Southern India
The southern tip of
the Indian subcontinent, with its pristine shores touching the Indian Ocean, is
not just a convergence of land and water but also of timeless traditions and
diverse cultures. South India, an area steeped in
history, is home to a multitude of religious places, each narrating tales of
ancient wonders, profound spirituality, and architectural marvels. From
towering Dravidian temples and serene monasteries to bustling pilgrimage
centers, the religious tapestry of South India offers an unparalleled journey
of faith, devotion, and discovery. Whether one seeks spiritual solace,
historical insights, or architectural admiration, these sacred sanctuaries have
something unique to offer. Join us as we embark on a pilgrimage to the most
revered religious places in South India, a journey that promises to transcend
beyond the physical and touch the very soul.
Meenakshi Temple ( Madurai )
Meenakshi Temple is a historic Hindu temple located on the southern bank of the Vaigai River in the temple city of Madurai, Tamil Nadu, India. It is dedicated to the goddess Meenakshi, a form of Shakti, and her consort, Sundareshwarar, a form of Shiva. The temple is at the centre of the ancient temple city of Madurai mentioned in the Tamil Sangam literature.
Tirumala ( Tirupati )
The Sri Venkateswara Swami Temple is a Hindu temple situated in the hill town of Tirumala at Tirupati in Tirupati district of Andhra Pradesh, India. The Temple is dedicated to Venkateswara, a form of Vishnu, who is believed to have appeared on the earth to save mankind from trials and troubles of Kali Yuga. The temple is also known by other names like Tirumala Temple, Tirupati Temple and Tirupati Balaji Temple.
Adiyogi ( Coimbator )
Adiyogi Shiva Statue is the world’s biggest bust statue dedicated to the famous Hindu deity Shiva, which is carved out of 500 tonnes of steel. Located in the Isha Yoga Complex in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, the sculpture stands tall at the height of 112 feet.
The Guinness World Book of Records recognised the statue as the “largest bust sculpture” which is 34.3-metre tall excluding plinth, 45 meters long and 7.62 meters wide. Designed by the founder of Isha Foundation- Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev, the statue was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the 24th of February, 2017. The sculpture was constructed with the idea to inspire and promote yoga, and the statue is called “Adiyoga” meaning “the first yogi” as Lord Shiva is known to be the originator of yoga.
Rameshwar ( Rameshwaram )
Ramanathaswamy Temple -'Ramanathaswamy' literally means 'the Master of Rama' which refers to Lord Shiva, which the temple is all about. There are two 'lingam' inside the temple; 'Ramalingam' by Devi Sita built by sand and 'Viswalingam' brought by Lord Hanuman from Kailasha (abode of Lord Shiva) and installed by Lord Rama. Temple tanks, hall of 1000 pillars, and several other shrines in the temple attract millions of pilgrims every year, especially during Maha Shivratri.
Kanyakumari
Kanniyakumari 'The Virgin (or Kanya) Princess', referring to Devi Kanya Kumari), also known as Cape Comorin, is a city in Kanniyakumari district in the state of Tamil Nadu, India. It is the southernmost tip of the Indian subcontinent and the southernmost city in mainland India, and thus referred to as "The Land's End".