Tuesday, October 30, 2012

Arunachaleswarar Temple, Tiruvannamalai, Tamilnadu



arunachaleswarar-temple-view
The Temple at Tiruvannamalai is one of the biggest and grandest temples in South India.  With the hill as back ground it gives the appearance of a fort to those who see it from a distance. It is unique on account of its stately towers, high rampart walls, broad quadrangles, spacious gateways, large mantapams and fine tanks.  It has also much architectural importance and sculputural beauty.


View Larger Map

Tiruvannamalai should have been under the way of the Pallava Kings who ruled from Kancheepuram before the ninth century A.D. We do not find any inscription in the temple prior to A.D.850 and hence the present temple could not have existed then. Saint Sambandar in his Thevaram relating to this place mentions a temple. Saints Appar and Sambandar belonged to the Seventh Century, Sekkizhar, the renowned author of Periapuranam mentions that both the Saints Appar and Sambandar worshipped Arunchaleswarar in the hill Temple. The Chola Kings ruled over the country for more than four Centuries from 850 A.D. to 1280 A.D. Some earlier Kings of Vijayalaya dynasty must have begun to construct the inner shrine(Garbegraha). In the fourteenth Century the Hoysala Kings had their capital at Tiruvannamalai. Afterwards the Kings of Vijayanagar and Nayak Kings of Thanjavur ruled over this part of the Country. In the Seventeenth Century it came under the sway of the Nawabs of Carnatic. There was confusion and chaos after A.D. 1753. Muraru Raya, Krishna Raya, Mrithis Ali Khan, Burkat Ullakhan, French Soupries and Sambrinet, English Captain Stephen Smith besieged this place and had their successes and defeats. In A.D. 1790 it was captured by Tippu Sultan. During the first half of the nineteenth century it came under the British rule.
Thiruvanamalai_Rajagopuram
Rajagopuram_of_Arunachaleshwarar
The Temple is situated east at the bottom of the hill half a mile west of the Railway Station. It faces East. It has got four stately towers on all the four sides and four high stone walls just like the rampart walls of a fort. The Eastern Tower called the Rajagopuram is the Highest. The Southern tower is called Thirumanjangopuram, that iin the west is called Peygopuram and that in the north is called Ammaniamma Gopuram. The temple occupies an extent of about 25 acres of land. The walls on the East and West measure 700 feet each. The South wall is 1479 feet long and North wall is 1590 feet. The Rajagopuram which adorns the East Gateway is 217 feet high with 11 storeys, its base measure 135 feet by 98 feet. This tower was built by King Krishna Devaraya of Vijayanagar and completed by Sevappa Nayaka of Thanjavur. Krishna Devaraya also constructed the Thousand Pillared Mantapam and dug the tank opposite to it . Ammani Ammal a Sanyasini built the North Gopuram which is called after her name.

Annamalaiyar_UnnamalaiAmman

Arunachaleswarar


Annamalaiyar(Arunachaleswarar) Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to the Hindu deity Shiva, located at the foothills of the Annamalai Hill in the town of Thiruvannamalai in Tamil Nardu, India. Shiva is worshipped as Annamalaiyar or Arunachaleswarar represented by lingam, with his consort, Parvati in the form of Unnamulaiyamman. The temple occupies a significant place in Saivism and is regarded as one of the five temples associated with the five classic elements of nature, called the Pancha Bhoota Stalas. The temple is associated with the natural element fire, called Agni and the presiding deity, Arunachaleswarar in the form of linrgam is called Agni lingam.The temple is revered by the Tamil Saiva canonical work of the 7th century, the Tevaram, by Tamil saint poets called the nayanars and is classified as a Paadral Petra Sthalam – the temples reverred in Tevaram. It is believed that the 9th century Saiva saint poet Manikkavasagar composed the Tiruvempaavai in the temple.
The temple complex covers an area of 10 hectares and is one of the largest temples in India.It houses 4 gateway towers, the gopurams, with the tallest being the eastern tower with 11 storeys and a height of 66 metres (217 ft), making it one of the tallest temple towers in India.
The Karthigai Deepam festival celebrated during the full moon day in November–December and a huge beacon is lit on the top of the hill. It can be seen from miles around and believed to be Shiva's lingam of fire joining the limitless skies.The event is witnessed by 3 million pilgrims. During each full moon day, a worship called Girivalram is followed when pilgrmis circumnavigate the base of the temple and the Annamalai hill. The Girivalam is carried out by close to 1 million pilgrims.
Legend has it that Shiva's wife Parvati once closed his eyes playfully in the flower garden of their abode Mount Karilash. The whole universe was darkened for a moment and Earth was darkened for years, translating to a moment of time at Kailasha. Parvati performed penance with other worshippers of Shiva to overcome the darkness. Shiva appeared as a flame of fire at the top of the Annamalai hill and removed the darkness.He merged with Parvati in the form of Ardhanarishvara – the half-female, half-male form of Shiva.The Annamalai, meaning red mountain, lying behind the Annamalaiyar temple is always associated with the temple.The hill is considered sacred and considered to be a lingam, an aniconic representation of Shiva, in itself.
Another popular legend narrates that the Hindu gods Vishnu and Brahma contested for their superiority. Shiva appeared in the form of a heated flame and challenged them to find the source of the flame.Brahma took the form of a swan and flew up to discover the top of the flame, while Vishnu became a boar (Varaha), to find the base.The scene called lingothbava is represented in the western wall sanctum of most Shiva temples.Neither Brahma nor Vishnu could find the source – while Vishnu conceded his defeat, Brahma lied stating he found the pinnacle. Shiva cursed Brahma that he shall no temple dedicated to him on Earth.
 

History

The present masonry structure and towers date back to the 9th century A.D. This has been determined from an inscription in the structure made during the reign of Chola kings who ruled during that era.Tiruvannamalai was under the Pallava Kings who ruled from Kanchipuram before the 9th century – the earliest inscriptions dating back to early 9th century is an indication.The 7th century Nayanar saints Sambandar and Appar, have mentioned the deity in the poetic work Tevara. Sekkizhar, the author of the Periyapuranam mentions that both Appar and Sambandar worshipped Annamalaiyar in the temple.The Chola Kings ruled over the region for more than four centuries from 850 to 1280 and have made donations to the temple.During the 14th Century, the Hoysala Kings had their capital at Tiruvannamalai, starting 1328.There are 48 inscriptions from the Sangama Dynasty (1336–1485), 2 inscriptions from Saluva Dynasty and 55 inscriptions from Tuluva Dynasty (1491–1570) that ruled the Vijayanagara Empire, indicating generous gifts to the temple from the rulers.There are also inscriptions from the rule of Krishnadeva Raya (1509–1529), the most powerful Vijayanagara king who made generous contributions to the temple.Most of the Vijayanagara inscriptions were written in Tamil and a few in Kannada and Sansrkrit.During 17th century, the temple came under the sway of the Nawab of the Carnatic.There was confusion and chaos after 1753.Muraru Raya, Krishna Raya, Mrithis Ali Khan, Burkat Ullakhan, French Soupries and Sambrinet, English Captain Stephen Smith besieged this place and had their successes and defeats. The French occupied it in 1757 and it came under the control of British in 1760.In 1790, the area was captured by Tippu Sultan.During the first half of the 19th century, it came under the British rule.The temple is currently maintained by the Hindu religious and Endowment board of the Government of Tamil Nadu.


Shrine


The main shrine of Annamalaiyar facing east houses images of Nandi and Surya, the Sun.It is the oldest of all structures in the temple.Right behind on the walls of the sanctum, there is an image of Venugopalaswamy, an incarnation of Hindu God Vishnu. Right around the sanctum, there are images of Somaskandar, Lingodbhavar (image of Shiva emnating from lingam), Durga, Chandekeswarar, Gajalakshmi, Arumugaswami, Dakshinamoorthy, Swarnarbairavar, Nataraja and Palliyarai (divine room meant for resting deities) – these are regular features of Shiva temples in South India. The shrine of the consort, Unnamalai Amman lies in the second precinct of the temple – the Amman is in standing posture. Sambantha Vinayagar (elephant god) shrine is located to the north of the flag staff and Bali peeta (platform for sacrifice).To the south of the 1000-pillared hall, there is a small shrine for Subramaya and a large tank."Pathala Lingam" (underground lingam) is the place where saint Ramanar is believed to have done his penance.The shrine of Sivagangai Vinayagar is present in the northern bank of the Sivanganga tank.


Halls


In the third precinct, the main feature is the 16 pillared Deepa Darshana Mandapam, the hall of light. The temple tree, Magizha, is considered sacred and medicanal; childless couple tie small cradles in the branches as a form of worship. Vedic texts describe the mast of the temple separated the earth and the sky during the creation of the universe.The Kalyana Mandapam, the marriage hall is in the south-west of the precinct and built in Vijayanagara style. A stone trident is present in the outer shrine of the temple in open air and has protective railings like a sacred tree.The Vasantha Mandapam, meaning the Hall of spring, the temple office and Kalahateeswarar shrine are present in the third precinct.In the fourth precinct lies an image of large Nandi, Brahma theertham (the temple tank), Yanai Thirai Konda Vinayaga shrine and a hall with a big Nandi 6 ft tall erected by Vallala Maharaja.Inside the doorway of the first tower and the fifth precinct, there is a 1000-pillared hall built during the late Vijayanagara period.Krishna Devaraya constructed the hall and dug the tank opposite to it.The pillars in the hall are carved with images of yali, a mythological beast with body of lion and head of an elephant, commonly used as the symbol of Nayak power.The Arunagirinathar Mandapam is located to the right, the Kalayana Linga Sundara Eswara Mandapam and Gopurathilayanar shrine to the left of the broad flight of stone stairs that lead upwards to the Vallala Gopuram.

Festivals

The temple celebrates dozens of festivals throughout the year. Four prime festivals, called the Brahmotsavam are celebrated every year, the important of which is celebrated during the Tamil month of Karthikai (November/December). The celebration of Karthikai Deepam marks the conclusion of the ten-day festival. A huge lamp is lit in a cauldron with three tons of ghree at the top of the Annamalai hill during the Deepam. To mark the occasion, the festival deity of Annamalaiyar circumbulates the mountain. Inscriptions indicate that the festival was celebrated during the Chola period itself, while it was expanded to 10 days in the 20th century.
Every full moon night, tens of thousands of pilgrims worship Annamalaiyar by circumambulating the Arunachala hill barefoot.The circumambulation covers a distance of about 14 km. and is referred as Girivalam.Legend has that the circumbulation removes sins, fulfillment of desires and freedom from cycle of birth and rebirth.Offerings are made in a string of tanks, shrines, pillared meditation halls, springs and caves around the hill.The practise is followed during normal days also and is referred as Giri Valam. On the yearly Chitra Pournami, the full moon night in the Tamil calendar, lakhs of pilgrims come from across the world to worship Annamalaiyar. Five temple cars, called ther, with wooden carvings, are used for the procession.
Tiruvoodal is another festival celebrated during the first week of Tamil month Thai (from 14 till 18 January) every year.On the morning of maatu pongal (15 and 16 January), Nandi, the sacred bull of Shiva, is decorated with garlands specially made with variety of fruits, vegetables and sweets. Annamalaiyar and his consort come out of the temple to perform the oodal ceremony in the evening. This particular event happens outside the temple on the Tiruoodal street.
 
DAILY PUJAS AT SRI ARUNACHALA TEMPLE
DAILY PUJAS
1. Ushathkalam                                      05-30 a.m.
2. Kalasanthi                                          08-00 a.m.
3. Uchikalam                                          10.00 a.m.
4. Sayarakshai                                       06-00 p.m.
5. Irandamkalam                                    08-00 p.m.
6. Ardha Jamam                                    09-30 p.m.


ANNUAL FESTIVALS - TAMIL MONTH WISE
Chitrai       Vasantha utsavam - 10 Days beginning from Mrigeseerisha Nakshatram
Ani             Dakshinaya Brahma Utsavam- 10 Days
Adi             AdiPuram - 10 Days ; Last day Fire Walking festival
Purattasi    Navarathri - 10 Days
Aipasi         Kanntha Sashti - 6 Days
Karthigai     Brahma Utsavam; Deepam festival - 10 Days
Margazhi    Manikkavasagar Utsavam - 10 Days
Thai            Sankaranthi Utsavam - 10 Days
Panguni      Uthram Festival - 6 Days

SPECIAL FESTIVALS - TAMIL MONTH WISE


Chitrai

  1. Natarajar Abishekam-Thiruvona Nakshatram.
  2. Thirunavukkarasar Festival-Sathaya Nakshatram.
Vaikasi

  1. Abishekam-Visaka Nakshatram.
  2. Thirugnanasambandar Festival-Mula Nakshatram.
Ani

  1. Manikkavasagar Festival-Maga Nakshatram.
  2. Natarajar Ani Thirumanjanam Uthra Nakshatram.
Adi

  1. Ambal Niramani(Varalakshmi Nonbu)
  2. Sundarar Festival-Swathi Nakshatram.
  3. Arunagirinathar Festival.
Avani

  1. Srikrishna Jayanthi.
  2. Pittu Tiruvizha-Mula Nakshatram.
  3. Natarajar Abishekam-Sukla Chathurthai.
Purattasi

  1. Saraswathi Puja-Ambal Niraimani,Sukla Navami.
  2. Natarajar Abishekam-Sukla Chathurthasi.
  3. Arunagirinathar Festival-Mula Nakshartram.
Aipasi
Annabhishekam-Asvini Nakshatram.
Karthigai
1008 Sangabhishekam-Somavaram.
Margazhi

  1. Vaikunta Ekadesi.
  2. Thiruvathirai-Arudra Dharsanam.
Thai

  1. Tiruvudal Utsavam.
  2. Manalurpettai Theerthawari.
  3. Kalasapakkam"Theerthawari"-Rathasapthami.
  4. Thai Poosam,theerthawari.
Masi

  1. Pallikondapattu Theerthawari-Vellala Maharajan Obsequies-Mega Nakshatram.
  2. Mahasivarathri-Amara chathurthasi.
  3. Natarajar Abishkam,Sukla chathurthasi.










How to reach Thiruvannamalai



The nearest Airport from Tiruvannamalai is Chennai which is 182 k.m.   Tiruvannamalai is situated in between Katpadi and Viluppuram Junctions on the railway line.  It is well connected by road with various parts of country.   During festival times Government Transport Corporation runs special point-to-point buses to all parts of State.   By car it will take four to five hours from the State Capital Chennai.

Chennai to Thiruvannamalai 189 km
Bangalore to Thiruvannamalai 204 km
Coimbatore to Thiruvannamalai 313 km
Hyderabad to Thiruvannamalai 689 km
Pune to Thiruvannamalai 1050 km



Trains to Thiruvannamalai (TNM)

how-to-reach
LIVE TRAIN ENQUIRY

Starting Station              Train       Arrival atThiruvannamalai      Service Days

Kharagpur Jn              Kgp Vm Sf Exp             08:29 PM                             Wed
                                         (22603)            (duration: 30h 19m)
Madurai (MDU)            Mdu Tpty Exp                04:34 AM                         Thu & Sat
                                         (16780)            (duration: 9h 19m)
Mannargudi (MQ)           Tirupati Exp                11:18 AM                   Wed, Fri & Sun
                                         (17408)            (duration: 5h 48m)

Purulia (PRR)                 Prr Vm Exp               08:29 PM                              Mon
                                         (22605)           (duration: 33h 54m)

Tirupati (TPTY)              Tpty Mq Exp               03:34 PM                   Tue, Thu & Sat
                                         (17407)            (duration: 4h 54m)

                                      Tpty Mdu Exp              06:04 PM                       Fri & Sun
                                         (16779)            (duration: 4h 49m)

Villupuram (VM)             Purulia Exp                12:08 PM                              Sat
                                         (22606)            (duration: 1h 28m)

                                     Kharagpur Exp           12:08 PM                               Mon 
                                          (22604)            (duration: 1h 28m)


LIVE TRAIN ENQUIRY


Thiruvannamalai Attractions


Arunachaleswara Temple, Thiruvannamalai
Arunachaleswara temple, located on Arunachala hills, in Thiruvannamalai is one of the most scared Shiva temples in India. The temple is dedicated to the form of Lord Shiva known as Arunachaleswarar. It is one of the five Panchabhoota (five elements wind, water, fire, earth and space) Stalams. This temple is for fire. The other four temples are in Kalahasti (wind), Tiruvanaikka (water), Kanchipuram (Earth) and Chidambaram (Space).
The temple has majestic towers and pillars adorned with sculpted images showing the artistic excellence of the ancient periods. The walls showcase many beautiful inscriptions of successive rulers and chieftains. This temple witnesses huge inflow of pilgrims all through the year. Krithika Deepam - the light festival celebrated in the month of Krithika, Pournami – the full moon day and Thiruvoodal – the sacred quarrel are the major festivals in this temple.
Ramana Ashram, Thiruvannamalai
The Ramana Ashram in Thiruvannamalai is a calm and inviting ashram offering tranquility and secluded meditation options. This ashram displays the life, philosophies and teachings of Bhagwan Ramana Maharishi, the revered mystic saint who attained Samadhi at this place.
The legends say that Saint Ramana Maharishi had received his vision of the Supreme Truth at Arakandanallur, a place nearby to Thiruvannamalai. This place has an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and houses caves carved by Pallavas. This ashram is visited by Hindu pilgrims admiring the Maharshi Ramana. The ashram carries out many social services for the upliftment of spirituality.
Seshadri Swamigal Ashram, Thiruvannamalai
Seshadri Swamigal Ashram is a sacred spot in the Thiruvannamalai town. This is located close to the famous Ramana Ashram. Mahan Sri Seshadri Swamigal was a 20th century saint who had displayed majestic powers. The devotees believe that he had carried out many miracles and has the power to bless the devotees who offer worship at this ashram.
Devotees from all over the globe visit this sacred Ashram. There is a beautiful garden in the premise of this garden. It is a perfect place to do meditation and religious rituals. The ashram offers accommodation facilities to the visitors.
Skandashramam, Thiruvannamalai
Skandashramam in Thiruvannamalai town is located on the north side of the Arunachala hill where the famous Arunachaleswara temple exists. This ashram is also near to the renowned Ramana Ashram. This is one of the caves where the saint Ramana spent his period of stay in Thiruvannamalai.
A long trek is required to reach the cave ashram. Skandashram hosts the disciples of Sri Ramana Maharishi all through the year. This Ashram witnesses huge flow of pilgrims from all over the world, all through the year. The Skandashram offers majestic panoramic views of the downhill.
Virupaksha Cave, Thiruvannamalai
Virupaksha Cave is a cave ashram in the shape of a perfect ‘OM’ located on the eastern slope of the famous Arunachala hill in Thiruvannamalai. This holy cave is perched on a small peak just below, about 200 ft below, the Skandasram cave. This cave has a small gopuram on the eastern side of it. Down the peak, there are seven sacred springs on the slope of the hill.
Virupaksha Cave is named after the renowned 13th century saint named Virupaksha Deva. It is believed that saint Virupaksha spent most of his life in this cave and surroundings. Legends tell that his body turned into ashes just after his Samadhi. The sacred ash (vibhuti) is assumed to be preserved here and daily pujas are offered.
Sattanur Dam, Thiruvannamalai
The Sathurnur Dam in Thiruvannamalai is a major tourist attraction in this place. It is built across the River Pennar. The dam site houses imposing gardens, beautifully landscaped regions, imposing fountains and many other relaxing and entertaining facilities. The Dam is placed at a picturesque locations and it offers breathtaking views of the surroundings.
The water flow from the Dam resembles a natural water fall. The dam region has a swimming pool, boating facilities and a crocodile park. Thirnkoilur temple is a nearby attraction. It is an ancient temple with architecturally carved pillars and towering gopurams. It lies on the serene shores of the river Pennar.

 

 

Best Season / Best time to visit Thiruvannamalai

Thiruvannamalai has hot climates during summers and moderate climate during winters.
  • Summers (March to May) are hot with temperature hovering around 28°C to 39°C. Tourists prefer to keep off from visiting during the hot summer days in April and May months.
  • Monsoons(June to September) offer medium to heavy rainfalls bringing comfort from hot summer days.
  • Winters (December to February)are pleasant during with the temperature in the band of 20°C to 26°C.
The best season to visit Thiruvannamalai is from October to March.
  • October to March is ideal for visits in scenic locations in Thiruvannamalai and also for pilgrimage in the temples.
  • June to September is good for people liking cool showers. It is good for short trips and temple visits.
  • April-May are hot and keep enough water to avoid dehydration.
















Sunday, October 28, 2012

Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga, Ujjain, Madhya pradesh

mahakaleshwar one of  the famous jyotirling 
Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga is one of the most famous Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the twelve Jyotirlingams, which are supposed to be the most sacred abodes of Shiva. It is located in the ancient city of Ujjain in the state of Madhya Pradesh, India. The temple is situated on the side of the Rudra Sagar lake. The presiding deity, Shiva in the lingam form is believed to be Swayambhu, deriving currents of power (Shakti) from within itself as against the other images and lingams that are ritually established and invested with mantra-shakti.
Map

View Larger Map

Jyotirlinga

mahakaleshwar_m

As per Shiva Purana, once Brahma (the Hindu God of creation) and Vishnu (the Hindu God of sustenance) had an argument in terms of supremacy of creation.To test them, Shiva pierced the three worlds as a huge endless pillar of light, the jyotirlinga. Vishnu and Brahma split their ways to downwards and upwards respectively to find the end of the light in either directions. Brahma lied that he found out the end, while Vishnu conceded his defeat. Shiva appeared as a second pillar of light and cursed Brahma that he would have no place in ceremonies while Vishnu would be worshipped till the end of eternity. The jyotirlinga is the supreme partless reality, out of which Shiva partly appears. The jyothirlinga shrines, thus are places where Shiva appeared as a fiery column of light.Originally there were believed to be 64 jyothirlingas while 12 of them are considered to be very auspicious and holy.Each of the twelve jyothirlinga sites take the name of the presiding deity - each considered different manifestation of Shiva. At all these sites, the primary image is lingam representing the beginningless and endless Stambha pillar, symbolizing the infinite nature of Shiva. The twelve jyothirlinga are Somnath in Gujarat, Mallikarjuna at Srisailam in Andra Pradesh, Mahakaleswar at Ujjain in Madhya Pradesh, Omkareshwar in Madhya Pradesh, Kedarnath in Himalayas, Bhimashankar in Maharastra, Viswanath at Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh, Triambakeshwar in Maharastra, Vaidyanath at Deogarh in Jharkand, Nageswar at Dwarka in Gujarat, Rameshwar at Rameswaram in Tamil Nadu and Grishneshwar at Aurangabad in Maharastra.
mahakaleshwar-jyotirlinga-ujjain-QG92_l

The Temple

The idol of Mahakaleshwar is known to be dakshinamurti, which means that it is facing the south. This is a unique feature, upheld by the tantric shivnetra tradition to be found only in Mahakaleshwar among the 12 Jyotirlingas. The idol of Omkareshwar Mahadev is consecrated in the sanctum above the Mahakal shrine. The images of Ganesh, Parvati and Karttikeya are installed in the west, north and east of the sanctum sanctorum. To the south is the image of Nandi, the vehicle of Lord Shiva. The idol of Nagchandreshwar on the third storey is open for darshan only on the day of Nag Panchami. The temple has five levels, one of which is underground. The temple itself is located in a spacious courtyard surrounded by massive walls near a lake. The shikhar or the spire is adorned with sculptural finery. Brass lamps light the way to the underground sanctum. It is believed that prasada (holy offering) offered here to the deity can be re-offered unlike all other shrines.
The presiding deity of time, Shiva, in all his splendor, reigns eternally in the city of Ujjain. The temple of Mahakaleshwar, its shikhar soaring into the sky, an imposing façade against the skyline, evokes primordial awe and reverence with its majesty. The Mahakal dominates the life of the city and its people, even in the midst of the busy routine of modern preoccupations, and provides an unbreakable link with ancient Hindu traditions. On the day of Maha Shivaratri, a huge fair is held near the temple, and worship goes on through the night
Video Bhasma Aarti at Mahakaleshwar Temple Ujjain Shri Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga

Mahakaleshwar Temple, cited by the great poet Kalidasa in his works, is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas in India. The temple is a five-storied massive structure and its carved motives displays the Rajput style of architecture while screens and pavilions combined with marble colonnades reminds the influence of Mughal style. The deity here is called Dakshinamurtias since the idol is facing southwards. Bhasm Arti, one of the important ritual of this temple is a symbolic representation of Death and Life. This unusual sacrament that involves smearing the linga with hot ashes from the burning ghats is a mark of respect the Destroyer of the universe, Lord Shiva. The Mahakaleshwar Temple is undeniably a treasured place and a sculptural glee to the visitor.
Festive occasions and fairs play a significant role in the lives of people in Ujjain. An ancient religious centre, Ujjain is famous for the Kumbh Mela , Ardha Kumbh and Shivaratri. Today the city presents a unique blend of glorious past with the vibrancy of modernity. A plethora of ruined temples, damaged sculptures, ancient monasteries along with attractive monuments and a serene ambience, Ujjain provides unlimited opportunities of exploration.

City of Ujjain

A great devout center on the banks of river Shipra, Ujjain, in the central Indian state of Madhya Pradesh is regarded as a sacred place since time immemorial. A holy city, which found its mention in the ancient Hindu scriptures as Avantika, Ujjain positioned in equal terms with other major religious centers. Later the name was changed to Ujjayini, which literally means the glorious conqueror.
One among the seven sacred cities of the Hindus, Ujjain has been a high-flying center of spiritual activities for over 2,000 years. The sacredness of this township is attributed by the mythological legend that during ‘Sagar Mathan’, one drop of nectar spilled over Ujjain, which makes it a sacred place. Whatever be the truth behind this, Ujjain has got a considerable mention in the Vedas and it is believed that two parts of Skanda Purana, are supposed to have been composed here.
Ruined sculptures and monasteries have been found scattered around Ujjain, leading to the credence that Buddhism thrived here in the 4th century. A glut of these, along with ruined temples and old remnants of houses found in the district take the visitor to the historic reign of the Mauryan Empire. Ujjain’s relevance is not constrained to the small circle of a religious place. Apart from that, this city was a haven of astronomers, and great poets. Besides this, Ujjain was ruled over by many greatest rulers who have given out their best to this historic city. The illustrious kings of the Gupta dynasty whose reign is considered as the golden rule of India belonged to Ujjain.




Puja / Abhishek
Type of Puja                                                             Amount in Rs.


General Puja                                                                   51.00
Shiv Mahinm Path                                                         101.00
Shiv Mahinm Strot / 11 Path / Vaidik Puja                     151.00

Rudra Patha Avartan                                                     251.00
Rudra Patha 11 Avartan                                                  01.00
Laghu Rudraabhishek                                                 1500.00
Maha Rudraabhishek 11 Brahmin                             11000.00
Mahamrtunjay                                                            15000.00
Bhanga Shringar                                                            101.00
Note : For Performing Puja / Abhishek please send E-mail on : admin@mahakaleshwar.nic.in




How to Reach Ujjain

How to Reach Ujjain

Located on the right bank of the Shipra River, Ujjain is a venerated pilgrimage centre of Hindus in India. From times immemorial, various legends have been associated with the place. The place was believed to be known as 'Avantika', and was renamed as 'Ujjainyini' (one who conquers with pride) by Lord Shiva, after he vanquished the demon king of Tripuri. It was later abridged to 'Ujjain'. This article explicates the various feasible options available for traveling to Ujjain. Read on and know how to reach the place. 
LIVE TRAIN ENQUIRY

By Air
Ujjain doesn't have an airport of its own. The nearest airport is the 'Devi Ahilyabai Holkar Airport', located in Indore, situated 55 km away. Major airlines like Air Deccan, Jet Airways, Air Sahara, Go Air, Alliance Air, SpiceJet, Kingfisher Airlines and Indian Airlines connect Indore to places like Delhi, Mumbai, Pune, Jaipur, Hyderabad, Chennai, Bangalore, Bhopal, Ahmedabad, Goa, Nagpur, Ranchi, Raipur, Patna, Vizag and Kolkata.
By Rail
Ujjain Junction Railway Station is a major railhead on the Western Railway network and connects the place to different parts of the country. It lies on the Bhopal-Nagada rail route. Some of the important Express trains that halt in this station are Narmada Express, Malwa Express, Indore-Pune Express, Sabarmati Express and the Avantika Express. Two other stations are Vikram Nagar and Chintaman (meter gauge) that facilitate railway travel to the place.
By Road
Major roadways like Agra Road, Dewas Road, Indore Road, Maksi Road and Badnagar Road link Ujjain to other places of India. The two bus stations of the place are the Dewas Gate and NanaKheda. A large number of private buses ply from these bus stations to Delhi (774 km), Bombay (655 km), Ahmedabad (402 km), Bhopal (183 km), Gwalior (451 km), Indore (53 km), Khajuraho (570 km) and Mandu (158 km). Regular bus services are available for reaching here, from places like Indore, Bhopal, Ratlam, Gwalior, Mandu, Dhar, Kota, etc.
Ujjain map:
ujjainroad


Attractions of Ujjain
Bade Ganeshji Ka Mandir, Ujjain
Situated near the tank of the Mahakaleshwar Temple, Bade Ganeshji Ka Mandir holds a colossal statue of the elephant-headed God. The elephant head of the deity signifies wisdom, discretion and foresight that the Hindus attribute to divinity.
In the center of the Ganeshji temple, there lies an exceptional statue of Hanuman, a deity of devotion and belief. What makes this deity so unique is the fact that Hanuman is depicted here with five faces, which symbolises courage, loyalty, devotion, strength, and righteousness. An important centre for learning, Bade Ganeshji Temple imparts knowledge in the field of astrology and Sanskrit.
Chaubis Khamba Temple, Ujjain
An impressive structure, which belongs to ninth or tenth century AD, Chaubis Khamba Temple presents an architectural marvel. The majestic entrance gate of the magnificient Mahakala-Vana, the remains of which provides an amazing spectacle. Two splendid images of goddesses are depicted on each side of the gate with the inscription of their names on the foot steps.
These guardian-deities by name Mahamaya and Mahalaya in a very graceful form guards the grand entrance of the structure. One can imagine the dimensions of the boundary-wall of the conventionally recognized Mahakala-vana, which is now covered under thick inhabitation.
Gopal Mandir, Ujjain
Dedicated to lord Krishna, Gopal Temple in Ujjain presents a classic example of Maratha architecture. Built in the 19th century, by Bayajibai Shinde, this huge temple is placed in the middle of a big market. Its strategic position in the heart of the city attributes the popularity of the temple.
This temple is a marble-spired structure and the deity’s two feet tall statue is placed on a marble-inlaid altar with silver-plated doors. The door in the inner sanctum is the same door, which had been carried away by Ghazni from the Somnath temple. Mahadji Scindia recovered the door and now it has been installed in this temple.
Kal Bhairav Temple, Ujjain
Bhairav is a fierce materialization of Lord Shiva, and the city of Ujjain has numerous shrines dedicated to this ferocious manifestation. Kal Bhairav temple is believed to be associated with the Tantra cult, a heretical secret religious group with brawny black magic nuances. The temple premises are mottled with holy men with ash smeared body and long matted hair.
The Kal Bhairava Temple houses a Shiva linga under a banyan tree inside the periphery of the temple opposite to the statue of Nandi Bull. Kal Bhairav temple also depicts beautiful sculptures of other deities along with Lord Vishnu. On the eve of Mahasivarathri, the temple premises put on a festive mood when this shrine is packed with ardent devotees.
Navagraha Mandir (Triveni), Ujjain
A unique temple dedicated to the Planets of Our Solar system, Navgraha Mandir in Ujjain indicates that the planets need to be propitiated to avoid a negative influence. In India, Astronomy and Astrology adorned a pivotal role in the life of people of ancient times and the popular belief is that each planet exercises an influence on the lives of people.
Marking of the first meridian at Ujjain, adds a special significance to this temple, which situates at the confluence of the Shipra and two other rivulets. Devotees tender flowers, coconuts and vermilion, and especially mustard oil as their offerings to the deities.
Patal Bhairav Temple, Ujjain
A legendary temple, which holds an astounding story about the power of the mother Goddess, Patal Bhairav Temple adorns a prime position.
Hindu mythology states Bhairav Nath, a selfish demon, chased a young girl Vaishno Devi, who was none other than the incarnation of the Mother Goddess. In order to escape from the demon, Devi shot an arrow into the Earth from which water gushed out and then found a shelter under a cave. When Bhairav located her, Devi was compelled to take the form of Mahakali, and killed the demon. In his last moments, Bhairav pleaded for forgiveness. Bhairav was granted Moksha along with a boon that every devotee, in order to accomplish their pilgrimage, had to visit Bhairav Nath's temple near the Holy cave after the darshan of the goddess.
Ram Janardhan Mandir, Ujjain
Constructed by Mirza Raja Jaisingh in the Seventeenth Century, Ram Janardan temples present an eye-catching look. Presenting an outstanding structural elegance, these temples depict masterpieces of Maratha paintings on their walls. The Maratha Kings added some of the structures in the temples in the eighteenth century. The imposing pictures on the walls of the temples add the charm of the temples.
These fabulous shrines also houses some amazing sculptures which dates back to the 11th and 12th century. The image of Govardhandhari Krishna, Brahma, Vishnu and Mashesa are very striking for their architectural grandeur and sculptural excellences. It is certain that these awe-inspiring shrines are worthy enough to catch the attention of not only the devotee but also a casual visitor.
Ram Mandir, Ujjain
Dedicated to Lord Ram who is flanked by his consort Sita on one side and brother Lakshman on the other side, Ram Mandir in Ujjain is a eye catching spectacle. Built in the 17th century, this fabulous shrine is a finest example of structural brilliance. The walls of the pretty shrine are decorated with beautiful paintings.
Besides the attractive scenes from the lives of Rama and Krishna the painting of Bedalya Bua Maharaj and Sant Tukoba are very attractive. Certain old images are seen inscribed inside the temple are very remarkable for their amazing sculptural designs and perfection. A tenth century old image of Lord Vishnu installed in between the assembly hall and the interior of Ram Mandir needs a special mention.
Ram Mandir Ghat, Ujjain
Ram Mandir Ghat, located near the Harsiddhi Temple in Ujjain is famous for its Kumbh Mela. Kumbh Mela is held in every 12 years. Ram Mandir Ghat, Ujjain is the most ancient bathing ghat in connection with the Kumbh celebrations.
During the Kumbh Mela, lakhs of fortune-seekers gather the city from all corners of India. It is believed that those people who took a holy dip in Ram Mandir Ghat will attain the much-awaited salvation. During the time of Kumbh Mela, this oldest bathing Ghat in Ujjain will be crowded with devotees. Apart from its religious significance, Ram Mandir Ghat is a fascinating place for a leisurely walk especially a walk in the early morning and at sunset is quite enchanting.
Sandipani Ashram, Ujjain
The Ancient Indian Tradition of gurukul imparts education to students irrespective of their wealth or poverty. Besides a variety of subjects and ancient scriptures, in gurukul, students were taught battle techniques and spiritualism. From the vedic period itself, Ujjain was a reputed center of learning.
Sandipani Ashram is a famous hermitage situated in Ujjain, where Lord Krishna spent his formative years until adolescence. Sandipani, the saint in the hermitage, taught Krishna and Balarama, here in this Ashram.
The Ashram situates adjacent to so many remarkable spots, which are closely associated with lord Krishna. Another important feature of this ashram is that the supporters of Vallabha sect regard this place as the 73rd seat of Vallabhacharya where he conveyed his speeches throughout India. Sandipani Ashram and its serene surroundings provides a divine feeling to all those who wish to be in tranquil ambience.


LIVE TRAIN ENQUIRY


Thursday, October 25, 2012

Jagannath Temple, Puri, Orissa


jagannath-temple-puri
The Jagannath Temple in Puri is a famous Hindu temple dedicated to Jagannath and located in the coastal town of Puri in the strte of Orissa, India. The name Jagannath (Lord of the Universe) is a combination of the Sanskrit words Jagat (Universe) and Nath (Lord of) and also, the word "Jagannatha" is evolved from "Jagati" (Oriya: ଜଗତି) (as an elevated platform or "Ratnabedi" on which the wooden form of Jagannatha, Balabhadra and Subhadra are worshiped on or the temple or its precincts inside the "Narendra Pokhari" ) and "Natha" (Oriya: ନାଥ) (means "Lord"). The temple is an important pilgrimage destination for many Hindu traditions, particularly worshippers of Krishna and Vishnu, and part of the Char Dham pilgrimages that a Hindu is expected to make in one's lifetime .The temple was built in the 11th century atop its ruins by the progenitor of the Eastern Ganga dynasty, King Anantavarman Chodaganga Deva.The temple is famous for its annual Rath Yatra, or chariot festival, in which the three main temple deities are hauled on huge and elaborately decorated temple cars. Since medieval times, it is also associated with intense religious fervour.

View Larger Map The temple is sacred to the Vaishnava traditions and saint Ramananda who was closely associated with the temple. It is also of particular significance to the followers of the Gaudiya Vaishnavism whose founder, Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, was attracted to the deity, Jagannath, and lived in Puri for many years.
image3

Deities

The central forms of Jagannath, Balabhadra and the goddess Subhadra constitute the trinity of deities sitting on the bejewelled platform or the Ratnavedi in the inner sanctum. The Sudarshan Chakra, idols of Madanmohan, Sridevi and Vishwadhatri are also placed on the Ratnavedi.The deities of Jagannath, Balabhadra, Subhadra and Sudarshan Chakra are made from sacred Neem logs known as Daru Bramha. Depending on the season the deities are adorned in different garbs and jewels. Worship of the deities pre-date the temple structure and may have originated in an ancient tribal shrine.
13250

Jagannath Temple, Puri, Orissa

Featured in this video is Jagannath Temple, one of the most famous temples in Orissa state of India noted for its annual chariot or Rath Yatra festival.

Origins of the temple


According to recently discovered copper plates from the Ganga dynasty, the construction of the current Jagannath temple was initiated by the ruler of Kalinga, Anantavarman Chodaganga Dev.The Jaga mohan and the Vimana portions of the temple were built during his reign (1078 - 1148 CE). However, it was only in the year 1174 CE that the Oriya ruler Ananga Bhima Deva rebuilt the temple to give a shape in which it stands today.
Jagannath worship in the temple continued until 1558, when Orissa was attacked by the Afghan general Kalapahad. Subsequently, when Ramachandra Deb established an independent kingdom at Khurda in Orissa, the temple was consecrated and the deities reinstalled.
Legends
Legendary account as found in the Skanda-Purana, Brahma Purana and other Puranas and later Oriya works state that Lord Jagannath was originally worshipped as Lord Neela Madhav by a Savar king ( tribal chief ) named Viswavasu. Having heard about the deity, King Indrrdyumna sent a Brahmin priest, Vidyapati to locate the deity, who was worshipped secretly in a dense forest by Viswavasu. Vidyapati tried his best but could not locate the place. But at last he managed to marry Viswavasu's daughter Lalita . At repeated request of Vidyapti, Viswavasu took his son-in-law blind folded to a cave where Lord Neela Madhav was worshipped.
Vidyapati was very intelligent. He dropped mustard seeds on the ground on the way. The seeds germinated after a few days, which enabled him to find out the cave later on. On hearing from him, King Indradyumna proceeded immediately to Odra desha (Orissa) on a pilgrimage to see and worship the Deity. But the deity had disappeared. The king was disappointed. The Deity was hidden in sand. The king was determined not to return without having a darshan of the deity and observed fast unto death at Mount Neela, Then a celestial voice cried 'thou shalt see him '. Afterwards the king performed a horse sacrifice and built a magnificent temple for Vishnu. Sri Narasimha Murti brought by Narada was installed in the temple. During sleep, the king had a vision of Lord Jaganrath. Also an astral voice directed him to receive the fragrant tree on the seashore and make idols out of it. Accordingly the king got the image of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, Subhadra and Chakra Sudarshan made out of the wood of the divine tree and installed them in the temple.
Indradyumna's prayer to Lord Brahma
King Indradyumna put up for Jagannath the tallest monument of the world. It was 1,000 cubits high. He invited Lord Brahma, the cosmic creator, consecrate the temple and the images. Brahma came all the way from Heaven for this purpose. Seeing the temple he was immensely pleased with him. Brahma asked Indradyumna as to in what way can he (Brahma) fulfill the king's desire, since was very much pleased with him for his having put the most beautiful Temple for Lord Vishnu. With folded hands, Indradyumna said, "My Lord if you are really pleased with me, kindly bless me with one thing, and it is that I should be issueless and that I should be the last member of my family." In case anybody left alive after him, he would only take pride as the owner of the temple and would not work for the society.
The episode of the Lord's grace during a war with Kanchi
At one time, a king of Kanchi in the down south remarked that the king of Orissa was a chandala (a man of very low caste or status) because, he performs the duties of a sweeper during the Car Festival. When this news reached the ears of the king of Orissa, he led an expedition to Kanchi. Before that, he implored the mercy of Lord Jagannath. The soldiers of Orissa marched towards Kanchi from Cuttack (then capital city of Orissa, located on the banks of Mahanadi, at a distance of 30 km from Bhubaneswar). It so happened that when the soldiers, headed by the king Purusottam Dev, reached a place near the Chilika lake, a lady, who was selling curd (a milk preparation, sour in taste) met him (the king) and presented a golden ring studded with precious gems and submitted. "My Lord, kindly listen to me. A little earlier, two soldiers riding over two horses (white and black in colour), approached me and said we are thirsty give us curds to drink.' I gave them curds. Instead of giving me money, they gave me this ring and said,'the king of Orissa will come here, after some time, on his way to Kanchi. You present it to him and he will pay you the money.' So my Lord, you take it and give me my dues.
It took no time for the king to know that the ring belongs to Lord Jagannath. He was convinced that Jagannath and Balabhadra were proceeding to the battle field ahead of him to help him there. To perpetuate the memory of this great incident, the king founded a village in the Chilika lake area. As the name of the lady was Manika, the name given to the village was Manika Patana. Even to this day, the curds of this village are famous.

Ritual chakra and flags at the top shikhara of Puri temple of Jagannatha also related to Sudarsana chakra. The red flag(12 hand or 14 Feet denotes that Jagannath is within the building....
Jagannatha_Puri_temple_chakra
 
Daily Worship
        • 05 A.M. : Dwara Pitha & Mangalal Alati
        • 06 A.M. : Mailam
        • 09 A.M. : Gopala Ballava Puja
        • 1 1 A.M. : Madhynha Dhupa

Cultural Integrity

Shrikshetra of Puri Jagannath, as is commonly known, can verily be said to be a truthful replica of Indian culture. To understand this culture, one has to have some idea of the history of this land, which again is different from that of other countries of the world.
Starting from Lord Jagannath himself, history has it that he was a tribal deity, adorned by the Sabar people, as a symbol of Narayan. Another legend claims him to be Nilamadhava, an image of Narayana made of blue stone and worshipped by the aboriginals. He was brought to Nilagiri (blue mountain) or Nilachala and installed there as Shri Jagannath in company with Balabhadra and Subhrdra. The images made of wood are also claimed to have their distant linkage with the aboriginal system of worshipping wooden poles. To cap it all the Daitapatis, who have a fair share of responsibilities to perform rituals of the Temple, are claimed to be descendants of the aboriginals or hill tribes of Orissa. So we may safely claim that the beginning of the cultural history of Shrikshetra is found in the fusion of Hindu and Tribal Cultures. This has been accepted as a facet of our proud heritage. The three deities came to be claimed as the symbols of Samyak Darshan, Samyak Jnana and Samyak Charita usually regarded as Triratha (of the Jain cult), an assimilation of which leads to Morsha (salvation) or the ultimate bliss...
Lord Jagannath is worshipped as Vishnu or Narayana or Krishna and Lord Balabhadra as Shesha. Simultaneously, the deities are regarded as the bhairava (Shiva the formidable) with Vimala (the bhairavi or the consort of Shiva) installed in the campus of the temple. So ultimately we find a fusion of Saivism, Shaktism and Vaishnavism of the Hindu religion with Jainism and up to an extent Buddhism in the culture of Jagannath and the cultural tradition so reverently held together in Shrikshetra.
Acharyas and Jagannatha Puri
All of the renowned acharyas except Madhvacharya have been known to visit this kshetra. Adi Shankara established his Govardhana matha here. A number of sites belonging to Ramanujacharya, Nimbarkacharya and Gaudiya Vaishnavism have also been established. Srimad Vallabhacharya has a "baithakji" here also, which he established on his visit to Puri. There is also evidence is that Guru Nanak, Kabir and Tulsidas had visited this place.

Structure

The huge temple complex covers an area of over 400,000 square feet (37,000 m2), and is surrounded by a high fortified wall. This 20 feet (6.1 m) high wall is known as Meghanada Pacheri. Another wall known as kurma bedha surrounds the main temple. It contains at least 120 temples and shrines. With its sculptural richness and fluidity of the Oriya style of temple architecture, it is one of the most magnificent monuments of India.The temple has four distinct sectional structures, namely -
  1. Deula, Vimana or Garba griha (Sanctum sanctorum) where the triad deities are lodged on the ratnavedi (Throne of Pearls). In Rekha Deula style;
  2. Mukhashala (Frontal porch);
  3. Nata mandir/Natamandapa, which is also known as the Jagamohana, (Audience Hall/Dancing Hall), and
  4. Bhoga Mandapa (Offerings Hall).
The main temple is a curvilinear temple and crowning the top is the 'srichakra' (a eight spoked wheel) of Vishnu. Also known as the "Nilachakra", it is made out of Ashtadhatu and is considered sacrosanct.Among the existing temples in Orissa, the temple of Shri Jagannath is the highest. The temple tower was built on a raised platform of stone and, rising to 214 feet (65 m) above the inner sanctum where the deities reside, dominates the surrounding landscape. The pyramidal roofs of the surrounding temples and adjoining halls, or mandapas, rise in steps toward the tower like a ridge of mountain peaks.

Daily Food Offerings

Daily offerings are made to the Lord six times a day. These include:
  1. The offering to the Lord in the Morning that forms His breakfast and is called The Gopala Vallabha Bhoga.
  2. The Sakala Dhupa forms his next offering at about 10 O’ clock in the morning Sakala Dhupa. This generally consists of 13 items including the Enduri cake & Mantha puli.
  3. Bada Sankhudi Bhoga forms the next repast & the offering consists of Pakhala with dahi and Kanji payas. The offerings are made in the bhog mandapa, about 200 feet from the Ratna Vedi. This is called Chatra Bhog and was introduced by Adi Shankaracharya in the 8th century to help pilgrims share the temple food.
  4. The Madhyanha dhupa forms the next offering at the noon.
  5. The next offering to the Lord is made in the evening at around 8 o’clock it is Sandhya Dhupa.
  6. The last offering to the Lord is called the Bada Simhara Dhupa. Breakfast is a seven item treat — Khua, Lahuni, sweetened coconut grating, coconut water, and puffed rice sweetened with sugar known as khai and curd and bananas.
The Mahaprasad of Lord Jagannath are distributed amongst the devotees near the Ratnavedi in side the frame of Phokaria which is being drawn by the Puja pandas using Murujexcept for the Gopal Ballav Bhog and Bhog Mandap Bhoga which are distributed in the Anabsar Pindi & Bhoga Mandap respectively.



The Temple Kitchen & Mahaprasada

Jagannath_8_-_Abadha_-_Prasad_(Large)
The temple's kitchen is considered as the largest kitchen in the world.Tradition maintains that all food cooked in the temple kitchens are supervised by the Goddess Mahalakshmi, the empress of Srimandir herself. It is said that if the food prepared has any fault in it a shadow dog appears near the temple kitchen. The temple cooks or Mahasuaras take this as a sign of displeasure of Mahalakshmi with the food which is promptly buried and a new batch cooked.All food is cooked following rules as prescribed by Hindu religious texts, the food cooked is pure vegetarian without using onions and garlic.Cooking is done only in earthen pots with water drawn from two special wells near the kitchen called Ganges and Yamuna. There are total 56 varieties of naivedhyas offered to the deities, near ratnavedi as well as in bhoga mandap on five particular muhurtas.The most awaited prasad is kotho bhoga or abadha, offered at mid-day at around 1 pm, depending upon temple rituals. The food after being offered to Jagannath is distributed at reasonable amount as Mahaprasad, which considered as divine to devotees in the Ananda Bazar located to the North-east of the Singhadwara inside the temple complex


                                                  Accommodation                                       

                                         nbn
Puri, the land of Lord Jagannath is also well known for its pristine beaches, colourful festivals, and numerous points of tourist attraction. Every year millions of tourists from across the globe come here for leisure, pleasure and devotion.
The Jagannath Temple Administration, keeping in mind the needs of the devotees, has come up with “Nilachal Bhakta Nivas” a brand new guest house.
Right on the Grand Road and adjacent to the temple, the guest house has great locational advantages. It is only minutes away from the railway station, bus stop and the beach.
1.         V.I.P. Suits                              -                   Rs. 950/-
2.         Double Beded A/C Rooms     -                   Rs. 800/-
3.         Double Beded Non A/c           -                   Rs. 400/-
4.         Triple beded Non A/c              -                   Rs. 600/-
5.         6 beded Dormitory                  -                   Rs. 600/-
6.         8 beded Dormitory                  -                   Rs. 800/-
                              # Taxes as applicable 
                              Rates are subject to change. Please contact on Booking
The guesthouse offers 26 modern equipped A/C. Rooms and 2 nos. of VIP Suits, 24 hours hot & cold water, with TV. Other facilities include round the clock service, lift, banking, power backup and well managed security system.
The luxury of the guesthouse packed with advantages is available at an amazingly affordable price.
More over, when you stay here, you make a big contribution to the maintenance and development of the temple as a substantial portion from the earnings of the guesthouse will go to the temple as offering.

Prices may vary

For Booking Details Please contact :
Sri Jagannath Temple Office, Grand Road, Puri - 752 001
Phone : 222053 / 220 501
Cell : 9861444677, 94372 84108, 9938213839





Travel within city


Puri transport
There are many means of transportation available in Puri, and the main ones among these are cycle rickshaws, auto rickshaws and rented motorbikes.

Cycle Rickshaw

Cycle rickshaws are prevalent in Puri and these are the locally preferred mode of transport. Cycle rickshaws in Puri can charge you anywhere around Rs 10 to 20, depending on the distance traveled. Cycle rickshaws are quite slow, so opt for cycle rickshaws only if you have ample time in your hands. Cycle rickshaws are also the cheapest mode of transport.
Auto Rickshaw

Auto rickshaws in the city of Puri do not run on meter, and you should negotiate a prior rate before getting into one. Make sure you talk to the locals first and figure out what the actual rate will be, as this will help you avoid paying too much out of your pocket for a short trip. There are no separate night rates included, and travelling through an auto rickshaw is actually very safe. You can also reach your destination faster this way.
Rented Motorbike

You can rent out motorbikes in order to roam around Puri, and this can give an adventurous streak to your trip. Enfield motorbikes are available for rent for around Rs 400 to 500 per day, and the major locations in Puri are close by, so you can travel through the city without getting confused.

HOW TO REACH PURI

Auto
 Kolkata                    to           Puri                    495 km
 Howrah                    to           Puri                   502 km
Hyderabad               to           Puri                   976 km
Nagpur                     to           Puri                 1029 km
Chennai                   to           Puri                 1279 km

BY TRAIN


Puri is a major railway junction. Regular direct train services are available from Puri to many cities in India, including Bhubaneshwar, New Delhi, Chennai and Kolkata.
City Name                                      Railway Station                             Distance
Puri                                                   Puri (PURI)                                      -
Bhubaneswar                                Bhubaneswar (BBS)                      62 km


Trains to Puri (PURI)

Starting Station                         Train                         Arrival at Puri                             Service Days





Delhi (NDLS)            Purshottam Exp                  05:30 AM                      All Days
7more trains                  (12802)                   (duration: 31h 10m)

                              Nandan Kanan Ex                  2:20 PM          Mon,Wed,Thu                                                                                                                  (duration: 29h 50m)               & Sat

   
Ahmedabad (ADI)       Adi Puri Exp                      08:55 AM                 Mon, Thu, Sat
4 more trains                 (12844)                    (duration: 38h 55m)             & Sun

                          Adi Prri Exp                      09:10 AM
                            (18406)                    (duration: 39h 10m)
Barabil (Brr)            Bbn Puri Exp                      08:35 PM                     All Days
1 more train                   (18415)                    (duration: 12h 15m)


Darbhanga Jn (DBG) Dbg Puri Exp                     03:20 AM                     Sat
1 more train                  (18420)                     (duration: 20h 20m)
Digha (DGHA)          Dgha PurirSup E                 03:20 AM                     Sun
3 more trains                (12579)                      (duration: 10h 5m) 

           
                                 Dgha Prri Exp                    03:20 AM                      Thu
                                      (22877)                      (duration: 10h 5m)   

            
Durg (DURG)           Durg Puri Exp                    09:35 AM                    All Days
11 more trains             (18426)                       (duration: 17h 25m)    

    
Gandhidhar Bg        Gimb Puri Exp                    04:15 PM                         Fri
1 more train                (12993)                       (duration: 41h 30m)
             
Guwahati (GHY)      Ghy Prri Expres                  03:20 AM                      Sun
9 more trains               (15640)                       (duration: 32h 35m)
           
Haridwar (HW)       Kalingautkalexp                    07:00 AM                    All Days
more train                   (18478)                        (duration: 49h)

Hatia (HTE)             Tapaswini Exp                    07:15 AM                     All Days     
2 more trains               (18451)                       (duration: 15h 10m)
Howrah (HWH)       Srijagannathexp                   04:50 AM
32 more trains          (18409)                          (duration: 9h 50m)
     All Days
                               Hwh Puri G Rath                   05:55 AM                      Tue & Thu
                                                                        (duration: 9h) 
Jodhpur (JU)         Ju Puri Express                    12:20 PM                      Sat
1more train               (18474)                         (duration: 46h 5m) 
Kamakhya (KYQ)Kyq Puri Exp                       08:00 AM                        Thu
7 more trains           (15644)                        (duration: 32h 15m)
Lokmanyatilak     Ltt Puri Sup Ex                    09:10 AM                        Thu
3 more trains           (12745)                        (duration: 32h 55m)
Okha (OKHA)     Okha Puri Exp                       10:45 AM                      Wed
                              (18402)                          (duration: 51h)
Paradip (PRDP) Prdp Puri Exp                      11:00 PM                       All Days
1 more train          (18413)                           (duration: 5h)
Patna (PNBE)   B Nath Dham Exp                   03:20 AM                     Wed
1 more train         (18450)                            (duration: 18h 25m)                               

Rayagada        Rgda Sbp Exp                          07:15 AM                    All Days   3
more trains         (18302)                            (duration: 16h 45m)
Sambalpur         Sbp Puri Int Ex                         12:50 PM                  All Days
16 more trains   (18303)                             (duration: 6h 40m)

Sealdah (SDAH) Duronto Express                   04:00 AM                  Mon, Wed & F
                            (22201)                           (duration: 8h)
Shalimar (SHM)  Shm Puri Sf Exp                   05:55 AM                      Wed            6
 6 more trains       (22835)                          (duration: 8h 55m)
Surat (ST)           Surat Puri Exp                       04:15 PM                     Tue
9more trains       (12744)                           (duration: 31h 45m)
Tirupati (TPTY)    Tpty Puri Exp                        02:50 PM       Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri & Sat
6 more trains       (17480)                           (duration: 28h 15m)
Valsad (BL)          Bl Puri S F Ex                        10:15 AM                     Thu
1 more train          (12583)                            (duration: 38h 35m)

happy   temple  yatraSmile