Amarnath Temple, Jammu and Kashmir Amarnath Temple, Jammu and Kashmir History For Hindus, the Amarnath Temple in Jammu and Kashmir, India, is of utmost religious significance. It is one of Hinduism's most sacred sanctuaries and is devoted to Lord Shiva. The Amarnath Temple has a long and illustrious history. According to Hindu mythology, Lord Shiva is believed to have given his celestial spouse, Goddess Parvati, the secret to immortality there in the Amarnath Cave. Legend has it that Lord Shiva chose to give this secret knowledge to her in this remote cave high in the Himalayas. The cave was hidden and inaccessible for many years before being rediscovered in the 18th century by a Muslim shepherd by the name of Buta Malik. According to the mythology, Buta Malik was handed a bag of coal by a sadhu (holy man), who ordered him to wait until he reached home before open it. Buta Malik discovered the coal had turned into gold when he opened the bag. He was so overwhelmed by this miracle
Sree Mookambika Temple – Kollur, Karnataka
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| Sree Mookambika Temple, Kollur |
The temple's history dates back to ancient times, with references to it in various Hindu scriptures such as the Skanda Purana and the Mahabharata. According to legend, the goddess Mookambika appeared in front of the great Hindu sage Adi Shankaracharya at this site and granted him a boon. This incident is believed to have led to the temple's construction.
The architecture of the Sree Mookambika temple is a blend of Kerala and Dravidian styles. The main sanctum sanctorum houses the idol of the goddess Mookambika, who is depicted holding a trident, a lotus, and a sword. The temple complex also houses other shrines dedicated to various deities, including Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu.
In addition to its religious significance, the Sree Mookambika temple is also known for its scenic beauty. The temple is situated in the midst of the Western Ghats, surrounded by lush greenery and picturesque hills. The nearby Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuary is also a popular tourist attraction.
The temple is known for its annual festival, Navaratri, which attracts thousands of devotees from all over India. During this festival, the temple is decorated with lights and flowers, and special puja rituals are performed. The temple is also a popular destination for pilgrims seeking blessings for good health, prosperity, and success.
Sree Mookambika Temple – History
The history of the Sree Mookambika temple dates back to ancient times, with references to it in various Hindu scriptures. According to legend, the goddess Mookambika appeared in front of the great Hindu sage Adi Shankaracharya at this site and granted him a boon. This incident is believed to have led to the temple's construction.
The temple was built in the 7th century AD by the Alupa kings, who ruled the area at that time. Over the centuries, the temple underwent several renovations and additions under the patronage of various rulers and devotees.
During the 12th century, the temple was renovated by the Hoysala king Vishnuvardhana. The Vijayanagara Empire rulers also made significant contributions to the temple's development.
During the reign of the Keladi Nayakas in the 16th century, the temple was renovated again and its current structure was built. The Keladi Nayakas were great patrons of the arts, and the temple's architecture reflects their love for art and beauty.
The temple's architecture is a blend of Kerala and Dravidian styles. The main sanctum sanctorum houses the idol of the goddess Mookambika, who is depicted holding a trident, a lotus, and a sword. The temple complex also houses other shrines dedicated to various deities, including Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu.
In the 18th century, the temple faced a period of decline due to political instability in the region. It was later revived by the Havyaka Brahmins, who took over its management in the 19th century. Since then, the temple has been a popular destination for devotees seeking blessings and solace.
Today, the Sree Mookambika temple is one of the most prominent and revered Hindu temples in South India, attracting thousands of devotees and tourists every year. It is a testament to the rich cultural heritage and spiritual legacy of India.
Sree Mookambika Temple – Special Events
The Sree Mookambika temple is a vibrant spiritual center that hosts several special events throughout the year, attracting devotees from all over India. Here are some of the notable events that take place at the temple:
Navaratri: Navaratri is one of the most important festivals celebrated at the Sree Mookambika temple. It is a nine-day festival that honors the goddess Mookambika and celebrates the victory of good over evil. During Navaratri, the temple is adorned with lights and flowers, and special pujas are performed every day. The festival culminates with Vijayadashami, a day that marks the triumph of good over evil.
Mookambika Jayanthi: Mookambika Jayanthi is celebrated every year on the day of the goddess Mookambika's birth. It is a day of great significance for devotees, who come to the temple to offer prayers and seek blessings.
Vishu: Vishu is a festival that marks the beginning of the new year in the Malayalam calendar. It is celebrated with great fervor at the Sree Mookambika temple, with special pujas and offerings made to the goddess.
Deepavali: Deepavali, or Diwali, is a festival of lights that is celebrated all over India. At the Sree Mookambika temple, the festival is celebrated with the lighting of lamps and the performance of special pujas.
Hanuman Jayanti: Hanuman Jayanti is a festival that celebrates the birth of Lord Hanuman. At the Sree Mookambika temple, devotees gather to offer special prayers and seek blessings from the monkey god.
Apart from these major events, the temple also hosts several other festivals and cultural programs throughout the year, showcasing the rich heritage and traditions of South India.
Sree Mookambika Temple Visit Timing
The Sree Mookambika Temple's visiting hours are generally from early morning until late evening. The temple is usually open for devotees from 5:00 or 5:30 AM until around 9:00 or 9:30 PM. However, please note that the exact visiting hours may vary depending on the day of the week, the season, and any special events or rituals taking place at the temple. It's always a good idea to check with the temple authorities or the official website before planning your visit to ensure that you have the most up-to-date information on the temple's visiting hours.
Things to know before visiting Temple
The Sree Mookambika temple is a revered Hindu temple in South India, and as such, there are certain rules and guidelines that visitors are expected to follow. Here are some of the important rules to keep in mind when visiting the temple:
Dress code: Visitors to the temple are expected to dress modestly and conservatively. Men should wear dhoti or mundu with a shawl or scarf over their shoulders, while women should wear sarees or salwar kameez. Shorts, skirts, and sleeveless tops are not allowed.
Footwear: Visitors are required to remove their footwear before entering the temple premises. Shoe racks are available near the temple entrance for this purpose.
Mobile phones and cameras: The use of mobile phones and cameras is strictly prohibited inside the temple premises.
Pujas and offerings: Visitors are welcome to participate in the daily pujas and offer prayers and offerings to the deities. However, they should follow the instructions of the priests and temple staff.
Photography and videography: Photography and videography are not allowed inside the temple premises.
By following these rules, visitors can show their respect for the temple and its traditions and enjoy a peaceful and fulfilling spiritual experience.
How to reach Sree Mookambika Temple
The Sree Mookambika temple is located in Kollur, which is a small town in the Udupi district of Karnataka, India. Here are some of the ways to reach the temple:
By air: The nearest airport to Kollur is the Mangalore International Airport, which is located about 135 kilometers away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Kollur.
By train: The nearest railway station to Kollur is Kundapura, which is about 32 kilometers away. You can take a taxi or a bus from Kundapura to reach Kollur.
By bus: Kollur is well-connected to several cities in Karnataka and other neighboring states through a network of state-run and private buses. There are regular buses from Udupi, Mangalore, Bangalore, and other major cities to Kollur.
By car: Kollur is located about 32 kilometers from Kundapura, which is the nearest town. You can hire a taxi or drive your own car to reach Kollur. The temple is located on the banks of the river Sauparnika, and there is ample parking space available near the temple.
Contact Details Sree Mookambika Temple
Contact Number: 02854-258221 ; Fax: 08254-258221
E-mail : srikollurmookambikatemple@yahoo.com
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