Know the details about the Suchindram Thanumalayan Temple Darshan Timings, Entry Fee, Histroy, Pooja Schedule, Pooja Online Booking, Rooms near

The Suchindram thanumalayan Temple, alternatively known as Thanumalayan Temple, holds great importance as a Hindu temple situated in Suchindram, Tamil Nadu, India. Although this temple is now in Tamil Nadu, it is revered by the Kerala Hindu culture as one of the 108 Shiva temples. 

The name “Sthanumalayan v” denotes Trimurtis, with “Stanu” meaning Shiva, “Mal” meaning Vishnu, and “Ayan” meaning Brahma. The temple complex spans two acres and has two gopurams, or gateway towers, with the eastern tower being the tallest at 11 stories high and 44 meters tall.

The Thanumalayan Temple is important to both Shaivaite and Vaishnavite sects of Hinduism, and it houses numerous shrines, including those of Sthanumalayan and Hanuman. 

The temple conducts six daily rituals and several yearly festivals, with the Margazhi festival being the most prominent. The current masonry structure was built in the 9th century during the Chola dynasty, with later expansions attributed to Thirumalai Nayak and the Travancore Maharajas. 

The temple is associated with Indra, whose curse was lifted at the main linga in the temple, and Anasuya, known for her chastity. 

Suchindram Thanumalayan Mythology

According to Hindu mythology, the place got the name Suchindrum from the Sanskrit word “suchi,” meaning “purify.” It is believed that Indra visits the temple every day at midnight to perform Ardhajama Pooja, or worship. Another legend tells of the trinity of Hinduism coming to sage Atri’s hermitage as Brahmin mendicants, with Anasuya serving them with utmost care. 

When the Brahmins requested that she come out nude, Anasuya converted them to small kids with her power of chastity and served them with her breast milk. According to legend, the couple was blessed by the trinity for their devotion, and three Lingas appeared as a result. Temples are believed to have been built at the location where the couple worshipped the trinity.

The temple has several inscriptions from the period of early and medieval Cholas, as well as other Pandya rulers and Chera rulers in the region. It was renovated in the 17th century and is famous for its sculptures. This temple is dedicated to Bhagwan Shiva, Bhagwan Vishnu, and Lord Brahma as a single deity called Sthanumalyam. 

The temple is known for its architectural grandeur, with its seven-story white gopuram covered with sculptures of Hindu deities. The temple is one of the few temples in the Travancore region to feature both Kerala style architecture and Tamil style architecture.

Suchindram Thanumalayan Darshan Timings & Entry Fee

The temple is open for morning darshan from 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM and from in the evening 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM.

The temple does not charge an entry fee. Online booking facilities are not available for the temple. Visitors can directly visit the temple during the darshan timings.

Suchindram Thanumalayan Daily Pooja Schedule

The daily pooja schedule at Suchindram Thanumalayan Temple is as follows:

• Usha pooja – 6:00 AM
• Abhishekam – 7:00 AM
• Kalasandhi pooja – 8:00 AM
• Uchikala pooja – 12:00 PM
• Sayaratchai pooja – 6:00 PM
• Arthajama pooja – 8:00 PM

Suchindram Thanumalayan Festivals celebrated at the Temple

Suchindram Thanumalayan Temple celebrates several festivals throughout the year, which attracts a large number of devotees. Some of the important festivals celebrated at the temple are:

• Mahashivratri
• Navaratri
• Thaipoosam
• Vaikunta Ekadasi

How to Reach Suchindram Thanumalayan Temple

Suchindram Thanumalayan Temple is located in the town of Suchindram, which is well-connected to the major cities of Tamil Nadu. The nearest airport is Trivandrum International Airport, which is around 70 km away from the temple. The nearest railway station is located in Kanyakumari, which is around 14 km away from the temple. Visitors can also hire taxis or take buses from Kanyakumari to reach the temple.

Places to Visit Near the Suchindram Thanumalayan

Near Suchindram Thanumalayan Temple, there are several popular tourist attractions that visitors can explore.

One of the most popular attractions is Kanyakumari, which is located just 11 kilometers from the temple. It is a beautiful coastal town that is famous for its stunning sunrises and sunsets. Visitors can also take a ferry from Kanyakumari to visit the Vivekananda Rock Memorial, which is located on a small island off the coast.

Padmanabhapuram Palace is another popular attraction located around 22 kilometers from the temple. It is an ancient palace that was once the residence of the rulers of Travancore. The palace has a beautiful blend of traditional Kerala and Dravidian architecture, and visitors can explore the many halls, courtyards, and gardens.

Mathur Hanging Bridge is another popular attraction located around 28 kilometers from the temple. It is a unique bridge that is suspended over a river and is made entirely of ropes and bamboo. The bridge is a great spot for photography and offers beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.

Overall, visitors to Suchindram Thanumalayan Temple can explore the many nearby attractions and experience the rich culture and history of the region.

Accommodation Near Suchindram Thanumalayan

There are several accommodation options available near Suchindram Thanumalayan Temple for visitors to stay. Some of the popular options are:

• Hotel Tri Sea
• Hotel Saara
• The Gopinivas Grand

Significance of the Suchindram Thanumalayan Temple

The Suchindram Thanumalayan Temple is of great religious significance to Hindus, who consider it a holy pilgrimage site. It is believed that a visit to this temple can grant the devotees’ wishes and bring them blessings from the gods. The temple’s Trimurti deities represent the three primary aspects of the Hindu faith – creation, preservation, and destruction, and the temple is a symbol of the unity of the Hindu trinity.

The temple is also famous for its musical pillars, which produce different musical notes when struck. The temple’s architecture and sculptures are a testimony to the cultural and artistic prowess of the people of that era and offer a glimpse into the history of South India.

Rituals and Festivals at the Suchindram Thanumalayan Temple

The Suchindram Thanumalayan Temple is a hub of religious activities and festivities throughout the year. During the day, the temple is open till late at night, and the rituals are performed with great devotion and reverence. The temple’s priests perform the pooja, a traditional Hindu ritual, to the deities at specific times of the day.

The temple’s annual festival, the Meenakshi Kalyanam, is celebrated with great pomp and show and attracts devotees from far and wide. The festival marks the marriage of Lord Sundareswarar (Lord Shiva) and Goddess Meenakshi, and the temple is adorned with colorful decorations and lights.

Temple management is handled under the auspices of the Charitable Endowments Department of Tamil Nadu. 

This department oversees the financial aspects of the temple, as well as ensuring that the temple is properly maintained and the religious rituals and customs are observed. 

They are also responsible for managing the temple’s properties and assets. The department plays an important role in preserving the cultural and religious heritage of the temple, ensuring that it remains a sacred and important site for Hindus in the region.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Thanumalayan Temple is a significant Hindu temple with a rich history, fascinating legends, and impressive architecture. The Suchindram Thanumalayan Temple is a fascinating representation of the rich cultural heritage and religious diversity of South India. 

Its stunning architecture, intricate carvings, and sculptures offer a glimpse into the region’s history and artistic prowess. The temple’s significance to the Hindu faith, its religious rituals, and festivities make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the region’s cultural and religious traditions.

FAQs

1. When is the ideal time to visit Suchindram Thanumalayan Temple?

Answer: Although the temple is open year-round, the Meenakshi Kalyanam festival, typically held in April or May, is the most suitable time to plan a visit.

2. Is there an entry fee to visit the temple?

Ans: No, there is no entry fee to visit the temple.

3. What is the significance of the musical pillars in the temple?

Ans: The musical pillars produce different musical notes when struck, showcasing the skill of the temple’s artisans.

4. Can non-Hindus visit the temple?

Ans: Yes, the temple is open to people of all faiths and beliefs.

5. How long does it take to explore the temple complex?

Ans: It takes about 1-2 hours to explore the entire temple complex thoroughly.

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