
   
   Nimisaranyam is 85 kms from Lucknow to Sitapur road. The place is on the banks of River Gomathy. There are few temples to visit.
   
   
   
   Devadhana perumal, One of the Divya Desam, Hanuman temple, Veda mandir, Durga temple, Chakkra teertham and Ahobila matt. A lady by name Mrs.Vinaya is arranging for taxi for your tour from there to Ayodhya, Allahabad and Varnasi. If someone is interested they can contact to the cell phone number 09936046748 She is a tamilian lady and travelers from south can converse in tamil to avoid confusion.
   
   
   Neimisaranyam:
   
   
   This place was arayanyam once, and it is considered sacred place to penance and attain divine power. The whole forest is worshiped as Supreme Lord. According to legends Lord chooses this place to establish Dharma. Vrittasura was troubling the sages and they prayed Lord to give a remedy for their issue. The Lords requested Maharishi Dadichi to give his bones to create a weapon to kill the demon. The maharishi obliged and they were able to get rid of the demon Vrittasuran.
   
   
   
   Sthala puranam says, Sutha puranikar recited 18 puranas for the benefit of Maha Rishi’s, in this place.
   
   
   The reason for the name Neimisaranyam is once Maharishi’s along with Sownakar, went to Lord Brahma, and asked him to show a place where they can do meditation and yagnas. Brahma took the wheel of his charriot and rolled it down. He said the place where wheel stops, that would be the ideal place for them. They wheel stopped at this place which was Aranyam
   
   
   Nemi means chakkram and the place it stopped, was Aranyam and hence the name.
   
   
   
   
2. Devadhana perumal temple:
   
   
   
   This is one of 108 temples of Divya Desam. This is One of 8 Swayam Vektha kshetrams. The rest are Badri, Pushkaram, Srirangam, Salagramam Srimushnam, Vanamamalai, Pushkaram and Tirupathy. The place is regarded as Tapovanam.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Main Deity is Devadhana Perumal in standing posture and in the main sanctum next to perumal we see lot of saligrahamas. In front of the main deity sanctum we have the darshan of Garudazwar. Goddess Pundarikavalli is seen if different sanctum. She is also known as Sri Hari Lakshmi, Sri Hari Priya.
   
   
   
   Sthala Vruksham is Thapovanam. All the trees in this forest are considered as sthala vruksham and hence it is known as Thapovanam.
   River Gomathy and Chakra Teertham are the pushkaram of this place.

[Saligrama][Chakkra Teertham][Thapovanam][swayamvektha Kshetram]

Sri Ram Darbar, Ayodhya.

1. Ram Darbar:
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   There is a big hall and in the hall we see idols of Sri Rama, sita and Lakshmana. We also see a set of small idols there. This is the palace where Sri Rama and his courtiers meet, and he ruled the kingdom from here.
   
   
   
   
2. Bada sthan:
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   This is King Dasaratha's palace. Thre is a big hall we get to see the complete family. we see the idols of his four sons with their consorts Sri Rama and Sita, Lakshmana and Urvasi,Bharata and Mandavi , Sathrugana and Sruthakirthi.
   
   
   
   
   
3. Bada Hanuman is just a gate way sort. Nothing much to see inside.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
4. Kala Ram Mandir:
   
   
   
   The temple is constructed at the place where Sri Rama performed Aswamedha yaga. About 300 years ago Raja of Kulu built a new temple which was improved by Ahalyabai Kolkar of Indore in the year 1784. The main deity of Sri Rama is of black stone which was recovered from Sarayu River. The temple is near Nageshwarnath temple and it was closed when we went there.
   
   
   
   
   
5. Nageshwarnath temple:
   
   
   
   We reach the temple after crossing the bridge which was also constructed in the same year 1784.
   The temple was built by Prince Kusha, Sri Rama's son.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   According to legend this was the only place survived till the time of King Vikramaditya and rest of the city was ruined and covered by forest. King Vikramaditya located the city Ayodhya, with the help of this temple.
   
   
   
   Prince Kusha lost his armlet which was lost when he had his bath in River Sarayu. Nagakanya picked the armlet and gave it to Prince with whom she fell in love. Nagakanya was a devotee of Lord Siva, so Prince Kusha built this temple for her.
   
   
   
   Inside the sanctum we see Lord Siva in linga form, and a Dara pathra is hanging above the Siva Lingam. we see Ganesha to the front of main sanctun. Here we see different forms of Lord Siva's painted to walls. There is a seperate sanctum for Adi Siva Lingam. The present temple was built in the year 1750.

Ayodhya, UP

1. Ayodhya:
   
   
   This is one of 108 Divya Desam. Birth place of Lord Sri Rama.
   
   
   
   Ayodhya is situated on the bank of River Sarayu. This place is 7 kms from Faizabad. This is a popular pilgrimage centre. The ancient city of Ayodhya according to Ramayana was founded by Manu. This is one of the seven sacred cities
   
   
   
   According to Purana. Ayodha is famous for its close association of Ramayana. It’s a city full of sacred temples and historical significance. Atharvana Veda describes Ayodhya as “a city built by Gods and being prosperous as Paradise itself”. Various faiths have grown and prospered simultaneously in different periods. Jains consider that 5 tirthankars were born in Ayodhya and the first Tirthankar Rishabadev is one amoung them.
   
   
   
   
   
2. River Sarayu:
   
   
   
   The River was full of water and water flow was wild. We did enjoy the dip in the river. Some sort of arrangements is made for changing dress. There is lot of cows with panda’s standing there to do the godhan pooja for pilgrims.
   
   
   
   
   
3. Hanuman Gadi
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   This is temple of Hanuman and it is most popular temple of Ayodhya. The temple is in center of the town. One has to climb about 70 steps to reach the main sanctum. The main temple there is statue of Anjana Devi with Bal Hanuman on lap. Legend says Hanuman stays here and guarded the Ramkot. The faithful belief is that all the wishes are granted with a visit to the temple
   
   
   
   
   
4. Kanaka Bhavan:
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   This is the palace of Sri Rama. We climb few steps and enter into a big hall. Here we get to have darshan of Rama’s Paduka. This was the place from where Rama climbed into the chariot, to leave Ayodhya for vanavasam
   
   
   
   There is another mandapam in which we have the main sanctum. Here we see Sita, Rama, and Lakshmana. There are two sets of idols we see here, one is the main idol and the other was worshipped by Sri Krishna. This is the place where Rama and Janaki matha lived. Main deity is decorated so well we hardly feel like leaving the place.
   
   
   
   
   
5. Sri Ram Janma bhoomi
   This is the main place of worship in Ayodhya.
   This is the site of the ancient citadel of Ramkot which stands on the elevated ground in the western part of the city. Lot of checking is there. We are not allowed to take anything inside. One has to walk a lot to reach the main place. They have kept the idol of Seetha Sri Rama and Lakshmana. It is so far we hardly get to see clearly and has to imagine and feel happy. We have the darshan of Hanuman to the side
   
   
   
   
   
6. Janma Bhoomi Karyalaya:
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   This is the place where the work is going on for the construction of Sri Rama mandir. There is a model of the temple is exhibited. Pillars with carvings, designed ceiling material, doors and all the designed stones to the sides of the walls are ready. They intend erecting the temple with these ready materials by year 2013.

Temples of Allahabad

1. Veni Madhavar:
   
   
   
   This is temple is near Saraswathi ghat, and it is one of the famous temples of Allahabad.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Veni madhavar temple is in Taraganj.
   Here main deity is known as Veni Madhavar. This is one of Panchava Madhava Kshetram. This is a small temple and darshan of Veni Madhavar in Allahabad is important.
   
   
   
   
2. Siddeswarar temple
   
   
   The temple is in Taraganj. This is very old temple. Here we see Main deity Durga Devi and other deities like Pancha Mukha Hanuman, and Navagraha. This is the only temple with Navagraha here.
   
   
   
   
3. Someswarar temple:
   
   Here the Siva Lingam ws installed by Chandran also known as Soman and hence the name someswarar.
   
   
   
4. Baradwaja Ashram:
   
   
   
   
   This place is 6 kms from Taraganj, and it is opposite to Ananda Bhavan. According to Purana Saint Baradwajar Ashram was here from the age of sri Rama lived. It says Sri Rama stayed for some period during his 14 years of vanavasam.
   
   
   
   
5. Akshaya vat:
   
   The immortal tree lies inside the fort within the Patalapuri temple. The tree stands in a niche above an underground shaft which is said to lead to Triveni. We are not allowed inside.
   
   
   
6. Ashoka pillar:
   
   
   This pillar is of polished sand stone of 10 meter height, dating back to 232BC. The pillar has persian inscription of Emperor Jahangir in scriptd on it commemorating his accession to the throne.

Hanuman mandir, sankrar mandapam and Triveni sangamam. Allahabad.

Allahabad

This place is about 135 KMS from varanasi.
Ganga, Yamuna and Saraswati, blessed by gods, came to be known as 'Prayag' or 'Allahabad'. Foreseeing the sanctity of the place, Lord Brahma also called it as 'Tirth Raj' or 'King of all pilgrimage centres.' The Scriptures - Vedas and the great epics - Ramayana and Mahabharata, refer to this place as Prayag.

1. Thriveni sangamam
   
   
   
   
   
   
   The sacred Sangam, is the confluence of three of the holiest rivers in Hindu mythology Ganga, Yamuna and the mythical Saraswati. At the Sangam, the waters of the Ganges and the Yamuna can be distinctly seen to merge into one. Once in 12 years Kumba mela takes place attracting people from all over the country.
   
   
   
   
2. Hanuman Mandir
   
   
   The temple is in kila ghat, near the Sangam.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   This temple is unique in North India. Here the 20’ big idol of Lord Hanuman is seen in a reclining posture. When the Ganga is in spate, this temple gets submerged.
   
   
   
   
3. Sankar Viman Mandapam
   
   
   The mandapam is 130 feet high with three floors. Near the entrance gate we see the idols of Kumarila Bhattar and Jagatguru Shankaracharya, meeting and to the other side, discussion between Mandana misrar and Adi sankarar.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   As you enter the temple we see Kamakshi Deviin sitting posture (with 51 Shaktipeethas around). On the outer wall of Kamakshi sanctum, we see Panchamukha gayathri, Moogmbikai, Durgai, Vindhyavasini , Ganga matha and saraswathy Tapas Kamakshi sculptures and paintings of life history of Adi sankarar.
   
   
   
   In the second floor Vishnu as balaji and veni Madhavar in front of him. We see 108 saligrahma in the sanctum. As we go around we can see the sculptures of Narashimar, Vamana etc. All around the wall beautiful paintings from Ramayana is seen.
   
   
   
   In the third floor Yoga sahastra Linga is seen made of one single stone. We can see 1008 small lingas in one big lingam which weighs 10 tones. There is a Rudrakshra mandapam for sahasra lingam in the sanctum. In this floor around the sanctum we see Dwadasa Lingam Pichadanar, Somaskandar, Dandayudhapani, Ardhanreeswarar, sankara Narayanar idols, and Siva leela paintings to the walls.
   
   
   
   The temple doors are made of sandal wood with beautiful carvings. As we come outside we have the darshan of Sowbaghya Ganapathy.
   
   
   
4. Akshyavat:
   
   
   The immortal tree within the Patalauri temple, has found mention in the description of several ancient scriptures, writers and historians. The tree stands in a deep niche above an underground shaft, which is said to lead to Triveni.We are not allowed inside, so we did not visit the place.

Shimachalam, Annavaram temple of East Godavari District, AP.

1. Shimachalam:
   
   
   Varaha Lakshmi Narashima swamy Temple.
   
   
   This place is 16kms from Visaka patnam. The temple is in on a small hill.
   This is one of the important sthalam like Ahobilam and sholingar. The place is surrounded by mountains with lots of medicinal herbs which is good for us.
   
   
   
   
   
   Main deity is Varaha Lakshmi Narashima Swamy.
   
   
   The deity is about two and half feet height and Thirumugam of perumal is Varaha and body is human. The deity is covered with sandal paste always.
   
   
   The sandal paste is removed on Vaisaka suddha divithiya day of every year, and one can have the darshan of Narashima swamy, without sandal paste. Next day again they cover the deity with sandal paste. With the paste on him Varaha Lakshmi Narashima Swamy looks like a Shiva lingam.
   
   
   The purana says the temple was constructed by Devas. There is 16 pillar and 96 pillars mandapam with beautiful sculptures on it. As we come out of the main sanctum we see a pillar which is known as “kappa Sthambam”.
   
   
   Sthala purana says they have installed “Santhana gopala Yantram” under the pillar. Any wishes will be fulfilled by embracing the pillar and think of the wish. They charge 25Rs for this. As we go around the prakaram we see Lakshmi Devi in separate sanctum.
   
   
   The story is they say prahaladha was tortured by King Hiranyakasibu. Prahaladha refused to chant his fathers name, instead he chanted Narayana’s name. Once he was thrown down from the hill top. Lord Narayana came to resque his devotee prahaladha and this was the hill top where he was rolled down, and the temple is built in the same place.
   
   
   Ramanujar visited the temple in 11 th century.
   
   Rooms are available.
   
   
   
   
2. Annavaram:
   
   
   The place is in East Godavari District, 72 kms from Rajamandry, and 32kms from Pithapuram.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Main deity is Veera Venkata Sathya Narayana Swamy.
   The temple is situated on Rathana giri hills on the banks of River Pampa.
   
   The shrine is of two storeys. We see Sathya Narayana Swamy, in the upper level and in the down level we have the padha darshanam of main deity.
   
   Devasthanam choultry is available. There are few hotels available for accomdation.
   
   
   
3. Chebrolu:
   
   
   This place is bout 20kms from Annavaram. This is Sita Rama Devalayam.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Main Deity is Sita Rama sculpture made of one single stone, and Seetha is seen on Sri Rama’s lap.

Temples in Rameswaram

1. Ekantha Ramar Temple:
   
   The temple is located at Tangachi madam.
   
   
   Here the waves are calm because Lord Rama is in ekantham{alone} There is a well in the temple which is known as Amirthavapi. There is Villoorani teertham also.
   
   
   Purna says Lord Rama marked on the earth with his bow Kodandham, water pierced from there and it is known as Villoorani teertham. The water is sweet inspite of the sea nearby.
   
   
   
2. Gandhamanam: This is 3 kms to west of Ramanadhapuram.
   Purana says Lord Rama climbed the mandapam on sandy elevation and decided about constructing a bridge to cross the sea and reach Lanka. We see Ramar Padam here. The place is well connected by good road. When we climb we get beautiful view of the island.
   
   
   
3. Danushkoti:
   
   This is a place where we see the meeting point of Bay of Bengal and Indian Ocean which is in the shape of bow and hence it is known as Danushkoti.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   This place is considered to be holy to have a dip and pay homage to fore fathers.

Devipatnam, Darbhasayanam Temple, Ramanadhapuram District.

1. Devipattinam:
   
   
   This place is about 15 kms from Ramanadhapuram. It is to the sea shore, and here the sea is without noisy wave’s looks like a lake.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Here Lord Rama has installed 9 stones, which is known as Navabashanam and they represent Navagraha’s. There is a Siva temple,and the main deity is known as Thilakeswarar and Soundranayaki.
   
   
   
   The purana says Rama did thila tharpanam for his parents. The sea waves were disturbing Lord Rama in worshipping Navagraha, so he prayed to Jaganadhar to help him and he was blessed. That’s the reason the sea looks like a big lake over here.
   
   
   
   
2. Thirupullani / Dharbasayanam: Jaganadha perumal.
   This place is 6 kms from Sethu karai.
   
   
   Main Deity : Kalyana Jaganadhar in standing posture and Lord Sri Rama in relaxing posture, Goddess is Kalayana valli and Padamasini thayar.
   
   
   
   Importance: Vebeeshana surrendered himself to Lord Rama in this place.
   Here Lakshmana is in the form of Adiseshan on whom Lord Rama is relaxing in different sanctum.
   
   
   
   Purana says Pullar worshipped Lord by Astakshara mantra under the Aswatha vruksham and he was blessed, hence the place is known as Pullaranyam.
   
   
   
   We find Chakkra teertham in front of the temple. The teertham is also known as Hamsa teertham, because Lord gave upadesham to Brahma in the form of Hamsa pakshi [bird}

[Navagraha][Ashtakshara Manthram][Navabashanam][Aswatha Vruksham]

Koodal Azagar temple, Madurai.

1. Azagar Temple or Koodal Azagar:
   
   
   This is One of 108 Divya Desam.
   The temple belongs to krutha yugam. The temple is between Kruthamala River and Vaigai River
   
   
   
   
   
   Main Deity:"Koodal Azagar" in sitting posture known as Vieuga Sundarajar, Vaikundanadhan and Goddess "Madura valli Nachiyar", in different sanctum. Sthala Vruksham: Kathali. {Plaintain} Teertham: Hema Pushkarani.
   
   
   Importance: The main sanctum vimanam here known as Ashtanga Vimanam which means eight sides and it represents eight letters Narayana. The temple is of three floors and we see koodal Azagar in three different forms.
   
   
   
   As we enter we see the main deity in standing posture known as Koodal Azagar, Second floor he is seen in standing posture as Soorya Narayanar and in third floor he is seen in sleeping posture as Ranganadhar.
   
   
   
   We see Navagrahas in the temple which is a rare thing in Vishnava temples. Purna says Deva architect Viswakarma designed and constructed the temple in Krutha yugam.
   
   
   
   Name: once there was heavy rainfall and living beings suffered a lot. They prayed almighty and he was pleased with the prayer and sent four clouds which joined in four directions, in this place and protected them. Hence the place is known as Thiru koodal.

Thiru Koshitioor, and Thiru Mogur temple

1. Thiru koshtioor:
   
   
   This is One of 108 Divya Desam. The place is about 10 kms from Thirupatoore.
   
   
   Main Deity: Uragamellanian in reclined posture, urchavar Sowmyanarayana perumal in standing posture and Goddess Thiru Mamagal Nachiar.Teertham is Deva pushkarani.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Importance: The temple is of four floors. Main deity is in sleeping posture in first floor, to the second and third floor we see deities in sitting and standing posture, and the final fourth floor is the terrace from where Ramanajur announced the secret moola mantra of OM NAMO NARAYANA for the benefit of one and all.
   
   
   
   We see Ramanujar and Thirukoshitur Nambi sculptures facing the city in front. Indra and Kadamba muni were blessed by lord of this place.
   
   
   
   
   
2. Thiru Mogur: Kalamega perumal temple.
   
   
   One of 108 Divya Desam. The temple is 13 kms from Madurai, and 9 kms south of Melur. Here the Pushkarani is known as Swetha pushkarani and vilwam is sthala vruksham of the temple.
   
   
   Main Deity: is Kala mega perumal and his consort known as Mohana valli thayar"
   
   
   
   Sthala puranam says Vishnu took, mohini roopam to distribute the nector to devas, and the place was originally known as Mohanoor.
   
   
   
   Importance: Nammazwar attained moksha after worshiping Kalamega perumal here. Chakkratazwar is something unique here. Manthras are incarnated on it, and the thiruvadi {padam} is rotating, which means at any point, he is ready to help one who worships him.
   
   
   Chakkratazwar represent Sudarshanar. At the back of Sudarshanar we see Narashimar and he is called as Narashima sudarshnar.
   
   
   Near the entrance of the temple, in a separate sanctum, we see pallikonda nadhar {Sleping posture} known as ksheerabdhi nadhar, both Sridevi and Bhoodevi thayar are seen near the leg side with their hands near the foot of perumal in praying posture.

[Thiruvadi][LordSiva]
[Nector][Mohini roopam][Ramanujar][Thirukoshitur Nambi][Divya Desam]

Madurai & sivagangai district.

1. Thiru Mogur: Kalamega perumal temple.
   
   
   This is One of 108 Divya Desam. The temple is 13 kms from Madurai, and 9 kms south of Melur.
   
   
   Here the Pushkarani is known as Swetha pushkarani and vilwam is sthala vruksham of the temple.
   
   
   
   Main Deity: Kala mega perumal and his consort known as Mohana valli thayar".
   
   
   
   Sthala puranam is Vishnu took mohini roopam to distribute the nector to devas, and the place was originally known as Mohanoor.
   
   
   
   Importance: Nammazwar attained moksha after worshiping Kalamega perumal here. Chakkratazwar is something unique here. Manthras are incarnated on it.
   
   
   The thiruvadi {padam} is rotating, so that any time he is ready to help one who worships him. Chakkratazwar represent Sudarshanar. At the back of sudarshanar we see Narashimar and he is called as Narashima sudarshnar.
   
   
   Near the entrance of the temple, in a separate sanctum, we see pallikonda nadhar {Sleping posture} known as ksheerabdhi nadhar, both Sridevi and Bhoodevi thayar are seen near the leg side with their hands near the foot of perumal in praying posture.
   
   
   
   
2. Thiru koshtioor:
   
   
   This is One of 108 Divya Desam.The place is about 10 kms from Thirupatoore.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Main Deity is known as Uragamellanian in reclined posture. Urchavar Sowmyanarayana perumal in standing posture and Goddess Thiru Mamagal Nachiar.
   
   Teertham is Deva pushkarani.
   
   
   
   Importance: The temple is of four floors. Main deity is in sleeping posture in first floor, to the second and third floor we see deities in sitting and standing posture, and the final fourth floor is the terrace from where Ramanajur announced the secret moola mantra of OM NAMO NARAYANA for the benefit of one and all.
   
   
   We see Ramanujar and Thirukoshitur Nambi sculptures facing the city in front. Indra and Kadamba muni were blessed by lord of this place.
   
   

[DivyaDesam][Anjaneyar temple][Narashimar]

Azgar koil, Madurai.

1. Thirumalirun cholai also known as Azagar Koil:
   
   
   
   This is One of 108 Divya Desam. The place is 21 kms from Madurai to north. The temple is within the fort. As we enter we see Karuppanna swamy who is kaval divam of this place.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Main deity is Sundarajar or Kallazagar and Goddess Sridevi and Bhoodevi.
   urchavar is known as Goddess Sundaravalli. sthala vruksham is Sandalwood.
   Teertham: Noopura gangai and Silambu aru.
   
   
   Importance: Both main deity and urchavar are with panchayudam. The purana says Lord Yama penanced here to get rid of his curse and was blessed. As a gratitude he prayed to lord, permitting him to do pooja atleast once in a day. He was permitted to do, and they say, the midnight pooja is performed by Yamadarma raja.

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