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Temple

Chikmagalur Trip – Sharadamba Temple at Sringeri

June 5, 2015 by sarita

If you’ve seen my last video, then you know that I recently took a trip to the jungle and had a fabulous time. My adventures didn’t stop there. After the jungle holiday, hubby and I decided to continue exploring Karnataka by making a trip to Chikmagalur – known for its multiple hill stations and more than that, its coffee. Although I love a good cup of java, I was more interested in the scenic views that Chikmagalur has to offer and a couple of temples that I’d heard of. Fortunately for me, the temples and hills went hand in hand.

Watch the VIDEO :

The Journey

We started the drive to Chikmagalur at dawn. We arrived in the city at 11 am but our first destination – the Sharadamba Temple at Sringeri – was still two hours away. At around lunch time, we drove up to the lodge we’d booked rooms at. It was very close to the temple, the two sites within walking distance of each other.

Although we were keen to see the temple, the long drive had taken its toll. So we had a quick lunch and then just crashed, blissfully dead to the world for a couple of hours. A few hours later, we awoke refreshed in spirit. We took a bath to wash away the dust of the journey  and finally set out to the temple.

My Temple Outfit

I had taken great care to put together a temple-visit outfit that was respectful but also reflected my personal style. I chose a white kurta to go with orange pleated pants, the top bringing the modesty required for the temple and the pants bringing the comfort for me. I did want to amp up the style of the look a bit so I added an ocean green stole with a print of multi-coloured flowers.

As for my hair, I had just washed it. The sun would set soon and I didn’t want to spend time styling my hair and losing day light, so I just left it as is and tied it into a ponytail when it dried.

At Sharadamba Temple at Sringeri

At Sharadamba Temple SringeriAt Sharadamba Temple Sringeri

We spent the next 3 hours at the temple and were lucky enough to arrive just when an aarti was starting. If you’ve ever participated in a religious or spiritual ritual in the lap of nature, then you’ll believe me when I say the experience was absolute Bliss! I may have very well gotten a glimpse of Nirvana at some point, if just for a moment.

We returned to the temple very early the next morning because we wanted to spend some time there before going ahead with other plans later in the day. This time, I paired a plain orange T-shirt with dark green pleated harem pants featuring a white print that looked like embroidery from a distance. I thought I’d add a little temple mood touch to my look with a tulsi beaded necklace.

Sharadamba Temple at SringeriSharadamba Temple at Sringeri

Once more, the scene captivated us and we spent a few hours there before checking out of the lodge and heading out to the next destination on our humble travel itinerary – Mullayangiri, the highest peak in Karnataka.

PICTURES- Sharadamba Temple at Sringeri – Chikmagalur 

At Sharadamba Temple Sringeri
Sharadamba Temple at Sringeri
Sharadamba Temple at Sringeri IN Chikmagalur
Sharadamba Temple at Sringeri Chikmagalur

 

Filed Under: Chikmagalur Tourism, South India Temples Tagged With: India, Karnataka, pilgrimage, Temple

Himavad Gopalaswamy Temple, Hills – Chamarajanagar – Karnataka

February 19, 2014 by sarita

Although we’re not hardcore advocates of Valentine’s Day, hubby and I use February 14 as an excuse to take a break from our lives and head outdoors. We’d always wanted to take a closer look at the Himavad Gopalaswamy Temple that we’d heard so much about. The idea was even more inviting as we wanted to go to the Ranganthittu Bird Sanctuary which was relatively nearby.

Himavad Gopalaswamy Temple – Video

We decided to club both destinations on the same day. We woke with the birds on Valentine’s Day 2014 and by 6 am we were on the road.

Himavad Gopalaswamy Temple KarnatakaHimavad Gopalaswamy Temple –  Karnataka

A Birdie Morning

Our first stop was the Ranganthittu Bird Sanctuary which is about 140 km from Bangalore along the banks of the river Kaveri. It is one of the most important sanctuaries in the country frequented by lakhs of people every year. We arrived there at 8:30 and spent a couple of hours oohing and aahing at the variety of birds that has its home there.

Drive to the Temple

The Himavad Gopalaswamy Temple was our next stop, only 90 km away from the sanctuary, but since we weren’t sure quite how good or bad the roads would be we thought we’d play it safe and set out for it at around 11. We got to our destination at 1 pm, but I gotta tell you the drive was just as fascinating, if not more so, than the Temple itself.

Towards Himavad Gopalaswamy Temple Hills - Chamarajanagar - KarnatakaTowards Himavad Gopalaswamy Temple Hills – Chamarajanagar – Karnataka

Trees lined both sides of the road, the latter pothole-free and clean the entire way. There was plenty of many-hued greenery to satisfy any nature-lover’s soul. The hills were ever-present in the distance and made a rugged picture against a glorious backdrop of sky. And what a day we picked to travel! Although skies in February are generally quite clear, cyclone warnings had brought in the clouds to many coastal areas. So we had puffy, cotton ball clouds filtering in the sun, making the drive quite comfortable and pleasant even though the sun was at its peak.

Towards Himavad Gopalaswamy Hills - KarnatakaTowards Himavad Gopalaswamy Hills – Karnataka

Himavad Gopalaswamy Hills Beauty - Chamarajanagar - KarnatakaHimavad Gopalaswamy Hills Beauty  – Chamarajanagar – Karnataka

Himavad Gopalaswamy Hills Temple - EntranceHimavad Gopalaswamy Hills Temple – Entrance

Himavad Gopalaswamy Temple Hills - Check post entranceHimavad Gopalaswamy Temple Hills – Forest Department Check post entrance

There and Back

We were stopped at a check-point run by the Forest Department as the hill is a restricted area. We paid Rs 50/- to allow our car to pass through and proceeded with a warning from the officials to return in exactly 90 minutes. Staying there beyond that point would incur a fine. We thought this a pretty good rule and immediately started imagining what it would be like if ALL touristy spots enforced it!

The last 5 km took us up a hill and the view as we ascended was even more enthralling than the road had been thanks to the Bandipur forest that surrounds the hill. The vistas of natural beauty transport you to a different time and space. A fitting entrance to the Temple, we thought.

Driving on the Hills at Himavad Gopalaswamy Hills TempleDriving on the Hills at Himavad Gopalaswamy Hills Temple

Himavad Gopalaswamy Hills Pictures - KarnatakaHimavad Gopalaswamy Hills Pictures – Karnataka

Himavad Gopalaswamy Hills in Chamarajanagar - KarnatakaHimavad Gopalaswamy Hills in Chamarajanagar – Karnataka

Himavad Gopalaswamy Hills - Chamarajanagar - KarnatakaHimavad Gopalaswamy Hills – Chamarajanagar – Karnataka

Himavad Gopalaswamy Temple Hills - Chamarajanagar in KarnatakaHimavad Gopalaswamy Temple Entrance – Chamarajanagar in Karnataka

Himavad Gopalaswamy Temple

The Temple was built way back in 1315 AD by King Ballala for Lord Krishna (Gopalaswamy is just one of Krishna’s many names).The inner sanctum of the Temple has a sculpture of Krishna playing his flute.

Today, the Temple is a bright yellow that is starkly obvious from afar. A walk up a short flight of steps leads to the Temple’s outer yard and the Temple itself.

Like all holy places, there is legend behind this Temple too. The story goes that the great sage Agastya meditated and did penance at this location. It pleased Lord Vishnu so much that he said he would make his home there, thus permanently blessing the place and ensuring that generations would come to pay their respects.

The ancient vibe of the Temple has survived the modern world and if it wasn’t for the cameras and cell phones in our hands we could easily have forgotten which century we were in.

We would have loved to stay much longer than allowed but the time factor forced us to make our way back only after one hour of arriving so that we made the deadline at the checkpoint.

Himavad Gopalaswamy Temple Hills Karnataka TourismHimavad Gopalaswamy Temple Hills  Karnataka Tourism

Himavad Gopalaswamy Temple Hills -Himavad Gopalaswamy Temple Hills

Himavad Gopalaswamy Temple Hills - Chamarajanagar - KarnatakaHimavad Gopalaswamy Temple Hills – Chamarajanagar – Karnataka

Himavad Gopalaswamy Temple Chamarajanagar - KarnatakaHimavad Gopalaswamy Temple Chamarajanagar – Karnataka

At Himavad Gopalaswamy Temple - Chamarajanagar - KarnatakaAt Himavad Gopalaswamy Temple – Chamarajanagar – Karnataka

Himavad Gopalaswamy Temple HillsHimavad Gopalaswamy Temple Hills

Himavad Gopalaswamy Temple Hills KarnatakaHimavad Gopalaswamy Temple Hills Karnataka

Temple Travel Tips

  • There is no food available at the top of the hill so make sure to carry your own. Be extra sure to clean up any mess as they don’t take too kindly to litter there.
  • Although there is a water pumps available that you can use to freshen up, it’s a good idea to bring your own water for drinking.
  • There is no accommodation available up there so it’s a good option for a day trip. Well, a partial day trip anyway as you can’t stay up there for more than an hour and a half.
  • Don’t go too far from the temple as they frown upon hikes or even partying and picnics. This isn’t some arbitrary rule. They just don’t want to disturb any wildlife in the Bandipur Forest that surrounds the hills.
  • The timings to visit the Temple are from 8:30 am to 4 pm only. So plan your visit accordingly.

Filed Under: South India Temples, Temples Tagged With: India, Karnataka, pilgrimage, Temple

Hampi – Karnataka, India

July 23, 2013 by sarita

Anjana Parvat Hampi Where Lord Hanuman was BornAnjana Parvat in Hampi India (Where Lord Hanuman was Born)

 

Anjana Temple Hampi Karnataka IndiaAnjana Temple Hampi Karnataka India

 

Coconut Trees Hampi VijayanagaraCoconut Trees Hampi Vijayanagara

 

Coracle boat ride in Pampa Sarovar HampiCoracle boat ride in Pampa Sarovar Hampi India

 

Hampi Karnataka in IndiaHampi – Karnataka India Ganesha stone idols

 

Hampi Karnataka India - temple ruinsHampi Karnataka India – Temple ruins

Hampi Karnataka India Ganesha stone idolsGanesh Temple in Hampi Karnataka India

Hampi Karnataka India PicturesHampi Karnataka India Pictures

 

Hampi Karnataka IndiaHampi Karnataka India

 

Hampi Karnataka LandscapesHampi Karnataka Landscapes

 

Hampi KarnatakaHampi Karnataka

 

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Hampi Landscapes KarnatakaHampi Landscapes Karnataka

 

Hampi Meditating at Anjana ParvathHampi Meditating at Anjana Parvath

Hampi Old Temple remainsHampi Old Temple remains

 

Hampi Pictures IndiaHampi Pictures – Karnataka India

 

 

 

Hampi Pictures Karnataka IndiaHampi Pictures

 

Hampi pictures KarnatakaHampi pictures Karnataka India

 

Hampi Pictures Rocky landscapesPhotography at Hampi

 

Hampi Rocky Landscapes Karnataka IndiaHampi Rocky Landscapes Karnataka India

 

Hampi Rocky Landscapes KarnatakaHampi Rocky Landscapes Karnataka

 

Hampi Rocky LandscapesHampi Rocky Landscapes Anjana Parvat

 

Hampi TemplesHampi Temples

 

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Hampi Vijayanagara LandscapesHampi Vijayanagara Landscapes

 

Hampi VijayanagaraHampi Vijayanagara

 

HampiHampi Travel Guide

Mahanavami Dibba HampiMahanavami Dibba in Hampi , Karnataka India

 

Pampa Sarovar in Hampi KarnatakaPampa Sarovar in Hampi Karnataka

 

Pushkarini Hampi Karnataka IndiaPushkarini Hampi Karnataka India

 

 

Rice Paddy fields Hampi KarnatakaRice Paddy fields Hampi Karnataka

 

Sunset at Hampi Karnataka IndiaSunset at Hampi Karnataka India

 

Sunset HampiSunset Hampi

Sunset pictures Hampi VijayanagaraSunset Pictures Hampi , India

 

Virupaksha Temple Hampi Karnataka IndiaVirupaksha Temple Hampi  Karnataka India

 

Virupaksha Temple Hampi VijayanagaraHampi  Virupaksha Temple Karnataka India

 

 

Filed Under: Hampi Tourism, Landscapes Tagged With: hampi, Karnataka, Landscapes, Mountain, pilgrimage, South India, Temple

Monasteries of Ladakh

July 30, 2012 by sarita

The magnificent monasteries of Ladakh are most attractive of tourist attractions for people from all over India and abroad. These monasteries are peace abodes of the monks of various orders of Buddhism providing the ideal getaway for pursuit of spiritualism and study of religion. Amazingly built on steep mountain slopes the monasteries are indeed architectural marvels and stores houses of rare Buddhist relics like thankas, murals, sculptures, scriptures, etc. The tranquility that is experienced in these monasteries is unmatched and indescribable. The locals call these monasteries as Gompa s which was built over centuries by various rulers and religious leaders of the region.   Diskit & Hunder Gompa: Built in the 14nth century both these Gompas belong to Tsongkhapa Order of Buddhism. The Gompas are located high on the slopes lending a majestic feel to the entire Nubra valley. Legend has it that the Diskit Gompa was originally inhabited by a demon who had sworn to eliminate all traces of Buddhism from the region. After long struggles a few Buddhist monks were able to annihilate the demon in front of the Gompa. The spirit of the demon is believed to be roaming till date around the Gompa and has been spotted by many on various occasions in the form of a wrinkled head. Hemis Gompa: Founded in 1630 this monastery lies about 47 Km east of Leh and belongs to Dugpa Order of Buddhism. Apart from the magnificent gold and silver stupas of the Gompa, the copper-gilt statue of the Lord Buddha forms the main attraction of this monastery. A sacred mask dance that is performed annually at the Gompa is a major tourist attraction. Monks can be seen practicing the dance daily without the ornate masks. Shey Gompa: Located just 15 Km south of the Leh town this Gompa was founded in the 17th century by King Deldon Namgyal in the memory of his late father, Singay Namgyal. On the sidewalls of the Gompa beside the statue of Buddha are displayed 16 Arhats (Worthy Ones who have achieved Nirvana), eight being on each side. A large bowl of wax with a central flame, symbolizing divinity and purity, is placed in front of the Buddha statue. Lamayaru Gompa: Located about 130 Km west of Leh this Gompa lies in what is popularly known as the ‘Moonland’. The Gompa was founded in the 11nth century belonging to the Red-Hat Sect of Buddhism. The Gompa is a prominent learning center of Buddhism and houses about 150 trainee monks undergoing the rigors of spiritual discipline. As per legend the entire area surrounding the Gompa was originally a lake during the time of Sakyamuni (the Historical Buddha) in which holy serpents resided and that in the future the there will earthquakes which will bring back the holy lake to its place. Shanti Stupa: Located on the hill top of Changspa within the city limits of Leh this pagoda was established in 1985 as a symbol of ‘The Japanese for World Peace’ to commemorate 2500 years of Buddhism. This magnificent white-domed structure offers a mesmerizing view of the sunset on the Leh town. There are many other small and big monasteries in Ladakh worth paying a visit. These rich heritage sites have with them many ancient Buddhist scripts and sculptures.  

Filed Under: Landscapes Tagged With: India, Ladakh, Landscapes, Monasteries, North India, pilgrimage, Temple

Lepakshi – Anantapur District in Andhra Pradesh – India

July 22, 2012 by sarita

Located in the southern Andhra District of Anantpur, the Lepakshi Temple lies on a minor detour from the Hyderabad- Bangalore road and can be easily accessed from both sides. The Lapakhsi Temple collocated with the Veerbhadra Temple is a glorious example of the Vijayanagar style of temple architecture.

 Built on built on a low, rocky hill called Kurmasailam, which means tortoise hills in the local language, this temple was created in 1583 by two brothers Virupanna and Veeranna who were allies of the Vijayanagar empire. Legend has it that it was the site where Lord Ram’s faithful follower Jatayu fell down after having been injured mortally by Ravana. When Lord Ram reached the site he uttered the words” Le Pakshi’ translated imply the “rise bird”.

 

Lepakshi temple photos-shiv-lingaLepakshi  Anantapur District in Andhra Pradesh India

The Hanging Pillar of Lepakshi temple is a technological feat too as its remains apparently suspended though a bit dislodged currently. The 70 feet pillar is believed to have been dislodged by a British engineer who unsuccessfully tried to remove it to discover the secret of its suspension.

From the convention submissive head bowed bull, the Nandi here has a noticeable A colossal structure in the form of a spectacular Nandi is positioned in an imposing manner. At 27ft in length and 15ft in height, this structure is by far the biggest monolithic Nandi to be found anywhere. Along with size, the structure is in superiorly balanced in its proportions, smoothness and curves with an intricate network of ornaments adorning the divine bull. The significance of the statue is that in a deviation high head.

The Kankala Murthy at Lepakshi, is spectacular in its depiction of Lord Shiva as a Kankala or skeleton. The depiction of the Kankala Danda, the Damburu, flowing Jata (hair locks) and the Mukuta of Shiva bear eloquent testimony to the heights of intricate stone work that was achieved in that period. The figures of Bhutas (Shiva’s followers), Parvati his consort and the Gandharvas are equally graceful in their intricacies.

The murals in the temple have been damaged due to prolonged exposure to vagaries of nature but still can be identified as depicting various poses of Shiva along with Parvati decorated with the various mythical adornments. The elongated third eye of Shiva in these murals has a mystical effect on the first time visitor. The frescoes are typical and symbolic of the Vijayanagar style of paintings.

The huge Nagalinga or serpent with three coils and seven hoods can be seen cut out of granite rocks to create a breathtaking structure. Here the Shiva Lingam is protected by the hood of the serpent and legend has it that the entire structure was carved out by a craftsman while his mother prepared lunch for him.

Close to the famed pilgrim town of Puttaparthi, the Lepakshi temple is definitely worth a visit not only for the followers of Lord Shiva but also for those who thirst for glimpse of the finest in ancient Indian architecture and sculpture.

Lepakshi temple photos-shiva-linga-naagLepakshi Shiv Lingam – Anantapur District in Andhra Pradesh – India

Lepakshi temple photos-29Huge Nandi at Lepakshi Andhra Pradesh – India

Lepakshi temple photos-hanuman-jiAndhra Pradesh Tourism Lepakshi

Lepakshi temple photos-26Andhra Pradesh Tourism Lepakshi in India

Lepakshi temple photos-25Andhra Pradesh Tourism Lepakshi

Lepakshi temple photos-24 Lepakshi Andhra Pradesh Tourism

Lepakshi temple photos-23

Lepakshi temple photos-19Lepakshi PicturesLepakshi temple photos-18Lepakshi Shiv Lingam in Anantapur District Andhra Pradesh – India

Lepakshi temple photos-13Lepakshi Pictures Anantapur District in Andhra Pradesh – India

Lepakshi temple photos-12Lepakshi in Andhra Pradesh – India

Lepakshi temple photos-11South India Tourism – Lepakshi – Anantapur District in Andhra Pradesh

Lepakshi temple photos-10Lepakshi Pictures

Lepakshi temple photos-9Lepakshi Pictures India

Lepakshi temple photos-8Lepakshi in Andhra Pradesh IndiaLepakshi temple photos-7Lepakshi Pictures in Andhra Pradesh India

Lepakshi temple photos-6Lepakshi in Andhra Pradesh India

Lepakshi temple photos-2Lepakshi in Andhra Pradesh – Must Visit Lepakshi temple photos-1Lepakshi in Andhra PradeshLepakshi temple photosLepakshi Huge Shiv Lingam in Andhra Pradesh – India

Lepakshi photos-Veerbhadra templeSouth India Tourism Lepakshi – Anantapur District in Andhra Pradesh – India

 

Image Gallery Lepakshi – Anantapur District in Andhra Pradesh – India

Lepakshi temple photos

Filed Under: Landscapes, South India Temples Tagged With: Andhra Pradesh, Archaeological site, Architecture, India, pilgrimage, South India, Temple

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