#oldest bridge in rameshwaram

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Our Great State TAMILNADU

GO AND EXPLORE THE MINDBLOWING PLACES IN TAMLNADU

CHENNAI

Chennai is the capital of Tamil Nadu, which is located on the Coromandel coast of the Bay of Bengal in southern India. Madras was the name given to Chennai in the past. The “Gateway to the South” is another nickname for the city. The city of Chennai is surrounded by three rivers and numerous lakes. This city offers a number of lovely museums that are a must-see for anyone planning a trip to Chennai. Also Chennai is home to one of India’s oldest medical centres. The city is home to more than a third of India’s automobile sector. Let’s read more about it.

YERCAUD

Yercaud is a hill station near Salem, in the Servarayan range of hills (anglicized as Shevaroys) in the Eastern Ghats. It is at an altitude of 1515 metres (4969 feet) above the see level. The total extent of Yercaud Taluk is 382.67 Sq.kms. including Reserve Forest. The entire Taluk is a Township. Yercaud has also a Panchayat Union with its Head Quarters at Yercaud and its Jurisdiction is the same as for Yercaud Taluk. Popular as the “Poor man’s Ooty”. Yercaud is one of the low cost hill station destination in India.

RAMESHWARAM

Rameswaram also transliterated as Ramesvaram, Rameshwaram) is a municipality in the Ramanathapuram district of the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. It is on Pamban Island separated from mainland India by the Pamban channel and is about 40 kilometres from Mannar Island, Sri Lanka. It is in the Gulf of Mannar, at the tip of the Indian peninsula. Pamban Island, also known as Rameswaram Island, is connected to mainland India by the Pamban Bridge. Rameswaram is the terminus of the railway line from Chennai and Madurai. Together with Varanasi, it is considered to be one of the holiest places in India to Hindus and is part of the Char Dham pilgrimage. According to the Ramayana, Rama is described to have built a bridge from the region approximating this town across the sea to Lanka to rescue his wife Sita from her abductor Ravana. The temple, dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva, is at the centre of the town and is closely associated with Rama and Shiva. The temple and the town are considered a holy pilgrimage site for Shaivas and Vaishnavas.

Rameswaram is the second closest point from which to reach Sri Lanka from India and geological evidence suggests that the Rama Sethu was a former land connection between India and Sri Lanka.

The town has been in the news in past due to controversies such as the Sethusamudram Shipping Canal Project, Kachchatheevu, Sri Lankan Tamil refugees and capturing local fishermen for alleged cross-border activities by Sri Lankan Forces.

Rameswaram is administered by a municipality established in 1994. The town covers an area of 53 km2 (20 sq mi) and had a population of 44,856 as of 2011. Tourism and fishery employ the majority of workforce in Rameswaram.

KODAIKANAL

Located in the state of Tamil Nadu, Kodaikanal is one of the most famous honeymoon destinations in India. A Lakeside resort town of Tamil Nadu, Kodaikanal has a beautiful climate, mist-covered manicured cliffs and waterfall that come together to create the ideal setting for a perfect getaway. Kodaikanal means 'the gift of the forests'.

Nestled amidst the rolling slopes of the Palani Hills, Kodaikanal stands at an altitude of 7200 feet above sea level, and once you visit this hill station, you will find that every bit of what you have imagined it to be is real. Kodaikanal is a place you can go to take a break from the rigours of daily city life, and this hill station lets you sit back and connect with nature as you head out on biking or trekking trails or take a stroll through the vast forests surrounding the town.

Located in the state of Tamil Nadu, Kodaikanal is one of the most famous honeymoon destinations in India. A Lakeside resort town of Tamil Nadu, Kodaikanal has a beautiful climate, mist-covered manicured cliffs and waterfall that come together to create the ideal setting for a perfect getaway. Kodaikanal means 'the gift of the forests'.

PALANI

Nestled amidst the rolling slopes of the Palani Hills, Kodaikanal stands at an altitude of 7200 feet above sea level, and once you visit this hill station, you will find that every bit of what you have imagined it to be is real. Kodaikanal is a place you can go to take a break from the rigours of daily city life, and this hill station lets you sit back and connect with nature as you head out on biking or trekking trails or take a stroll through the vast forests surrounding the town.

AUROVILLE

Auroville is a universal township in the making for a population of up to 50,000 people from around the world. The concept of Auroville – an ideal township devoted to an experiment in human unity – came to the Mother as early as the 1930s.In the mid 1960s the concept was developed and put before the Govt. of India, who gave their backing and took it to the General Assembly of UNESCO. In 1966 UNESCO passed a unanimous resolution commending it as a project of importance to the future of humanity, thereby giving their full encouragement.

The purpose of Auroville is to realise human unity – in diversity. Today Auroville is recognised as the first and only internationally endorsed ongoing experiment in human unity and transformation of consciousness, also concerned with – and practically researching into – sustainable living and the future cultural, environmental, social and spiritual needs of mankind.

HOGENAKKAL

Hogenakkal Fall is a waterfall in South India on the Kaveri river on the border between Dharmapuri district of Tamil Nadu and Chamrajnagar district of Karnataka.It is located 46 km (29 mi) from Dharmapuri district headquarter and 199 km (124 mi) from Chamrajnagar district headquarter. It is also located 127 km (79 mi) from Bangalore, 181 km (112 mi) from Mysore, 344 km (214 mi) from Chennai and 200 km (120 mi) from Coimbatore.It is sometimes referred to as the "Niagara Falls of India," it is known for bathing areas and hired boat rides and as a major tourist attraction. Carbonatite rocks in this site are considered to be the oldest of its kind in South Asia and one of the oldest in the world. The Government of Tamil Nadu made a proposal to convert the falls into providing drinking water for the state.

KANYAKUMARI

Kanyakumari, the southernmost point of the Indian peninsular mainland is a district that is situated in the southern state of Tamil Nadu. Kanyakumari district got its official name from the renowned 3000 year old Kumari Amman temple (devoted to Devi Kanya Kumari, i.e., the virgin goddess - an aspect of Parvathy) enshrined in the region.

Kanyakumari has got a great deal of recognition to its name that the district is regarded as the most literate district in the southern state of Tamil Nadu. Besides, the district is considered as the second most urbanized territory in the southern state, succeeding only to Chennai and second most prominent zone in the state of Tamil Nadu in terms of population density. Kanyakumari district boasts singular and wide-ranging natural features with ocean on three sides and the mounts of the Western Ghats abutting the northerly face.

KUMBAKONAM

Sandwiched between two great rivers of southern India, Cauvery and Arsala, Kumbakonam is a gorgeous temple town in the heart of the Thanjavur district of Tamil Nadu.The town is a place for the lovers of history and those seeking to understand India's cultural roots and Hinduism.

The town is also known for its grand festival called Mahamaham festival which is celebrated every twelve years at the Mahamaham Tank. The town is one of the oldest in Indian history, and known for its famed temples, Chola heritage and also for its marvelous educational institutes.

MADURAI

Madurai, formerly (until 1949) Madura, city, south-central Tamil Nadu state, southern India. It is located on the Vaigai River, about 30 miles (48 km) southeast of Dindigul. Madurai is the third most populous, and probably the oldest, city in the state.

The ancient history of the region is associated with the Pandya kings, and Madurai was the site of the Pandya capital (4th–11th century CE). Later it was conquered by Chola, Vijayanagar, Muslim, Maratha, and British rulers. In the 1940s it became known as the centre of the civil disobedience movement against the British raj, and it remained an important seat of political leadership.

COIMBATORE

Coimbatore is the third largest city of the state, one of the most industrialized cities in Tamil Nadu, known as the textile capital of South India or the Manchester of the South India, the city is situated on the banks of the river Noyyal, Coimbatore existed even prior to the 2nd or 3rd century AD by Karikalan, the first of the early Cholas. Among its other great rulers were Rashtrakutas, Chalukyas, Pandyas, Hoysalas and the Vijayanagara kings. When Kongunadu fell to the British along with the rest of the state, its name was changed to Coimbatore and it is by this name that it is known today, in local Tamil language it is also called as Kovai.

In the rain shadow region of the Western ghats, Coimbatore enjoys a very pleasant climate all the year round, aided by the fresh breeze that flows through the 25 kms long Palakkad gap. The rich black soil of the region has contributed to Coimbatore’s flourishing agriculture industry and, it is in fact the successful growth of cotton that served as a foundation for the establishment of its famous textile industry. The first textile mill came as far back as 1888 after that many textile mills were started and provided many employment opportunities to within as well as neighboring Districts. The result has been a strong economy and a reputation as one of the greatest industrial cities in South India.

TANJAVOR

Thanjavur, formerly Tanjore, city, eastern Tamil Nadu state, southeastern India. It lies in the Kaveri (Cauvery) River delta, about 30 miles (50 km) east of Tiruchchirappalli.

An early capital of the Chola empire from the 9th to the 11th century, it was important during the Vijayanagar, Maratha, and British periods. It is now a tourist centre. Attractions include the Brihadishvara Chola temple, which was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1987 (expanded in 2004 by naming two other nearby Chola temples); a Vijayanagar fort; the palace of Sarfoji, a Maratha prince; and Sarasvati Mahal Library, known for its large collection of manuscripts dating from the 16th to the 19th century. The city is also known for a distinctive painting style—in which such materials as gold foil, lace, and semiprecious stones are used to embellish the painting—and for a style of embossed metal plates. Industries include cotton milling, traditional hand-loom weaving, and the manufacture of vinas (south Indian stringed instruments). The city is the seat of Tamil University (1981) and has several other colleges.

TIRUNELVELI

Tirunelveli also known as Nellai and historically as Tinnevelly, is a major district in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. Tirunelveli city is the administrative headquarters of the Tirunelveli District. Tirunelveli Municipal Corporation is the sixth-largest municipal corporation in the state of Tamil Nadu. The name Tirunelveli has been composed of the three Tamil words i.e. ‘Thiru – Nel – Veli’ meaning Sacred Paddy Hedge. With effect from 20.10.1986, the district was bifurcated and a new Tuticorin District was formed and also with effect from 12.11.2019, the district was bifurcated and a new Tenkasi District was also formed. Now Tirunelveli District has a geographical area of 3876.06 sq. km, in the Southeastern portion of Tamil Nadu is triangular in shape. It lies between 8°.14’ and 9°.07’ of the Northern latitude and 77°.17’ and 77°.97’ of Eastern longitude. The Tirunelveli Sthalapurana prescribes a tradition for the origin of the name Tirunelveli. The puranic version goes that one Vedasarma, a staunch devotee of Shiva, on his pilgrimage from the North to the South was invited by Lord Shiva in his dream to his abode on the banks of the sacred river Tamiraparani.

THIRUVANNAMALAI

On the foothills of the Annamalai Hills nestles the picturesque city of Thiruvannamalai, alluring travellers with its quaint charm and divine feel. A cultural, spiritual and economic hub, Thiruvannamalai is one of the cities to be featured in Lonely Planet. The earliest recorded references of the city date back to the 9th century from Chola inscriptions.

Much of the history of Thiruvannamalai revolves around the Annamalaiyar Temple, the most notable landmark in the region, which is quite synonymous with the city itself. The area was under the dominion of Chola kings for over 4 centuries. During the reign of the Hoysala Kings, Thiruvannamalai served as the capital of their kingdom. The region was a place of great interest and importance to various dynasties including the Sangama, Saluva, Tuluva, Vijayanagara empire and the Nawab of Carnatic. By the early 19th century, Thiruvannamalai fell under the rule of the British.

OOTY

Coonoor is a municipality and a Taluk located in the Nilgiris district, on the western edge of the state, Tamil Nadu, India. As far as size is concerned, Coonoor, after Ooty, comes second in largeness in all of the beautiful hills of the Nilgiris, providing people with a lot of ground to tour. For more than one trekking expeditions, Coonoor is an ideal base and leads right into the Nilgiri Hills. The tourist places in Coonoor are breath-takingly beautiful.

A small hamlet in Tamil Nadu, Velankanni is a popular pilgrim center, especially renowned for the Church of Mother Mary. As a great number of pilgrims turn up here, like Lourdes in France, Velankanni is nicknamed as Lourdes of the East. Velankanni is also famous for its delicate handlooms and silk.

THOOTHUKUDI

Traditionally known as “Pearl City” on account of the prevailing Pearl fish in the past in the area, Thoothukudi has a fascinating History. Forming part of the Pandian kingdom between 7th and 9th Century A.D., Thoothukudi remained in the hands of the Cholas during the period between 9th and 12th century. Emergence of Thoothukudi as a maritime port attracted travelers, adventures, and eventually colonizers. The Portuguese were the first to arrive in Thoothukudi in 1532 A.D., followed by the Dutch in 1658 A.D. The English Captured Thoothukudi from the Dutch in 1782 and the East India Company established their control over Thoothukudi in the same year.

On the 20th, October 1986 a new district, carved out of the erstwhile Tirunelveli district was born in Tamil Nadu and named after V.O.Chidambaranar, a great national leader hailing from Ottapidaram who led the Swadeshi Movement in the south. Since 1997 as in the case of other districts of Tamilnadu, this district has also been named after its headquarters town, Thoothukudi.

YELAGIRI

Yelagiri is a hill station located in the newly formed Tirupattur district of Tamil Nadu, India, situated off the Vaniyambadi-Tirupattur road.[1] Located at an altitude of 1,110.6 metres above Mean Sea Level and spread across 30 km2, the Yelagiri Hill (also spelled Elagiri Hill at times) is surrounded by orchards, rose-gardens, and green valleys.[2] Yelagiri is a branch of Annamalai Hills.

KANCHIPURAM

Kancheepuram district is situated on the northern East Coast of Tamil Nadu and is adjacent by Chennai city and is bounded in the east by Chengalpattu District, west by Vellore District , south by Thiruvannamalai district, in the north by Thiruvallur district and Chennai district. It lies between 11° 00′ to 12° 00’ North latitudes and 77° 28′ to 78° 50′ East longitudes. The district has a total geographical area of 1704.79 Sq.Kms . Kancheepuram, the temple town is the district headquarters. For administrative reasons, the district has been divided into 2 revenue divisions comprising of 5 taluks with 520 revenue villages. For development reasons, it is divided into 5 development blocks with 274 Village Panchayats.

CHETTINAD

The word "Chettiar" refers to the social caste of mercantile bankers. The Chettiars are known to be traders in salt and spices and this is reflected in the Chettinad cuisine. Meals also consist of cooked lentils, Brinjal curry, drumstick sambar, ghee for flavouring rice, and sweet meals like payasam and paal paniyaram. In general, beef and pork dishes are not served. Some well-known local dishes are Chicken Chettinad (spicy chicken curry), Vegetable Chettinad (a vegetable curry) and dishes featuring seafood.

TRICHY

Tiruchirappalli, situated on the banks of the river Cauvery is the fourth largest city in Tamil Nadu. It was a citadel of the early Cholas which later fell to the Pallavas. Trichy is a fine blend of tradition and modernity built around the Rock Fort. Apart from the Fort, there are several Temples dating back to the 1760s. The town and its fort, now in Trichy were built by the Nayaks of Madurai. This District has given great scholars and leaders whose contributions to the society have been very significant.

CHIDAMBARAM

Chidambaram – Land of Nataraja A tiny town tucked away along the Bay of Bengal in the Cuddalore district of Tamil Nadu, Chidambaram is home to what is perhaps the most iconic Shiva temple in India. With several other important temples dotting the landscape, beautiful beaches, rivers, canals, backwaters and widespread mangroves, Chidambaram is so much more than just a temple town.

The Chidambaram Nataraja temple, also known as the Thillai Nataraja Temple, is one of the few temples in India that feature Shiva as an anthropomorphic being rather than being represented by the lingam. The bejeweled idol enshrined at the temple poses in the iconic cosmic dance (the Bharatnatyam mudra known as ananda tandava). Consisting of five courts, the 10th century temple was rebuilt around 1213 AD and sprawls over 50 acres in the heart of Chidambaram city. The temple is ancient and important both from both the historical and the architectural viewpoint.

KUTRALAM

Are you looking for waterfalls with miraculous water that can cure all your body ailments and make your body rejuvenated, then Courtallam is your destination. This famous waterfall is the summer retreat for Tamilnadu people.

This waterfall ranks first in attracting lots of tourists every year. This lovely waterfall is what one need to heed to escape from the scorching sun. The Courtallam waterfall is a combination of nine waterfalls, each differs in size, volume of water, height and water current.

Speciality of the place These falls are considered to be natural spa, which could remove all your body pains. The river sources of thess falls are River Chittra, Manimutharu, Pachaiyar and Tamirabarani which cascades over 60m-92 m. The bitter part of this falls is, during season time, it will be over crowed and thronged with people.

The nine waterfalls at Courtallam are as follows Main Falls (Peraruvi), Small Falls (Chittaruvi), Chembakadevi (Shenbaga) Falls, Honey Falls (Thenaruvi), Five Falls (Aintharuvi), Tiger Falls (Puliaruvi), Old Courtallam Falls (Pazhaya Courtallam), New Falls (Puthu Aruvi), Fruit Garden Falls or Orchard Falls (Pazhathotta Arvui).

VELLORE

Vellore had the previlege of being the seat of the Pallava, Chola, Nayak, Maratha, Arcot Nawabs and Bijapur Sultan Kingdoms. It was described as the best and the strongest fortress in the Carnatic War in the 17th Century. It was witnessed the massacre of European soldier during the mutiny of 1806.

Vellore district lies between 12° 15’ to 13° 15’ North latitudes and 78° 20’ to 79° 50’ East longitudes in Tamilnadu State. The geographical area of this district is 5920.18 sq. k.m.

[hotelrameswaramgrand-blog]

Adam's Bridge in Tamilnadu

The bridge is made of coral reefs with floating volcanic rocks. From a nature lover’s perspective, it is surprising how such a formation of reefs and rocks could have existed for such a long time. Book your stay with us at the Hotel Rameswaram Grand to visit Rameshwaram tourist places in Tamil Nadu.

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4 Days 3 Nights Kanyakumari Rameshwaram Madurai Tour Package

Contact - +91 9489803300

If you are looking for quick weekend mini break from your work life and social life. Then, you must check out the 4 Days 3 Nights Kanyakumari Rameshwaram Madurai Tour Package. At this package you will be going on tour across Kanyakumari, Rameshwaram and Madurai. Get to visit numerous temples, bridges, and modern landmarks. Also, get to go shopping where you can take away a memory from the trip. Make this month the best by booking the 4 Days 3 Nights Kanyakumari Rameshwaram Madurai Tour Package.

Our 4 Days 3 Nights Kanyakumari Rameshwaram Madurai Tour Package offers you an opportunity to visit and worship at some of the oldest temples in the country and experience the prosperous history and culture of South India that still resonates high values of Hindu traditions.

If you are planning on traveling to any of these destinations then please feel free to contact us without any hesitation. Our team at Kanyakumari Travels will be happy to assist you in making your dream holiday a reality

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My journey towards the southern tip of India

Welcome to this blog of journey towards the southern tip of india.

I covered most of north India, but India’s south is still untouched by me. It is not like I don’t want to Visit the mesmerising seashores, fabolous temples and try the finger-licking Food. Still, somehow each time I planned for the trip, things didn’t go because of unavoidable circumstances.

This December, I finally made a five-day trip to Rameshwaram and Kanyakumari to tick these two places off my bucket list.

So here is my Journey to the southern part of our beautiful country. I will also mention the must-go places, Which tourists usually miss on their trip to this amazing part. So, Tighten your seat belts and pack your bags as we are going on a journey.

My flight was early morning from Delhi airport to Madurai air terminal.

Introduction to the journey towards the southern tip of India-Meenakshi Amman temple

It took about 3 hours to reach one of the oldest inhabited cities of India, “Madurai.” Madurai is well known for its “Meenakshi Amman temple.”

As I reached the city in the morning itself and reserved a car for the next three days, I sought the opportunity to visit the temple.

The Minakshi-Sundareshwara Temple is one of India’s oldest and most important temples. Located in the city of Madurai, the temple has great mythological and historical significance. It is believed that Lord Shiva assumed the form of Sundareswarar (the handsome one) and married Parvati (Meenakshi) at the site where the temple is currently located.

Meenakshi Amman Tem

Renowned for its astonishing architecture, Meenakshi Temple was nominated as one of the wonders of the world, but couldn’t make it into the list of ‘Seven Wonders of the World’.

Every year the ‘Tirukalyanam Festival’ takes place over a period of 10 days; as the marriage ceremony of Meenakshi Amman and Lord, Sundareshwar is believed to happen at this time, the temple attracts Lakhs of devotees. Although thousands of people visit this temple every day, the temple is well-maintained and was named the ‘Best Swachh Iconic Place’ (cleanest iconic place) in India. I was fortunate enough to witness the Aarti in the tempe, which happens early in the morning and got the “Prasadam” from the temple/

After visiting this beautiful site it’s time to move to Rameshwaram.

Rameshwaram-second spot in my journey towards the southern tip of India

Pamban Bridge:-  

  Because it is India’s first sea bridge built in the Pamban bridge, India’s first sea bridge was built on 24 Feb 1914; yes, you get it correct it is more than 106 years old, and yes, it was the longest sea bridge in India until the opening of the Bandra-Worli Sea Link in 2010.

This mesmerizing rail bridge is more than 2 Km long, and it connects mainland India to the religious and historic town of “Rameshwaram.”

Ramanathaswamy Temple:-third spot in my journey towards the southern tip of India

Hinduism believes that if a person wants salvation, he needs to visit Char Dhams, which are situated in four directions of India. In the southern part of India, Ramnarathaswamy of Rameshwar Dham is one of them.

Besides being one of the Dhams, it is also a Jyotirling among the 12 divine adobes of Lord shiva.

‘Ramayana’ mentions God Ram’s presence in this land after his 14-year exile.

The legend behind this iconic temple makes it one of the most important shrines in India. After coming victorious from Lanka, after defeating the demon king Ravana, Lord Rama came with his brother, his wife Seeta, and a band of thousands of monkeys.

After reaching Rameshwaram, Lord Ram told his wish to worship Shiva and asked Hanuman to bring Shivling from the city of Kashi.

Rama and Seeta were waiting for Hanuman, but time is kept passing. Seeta decided to make a Shivling with her hands so she made a Shivling from sand and Lord Rama worshipped that, hence the Shivling worshipped by Rama was known as “Rameshwaram” but in the meantime, Hanuman came with Shivling from Varanasi and felt bad as the Shivling he bought is of no use. Lord Rama, consoled him and established the Shivling Hanuman bought near to Rameshwar saving and worshipped it too which is known as “Vishweshwar”

This temple marks the unique confluence and merger of Shaivism and Vaishnavism. This temple is revered by both Shaivites and Vaishnavites alike.

The architecture of Rameshwaram temple is a delight for every tourist. This temple has long corridors “longest in the Country” The length of those are 197-meter from East to West and a 133-meter span from South to North and aesthetically carved and decorated pillars.

The temple premise is adorned with a towering 38-meter ‘Gopuram’.

Around this corridor there 22 Theertahams are situated, it is a strong belief that bathing in the 22 ‘Theerthams’ is a step forward in enlightenment.

I was fortunate to witness the beauty of this temple and take blessing at the temple but there is one place, which is believed to be the bridge made by the Vanar Sena or the “ Monkey’s army” known as Ram Setu.

It is believed that until some hundreds of years ago we could reach Sri Lanka with the help of that bridge, but because of Tsunami, the bridge broke.

But the part which is escaped is till Dhanushkodi

Dhanushkodi :-

Dhanushkodi is the southernmost tip of the Rameswaram island. This is the last place where a person can go at one time it was a beautiful and prosperous town, and Rameshwaram is only famous for the temple but due to the cyclon in 1964 whole of the town washed away.

Now a beautiful beach is here, where the visitor enjoys the mesmerizing sunset.

Although most of the part of this town washed away, one temple which is known as  Kothandaramasamy Temple remains intact.

Kothandaramasamy Temple :- fourth spot in my journey towards the southern tip of India

Kothandaramasamy Temple is 18 KMs away from Rameswaram town on the way to the last point in Dhanushkodi. It is believed that it is the same place where Vibishana a brother of Ravana surrendered before Rama and ask for shelter.

Kanyakumari-most famous in my journey towards the southern tip of India

After Rameshwaram, I was on my way to Kanyakumari. This is the southern most point of the Indian subcontinent

I was desperate to visit the Vivekananda Rock memorial, so I headed toward the seashores as soon as I reached the southernmost part of India.

Vivekanand Rock Memorial  

The music which the sea waves are creating by continuously striking the big rocks is giving me goosebumps, while the mesmerizing view of the enormous Indian ocean was worth witnessing. 

Surrounded by the vast sea a memorial was built in the 1970s to remember the visit of Swami Vivekananda and adjacent to the memorial a very big statue of Thiruvalluvar is situated. Thiruvalluvar was a famous ancient saint and this place provided me the opportunity to learn more about his contributions.

I reached the Rock memorial via a ferry and remembered the dual of great saints. From this place the views of Kanyakumari and oceans were mesmerizing 

Kumari Amman temple

During British rule, Kanyakumari is known as Cape Comorin, but the name later changed to the name of the presiding deity of the city “ Goddess Kanyakumari ”.

The history of this temple can be traced back to many ancient Indian scriptures. Sangam litratures such as Manimekalai and Purananooru mentions this temple in great details.

There is a legend behind the Kanyakumari Temple demon Banasura that had captured all demigods. No one is able to defeat him because, As per a boon, Banasura could be killed only by a virgin girl. Hence, upon devas prayers, Goddess Parasakthi took the form of Kumari, the virgin girl, to kill the demon.

But due to her mesmerizing beauty, Lord Shiva falls in love with her, but to kill Banasur, Devi must remain a virgin, so with a lot of effort by Brahma and Vishnu, the marriage is postponed, and Devi killed Banasur.

As the auspicious time of the wedding passed, the marriage never happened, and Goddess decided to remain unmarried. Devas worshipped her and asked her to establish herself.

The Temple of Kanyakumari is a mixture of various styles of ancient architecture.

Sunset Point

Kanyakumari is one of the unique location which is on the confluence of three waters, Indian ocean, Bay of Bengal and Arabian sea, surrounded by waters from three sides and from this place the sunrise and sunset looks ethereal. The changing colors of horizon and sky, the slowly disappearing sun in the deep sea is mesmerizing.

Tamilnadu is perfect combination of Culture and Nature, History and modernization. Which place is your favorite do let us know in comment section.

 https://toursandjourney.com/southern-tip-of-india/

[bookmytrip]

Discover India- Pamban Bridge . Love to travel, find the heritage of Danushkodi and Rameshwaram... . In connected of oldest railway bridge Pamban. . #india #tamilnadutourism #dhanushkodi #rameshwaram #pambanbridge #bookmytripholidays #traveldestination #travelphotography #travellikeneverbefore #traveltodream #traveltheworld #makemytrip #adventure #adventuretrip #travelagent #peace #vacationvibe #vacationmode #tripotocommunityindia #travellust #honeymoonpackages #summervibes #monsoon #idukki #thekkady #travelandtourism

[indiadiaries]

Pamban bridge 🌉 This is one of the oldest and longest railway bridges in India built on the sea. . Pic Credits-@dreams_of_panda . . . #pamban #rameswaram #tamilnadudiaries #tntourism #tourismtn #storiesofindia #streetsofindia #pambanbridge #tamilnadu #rameshwaram #_soi #travelrealindia #tamilnadutourism #tamilnaduphotography #indianrailways #Railways #instapassport #passionpassport #india #IncredibleIndia (at Pamban Bridge) https://www.instagram.com/p/CDQU9TsBQjD/?igshid=1qb65accr5nxu

[gowrisraman]

A Spiritual journey towards lands’ end -Part 2

Day 2 started off with a quick visit to Villondi Theertham (2 km detour from the Madurai highway), where Lord Rama stuck an arrow into the sea to quench the thirst of Seetha . We were there early in the morning and the place was just awesome, calm waters and sea in various hues of colour. The water isn’t sweet any longer though. 

 The only non-religious stop in the day was the Pamban bridge.  Stopping of vehicles on the bridge is not allowed and as usual people break the rules and stop at the bridge for enjoying the view and to take some photos.

The first of the four temples scheduled for the day was at Sethukarai, a Hanuman temple right on the sea. It’s a very small temple and like Kothandaramar temple it has no gopuram. Legend has it that this is the place from where Lord Hanuman and his troops started their journey to Sri Lanka. When we visited there were a good number giving “dharpanam” to their departed. The place is too badly maintained and is in shambles. Even if a portion of the 50 Rs parking fee is used for temple maintenance it will be a better place.  The 1 hr ride to Sethukarai from Rameswaram is very scenic, especially after you take the turn from the Ramnad main road. The road winds through beautiful, fertile villages and in many stretches one finds water bodies on both sides with lilies and lotus for company. Wasn’t Ramanathapuram supposed to be dry district?

A few kilometres north of Sethukarai is Thirupullani housing the Adi Jagannatha Perumal temple. It’s one of the 108 divyadesams.  Lord Rama worshipped Lord Vishnu here and the unique feature of the temple is the statue of Lord Ram and Seetha.

10 kms north west of Thirupullanai is Uthirakosamangai. The Mangalanatha swamy temple is revered as oldest Shiva temple in the world. The annual Arudhra Darisanam or Thiruvadarai   festival during the Tamil month of Margazhi (Dec-Jan) draws an estimated 2.5 lac devotees. The main deity is covered with ‘santhana kaapu ‘for the whole year and only during Thiruvadarai the Lord gives darshan in the form of Maragatha lingam. It’s a large temple complex with huge pond. The Sthala vritcham is approximately 3000 years old. One of the temple priests who accompanied us gave couple of interesting insights; A special Yagam was performed here for Mandothari when it was decided that she will marry Ravana. The yagam was supposed to protect her in case of any eventuality. The temple doesn’t have Navagraha. It seems it was Adi shankarar who brought the Navagraha worship into the Saivaite fold and this temple is much older than his times.  There is so much to observe and learn from all these places that you will always run short of time. 

 Couple of 100 mts away from the main temple surrounded by paddy fields on all sides is the Varaahi Amman temple. Considered an extreme powerful deity this is the ‘go to temple ‘for many politicians.

The last stop for the trip is the most unique Navabhashanam temple at Devipattinam some 15 kms north of Ramnad. The temple is accessible only during low tide in the morning and is submerged in water when the high tide comes.  We reached around mid- day and was just mesmerised by the beauty of the sea. There is a walkway to reach the Navagraha from the shore. One can take a holy dip and do the pooja even during high tide.

The trip was extremely spiritual, and I found many reasons to come back to this place once again. Self -drive will be ideal so that one can pace their visits according to their own interests. The local cabs are slightly pricey and are not flexible with the route. On the whole people of the town are respectful and helpful. As we were about to alight at Chennai, the driver stopped after the toll gate to grab a cup of tea. He turned back and asked, would I like to have one? You don’t expect this usually. So, in some sense Rameshwaram has a soothing effect on everyone.

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Popular Places of Pilgrimage in Tamil Nadu

Tamil Nadu, the Land of the Tamils, is the 11th largest state in India. 

Blessed with more than 33,000 temples, Tamil Nadu, popularly known as the Land of Temples, has some of the grandest and most revered temples in India. These temples have been a source of reverence for believers throughout the world.

Most of the temples in the state are built in the Dravidian style and are proof of the architectural genius of the bygone era. Besides being timeless architectural wonders, these temple towns reverberate with a divine energy that draws thousands of pilgrims throughout the year.

  Here are Some of the Most Sacred Pilgrimage Centers in Tamil Nadu:

Madurai

Madurai Meenakshi Amman Temple, also called as Meenakshi Sundareswarar Temple, is one of the biggest and most popular temples of India and also one of the top pilgrimage places to visit in Tamilnadu.

Dedicated to Goddess Parvati and Lord Siva, the Madurai Temple is considered an architecture marvel and was shortlisted as one of the top 30 nominees for the New Seven Wonders of the World. The temple was built by Kulashekara Pandya of Pandya dynasty and was rebuilt by Viswanatha Nayak, the 1st Nayak king of Madurai. The temple was substantially expanded to the current structure during the reign of Thirumalai Nayak.

The complex is built over an area of 45 acres and is surrounded by 14 towers. The temple consists of four entrance gates, while the entrance on Eastern side being the main entrance. There are several corridors, pillared halls and sub shrine inside the temple complex. The corridors and pillars are adorned with wonderful artwork of bygone era. The annual 10-day Meenakshi Tirukalyanam held in April and May, attracts 1 million visitors from all parts of India.

  Rameshwaram

Rameshwaram Sri Ramanatha Swamy Temple, one of the most famous Hindu temples in India, is situated on the Pamban Island in Ramanathapuram district of Tamil Nadu.

Dedicated to Lord Shiva, Rameshwaram Temple is one of the most famous Shiva shrines in India and also one of the top places to visit in Rameshwaram. According to the legend, Rameshwaram is the place where Lord Rama, built a bridge across the sea with the help of vanaras to rescue his consort Sita from Ravana. This is also the place where Lord Rama worshipped Lord Shiva to cleanse away the sin of killing Ravana. Rameshwaram along with Dwarka, Puri and Badrinath form the sacred Char Dhams.

Rameshwaram is also considered as the Varanasi of the South, second only to Varanasi itself. However, a pilgrimage to Varanasi is not considered complete without a trip to Rameshwaram.

Sri Ramanatha Swamy Temple in Rameshwaram stands as an epitome of Dravidian architecture and is renowned for its magnificent corridors and massive sculptured pillars. The third corridor of Rameshwaram Temple is the longest one in the world and it also happens to be one of the 12 Jyotirlinga temples. Agnitheertham, Gandamadana Parvatham, Dhanushkodi, Kothandaraswamy Temple and Erwadi are the popular and the most visited places in Rameshwaram.

  Kanyakumari 

Kanyakumari, also known as Cape Comorin, is a coastal town in Tamil Nadu and is located at the southernmost tip of the Indian mainland. Kanyakumari has been a great center for art and culture for centuries and is also famous for Kumari Amman Temple. Considered as one of the Shakti Peethas, the Kumari Amman Temple attracts huge number of devotees every year. This is one of the best places to visit in South India and also one of the popular places of Pilgrimage in Tamilnadu. 

This is a popular tourist place and a place of great natural beauty as it is situated at the confluence of the Bay of Bengal, Arabian Sea and Indian Ocean.  It is the only place in India where one can enjoy the unique spectacle of Sunset and Moonrise simultaneously on full moon days.  The Vivekananda Rock Memorial, Gandhi Memorial, Thiruvalluvar Statue, Padmanabhapuram Palace, Suchindram, Vattakottai Fort, St Xavier’s Church and Udayagiri Fort are the top Kanyakumari Tourist places. The Chaitra Poornima Festival and Navratri are the major festivals celebrated in Kanyakumari with great pomp and fervor.

  Kanchipuram

Kanchipuram, also known as Kanchi, is a popular temple town in Tamil Nadu. The town is known for its temples and silk sarees which are woven manually. Kanchi is famous for Sri Kamakshi Amman Temple and is the landmark of Kanchipuram. Kanchi Temple is one of the most famous South Indian temples and also one of the major religious places to visit in Tamilnadu.  Renowned as one of the oldest cities in India, Kanchi served as the capital of Pallava dynasty, and most of the known temples were built during their reign.

Apart from Kamakshi Amman Temple, Varadharaja Perumal Temple, Kailasanathar Temple, Karchapeshwarar Temple and Ekambaranatha Temple are the popular temples in Kanchi. The temples of Kanchipuram are known for their architectural grandeur. The architecture of Kanchi monuments are adorned with great sculpture work and unique style. 

  Chidambaram

Chidambaram is a sacred town in Cuddalore district of Tamil Nadu. Famous for Thillai Nataraja Temple, Chidambaram is one of the most popular pilgrimage places in South India and also one of the best places to visit in Tamil Nadu. The Nataraja Temple in Chidambaram was built during the 11th century and is one of the most celebrated Shiva Temples in South India.  

Nataraja Temple has great religious as well as historic and cultural significance. This is one of the Panchabhoota Stalas signifying the five elements of wind, water, fire, earth and space. Lord Shiva is worshipped here in the form of Akasha Lingam, an embodiment of Shiva as the formless Space. Brahmotsavam, the annual chariot festival held in the month of April, is the popular festival celebrated at Chidambaram which attract large crowds. Natyanjali Dance Festival is another major festival held in the month of February in Chidambaram.

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5 Days 4 Nights Kanyakumari Trivandrum Rameshwaram Madurai Tour Package

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If you are looking for quick weekend mini break from your work life and social life. Then, you must check out the Kanyakumari Trivandrum Rameshwaram Madurai Tour Package. At this package you will be going on tour across Kanyakumari,Trivandrum , Rameshwaram and Madurai. Get to visit numerous temples, bridges, and modern landmarks. Also, get to go shopping where you can take away a memory from the trip. Make this month the best by booking the Kanyakumari Trivandrum Rameshwaram Madurai Tour Package.

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