The Dakshinamurthy Temple is beautiful in Kerala and dedicated to Lord Shiva, in Dakshinamurthy’s form. The temple is one of Kerala’s 108 well-known Shiva temples and is one of the best examples of Dravidian architecture. The Shiva lingam here is a major attraction here. Tourists must visit the Sapta Mathas, which means seven mothers – Chamundi, Brahmani, Indrani, Kaumari, Maheshwari, Varahi, and Vaishnavi. The temple surroundings are very serene and divine, Tourists visiting this temple feel its positive vibes and life-changing experience.
About
Photo: Achyuta T. Madabushi / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Lord Parasurama established the famous temple of Dakshinamurthi, but it is believed that Sri Suka, the great sage, was the real establisher. He prescribed a time for the installation of this idol of Lord Shiva when a peacock or peelikavadi (bow made of peacock feathers) would appear. The idol is in the form of sila-linga facing south, as in Dakshinamoorthy, which means facing south. This temple deity also has four sankalps, which means Yoga Dakshinamoorthy, Vyakhyana Dakshinamoorthy, Jnana Dakshinamoorthy, and Veenadhara Dakshinamoorthy.
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Places To Visit Near Dakshinamurthy Temple
1. Sree Kadampuzha Bhagavathy Temple
Photo: Sabarinathcnair / Wikimedia Commons
Sree Kadampuzha Bhagavathy Temple is renowned for not having any idols on its premises. The temple is devoted to Goddess Kirathaparvathi and there is a hole at the temple where She was supposed to have receded from view after appearing to Adi Shankaracharya, the 8th century Indian philosopher and theologian. Lord Shiva made that hole with his arrow, where people now make offerings and do ceremonies. Poomoodal and Muttarukkal are the two important ceremonies performed at this temple.
Distance From Temple: 20 Km
Timings: 4:30 AM – 12 pm, 3:30 PM – 7:00 PM
2. Kozhikode Beach
Photo: GXR441 / Wikimedia Commons
Kozhikode has great importance because Vasco-da-Gama first landed here and the place has a historic charm. Kozhikode Beach offers a great view of the sea and amazing sunsets and sunrises. Tourists can take a calm walk to the Dolphin Point to meet the playful dolphins. Children can have a good time at the beach and can also visit the Lions Park and a marine water aquarium nearby. Tourists come here in large numbers to witness nature and history. The ancient piers and the old lighthouse are also good attractions here.
Distance From Temple: 70 Km
Timings: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM
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Location
Photo: Arisepeter / Wikimedia Commons
The Temple is located on the serene banks of River Pampa, in Niranam village in the Pathanamthitta district of Kerala. The atmosphere at the temple’s location is very spiritual.
How To Reach
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To reach this divine Shiva Temple, tourists can take a bus or hire a taxi from Edappal to cover a distance of 4 km, or from Kuttipuram and cover a distance of 10 km. The temple is well-connected by road with major cities and districts of Kerala.
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Where To Stay
Photo: Mangesh Nadkarni / Wikimedia Commons
Tourists visiting this temple can stay in Edappal or Kuttipuram. The temple is easily accessible from these places and they offer some good accommodation options for travellers. Some best places to stay here are Hotel Jaas Continental, Ganesh Bhavan Brahmins Hotel, Sterling Guruvayur, Aarya Bhavan Residency, Eco Garden Resort and Heritage, Orison Residency, and many more. They offer good hospitality and services.
Where To Eat
Photo: Mangesh Nadkarni / Wikimedia Commons
Tourists can enjoy a good meal at some of the decent places near the temple – Ritzy Restaurant, The Quench, Grill House Restaurant, Rydges Inn, LaaWish Food, and more. Tourists can enjoy a hearty meal at any of these places.
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Best Time To Visit
Photo: Ms Sarah Welch / Wikimedia Commons
The temple is accessible throughout the year, but the best time to visit here is during the festive season nearing November. Also, visiting the temple during Mahashiratri is great as it will give you a real spiritual feeling.
Other Factors to Consider
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Average Cost of the Trip
There is no charge for tourists who want to witness the divine experience of this temple. The main cost incurred will only be for the transportation to this place. It comes out to be pocket-friendly.
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The Dakshinamurthy Temple in Kerala is an ideal place to attain calm and spiritual enlightenment, away from the busy life. This temple lies aesthetically in the lap of Mother Nature and is a perfect getaway to incarnate positivity and self-belief. People throng in huge numbers here to seek Lord Shiva’s blessing and to witness the majestic architecture. You must plan a trip with TripXL and visit this ancient temple.
Cover Photo: Ms Sarah Welch / Wikimedia Commons