Devanathaswamy Temple is a historic Hindu temple located in the town of Thiruvananthapuram in Tamil Nadu, India. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is believed to have been built during the 8th century. The temple has a rich history and has undergone several renovations and additions over the centuries.
The temple is known for its stunning Dravidian architecture, with intricate carvings and sculptures adorning the walls and pillars. The main shrine houses a 7 feet tall idol of Lord Vishnu in a reclining posture, also known as Ananthasayanam. The model is made of a single stone and is believed to be over 1200 years old.
The temple complex also includes several smaller shrines dedicated to various deities such as Lord Shiva, Lord Ganesha, and Goddess Lakshmi. The temple also has a sacred tank known as Pushkarani, where devotees take a holy dip before entering the temple.
Several important festivals are celebrated at the Devanathaswamy Temple, with the most significant being the Brahmotsavam, which is celebrated for ten days in the Tamil month of Panguni (March-April). The temple is beautifully decorated during this festival, and several rituals and processions are carried out.
Visitors to the Devanathaswamy Temple can also explore the surrounding area, home to several other temples and historic sites. Some popular nearby attractions include the Vaithiyanatha Swamy Temple, the Arulmigu Kasi Viswanathar Temple, and the Kutralanathar Temple.
Meghamalai is a beautiful hill station located about 80 km from Devanathaswamy Temple. The scenic drive through the hills offers breathtaking views of the surrounding forests and valleys. Visitors can also visit the Meghamalai Wildlife Sanctuary, home to various rare and endangered species of plants and animals.
Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary:
The Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is located about 100 km from Devanathaswamy Temple. The sanctuary is home to wildlife, including elephants, tigers, leopards, and bears. Visitors can take a boat ride on Periyar Lake and watch the animals in their natural habitat.
Kodaikanal is a popular hill station located about 120 km from Devanathaswamy Temple. Beautiful hills and valleys surround the town, and visitors can enjoy trekking, boating, and cycling. Some popular tourist attractions in Kodaikanal include the Kodaikanal Lake, Coakers Walk, and Bryant Park.
The Vaigai Dam is located about 50 km from Devanathaswamy Temple. The dam is a popular picnic spot and offers a beautiful view of the surrounding hills and valleys. Visitors can also take a boat ride on the Vaigai River and enjoy the area's scenic beauty.
Madurai is a historic city located about 60 km from Devanathaswamy Temple. The town is famous for its Meenakshi Amman Temple, which is one of the most popular tourist attractions in South India. Visitors can also explore the city's many other historic temples, palaces, and museums.