|
Thiruvananthapuram
Aruvikkara (Ancient Temple)
16 kms north of Thiruvananthapuram, is Aruikkara, which is gifted
with lavish scenic beauty and it also has an ancient temple dedicated
to goddess Durga, on the banks of the River Aruvikkara. The City
of Thiruvananthapuram gets its water supply from Aruvikkara reservoir.
The Padmanabha Swamy Temple
It is the imposing seven-storied tower built by Raja Marthanda Varma
in 1733 A.D, which makes it by far, the most impressive landmark
around the city. The presiding deity of the temple is Lord Vishnu
reclining on the Serpent Anantha. Only Hindus are allowed entry
inside the temple and dress regulations are strictly followed. A
large market lines the street in front, and the pool beside it is
for ritual bathing. There are innumerable pillars, intricate carving
and mural paintings, inside the temple. It is therefore an excellent
example of the Dravidian style of architecture.
Sarkara (Temple)
35 kms north of Thiruvananthapuram and 6 kms west of Attingal, there
is a famous temple in Sarkara, which is dedicated to Goddess Bhagavathi.
A grand festival, Sarkara Bharani, is conducted in this temple during
March - April.
Thiruvallam (Temple)
About 6 kms South of the city, on the Thiruvananthapuram-Kovalam
road is Thiruvallam. There is an ancient temple here on the banks
of the River Karamana, which is dedicated to the Thrimurthis of
the Hindu Pantheon. A shrine of Parasurama built entirely of granite
stone is found in this temple.
Varkala (Pilgrim Centre)
41 kms North of Thiruvananthapuram by rail and 51 kms by road, Varkala
is a famous pilgrim center. The Samadhi of Sree Narayana Guru, The
great social reformer and philosopher, attracts devotees in thousands.
The cliffs and mineral water springs at the Papanasam Beach are
worth a visit. The inland waterways system connecting Kollam in
the North, with Thiruvananthapuram in the South, passes through
two tunnels in the hills. The Janardhana Swamy Temple here attracts
many devotees.
|
