Thursday 8 August 2013

Top 5 Magnificent Temples in South India

Temples in South India - As soon as you hear this phrase, Tamil Nadu is the destination that fits in perfectly. The temples are the true specimen of Dravidian architecture and thus make the visitors stunned with the magnificent beauty and elegance. The temples in Tamil Nadu also form an important part of Tamil culture and heritage. Here is the list of 5 magnificent temples that are not only popular in India but also abroad.


1. Madurai
Madurai (Tamil Nadu) is the address to most of the impressive and major temples in South India. If it comes to see one temple of South India, The Meenakshi Temple is the one to be visited. As the existence of the Madurai city dates back to more than 4000 years, there are numerous attractions that make a major part of Tamil culture and learning. Various temples and buildings with excellent architectural brilliance were constructed during the rule of Nayak Dynasty. Along with tourists, the place also attracts pilgrims from every nook and corner of the world.

Madurai Temple
Madurai
#Attraction: 12 day Chithirai Festival during April each year features a re-enacted celestial wedding of God & Goddess.


2. Thanjavur
In the 11th century, Thanjavur (Tanjore) came forth as the throttlehold of Tamil culture. At this time, Chola King Raja Raja I had his ruling power over Thanjavur. During this period, the Cholas constructed about 70 temples, each with outstanding architecture. Brihadeswara Temple is one of the acknowledged temples and recognized as one of a UNESCO World Heritage sites. In the year 2010, the temple also turned 1,000 years old, representing the might of the Cholas. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and constructed with granite stone according to the precise and imposing Dravidian architectural style.

Thanjavur Temple

#Attraction: 60 meters high dome, Chola frescoes showcased in the passage.


3. Tiruchirappalli (Trichy)
The strategic location on the Kaveri River is one of the major reasons that made Tiruchirappalli (Trichy) the most desirous for all the Dravidian rulers. To win over this place, Pallavas, Cholas, and Pandyas fought for control. Rock Fort Temple, constructed by the Nayaks of Madurai, is one of the major attractions as being constructed on a rocky outcrop, about 237 feet (83 meters) above the city. On the way, you may also halt to visit Thayumanaswamy Temple and Vinayaka Temple that are dedicated to Lord Shiva and Lord Ganesha respectively.

Tiruchirappalli Temple
Tiruchirappalli
#Attraction: 437 rock-cut steps to reach the Rock Fort Temple


4. Rameshwaram
Rameshwaram, a small island off the Tamil Nadu coast, is connected to the mainland by the longest bridge in India. Now there is a separate bridge for trains and cars. This is one of the most important temples in India that holds great significance as per the Hindu mythology. Additionally, the lost land of Dhanushkodi is also worth visiting.
Longest hallway in India
Rameshwaram
#Attraction: Longest hallway in India, detailed carvings on hundreds of pillars.


5. Tirupati
The temple of Lord Venkateshwar, at Tirupati, is one amongst the masterpieces of Dravidian architectural style. Thus, the beauty and magnificence of the temple attract devotees as well as tourists from all across the globe to visit Tirupati. This is one of the wealthiest temples in India as you can see the gold plated dome. In the year 2007, Abhishek Bachchan and Aishwarya Rai also visited Tirupati to seek blessings after their marriage.

Tirupati Temple


#Attraction: Gold plated dome, located on the seventh peak of Tirumala Hill.

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Contributed By:- Neelam Talreja

2 comments:

Good.

I want to look around all temples you have mention in your blog post.

Nice. I have visited a website which had the contents of the most popular temples around India with brief and clear informations. Please check out the following website:
www.templedetails.com

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