The southernmost tip of India where three water bodies merge whilst keep their individual colors intact lies the magnificent Kanyakumari. The temples in Kanyakumari are quite an attraction even when though people want to explore the most common places to visit in Kanyakumari.
Yes! The Vivekananda Rock Memorial, Thiruvalluvar Statue, and Kanyakumari Bhagavathy Temple pop up right at the top. But there are more places of interest, if you are into spirituality or like to visit religious places.
The temples in Kanyakumari are known for their religious and cultural heritage nestled amidst natural beauty. If you don’t know already, Kanyakumari is where the Arabian Sea, the Indian Ocean, and the Bay of Bengal converge to create fantastic water bodies. Yup! These are the three water bodies.
The place is renowned for its outstanding picturesque landscapes present in the state of Tamil Nadu. Many tourists around India and the world visit Kanyakumari to experience breathtaking sunrises and sunsets.
The town of Kanyakumari (कन्याकुमारी) has seen the influences of several dynasties, including the Cholas and Pandyas. So there are plenty of instances where you can see their influence in Kanyakumari.
The Kanyakumari Temple
Kumari Amman Temple, or Kanyakumari Temple, is the most prominent temple in Kanyakumari. It is dedicated to Devi Kanya Kumari, an avatar of the Hindu Goddess Parvati. It also happens to be one of the 108 Shakti Peethas where the spine of Goddess Sati fell during Shiv tandav.
Origin
The origin of the Kanyakumari Mandir dates back over three thousand years. According to Hindu mythology, this temple stands where the demon Banasura held gods and goddesses captive. Then Goddess Parasakthi destroyed the demon by manifesting herself as a virgin girl.
Legends also suggest that the Goddess blessed this town and decided to stay on earth at the request of Narada and Parsurama. Since then, the Goddess is protecting the town from all evil.
Architecture
The temple’s architecture will puzzle you because you will stop and gaze at the marvel built thousands of years ago. It is an outstanding blending of Keralian and Dravidian-style architecture.
The main entrance through the north gate is delicately carved with intricate detailing. You can’t access the Eastern gate as it only opens on special occasions. The moment you enter, carved stone walls surrounding the temple will greet you.
Structure
The main deity of this temple is Bhagabathy Amman. But the main attraction is undoubtedly the diamond nose ring worn by the Goddess. If the local legends are true, then people can witness the sparkle of this nose ring from the sea.
The temple also includes plenty of smaller shrines of Lord Surya, Lord Ganesha, Lord Ayyappa Swamy, Goddess Vijaya Sundari, and Goddess Balasundari. Make sure you take ample time to visit this temple.
The location of the temple attracts tourists and devotees alike. The convergence of three oceans in a picturesque backdrop makes it an alluring and intriguing.
Festivals
Various festivals are held at this temple throughout the year. During May Vaisakhi festival is held for ten days. The main deity of Goddess Kumari Amman is taken out in a grand procession on a decorated chariot.
Another significant festival is the Car festival, where people gather on the streets to witness the procession of the Goddess.
Famous temples in Kanyakumari
In Kanyakumari (कन्याकुमारी) you will find a calm atmosphere that makes you believe in a higher power even if you are not a believer. You will feel a serene atmosphere where you can connect with the divine, while not knowing much about the local legends.
Here are some famous temples in Kanyakumari that should also be on your list if you want to explore the spiritual side of Tamil Nadu:
Nagaraja Temple in Nagercoil
The Nagaraja temple in Nagercoil is one of the prominent temples in Kanyakumari. Situated near the seashore, this temple attracts visitors from all over.
As the name suggests, the temple is dedicated to Nagaraja, the God of Serpents in the Hindu religion. While you’re at this temple, you’ll see snakes everywhere.
It is believed that these snakes are the guardians of the town protecting the temple. Most surprisingly, these snakes have never attack any devotees.
The main shrine here is definitely Nagaraja, a five-headed serpent.
Apart from the main shrine of Nagaraja, you will also visit the shrines of Lord Anamtasayana and Lord Shiva.
The natural beauty around the premises includes coconut trees and green forests.
The temple is especially crowded from August to September due to the Avani festival.
Tiruchendur Temple in Tiruchendur
Tiruchendur temple locates in the town of Tiruchendur, just outside Kanyakumari. It is famous because South Indians believe in Lord Murugan. It is believed that the temple existed since 875 AD after contributions from the Pallavas, Pandyas, and Cheras.
The temple exhibit rich architectural beauty, with detailed artwork on its walls and towers. Originally, the temple possessed rock-cut architecture, but was later transformed wth sandstone.
The main deity of this temple is Lord Murugan (Lord Kartikeya), standing on a peacock. Worshippers from different parts of India gather here during the festival of Skanda Sashti, which celebrates the victory of Lord Murugan over the demon Surapadman.
You can also visit during Brahmotsavam, one of the few festivals that happens two times in a year. The Vasantt festival during April and May is another good time to visit.
The sacred and vibrant atmosphere of this temple makes this a popular tourist’s attraction. The temple offers you a spiritual experience along with the outstanding coastal beauty of Kanyakumari.
Thanumalayan Temple in Suchindram
Thanumalayan Temple, also known as Suchindram Temple, is just 11 km away from the district of Kanyakumari. It is located in the town of Suchindram. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, Lord Brahma, and Lord Shiva, collectively worshiped as Thanumalayan.
Founded in the seventeenth century, the main deity of Shiva, Vishnu, and Brahma is in the sanctum run of the temple. A huge idol of Lord Hanuman is also here, made from granite rock. Apart from the main shrines, the temple homes 30 smaller shrines of other deities.
Essential festivals are celebrated here, such as the Car, Avani, Masi, and Chithirai festivals.
This temple should be on top of your list if you want to get more familiar with the rich mythology of the Hindu religion.
Adikesava Perumal Temple in Thiruvattar
Adikesava Perumal Temple is another vital addition to the list of temples in Kanyakumari. It locates 45 km from the district.
The temple holds immense religious significance since it is dedicated to Sri Adikesava Perumal. It is believed to be founded more than 3,000 years ago.
The main deity here is 22 feet tall Lord Perumal, who is worshiped here in a reclining posture on the sacred serpent Adi Sesha. Legend suggests that Lord Perumal won a fight against the demon Kesi here.
Sunlight falls straight into the idol of Lord Perumal during Panguni and Puratasi, another exciting feature of this temple.
The temple includes Dravidian-style architecture with detailed carvings. The overall architecture suggests that the temple was built during the reign of the Pallavas.
When visiting the temple, you can come during Panguni Uthiram or Masi Pooram.
Vaikuntha Ekadesi during May is another good time to pay a visit.
Th temple is a testament to the political and cultural aspects of the bygone era. As a historical enthusiast or researcher, you will find this temple intriguing and equally fascinating.
This temple is a must-visit to get a missing piece of the glorious past of Kanyakumari.
Thirunanthikarai Cave Temple in Thirunanthikarai
Thirunanthikarai Cave Temple is one of the oldest temples in Kanyakumari. Known as the rock-cut cave temple, which dates back to the 7th century, the temple is an outstanding example of rock-cut architecture.
The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is home to an exceptional Shiv Lingam. The cave is covered with detailed carvings and sculptures of various deities. You can see the great depictions of stories from the Ramayana and Mahabharata.
The temple includes quite a few chambers. Each of them showcases the artwork during the reign of the Pallavas. The pillars have pictures of Hindu Gods and Goddesses.
Apart from the exceptional architecture, the temple is a sacred place for devotees to pay homage to Lord Shiva. However, you can enjoy the craftsmanship of the past that still inspires us.
Interesting Fact: Thirunanthikarai Cave Temple is the fourth among the twelve Sivalayam temples in Kanyakumari.
Mandaikadu Bhagavathi Temple in Colachel
Mandaikadu Bhagavathi Temple is one of the most reputed temples in Kanyakumari, located in Mandaikadu village. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Bhagavathi, the symbol of feminine energy.
The temple also goes by the name of Women’s Sabarimala. The history of this place dates back to multiple centuries. The temples a community of worshippers around the country.
In ancient times, the surrounding areas of these temples were covered in green vegetation. Since then, the temple has been known as Mandaikadu, which means Muddy Forest.
The main deity of this temple is 15 feet tall, Goddess Bhagavathi, in the form of an anthill with multiple arms. If you believe in local legends, it will shock you to know that the deity grows in height every day!
Guganathaswamy Temple
Guganathaswamy Temple is a renowned Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, located in Kanyakumari. According to popular belief, this temple was founded by King Rajaraja Chola more than a thousand years ago. It is famous for its beautiful architecture and religious importance.
The main deity of this temple is Lord Guganathaswamy, another avatar of Lord Shiva. Lord Shiva is worshiped here as Nataraja, a unique right-leg raised dancing pose. You will also see 16 inscriptions which are believed to be from the 11th century.
The temple has a unique architecture that is heavily influenced by the Cholas style. For those who devoted themselves to Lord Shiva, take advantage of this temple to seek blessings.
Lord Subramanya Temple in Tiruchendur
Lord Subramanya Temple in Tiruchendur is 34 km away from the district of Kanyakumari. Also known as Aruppai Veedu, this temple is dedicated to Lord Subrahmanya.
Founded in the 17th century, the temple originated to commemorate the victory of Lord Subrahmanya over the demon Surapadma.
Located on the foothills of Veli Malai, the temple can be reached after climbing 38 steps. The main deity here is in a standing posture facing east. It is one of the famous temples in Kanyakumari that you must visit.
Vivekananda Rock Memorial in Lakshadweep
Lastly, Vivekananda Rock Memorial is unlike any other temple in Kanyakumari. The temple is dedicated to Swami Vivekananda, a spiritual leader and a disciple of Sri Ramakrishna Dev.
You need to take a ferry to reach the temple and then climb some stairs to get access. The temple is on a rock where Swami Vivekananda meditated and eventually found peace.
If you are a devoted follower of him, you will find this place fascinating. You will enjoy the surreal atmosphere and crashing waves against the rocks.
The temple attracts millions of visitors who are seeking solace all around the globe. From this place, you will be able to witness how the three oceans converge. Remember to visit the meditation hall to meditate in peace as you hear the gushing of the waters on the seashore.
Final Thoughts
The temples in Kanyakumari can take you back thousands of years without using a time machine. There will be an insist inclination of spirituality in you when you visit these places and study the history and origin in-depth.
See you in the next one, till then keep navigating roots!
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