102 Results found for Search: temples of south india
1. Pancha Pandava Rathas, Mahabalipuram.
Scattered with sculptural vestiges and an ancient shore temple in the center, the Mahabalipuram Beach is perhaps South India’s most atmospheric beach. A trip here is like waking up in another era where time stands still, the waves rush fast to break on the weathered periphery of a shore temple, and the sun casts an orange glow on sculptural panels, rock-cut caves and monolithic chariots that dot its brown sand. A lot of people come here to capture the dramatic beauty of these architectural pieces in the changing light of the sun.
2. Shore Temple, Mahabalipuram.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the shore temple was built in the 7th century by Narasimha Varman II facing the Bay of Bengal. The ‘Shore Temple’ is the lone survivor of the seven magnificent temple complexes, known as the seven pagodas, built near the sea. With five-storeys, shikharas and plunging eaves, it is one of the oldest South Indian temples built in Dravidian style. The complex spreads out over a square platform, and comprises three temples, of which two are east and west facing Shiva temples, and the third a Vishnu shrine in the center.
3. Trimurti Cave Temple, Mahabalipuram.
Nestled on a 100-foot-high cliff, this 7th century rock-cut temple is dedicated to the three supreme deities of the Hindu pantheon, Brahma – the creator, Vishnu – the preserver, and Shiva – the destroyer. You will come across the carvings of a Shivalingam and Lord Brahma in the first two cells, while the third cell depicts Goddess Durga trampling Mahishasura’s (the buffalo-headed demon) head. Browse the rock-cut zoo adjacent to the cave temple; it has sculptures of an elephant, a calf, a monkey and a peacock.
4. Adivaraha Cave Temple, Mahabalipuram.
To the southwest of Mahishasuramardini Mandapam, an ancient cave temple with portrayals of Lord Vishnu as Varaha lies shrouded amid dense vegetation. At the entrance to the Adivaraha Cave you will be greeted by two sculptures of gatekeepers on either side. The inner walls of the cave are dense with sculptures of the ten incarnations of Lord Vishnu – the ninth one is believed to be Lord Buddha. Look up the northern wall for the depiction of Lord Shiva receiving the holy Ganges in his long locks tied up in a knot above his head.
5. Krishna Mandapam, Mahabalipuram.
Adjacent to Arjuna’s Penance is another early rock-cut temple. This one is dedicated to Lord Krishna and depicts scenes of pastoral life. It is considered the biggest among the mandapams. Most prominently portrayed is the image of Krishna holding aloft the Govardhan Hill on his fingertip to provide shelter to the villagers of Gokulam and their animals from a raging storm. You will also see depictions of a shepherd milking a cow, a farmer carrying a child on his shoulder, a shepherdess carrying a pot of curd and a woman carrying on her head a rolled mat, and in her hand a tier of earthen pots.
6. Varaha Cave Temple, Mahabalipuram.
Another paradigm of rock-cut architecture, the Varaha Cave temple was etched out on the rocky walls of a granite hill in the late 7th century by the Pallavas. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a monolithic rock-cut temple with a mandapam that has on its inside walls gigantic sculpted panels depicting Lord Vishnu as Varaha, the boar, holding in his arms Bhu Devi, the earth goddess, and nuzzling her breast as he rescues her from the snake king who had abducted her under the ocean. The four columns lining the entrance to the cave have lion carved into their bases.
7. Descent of the Ganges and Arjuna's Penance, Mahabalipuram.
A little away from the Ganesha Mandapam is a giant wall of open-air bas relief depicting the ‘descent of the Ganges’. In fact, the rock to the right hand side is called Descent of the Ganges and the one to the left, Arjuna’s Penance. It is quite fascinating how all the figures have been carved in a way that they either face the central cleft or appear to be moving towards it, and have their hands up in admiration. Another interesting depiction is that of a cat meditating near the leg of the bigger of the two elephants.
8. Mahishsuramardini Mandapam, Mahabalipuram.
Below the iconic lighthouse, along the road is another fascinating Pallava relic, a rock carving called Mahishasuramardini Mandapam. You can either take the staircase to the right or simply climb the plain ground, and it will lead you to the opening of the Mahishasuramardini cave. Carved out of a single rock on the side of a hill, the northern wall of the shrine has an elaborate depiction of the fierce combat between Goddess Durga and the buffalo-headed demon, Mahishasura. Mahishasura symbolizes raw power, ignorance and egoism. In the course of time, Mahishasura became so frightful that every celestial being dreaded the mention of him.
9. Krishna's Butterball, Mahabalipuram.
On the other side of the Mahabalipuram beach, a massive boulder looks to have stopped short of sliding down a smooth rocky slope. This gigantic boulder, about 5-meter in diameter, is called Krishna’s Butterball, and is set amid lush greenery. Among a spattering of hillocks, this particular rock - precariously resting at an angle of 45 degree – catches your eye first-up. The site is hugely popular with tourists who take to clicking goofy photographs with the rock in the background.
10. Thirukadalmallai, Mahabalipuram.
Thirukadalmallai temple is a Pallava architectural specimen built to protect a wealth of sculptures from the turbulent sea. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, and considered one of 108 ‘Divya desams’ (holy abode of Lord Vishnu), the temple is thronged by devotees and architecture lovers through the year. Its ambience is enhanced by an endless blue sea outside, and the row of casuarinas lining it. Do take time out to explore the tiny villages fringing the temple; they make all sorts of oddball handicraft and metal antiques. You can buy these souvenirs direct from the artisans.
11. Sadras, Mahabalipuram.
About 13-kilometer (8.12 miles) from Mahabalipuram towards Kalpakkam, there is an idyllic beach resort, Sadras, known for the ruins of a Dutch Fort. Take a stroll in the Dutch cemetery and look up the finely carved headstones and the inscriptions on them. Actually, Sadras is an anglicized version of the ancient town of Chadhuranga Pattinam. Sadras was set up in the 17th century as a Dutch colony, and an important centre for weaving fine muslin cloth for export. This little village was a flourishing weaver settlement until the Dutch conquered the domains from the Carnatic rulers in 1612.
12. Tiger Caves, Mahabalipuram.
These mysterious caves are about 5-kilometer (3.12 miles) north of Mahabalipuram in the pretty coastal hamlet of Salurankuppam. Set by the sea amid dense casuarinas in a landscape of small hillocks and big boulders, the Tiger Caves are actually rock-cut temples built in an open-air theatre style to host cultural events during the Pallava period. The main shrine is dedicated to Goddess Durga, while the entrance to the cave has carved heads of an animal that resembles a tiger. Legend has it that the animal depicted is the mythological ‘Yali’, thus the name ‘Yali Mandapam’.
13. Sculpture Museum, Mahabalipuram.
Sculpture Museum is a must-do on your trip to Mahabalipuram. It opens up a world of sculptures most of which are depictions of gods and goddesses’ from Hindu mythology. On display are over 3000 sculptures, monolithic statues, chariots, sculpted reliefs and paintings that leave the history lover in you spellbound. The exhibits here are of immense historical significance, and reflect the glory of the bygone era.
14. Crocodile Bank, Mahabalipuram.
About 14-kilometer (8.75 miles) from Mahabalipuram on the Chennai-Mahabalipuram Road, the Crocodile Bank is an abode for crocodiles, alligators and snakes. For reptile lovers, this is in fact a great place to view crocodiles – thousands of them – in their natural environment. The snake farm is close to the crocodile bank; here anti-venom is produced for treating snakebites. A lot of visitors come here to go through the process of venom extracting; it helps the Irulas, a tribe of snake catchers, make a living. Crocodile Bank was set up by herpetologist Romulus Whitaker in 1976, to breed Indian and African crocodiles and alligators in captivity.
15. Mahabalipuram Beach, Mahabalipuram.
Scattered with sculptural vestiges and an ancient shore temple in the center, the Mahabalipuram Beach is perhaps South India’s most atmospheric beach. A trip here is like waking up in another era where time stands still, the waves rush fast to break on the weathered periphery of a shore temple, and the sun casts an orange glow on sculptural panels, rock-cut caves and monolithic chariots that dot its brown sand. A lot of people come here to capture the dramatic beauty of these architectural pieces in the changing light of the sun.
16. Kanyakumari Day Excursion, Trivandrum.
The southernmost tip of the Indian mainland, Kanyakumari is truly unique destination. Sprawled out on the shore of this great ‘Triveni sangam’, the confluence of the Bay of Bengal, Arabian Sea and the Indian Ocean, Kanyakumari is known for its beautiful temples, chief among them is the Kumari Amman temple, a colorful beach bazaar and the Vivekananda Rock Memorial standing sentinel over the sea. Just as famous is the Padmanabhapuram Palace, an 16th century monument made entirely of wood. Less than 100 kilometers Trivandrum, Kanyakumari is just a few hours drive away, through smooth metalled roads that offer gorgeous views of the surrounding countryside.
17. Our Lady of Sorrows Church, Thanjavur.
Located on Pookara Street, Our Lady of Sorrows is possibly the oldest church in the Thanjavur district. The locals fondly call it Viagula Madha Church. As per historical records, the church has been in existence on Pookara Street several years before the time of Veramamunivar in 1740 AD. He is believed to have played a pivotal role in the development of Tamil language. The great Maratha king, Serfoji (1798-1832 AD) had contributed immensely towards the construction of the church, by allocating land and donating money. He even helped several other churches come up in Thanjavur.
18. A day trip to Kumbakonam, Thanjavur.
The ancient temple town of Kumbakonam makes for a great day trip from Thanjavur, about 40 kilometer (25 miles) away. Kumbakonam receives a huge influx of Hindu pilgrims from across the country, particularly South India. A lot of visitors come here only for the Mahamaham festival celebrated with great pomp every 12 years in the month of Masi (February-March) at the Mahamaham tank in the city. Devotees by the thousands take to the streets, and head for a holy dip in the Mahamaham tank. You can’t miss the frenzy at this time of the year.
19. Thiruvaiyaru, Thanjavur.
A serene panchayat town on the banks of River Cauvery, Thiruvaiyaru in the Thanjavur district is known for its ancient Lord Shiva temple, and for being the birthplace of the legendary 18th century music composer, Saint Thyagaraja. Thiruvaiyaru is about 13 kilometer (8.12 miles) north-west of main Thanjavur city, and has over the years become quite a hub for art, culture and religion. Devotees make trips year round to worship at the sacred shrine of Panchanatheeswar, while music connoisseurs congregate every January for the eight-day festival of Carnatic music in honor of the great saint, Thyagaraja.
20. Thirukandiyur, Thanjavur.
Thirukandiyur is a religious town known for its temples of Dravidian style, about 10 kilometer (6.25 miles) from main Thanjavur city. Hindu pilgrims particularly from South India make a beeline for this ancient temple town. Most temples here are of exquisite architectural beauty. Do visit the Harsha Vimochana or Kamalanathan and Brahma Sri Kandeswarar temples, they are steeped in legend and folklore, and have a palpable aura. It’s a wonderful opportunity to photograph the gopurams (spires) heavy with sculptures.
21. Chandra Bhagwan Temple, Thanjavur.
Chandra Bhagwan or Moon temple is located on the Thiruvaiyaru-Kumbakonam route, about 25 kilometer (15.6 miles) north of Thanjavur. It is among the prominent navagraha (nine-planet) temples in and around the temple city of Thanjavur. Legend has it that at this shrine, Chandran (Moon) worshipped Lord Shiva and received his blessings. The temple is popularly visited by those who have a weak moon position in their horoscope.
22. Aalangudi Temple, Thanjavur.
Steeped in mythology and folklore, the Aalangudi temple in the Thanjavur district is dedicated to Lord Guru. Legend has it that Lord Shiva consumed poison ‘Alavisham’ at this site, and hence the name ‘Aalangudi’. Here the presiding deity faces the south as he is believed to be the Lord of Dhanusu and Meena Rashi. Locals throng the shrine on Thursdays to have a puja performed. It is considered auspicious to offer prayers at the temple on this day.
23. Raja Rajan Manimandapam and Museum, Thanjavur.
The structure was built during the 8th World Tamil Conference in the heart of Thanjavur. It has a small, but well-manicured garden with slides and swings, and a museum on the ground floor of the main mandapam. Today, its maintenance and upkeep is under the State Archaeological Department. This museum was set up in 1984 to mark the 1000th birth centenary of Raja Raja Chola, the greatest Chola king of all time. Raja Raja Chola I (985-1014 CE) is looked up with awe for his military conquests, administrative prowess, religious tolerance, and penchant for art, culture and architecture.
24. Manora Fort, Thanjavur.
About 65 kilometers (40.6 miles) from Thanjavur in the tiny Sethubaba Chattiram hamlet lies the Manora Fort, an eight-tiered hexagonal tower standing 230-meter tall (766 foot) over the Bay of Bengal. Manora – a derivative of the word ‘minaret’ – is the work of Maratha king Serfoji II in 1814-15 to immortalize British Victory over Napoleon Bonaparte in the Battle of Waterloo. Owing to the fragile condition of the structure, it is no longer possible to scale up the tower for an uninterrupted panoramic view of the palm-fringed Bay of Bengal.
25. Vijayanagara Fort, Thanjavur.
About 2 kilometer (1.25 miles) to the northeast of the Brihadeeswara temple is the erstwhile stronghold of the Nayak kings, the Vijayanagara Fort dating back to early 1550 AD. Built partly by the Madurai Nayaks and the Maratha rulers, the great fort houses the Tanjore Palace, Sangeetha Mahal, Saraswati Mahal Library, Shiv Ganga garden, and an art gallery that has an array of ancient sculptures and paintings. The structure was conceived by Nayak ruler, Vijay Raghav to protect the Tanjore Palace from enemy attacks. Today, a section of the fort is open to visitors, though most of it is in a dilapidated state.
26. Brihadeeswara Temple, Thanjavur.
Regarded as ‘the temple of temples’, the Brihadeeswara temple or Rajarajesvaram in the Thanjavur district, is not just an expression of artistic brilliance, but also a way of life. This Dravidian architectural marvel was conceived during the heyday of Chola rule around the turn of the first millennium AD by the great Rajaraja Chola I. A great patron of art, most magnificent of temples across South India and exquisite bronze icons came up during his reign. Brihadeeswara temple for centuries has attracted fascinated artists, curious historians, sociologists, and travelers who delight in its wealth of sculptures, beautiful calligraphy, frescoes, and over a hundred inscriptions engraved on the walls.
27. A Drive on the Indira Gandhi or Pamban Bridge, Rameshwaram.
Straddling the Palk Strait, the Pamban or Indira Gandhi Bridge links the Rameshwaram island with mainland India. Covering about 2.3 kilometers, Pamban Bridge is touted as the second longest bridge in the country (after the Bandra-Worli sea link), and an engineering marvel. Pamban Bridge actually refers to both the road and cantilever railway bridge. Opened for traffic in 1914, the railroad bridge doubles up as a double-leaf bascule bridge that can be raised to allow ships to pass from under. Originally, the bridge was for meter-gauge trains, but in 2007 Indian Railways upgraded the bridge to support broad-gauge trains on it.
28. The Five-faced Hanuman Temple, Rameshwaram.
This is an ancient temple; you can tell from the weathered-look of the structure, and an unmistakable old-world aura. Inside is a rare depiction of Lord Hanuman with five faces. Hindu mythology has it that Lord Hanuman revealed his five-faceted avatar at this site, and was soon after smeared with orange-colored vermilion. The revealed five-faces with five different bodies were of Lord Hanuman, Lord Narasimha, Lord Adivaraha, Lord Hayagriva and Lord Garuda. At this point, he, supposedly, rose above the five senses. The little temple also has an idol of the most loved deity of Rameshwaram, Lord Rama along with that of his wife, Goddess Sita, and brother Laxman.
29. Ramjharoka Temple on Gandhamadana Parvatam, Rameshwaram.
Gandhamadana Parvatam is the highest point in Rameshwaram, some 5 kilometers (3.12 miles) from the main town. Nestled on its pinnacle, the Ramjharoka temple houses the footprints of Lord Rama on a chakra (wheel). The place offers glorious views of the blue ocean below. You will also be able to view the iconic Ramanatha Swamy temple on the bank among many smaller temples speckled evenly across the island town. Ramjharoka is a significant pilgrimage point in Rameshwaram after Ramanatha Swamy temple.
30. Ruins and the beach of Dhanushkodi, Rameshwaram.
About 20 kilometers (12.5 miles) from mainland Rameshwaram, Dhanushkodi was a prospering port town, home of around 25,000 inhabitants. It was a peaceful, predominantly fishing community with a college, school, hospital, markets, an ancient Lord Rama temple, a church, a post office, and so much as a railway station. But only until the fateful night of 22 December 1964. Close to midnight the sea suddenly swelled and lashed this little coastal village with gigantic tidal waves followed by a great cyclone. Wiping out in its wake the railway track, and with it the train that was arriving into the Dhanushkodi railway station from Rameshwaram with 115 passengers aboard.
31. Adam's Bridge, Rameshwaram.
The blurry land trail tracing its way across the ocean from Rameshwaram to northwestern Sri Lanka is well brought out in the satellite images by NASA in 2002. In addition to this, there are several equally illustrative aerial images of the mythical Ram Setu (aka Adam’s Bridge) - a strip of land straddling the ocean that connects the island of Rameshwaram with Mannar in Sri Lanka. The origin of this geological formation – as the scientists call it – takes root in Hindu mythology which draws inference to an episode from the great Sanskrit epic, Ramayana.
32. Nambu Nayagiamman Temple, Rameshwaram.
About 8 kilometers (5 miles) from the main Ramanatha Swamy shrine, on the way to Dhanushkodi is the 14th century Nambu Nayagiamman temple tucked away in the Ramnad district. The temple is believed to be built by the locals of Ramnad, out of love and respect for Lord Rama. As you approach the shrine, the synchronized chiming of bells will catch your ears. Gigantic bells dangle from the temple entrance, and a lovely garden spreads out around it.
33. Kothandaraswamy Temple, Rameshwaram.
About 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) from main Rameshwaram town, is the legendary Kothandaraswamy temple, one of the few structures to have miraculously survived the great cyclone of 1964. Dedicated to Lord Rama, his wife Sita, brother Lakshman, Hanuman (the monkey god), and Vibhishan (brother of demon king Ravana), the shrine receives droves of pilgrims mostly from South India. Legend has it that Vibhishan, Ravana’s brother, shifted his loyalty at this site, and urged Lord Rama to let him be a part of his army. Many years later a temple was built here to commemorate this historical episode in Ramayana.
34. Agnitheertham, Rameshwaram.
About 100 meters from the famed Ramanatha Swamy temple is the spot where Lord Rama worshipped Lord Shiva to absolve himself for killing demon king, Ravana. You will spot ardent Shiva devotees taking a holy dip here, believed to wash away one’s sins.
35. Ramanatha Swamy Temple, Rameshwaram.
A brief stroll on the soft sands of Rameshwaram along the blue Bay of Bengal brings you to the ancient Ramanatha Swamy Temple steeped in mythology. A paradigm of Dravidian architecture, this temple will be the highpoint of your trip to Rameshwaram. Hindu mythology has it that at this site Lord Rama worshipped Lord Shiva to absolve from any sin he may have committed during his war against the demon king, Ravana. Ramanatha Swamy temple is an important pilgrimage centre of the Hindus, also because it is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas – holy abode of Lord Shiva.
36. St. Joseph's Church, Tiruchirappalli.
St. Joseph’s Church, also called the Church of Our Lady of Lourd, is a beautiful gothic structure with massive spires on Salai Road in Trichy. A part the St. Joseph’s College campus, the church is located opposite the historical gate of Ponmalai workshop. Built by Revered Joseph Alphonse de Rozario over a century ago with grand 200-foot-tall (60 meter) spires, it is truly an architectural marvel. Look out for the stained-glass panels; stories from the Bible are finely embossed on them. On 30 March 1930, the church was dedicated to its founder and lead architect, Reverend Joseph Alphonse
37. Gunaseelam Vishnu Temple, Tiruchirappalli.
Gunaseelam is a popular Vaishnavite shrine on the northern shore of River Cauvery, on the Trichy-Salem route, about 24 kilometers (15 miles) from main city. In fact, it is one of the oldest Vishnu temples in South India, and holds the same stature as the Tirupathi Balaji shrine. Set among emerald paddy fields dotted with coconut palms, Gunaseelam Vishnu Temple is a place where mentally ill people are cured. Locals strongly believe that the presiding deity, Lord Prasanna Venkatachalapathi, has powers to cure those suffering from mental illness or any other malady.
38. Vekkaliamman Temple, Tiruchirappalli.
About 7 kilometers (4.37 miles) from Trichy in Woraiyur, Vekkaliamman Temple is an important pilgrimage centre, and an erstwhile seat of the Cholas. The temple is unique in that the shrine of the presiding deity has no roof. Legend has it that Goddess Vekkaliamman saved the people of Trichy from sand storm and torrential rain, and told her devotees to not build a roof over her shrine until every person living there had shelter. Daily pujas are performed here, while special pujas are done on Tuesdays and Fridays when devotees from across the city throng the shrine.
39. Poondi Madha Basilica, Tiruchirappalli.
About 25 kilometers (15.6 miles) from Trichy junction and 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) from the Grand Anicut dam, Poondi Madha Basilica is one of the famous churches in Tamil Nadu. It is tucked away in a tiny hamlet called Alamelupuram Poondi to whose south and north the Cauvery and its tributary slice through. This grand white church was built in the first half of the 18th century by an Italian Jesuit missionary, Reverend Father Constantine Joseph Beschi, and named it the Church of Mary Queen of Immaculate Conception.
40. St. John's Church, Tiruchirappalli.
One of the few churches in the country with louvered doors, St. John’s Church belongs to the early 19th century. It is located near Theppakkulam in the heart of Trichy. Once you step into the church precinct, the din of the city drops absolutely, and you are in an atmosphere of serenity. The interiors of this quaint white structure are made spacious and airy by the louvered doors. Take a look at the ornamental plaques to the departed, most of who have fallen victim to malaria, cholera or enemy bullets.
41. Lord Murugan Temple, Tiruchirappalli.
Lord Murugan temple was built in Vayaloor 1200 years ago during the reign of the Cholas. Here the main shine is that of Lord Murugan which is placed behind the Moolavar Shiva Sannithy. The Lord Nataraja (the dancing form of Lord Shiva) idol here with both legs touching the ground, is quite fascinating. It is probably the only temple anywhere to have such a depiction of Lord Nataraja. About 9 kilometers (5.6 miles) west of Trichy, this ancient temple in Vayaloor nestles amid green fields dotted with coconut palms, and dissected by streams.
42. Mukkombu (Upper Anicut), Tiruchirappalli.
Upper Anicut or Mukkombu is about 18 kilometers (11.25 miles) from Trichy at a point where River Kollidam branches out from the main river, Cauvery. It is a lovely picnic spot skirting acres of verdant greenery. The place also has a well-manicured park, where you can spend time in solitude and enjoy the glorious scenery.
43. Grand Anicut (Kallanai), Tiruchirappalli.
Locally called Kallanai, the Grand Anicut dam was built on the Cauvery River in the 2nd century by Chola king, Karikalan. This massive structure was later reinforced by the British. Grand Anicut is believed to be one of the oldest water-diversion structures in the world that continues to be functional. Slicing through the Erode and Salem districts, the Cauvery River proceeds to join the Bhavani River in the town of Bhavani, home to the Sangameswarar temple. It is an important pilgrimage site at the confluence of two rivers. At Trichy, the Cauvery River gushes past the historic Rock and cuts a tributary at the Srirangam island.
44. Narthamalai, Tiruchirappalli.
Narthamalai constitutes a spine of low hills with a quaint hamlet at the foothills, on the Pudukkottai-Tiruchirappalli route, about 18 kilometers (11 miles) northwest of Pudukkottai. But, Narthamalai captivates because it is home to some of the oldest structural stone temples built by the Mutharaiyars and the Cholas. Most popular one of the lot is the Vijayalayacholeswara temple from the 9th century built by the Chola king after whom it is named. Vijayalaya Chola was the first king of the Medieval Chola or Imperial Chola dynasty. Before them, the region was ruled by the Pallava kings.
45. Mariamman Temple, Tiruchirappalli.
About 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) north of the Trichy central bus terminus on the Trichy-Chennai NH 45, the Samayapuram Mariamman temple is one of South India’s most popularly visited shrines. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Mariamman, a manifestation of the goddess of shakti (power), associated with health and prosperity. In the early days, Samayapuram was a local capital of the Vijayanagara kingdom in the vicinity of Tiruchirappalli. The locals are a staunch believer of Goddess Mariamman, believed to possess powers to cure Small Pox and Chicken Pox among other maladies.
46. Kudumiyanmalai, Tiruchirappalli.
Kudumiyanmalai temple is an architectural find, some 50 kilometers (31.25 miles) from Trichy. A route lined with lush cashew trees brings you to Kudumiyanmalai, where you will be faced with a rocky spur on whose lap the temple nestles. It is an ancient Shiva temple with some curious inscriptions and beautiful sculptures, currently under the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). Lord Shikhagirishwarar and Goddess Akhilandeshwari are the presiding deities here. Before getting on with the architectural features of the temple, take a closer look at the gopuram (spire). The sculptural work on it is extremely minute and rich.
47. Government Museum, Tiruchirappalli.
Located in the heart of the city in Bharathidasansan Salai, the Government Museum is a treasure trove of rare bronze and stone sculptures from different dynasties that ruled Tamil Nadu. The place sees a lot of art and sculpture enthusiasts from within the country and outside.
48. Viralimalai Sanctuary, Tiruchirappalli.
You will be treated to some truly exotic shades of green and blue at the Viralimalai Sanctuary, about 30 kilometers (19 miles) from Trichy. Viralimalai is a scenic town at the foothills, home to one of the country’s most beautiful sanctuaries for peacock. First thing first, carrying a camera to this peacock habitat is imperative. At Viralimalai, the peacocks wander about around the Murugan temple and the enclosing woodland. To watch these gorgeous birds break into a jig by spreading out their lush plume, is quite engaging. The variety of peacocks and peahens is enormous here.
49. Rock Fort Temple, Tiruchirappalli.
Synonymous with Trichy, the Rock Fort Temple is nestled on a rocky outcrop with the Cauvery River at its foot. This 83-meter (277 foot) high rock stands out as an exception in the otherwise flat landscape of the city. The rock is one of the oldest in the world, dating over 3 billion years – almost as old as the rocks of Greenland and older than the Himalayas. Tourists scale up this great rock to not just browse the ramshackle fort, but also to look up the temple perched on the summit.
50. Sri Jambukeshwara Temple, Tiruchirappalli.
Thiruvanaikaval or Sri Jambukeshwara temple is a popular Lord Shiva shrine, about 2 kilometers (1.25 miles) east of Srirangam island – adjacent to the Ranganathaswamy temple - in Trichy. This beautiful temple complex is composed of five concentric walls and seven architectural gopurams (spires). Built almost 1800 years ago by an early Chola king, the temple is among the five major Shiva temples in Tamil Nadu symbolizing the five elements (Panchabhoota Sthalam). This one, however, represents the element water. Chidambaram (ether), Kalahasti (wind), Tiruvannamalai (fire) and Kanchipuram (earth), are the other ‘Panchabhoota Sthalam’.
51. Ranganathaswamy Temple, Tiruchirappalli.
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). Explore the temple complex, stop before the shrines dedicated to various forms of Lord Vishnu such as Sakrathazhvar, Narasimha and Rama.
52. Government Museum, Kanyakumari.
Located in the heart of the city in Bharathidasansan Salai, the Government Museum is a treasure trove of rare bronze and stone sculptures from different dynasties that ruled Tamil Nadu. The place sees a lot of art and sculpture enthusiasts from within the country and outside.
53. Suchindram Temple, Kanyakumari.
Suchindram is one of the few places where the trinity Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva are worshipped together. It is the beautiful white gopuram (tower) of the temple that catches your eye first-up. About 13 kilometers (8.12 miles) northwest of Kanyakumari, Suchindram is an elegant structure with musical pillars and 22 feet, single-stone statue of Lord Hanuman in addition to a diverse collection of art from different periods. A bit more about the structure and its music-creating pillars; it is 134 foot (40 meters) high with a façade covered with sculptures of deities from the Hindu mythology.
54. Chothavilai Beach, Kanyakumari.
This is about 10 kilometers (6.25 miles) from Kanyakumari, close to Sanguthurai beach. Chothavilai is a 4-kilometer (2.5 miles) stretch of fine sand and among the longest beaches in Tamil Nadu. After the havoc wrecked by the 2004 Tsunami, the beach was reconstructed and refurbished to attract visitors again. So when you arrive at the beach, you will pass through a recently erected entrance frame with motifs of seahorse and starfish among other fish and a white conch on the top of the frame. Ahead of which is a flight of stairs leading you down to the white sandy beach.
55. Sanguthurai Beach, Kanyakumari.
This is a very pretty beach resort about 16 kilometers (10 miles) from Kanyakumari, characterized by a massive white column with a tiny black conch on top from the Chola dynasty. From this beach you can see as far as the Vivekananda Rock Memorial sharing space with the stone sculpture of Tamil poet, Thiruvalluvar. Away from the clamor of main Kanyakumari town, Sanguthurai is a quieter place to spend an evening strolling on the yellow sand and simply gazing at the sea. The beach looks particularly serene at sundown cast in a warm orange glow.
56. Muttom Beach, Kanyakumari.
About 32 kilometers (20 miles) from Kanyakumari, Muttom Beach is quite popular with sunset watchers. On arriving into this area you will be faced with a 100-year-old lighthouse from the British era standing sentinel (105-foot/31.5 meters) over a rough sea. Trek further down through the rock tops and take in views of an endless sea with giant white waves crashing against dark rocks speckled on the beachfront (some dipping into the sea). Until a few years ago, the beach though a great sunset view point was not safe enough owing to the slippery rocks, strong undercurrents and thundering waves.
57. Baywatch Amusement Park, Kanyakumari.
Baywatch at Sunset Point is Kanyakumari’s first water-theme amusement park offering an array of interesting joy rides and a sneak peek into India’s first wax museum. The park’s degree of modernization is at par with its international counterparts making it worth considering. A lot of kids can be seen around enjoying a splash with their families. Locals find it an ideal relaxation zone for their kids on weekends. Among various thrilling, adrenalin-pumping rides, there are Bumping Car, Sky Cab, Crazy Chairs, Hot Tea Cups, Giant Wheel, Columbus, Wave Pool, Milky Way, Multiple Splash and Kids Pool.
58. St. Xavier Church, Kanyakumari.
About 15 kilometers (9.3 miles) from Kanyakumari in Kottar, the stark white spires of St. Xavier Church stand sentinel over this little coastal town. It was built around 1600 by St. Francis Xavier during one of his trips to Kanyakumari district from Goa. During his stay in Kottar, Saint Xavier used to worship Mother Mary in a small temple. He even averted the invasion of the Padagas on the people of Venad which was appreciated greatly by the ruling king. And as a token of appreciation, the king allotted him a piece of land in Kottar to get a Catholic church constructed.
59. The Church of Our Lady of Ransom, Kanyakumari.
From the shore where the fishing boats are moored you can see the three towering spires of this off-white gothic structure with a distinct Portuguese feel. The Church of Our Lady of Ransom is a more than 100-year-old building dedicated to Mother Mary. But what catches your eye first-up is the 153-foot-high (46 meters) central tower crowned with a Cross of pure gold. Truly a beautiful structure; the church looks particularly gorgeous against the molten-blue noon sky. Astonishingly, the grand gothic façade is a striking contrast to its almost bare interiors.
60. Thiruparappu Waterfalls, Kanyakumari.
A green Panchayat town in Kanyakumari district, Thiruparappu is known for its waterfalls, an ancient Shiva shrine and salubrious mountain air. About 60 odd kilometers (37.5 miles) from Kanyakumari, the place is a lovely drive through lush farm scenery. Thiruparappu falls originate from the Kodayar River and cascades some 50-foot down (15 meters) on to a rocky 300-foot-long (90 meters) riverbed. For about seven months in a year is the fall fully rapturous. You can enjoy a bath under the gushing water, and later take a stroll in the area to get different perspectives on the falls.
61. Thiruvalluvar Statue, Kanyakumari.
A recent piece of construction on the rock adjacent to the Vivekananda Rock Memorial, Thiruvalluvar Statue is a 133-foot tall (40.5 meters) stone sculpture of Tamil poet and saint Thiruvalluvar. The structure stands 400 meters from the coastline on a minor rock, in memory of this noble saint who gave golden words of wisdom through his philosophical work ‘Thirukkural’ – a treatise in Tamil on the Indian way of life. It was the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, Dr. M. Karunanidhi who conceived the building of a memorial to Thiruvalluvar.
62. Tsunami Memorial, Kanyakumari.
This uniquely colored 16-foot (4.8 meters) memorial stands as a grim reminder of the lives claimed by the Asian Tsunami, on the southern shores of Kanyakumari. On 26 December 2004, the giant waves of the Indian Ocean smashed the coast of Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, and other South-east Asian countries killing thousands and rendering many homeless. Tsunami Memorial is indeed a very special monument in honor of the people who lost their lives under the havoc wrecked by the gigantic waves.
63. Vattakottai Fort, Kanyakumari.
About 7 kilometers (4.3 miles) to the northeast of Kanyakumari is the granite Vattakottai Fort, an 18th century coastal defense fortification and barrack of the Travancore kingdom. The structure is circular and spreads across three and half acres of lush lawns. Its ramparts are about 26 feet high (7.8 meters) including the parapet which is some 29-foot thick (8.7 meters) from the front. Ex-Dutch Captain De Lennoy – who after the Battle of Colachel became the General of Travancore army – commissioned the construction of this ‘circular fort’ as a part of the defense fortifications he undertook across Travancore.
64. Udaigiri Fort, Kanyakumari.
Udaigiri Fort is about 34 kilometers (21.25 miles) from Kanyakumari on the Nagerkoil-Trivandrum highway at Pullioorkurichi. Its popularity as a historical landmark is somewhat overshadowed by the presence of the Padmanabhapuram Palace only a few miles from here. And at any point if you can’t find your way and consult a villager, in all likelihood he will redirect you to the famed Padmanabhapuram Palace. But the Udaigiri Fort in Kanyakumari district is not to be confused with the fort by the same name in the Udaigiri village in the Nellore district of Andhra Pradesh.
65. Colachel Beach, Kanyakumari.
About 30 kilometers (18.75 miles) from Kanyakumari is a pristine stretch of golden sand, Colachel Beach, tucked away in a breathtaking natural setting of plunging ravines of red soil and lush green scrubs. Drive through red rock cliffs and verdant gorges that succumb to a fine sandy beach. A lone lighthouse stands sentinel over the bay, adding to its scenic beauty. Your camera stays busy from the time you start the drive from Kanyakumari till you arrive at the beach. Colachel opens up stunning views of a tumultuous grey sea stretching into distance, thick palm groves fringing the beach and a misty blue sky.
66. Padmanabhapuram Palace, Kanyakumari.
Just off the Nagerkoil-Kanyakumari highway lies an architectural treasure, Padmanabhapuram Palace made entirely of wood. Built in the 16th century, this historical structure has been the hub of the Travancore rulers. Iravi Varma Kulasekhara Perumal was the architect of the palace; he ruled Travancore from 1592 to 1609. It continued to be the stronghold of the Travancore royals till the late 18th century. The abode derives its name from the mythological lore of Padmanabha meaning the lotus that originated from the navel of the Lord. The complex is spread out over seven acres comprising individual structures connected by a maze of corridors, verandahs and sprawling courtyards.
67. Nagaraja Temple, Nagerkoil, Kanyakumari.
Nagerkoil is a little town close to Kanyakumari, about 19 kilometers (12 miles) away, famed for the Nagaraja Temple dedicated to serpent god, Nagaraja. To get to Nagerkoil you can take a state bus from Kanyakumari offering frequent services. Nagaraja temple was originally a Dravidian Tamil Jain temple dedicated built to pay tribute to Lord Parsvanath. Legend has it that many years later the Hindus took over and converted it into a temple to mythological god Nagaraja. Incidentally the symbol of Lord Parsvanath is snake. And the locally found Nagalinga flower is also symbolic of Lord Nagaraja.
68. Kumari Amman (Kanyakumari Temple), Kanyakumari.
The bustling beach town is named after this temple dedicated to Kumari Amman or Kanyakumari. Sprawled regally on the coast overlooking the sea is the 3000-year-old abode of Devi Kanyakumari, the virgin goddess, who according to legend guards the shore. An important pilgrimage point in South India, the Pandiyans commissioned the building of the shrine in honor of the goddess in the 8th century. There was subsequent revamping by the Chola and Nayak dynasties. Kumari Amman stands in the centre of the town adjacent to the beach; stroll along the town’s main street past colorful bazaars to get to the site.
69. Gandhi Memorial, Kanyakumari.
Built in the memory of the ‘Father of the nation’ in 1956, the Gandhi Memorial or Gandhi Mandapam is a pink architectural building resembling an Orissa temple. Gandhiji was shot in 1948 and after cremation his ashes were to be sprinkled over different regions of the country. And the Gandhi Memorial at Kanyakumari was the place where the ashes were kept for public viewing before being immersed into the sea. Interestingly, the height of the central dome of the memorial is 79 feet, the age of Gandhiji at the time of his assassination.
70. Swami Vivekananda Rock Memorial , Kanyakumari.
Begin with a boat cruise to the rock, about 500 meters off the mainland, on which is built the legendary memorial. While sitting in the steamer one wonders how Swami Vivekananda could swim this distance in a greatly tumultuous sea. Disembark on the rock and take the canopied flight of stairs to the huge windy terrace, in the middle of which stands the stone memorial hall. The views from here are fabulous – you can see the Kanyakumari town spread out on the banks and the colorful fishing boats moored in one part.
71. Kanyakumari Beach, Kanyakumari.
Life in Kanyakumari revolves around this beach. It would be apt to say that Kanyakumari beach connotes the very essence of India’s southernmost city. On a holiday in Kanyakumari, you will end up spending most of your time on this beach as it is a brilliant burst of activity - a potpourri of traditions, legends, local culture and scenic beauty. Largely an asymmetrical coastline, one part of Kanyakumari beach serves as a bathing ghat, another remains moored with fishing boats, and the rest of it is a paved wall running along the rocks to keep the rough sea out.
72. Trivandrum food festival, Trivandrum.
Flavor is the national food festival of Trivandrum celebrated usually in the second week of April every year. This seven-day-long affair beckons chefs from all over the country to come up with their stalls and represent their states. Renowned hotels from across Kerala too participate in this weeklong international festival of exotic cuisine. It is a great opportunity to sample authentic specialties from the Kerala kitchen as well as from other parts of India. If you are touring Trivandrum at this time of the year, you will be in for a mouthwatering treat at every restaurant and little eatery you visit.
73. Karikkakom Temple, Trivandrum.
The 500-year-old Karikkakom Temple is tucked away in the tiny hamlet of Karikkakom, about 7 kilometers (4.37 miles) east of Trivandrum city. From a distance you can sight its rajagopuram (a pyramidal tower at the entrance), about 63-foot-tall, covered with intricately crafted sculptures of hundreds of gods, goddesses, demons and maidens on the four lateral sides illustrating episodes from Hindu epics. It took over six years and two crores of rupees to complete this grand five-storey structure. Dedicated to local deity Goddess Sree Chamundi, the temple receives a great number of visitors some of whom come simply to appreciate its Dravidian temple architecture, while the others to take a look at the beautiful ‘panchdhatu’ idol.
74. Kanakakunnu Palace, Trivandrum.
Located about 800 meters north east of the Napier Museum in the heart of Trivandrum city, Kanakakunnu Palace is one of the last architectural vestiges of the colonial era. Built during the reign of Travancore king Sree Moolam Thirunal (1885-1924), the palace served as the main venue for royal banquets. Later Swathi Thirunal, one of Travancore’s popular rulers, refurbished the palace and constructed tennis courts in the premises. He also did use it for a few years as a summer retreat. Boasting a quaint Kerala-style façade, the Travancore royal family used the house to entertain guests.
75. Attukal Bhagavathy Temple, Trivandrum.
About 2 kilometers (1.25 miles) from Trivandrum city, Attukal Bhagavathy is an ancient temple dedicated to goddess Attukal worshipped as the Supreme Mother. The Supreme Mother, as the creator of all living beings and the mighty preserver as well as destroyer. Popularly referred to as the ‘Sabarimala for women’, the temple receives tens of thousands of devotees from across the country during the famous ‘Pongala Utsavam’. This beautiful old building is nestled on the banks of the Killi River, and is beautified with carvings of the various manifestations of the goddess as Mahishasuramardini, Kali, Rajeshwari and Parvathi with Lord Paramashiva.
76. Kerala State Science and Technology Museum, Trivandrum.
The Kerala State Science and Technology Museum is located close to the Napier Museum and the Postmaster General’s Office in Trivandrum. A study-cum-recreation centre, the museum displays an array of exhibits on all disciplines of science, technology and electronics. The place gets a lot of students studying science. It serves as a dynamic medium of science communication, with the activities aimed at instilling a scientific temper and awareness among common men. There are dedicated galleries with working/animated and participatory kind of exhibits. It organizes and conducts mobile and temporary science exhibitions and competitions along with science film shows.
77. Chacha Nehru Children's Museum, Trivandrum.
Chacha Nehru Children’s Museum is located less than a kilometer north of Trivandrum central bus station. Set up in 1980, it is one of the city’s more popular museums and has been named after India’s first Prime Minister Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru who was very fond of children. Browse the museum for its impressive collection of over 2000 dolls from all over the world. In addition to dolls, there is a rare collection of stamps, masks and paintings. You will come across a mini aquarium home to an array of colorful fish.
78. Neyyar Dam and Wildlife Sanctuary, Trivandrum.
Neyyar Dam and Wildlife Sanctuary is about 30 kilometers (18.75 miles) east of Trivandrum at the foot of the Western Ghats. A charming dam site, the region is a treasure trove of some rare medicinal herbs. The adjacent Neyyar Lake is ideal for a boat ride and opens up glorious panoramic vistas of the dense wilderness and the dark silhouette of the Western Ghats in the backdrop. This dam was built in 1958 on the basins of the three main rivers namely Neyyar, Mullayar and Kallar. Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary encompasses the Dam and is an abode of wild animals such as elephants, wild buffaloes, sloth bear, wild boar, porcupines, jungle cats, tigers and snakes among others.
79. Veli Tourist Village, Trivandrum.
Trivandrum’s most popular picnic destination, Veli Tourist Village is about 8 kilometers (5 miles) from the city centre, very close to the Trivandrum airport. The picturesque Veli Lagoon is separated by a narrow sandbar from the Arabian Sea; this sandbar is the Veli Tourist Village complete with a waterfront park, floating bridge and great water sports facility. Particularly popular with children, the place gets extremely crowded on weekends. A major draw to Veli is the large inland lake separated from the ocean by a narrow sandbar. Enjoy the tranquil beauty of the lagoon and the Arabian Sea beyond on a pedal boat or row boat.
80. Christ Church, Trivandrum.
Christ Church, Trivandrum is a popular and one of the oldest architectural landmarks in the city. The history of the church goes back to 1817 when divine services for the European residents had begun. During this period services were conducted ones a month by the Military Chaplins of Quilon (Kollam) as per the instructions of the Madras Government. Many years later, in 1837, a Tamil congregation comprising employees of the government printing press and those working in the homes of Europeans living in Trivandrum, was formed under the guidance of Christian David, a clerk in the government press.
81. Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary, Trivandrum.
Peppara is about 50 kilometers (31.25 miles) on the north east of Trivandrum city en route to Ponmudi hill station in South Kerala. The sanctuary is spread across 53 sq. kilometers of dense forest and eucalyptus plantation on the Western Ghats. The Peppara Dam built on the serene Karamana River adds to the scenic ambience of the sanctuary. Its rocky terrain dissected in places by crystal-clear streams makes it very popular with trekkers. The park is merged partially with the Palode reserve (24 sq. kilometers), and the Kottoor reserve (29 sq. kilometers) – all the three reserves together form the whole of the area covered by the Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary.
82. Akkulam Lake and Tourist Village, Trivandrum.
The picturesque Akkulam Lake is about 3 kilometers (1.8 miles) from Ulloor junction in Trivandrum city, and about 10 kilometers (6.25 miles) from the central railway station. Set on its banks is the Akkulam Tourist Village with a sprawling children’s park, snack bar and paddle pool. There is also a large swimming pool where you can enjoy a refreshing dip before heading out to the snack bar for a cup of coffee. The Akkulam Lake is a part of the Veli Lake, and the tourist village is spread out on a sand bar that separates the Veli Lagoon from the Arabian Sea.
83. Kulathupuzha Temple, Trivandrum.
Shrouded by dense jungles, the Kulathupuzha Temple is nestled in a forest range on the Trivandrum-Shenkotta Road, with the Kulathupuzha River flowing beside it. The temple is thronged by devotees during the Vishnu Mahotsavam celebrated in April/May with great ceremony. The deity worshipped here is Sastha, more commonly known as Lord Ayyappa. Lord Ayyappa is greatly adored by the Keralites.
84. Aruvikkara Dam, Trivandrum.
About 16 kilometers (10 miles) from Trivandrum, on the banks of the serene Karamana River is this lovely picnic destination called Aruvikkara. The place is popular for its verdant surroundings, a beautiful dam, and the Durga temple. Near the temple is a meandering stream replete with fish that quite fearlessly swim close to the shore in schools to have the crumbs thrown in by the visitors. The fish here are considered holy, and feeding them is believed to cure ailments such as warts, whiteheads and blemishes on the skin. Boating facilities are available at the reservoir.
85. Thiruvallam Backwaters, Trivandrum.
Thiruvallam is a green backwater getaway about 6 kilometers (3.75 miles) from Trivandrum, popular for canoe rides. At the confluence of Killi and Karamana rivers, Thiruvallam opens up a vista of sleepy fishing villages thick with exotic flowers fringing the serene backwaters. The place is also popular for its temple dedicated to Lord Parashurama believed to be the creator of Kerala. A Hindu pilgrimage destination, the Parashurama temple is thronged by devotees to perform rituals in honor of their ancestors. Away from the bustle of Trivandrum city, the confluence of the two beautiful rivers at Thiruvallam creates an idyllic setting for navigation.
86. Kuthiramalika Palace Museum, Trivandrum.
Located on the south-eastern side of Padmanabha Swamy Temple, the Kuthiramalika Palace appears rather nondescript from outside. Only once you enter through the narrow gate, past a narrow corridor and step onto its sprawling courtyard garden, do you get an estimate of its scale and architectural detailing. Mostly a wooden palace, Kuthiramalika is a traditional Kerala-style structure built in the 1840s by the king of Travancore Maharaja Swathi Thirunal Balarama Varma. Interestingly, the palace gets its name from the 108 horses carved into the wooden brackets that reinforce the southern roof. Though, the official name of the palace is Puthenmalika, meaning new mansion.
87. Vettucaud Church, Trivandrum.
Vettucaud Palli (Malayalam for church) is located about 7 kilometers (4.3 miles) from Trivandrum city centre in a pretty coastal village by the same name. Legend has it that the church was established by St. Francis Xavier, the Jesuit missionary who came to India to spread the gospel. The church receives devotees in thousands during the annual ‘Feast of Christ, the King’ – a ten-day feast celebrated during the third Sunday of November. At this time of the year, the church bustles with activity. School and college students from across Kerala partake in choir music and chant prayers at the ceremony.
88. Shankhumugham Beach, Trivandrum.
About 8 kilometers (5 miles) from the main city and adjacent to the Trivandrum Airport, Shankhumugham Beach is a favorite haunt of sunset lovers. ‘Aarattmandapam’ (aaratt meaning holy bath of the deity) - an iconic stone pavilion on the beach for use by the Padmanabha Swamy Temple – is synonymous with Shankhumugham. The beach starts to get crowded near evening when it is cast in a soft orange glow. The sea at Shankhumugham is a splendid blue and flat, making sunset watching an incredibly dramatic experience. Stroll down its brown sandy expanse and enjoy the wind in your face.
89. Koyikkal Palace, Trivandrum.
On the way to the Ponmudi hill station and the Courtallam Waterfalls, about 18 kilometers (11.25 miles) from Trivandrum at Nedumangad you will come across a lovely two-storied palace. Koyikkal is a quaint 17th century palace built for Umayamma Rani of the Venad royal family (1677 to 1684) in the traditional Nalukettu style with gabled roofs and a sprawling inner courtyard. Worth a stopover, the palace today is home to Asia’s biggest folklore museum and a numismatic (coin collection) museum set up by the Department of Archaeology. Browse the museum for its fascinating collection of ancient musical instruments and models of folk art.
90. Napier Museum and Zoo, Trivandrum.
A sprawling 19th century Indo-Saracenic structure with a dash of Chinese and Mughal styles, the Napier Museum is home to a treasure trove of archaeological finds. It is an architectural landmark in Kerala’s capital city and houses a zoological garden and the popular Sree Chithra Art Gallery within its premises. The original structure was erected in 1855 by the Maharaja of Travancore. A new structure was conceived by Chisoln in 1874, the consulting architect of the Madras Government. The building was completed only in 1880, and named after the erstwhile Governor of Madras Presidency, Lord Napier.
91. Padmanabha Swamy Temple, Trivandrum.
An iconic landmark in Kerala’s capital city Trivandrum, the ancient Padmanabha Swamy Temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu – the preserver according to Hindu mythology – is a fantastic blend of Kerala/Dravidian architecture and folklore. This legendary 17th century temple is located near the bus station at the East Fort in Trivandrum. From the railway station in East Fort, the site is at a walkable distance. An impressive amalgamation of Kerala and Dravidian styles, the temple stands out for its ornate seven-storey gopuram (tower) about 35-meter-high (117 feet) at the main entrance. Enter the courtyard, and you will see a flagstaff encased in gold, rich with murals and carvings.
92. Sree Chithra Art Gallery, Trivandrum.
Sree Chithra Art Gallery is located adjacent to the Napier Museum, about 2 kilometers (1.25 miles) from the Trivandrum railway station and 6 kilometers (4 miles) from the international airport. Set up in 1935, this art gallery draws connoisseurs from the world over who come here to view the genius of the Indian painters. Browse the gallery for its motley collection of century-old, original world famous paintings by the likes of Raja Ravi Verma, Jamini Roy, the Russian painter-cum-philosopher Nicholas Roerich, KCS Panicker and Svetlova among others. Of course, the highpoint remains the colorful brush strokes of local artist Raja Ravi Verma.
93. St. Mary's Cathedral Church, Madurai.
Located on East Veli Street in Madurai, St. Mary’s Cathedral is the seat of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Madurai. It is one of the oldest Roman Catholic churches in India, situated about 2 kilometers (1.25 miles) south-east of Madurai Railway Station and 200 meters from the Thirumalai Nayak Palace. Its two elegant Roman style bell towers, about 42-meter-high (140 feet), are visible from a distance. Founded in 1840, the façade of the church is an amalgamation of various forms of European and Continental styles. The church was dedicated to Viagulamatha, originally known as Viagulamatha Koil.
94. Adhisyam, Madurai.
A favorite haunt of kids during their summer holidays, Adhisyam – a theme water park, is also popular with sightseeing tourists to Madurai. The water park is about 15 kilometers (9.3 miles) from Madurai city, on Madurai-Dindigul National Highway at Paravai. Set up in 2000, Adhisyam is now the largest water park in the area. It is an ideal place to unwind and cool your heels after days of sightseeing in the Madurai sun. You are ushered into Adhisyam by life-size Walt Disney characters merrily greeting you to join in the fun and make a splash.
95. Sree Meenakshi Temple, Madurai.
Synonymous with the rich cultural and architectural heritage of South India, Sree Meenakshi Temple beckons a traveler to delve deeper into the colorful Hindu mythology. This colossal temple complex forms the lifeline of Madurai city, and gives vent to every human emotion by way of sculptures that make it larger than life. Popular legend has it that Madurai is the actual site of Lord Shiva and Meenakshi’s wedding, and the labyrinthine temple celebrates the love of goddess Meenakshi and her groom Sundereshwar (meaning good looking god or Lord Shiva). With the temple in the center, the ancient city of Madurai fans out like a fully-bloomed lotus.
96. Gandhi Museum, Madurai.
This quaint museum dedicated to the ‘Father of the Nation’ M.K Gandhi, is housed in the old palace of Nayak queen Rani Mangammal known as Tamukkam Bungalow – a unique building with a high roof supported by columns without walls. Gandhi Museum highlights India’s struggle for freedom, and contains a photo gallery of the Gandhian movement, a gallery of relics, a separate section for Khadi and village industries which Gandhiji revived, and a South Indian handicraft section. Gandhiji’s photographs, quotations and paintings are also displayed here, not to mention a few of his letters in their photocopied state.
97. Vandiyur Mariamman Teppakulam, Madurai.
The grand venue of the very popular ‘Float Festival’ held during January-February every year, Mariamman Teppakulam is a beautiful square tank spread out over 16 acres, about 5 kilometers (3 miles) east of Meenakshi Temple. The tank sets the scene for the colorful Float Festival to celebrate the birth anniversary of King Thirumalai Nayak who built it. The area of the tank and the island pavilion with a garden in the center, is almost equal to that of the Meenakshi Temple, making it the largest temple tank in South India. The lake is fed by the Vaigai River through underground channels.
98. Float Festival, Madurai.
Madurai gears up for festivities in January-February every year to celebrate the birth anniversary of the popular Nayak king Thirumalai. The tradition of the ‘Float Festival’ came into being in the 17th century when the reigning Nayak king was building a grand palace for himself. Legend has it that he ordered to convert the excavated depression into a lake with an artificial island in the middle of it and dedicated it to Lord Ganesha. Soon he initiated a custom of taking the divine idols for a boat ride on the waters of the lake on his birthday.
99. Thirupparamkundram, Madurai.
About 8 kilometers (5 miles) on the outskirts of Madurai city, Thirupparamkundram is an evocative cave temple reminiscent of those of the Pallavas (600-850 AD). Legend has it that local deity Lord Murugan married Deivanai at Thirupparamkundram Murugan Temple which is also the first among the Six Holy Abodes of Murugan. It is much older than the Meenakshi Temple, and has a palpable atmosphere of sacredness. On Fridays, you will see women lighting candles or sitting around the temple floor and creating patterns on the ground using colored powder, ash and flowers, as an offering to goddess Durga.
100. Chithirai Festival , Madurai.
Goddess Meenakshi is married off to Sundereshwar on the last day of the ten-day-long Chithirai Festival in the month of April-May every year. The temple town of Madurai exudes a festive atmosphere during this time of the year, with pilgrims and tourists gathering in thousands to witness one of the most spectacular temple festivals in South India. The wedding ceremony is celebrated on a full moon day when the idol of Lord Vishnu, locally known as Azhagar, is taken in and around Madurai atop a beautiful golden horse. According to folklore, Azhagar is taken to Madurai to attend the wedding ceremony of his sister goddess Meenakshi (Parvati) with Lord Sundereshwar (Shiva) at the Meenakshi Temple.
101. Thirumalai Nayak Palace, Madurai.
Built in 1636 by the Nayak ruler whose name it bears, the palace as it stands today was the residence of the King. The original palace was four times bigger than the present structure where dance and music performances would be hosted regularly, before it was destroyed by the king’s grandson Chokkanatha Nayak. The days in which the structure flourished, it was segregated into two parts - Swargavilasa and Rangavilasa. And these parts together comprised the royal residence, theatre, shrine, apartments, armory, palanquin place, royal bandstand, other living quarters, pond and garden.
102. Azhagar Kovil, Madurai.
Azhagar Kovil is one of the most celebrated temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu, about 21 kilometers (13 miles) north-west of Madurai. Nestled atop a wooded hill amid panoramic surroundings, the shrine known as Alagarkoil and the hill Solaimalai, is home to some truly beautiful carvings. At this shrine, Lord Vishnu presides as Meenakshi’s brother ‘Azhagar’. Interestingly, when the celestial marriage of Meenakshi with Sundereshwar is celebrated during Chithrai festival in April/May, the idol of Azhagar is journeyed to Madurai. Devotees carry out a gold processional icon called the Sundararajar from Azhagar Kovil to Madurai for the wedding ritual.