Introduction

Ranganathaswamy temple is a massive temple complex dedicated to Lord Vishnu, on Srirangam island, about 6 kilometers (3.75 miles) north of Trichy. It is considered the most important among the 108 Divya Desams (meaning holy abodes) of Lord Vishnu. In the middle of River Cauvery, the 156 acre spread of the temple lies shrouded among dense coconut groves. A bridge connects this island with the mainland. The shrine is enclosed by seven rectangular walled courtyards, walling in 21 architectural gopurams (spires), with the largest one measuring about 73 meters (243 foot).

What visitors come here to see is the reclining form of Lord Vishnu on the Shesha Nag (a mighty mythological snake), and appreciate the brilliant carvings. Ardent Vishnu devotees frequent this shrine year round. Explore the temple complex, stop before the shrines dedicated to various forms of Lord Vishnu such as Sakrathazhvar, Narasimha and Rama. You will come across several other shrines dedicated to the renowned saints of the Vaishnava cult. Walk through the hall of thousand pillars; this line-up of beautifully sculpted stone columns tickles your architectural bone. Facing the thousand-pillared hallway is the ‘Sesha Mandap’ which has some curious snake sculptures in stone.

Not much is known about the history of the temple, except that its oldest structure dates back to the 10th century. Oddly, it finds a mention in Tamil literature from the Sangam period. With over 247 ‘pasurams’ or hymns dedicated to it, the temple of Ranganathaswamy has been praised by all divine saints of Tamil Bhakti movement (regionally known as Alwars). So much so, scholars from different schools of thought such as Advaita, Vishistadvaita and Dvaita, have also recognized the significance of this ancient shrine. According to the Vaishnava philosophy, the Ranganathaswamy temple is among the eight self-manifested shrines of Lord Vishnu, the others being Srimushnam, Venkatadri, Saligramam, Naimisaranyam, Totadri, Pushkar and Badrinath.

Vaikunta Ekadashi, Aadi Brahmahotsavam and Adhyayanotsavam are the festivals celebrated here with great fervor.

Special Attributes

The hall of thousand pillars is a true architectural marvel.

Nuisance

The site is very peaceful and free of irritants.

Dressing restrictions

It is a very important pilgrimage site, so dress conservatively.

Connectivity

There is a regular bus service to the temple. You can even hire a taxi.

Enjoyed by

Architecture lovers and those who are religiously inclined

Exposure

You will mostly be indoors.

Avoidable Season

Open through the year

Facilities

Basic, plan accordingly

Things Not Allowed

No such restriction

Tip

An early morning visit to the shrine is preferable, before the pilgrims begin to trickle in.

Type of site

Hindu shrine/ temple site