Day 3 - Thirupparamkunram Murugan Temple, Thirumalai Nayak Palace, Gandhi Museum, and Mariamman Teppakulam
On day 3, we drove to the Thirupparamkunram Murugan temple, which is about eight kilometers from Madurai. This is another example of marvelous Pandya architecture. The main deity is Lord Muruga. The main sanctum also houses the deities Lord Vinayaka, Lord Shiva, and Lord Vishnu. The deities are carved into the hillock, and are gigantic. Unique because, usually, the Murugan temples don't tend to house Lord Vishnu. The temple also has Lord Saneeshwara (alone), and as you enter, you will see something very unique - Goddess Kali's (Durga) idol on a pillar. If you wonder what covers the idol... People make a wish, and then put small balls of butter on the idol. These butter balls are supposed to be offered at the feet of the goddess; however, most people get carried away, and literally throw the butter balls on the goddess!
Word of caution: Beware of persistent beggars and self-appointed guides.
Our next stop was at the Thirumalai Nayakkar Mahal. The palace is open from 9:00 A. M (IST) to 5:00 P. M. Many movies have been filmed at this palace. The gigantic pillar and arches are the essence of this palace. Each pillar or window will have a couple sitting and romancing. What is disturbing that people have written their names, names of their dear ones, mobile phone numbers, and what not on the pillars and walls. Beware of pigeon poop; the place is filled with pigeons.
The courtyard, Nakasala, and museum are beautiful. There is also a light and sound show arranged during the evenings.
We returned to our hotel for lunch, and rested till evening. Our evening round started with a visit to the Gandhi Museum. Later, we went to Mariamman Teppakulam; the sunset over the water was stunning. The next day was supposed to be lazy - visit to friend's house for lunch.
In the next sequel, I shall write about Kodaikanal!
Previous blogs:
- Namakkal Temples
- Madana Gopal Swamy Temple
- Meenakshi Temple
Regards,
Asha
On day 3, we drove to the Thirupparamkunram Murugan temple, which is about eight kilometers from Madurai. This is another example of marvelous Pandya architecture. The main deity is Lord Muruga. The main sanctum also houses the deities Lord Vinayaka, Lord Shiva, and Lord Vishnu. The deities are carved into the hillock, and are gigantic. Unique because, usually, the Murugan temples don't tend to house Lord Vishnu. The temple also has Lord Saneeshwara (alone), and as you enter, you will see something very unique - Goddess Kali's (Durga) idol on a pillar. If you wonder what covers the idol... People make a wish, and then put small balls of butter on the idol. These butter balls are supposed to be offered at the feet of the goddess; however, most people get carried away, and literally throw the butter balls on the goddess!
Word of caution: Beware of persistent beggars and self-appointed guides.
 |
| Goddess covered with butter balls |
Our next stop was at the Thirumalai Nayakkar Mahal. The palace is open from 9:00 A. M (IST) to 5:00 P. M. Many movies have been filmed at this palace. The gigantic pillar and arches are the essence of this palace. Each pillar or window will have a couple sitting and romancing. What is disturbing that people have written their names, names of their dear ones, mobile phone numbers, and what not on the pillars and walls. Beware of pigeon poop; the place is filled with pigeons.
The courtyard, Nakasala, and museum are beautiful. There is also a light and sound show arranged during the evenings.
We returned to our hotel for lunch, and rested till evening. Our evening round started with a visit to the Gandhi Museum. Later, we went to Mariamman Teppakulam; the sunset over the water was stunning. The next day was supposed to be lazy - visit to friend's house for lunch.
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| Blood-stained cloth of Gandhiji |
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| Sunset - Mariamman Teppakulam |
Previous blogs:
- Namakkal Temples
- Madana Gopal Swamy Temple
- Meenakshi Temple
Regards,
Asha
Thats so close home ! love the photos - particularly the gopurams and the theppam !
ReplyDeleteThanks, Rajavel! You're lucky, if this place is closer to home. :)
ReplyDelete