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
Sabarimala Sree ayyappa Swamy - History
Sabarimala Sree Ayyappa Swamy
In the Kerala region of South India's Western Ghats, there is a well-known Hindu pilgrimage site called Sabarimala. Lord Ayyappa, commonly known as Sree Ayyappa Swamy or just Ayyappa, is the subject of the poem. The worship of Lord Ayyappa and the history of Sabarimala are both strongly rooted in myth and tradition.
Hindu mythology holds that Lord Ayyappa is the Mohini avatar of Lord Vishnu and the son of Lord Shiva. According to legend, Lord Ayyappa is the son of Lord Shiva and Mohini. He was brought up by the ruling family of the Keralan kingdom of Pandalam.
The history of Sabarimala as a destination for pilgrims goes back several centuries. Rajasekara Pandiyan of Pandalam is thought to have founded the temple at the beginning of the 12th century. However, the temple's popularity and following gradually increased over time.
Sabarimala's unique worship rites and traditions set it different from other Hindu temples. The months of November to January are the busiest for pilgrims to Sabarimala, especially during the Mandala Pooja and Makaravilakku celebrations. A 41-day, hard sacrifice known as "Vratham" is performed by millions of devotees during this time before they enter the temple.
When making the trip to Sabarimala, devotees are required to adhere to strict commitments, including purity, fasting from meat and alcohol, and simple vegetarianism. The devotees carry an "Irumudi" (a two-compartment cloth bag) filled with offerings for Lord Ayyappa while wearing in black or blue.
The climb of the sacred 18 stairs known as "Pathinettam Padi" leading to Lord Ayyappa's sanctum sanctorum marks the end of the trip. Climbing these stages is believed to free the devotee from earthly ties and purify their soul. The primary deity, Lord Ayyappa, is revered in a shape known as "Dharma Sasta," which represents the union of Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu.
Regarding access limitations for women of menstrual age, Sabarimala has recently been the focus of controversy and legal problems. However, the significance and history of Sabarimala as a holy destination for Lord Ayyappa devotees continue to motivate millions of pilgrims to make the trip and seek the deity's blessings.
Sabarimala Sree ayyappa Swamy Temple - Architecture
The Sabarimala Temple architecture style is unique to South India.
Location and Setting: The Sabarimala Temple is located in Kerala's Periyar Tiger Reserve on a hilltop at a height of around 914 meters (3,000 feet) above sea level. The temple offers a beautiful viewpoint of the surrounding hills and valleys and is surrounded by thick trees.
Entry and Layout: The journey and pilgrimage experience are highlighted in the temple complex's design. It features a single major entrance called the "Sopanam," which opens out to the temple's courtyard. Devotees gather in the courtyard, also known as "Valiya Padippura," where they perform various rites.
Gopuram (Gateway Tower): The Sabarimala Temple does not have the elaborate gopurams commonly seen in other South Indian temples. As an alternative, it features a tiny gateway tower called the "Kodimaram" or "Dwajasthambham." The Kodimaram is a large wooden pole that is covered in decorations and cloth. It is regarded as a crucial temple emblem.
Sanctum Sanctorum: Lord Ayyappa, the main deity, resides in the Sabarimala Temple's inner sanctum, or sanctum sanctorum. The most sacred portion of the temple is known as the sanctum, a small, square structure made of stone or wood. The Lord Ayyappa idol is positioned in a seated position on a peedam (pedestal).
18 Steps: The "Pathinettam Padi" or the 18 hallowed steps are the most recognizable aspect of the Sabarimala Temple. These steps are thought to represent the 18 holy periods, or "Loka" in Hindu mythology. Climbing these stairs is a significant ritual that pilgrims perform as part of their journey. The steps are considered sacred and are decorated with beautiful sculptures.
Pancha Prakaram: The "Pancha Prakarams," or concentric rectangular enclosures, make up the temple complex. These enclosures, or sanctum sanctorum routes, are there for circumambulation or pradakshina. There are many shrines, pillared halls, and other buildings in each prakaram.
Elephant Path and Malikappuram Devi Temple: A shrine to Goddess Malikappuram is located close to the main temple. Devotees visit this temple as an essential part of their trip before continuing to the Sabarimala Temple. The "Elephant Path" separates these two temples and is so named because elephants frequently traveled it during temple celebrations.
The Sabarimala Temple's architecture is unique in its simplicity, harmony with nature, and emphasis on the pilgrims' spiritual journeys. It displays the deep religious significance and rich cultural history connected to Lord Ayyappa worship at this revered pilgrimage location.
Things to know before visiting Sabarimala Temple
Sabarimala Temple has specific rules and regulations that devotees are expected to follow. These guidelines have been put in place to preserve the temple's purity and to make sure that everyone's journey goes smoothly. Here are some of the most significant Sabarimala Temple rules and restrictions.
Vratham (Penance): Visitors to the Sabarimala Temple must perform the "Vratham," a 41-day penance, to enter. They are required to maintain celibacy during this time, abstain from alcohol, tobacco, and meat, and live a simple and clean lifestyle. Before the visit, the Vratham is thought to cleanse the body and the mind.
Age Restrictions: Only male worshipers were formerly permitted into the Sabarimala Temple. The admittance restriction on women of menstrual age (10 to 50 years) was, however, overruled by the Supreme Court of India in a landmark decision in 2018.
Mandalam and Makaravilakku Season: The Mandala Pooja and Makaravilakku celebrations fall during the primary pilgrimage season at Sabarimala, which continues for from November to January. During this time, devotees visit the temple, especially on particular auspicious days. During these occasions, there is an enormous number of devotees to the temple.
Irumudi and Dress Code: Visitors to Sabarimala are required to carry a traditional cloth bag known as an "Irumudi." It is a bag with two compartments that represents the offerings made to Lord Ayyappa. The bag includes rice, camphor, turmeric, coconuts with ghee inside, and other things. Additionally, devotees are supposed to dress in black or blue, and it's traditional for men to put "Mala" (a beaded string) around their necks.
41-Step Rule: Those who have completed the 41-day Vratham are permitted to ascend the auspicious 18 steps known as "Pathinettam Padi." Women of menstrual age and those who have not followed the Vratham are prohibited from ascending the 18 steps. At the bottom of the stairs, they can make distant prayers.
Photography and Mobile Phones: Inside the temple grounds, photography and cell phone use are prohibited. To maintain the spiritual ambiance, devotees are encouraged to refrain from taking photos or making films.
Prohibited Items: Knives, fireworks, alcohol, tobacco, and any other intoxicating substance are not allowed inside the temple compound. Devotees are encouraged to follow these guidelines and refrain from bringing any forbidden objects.
Before making travel arrangements to the Sabarimala Temple, it is important to be aware that these laws and regulations are subject to modification. To promote a smooth and nice pilgrimage experience, the temple management also offers extensive information and help to devotees regarding the norms and regulations.
Sabarimala-Sree ayyappa Swamy Temple - Visit Time
There is a set schedule for temple visits to the Lord Ayyappa-dedicated Sabarimala Temple in Kerala. The Sabarimala Temple's regular visiting hours are as follows:
Mandalam and Makaravilakku Season: The Mandala Pooja and Makaravilakku celebrations fall during the primary pilgrimage season at Sabarimala, which continues for from November to January. The temple is open continuously for 41 days during this season, which is when worshippers are most likely to attend.
Monthly Pooja Days: In addition to the Makaravilakku and Mandalam seasons, the Sabarimala Temple is open on a limited number of days each month for monthly poojas. These days are referred to as "Nada Thurappu" days and are chosen based on the Malayalam calendar.
Sabarimala Temple Timings: Early in the morning, the temple opens, and it closes in the late afternoon. Depending on the specific day and season, the precise timings may change a little. The temple often opens at 3:00 AM or 4:00 AM and shuts after the "Athazha Pooja," or evening rituals, which typically occur at 10:30 PM or 11:00 PM.
Restricted Days: Due to certain rites or events, there are several days when the public cannot enter the Sabarimala Temple. For instance, following the Makaravilakku ceremony during the Mandala Pooja and Makaravilakku festivals, the temple is closed for a short while.
Registration For a trip to Sabarimala, it is advised to register online in advance. The online registration procedure makes it easier to manage crowds and promotes a more enjoyable darshan (viewing) experience. On the official website or through approved sources, registration information and guidelines are available.
Sabarimala Trek: The trek through the woodland trail is the last part of the trip to the Sabarimala Temple. Being physically and mentally prepared is crucial for the walk, which could take several hours depending on the number of people and the weather.
Crowd Management: Numerous devotees visit Sabarimala Temple, especially during the busiest time of year for pilgrimage. Be ready for throngs of people and extended waits during the darshan. It is essential to schedule the visit well in advance, look for updates, and adhere to the management of the temple's guidelines.
How to reach Sabarimala temple
Sabarimala Temple is located in the Western Ghats of Kerala, India. Here are the common routes to reach the temple:
By Air: The Cochin International Airport, located around 160 kilometers from Sabarimala, is the closest airport. To get to the Pamba base camp, which serves as the beginning point of the walk to the temple, from the airport, you can either take a bus or a taxi.
By Train: Chengannur Railway Station, which is located about 90 kilometers from Sabarimala, is the closest train station. You can travel to Pamba by bus or by cab from Chengannur.
By Road: By road, Sabarimala is easily accessible. The Pamba base camp is accessible by bus or private vehicle. From Kerala's major cities and towns, there are frequent bus connections to Pamba. The journey to the temple starts in Pamba.
It is significant to note that additional plans are made for transportation and crowd control during the pilgrimage season. To ensure that pilgrims travel safely and comfortably, the temple administration offers a variety of services.
Sabarimala online booking
Online booking is available at the Sabarimala Temple to organize the pilgrimage and make it more convenient for followers. To book an online reservation, follow these steps:
Visit the company's website: Visit the Sabarimala Temple's official website. The website will offer the relevant details and instructions for making an online reservation.
Create a profile: You must register for an account on the website if you are a new user. To register, you must provide the necessary information, including your name, phone number, and email address.
Check availability Once you've registered, go to the website to see whether there are any openings on the selected visit date. For effective crowd control, temple management allows particular time slots.
Select the date and time: Pick your desired time and day from the list of possibilities. Make sure to pick the right slot based on your convenience and travel schedule.
Provide personal details: Fill out the necessary information about each follower who will be traveling with you. Names, gender, age, and other identifying information are frequently included in this.
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