Lakshadweep is a stunning archipelago located on the southwestern coast of India. The place is considered a union territory of the country. There are a total of 36 islands but only a few are inhabited. The place is not only known for its beautiful beaches and long coastlines but also for the rich culture and heritage it reflects. There are numerous temples in Lakshadweep which have been a prominent site of religious activities.
4 Famous Temples In Lakshadweep
All four temples in Lakshadweep have a unique architectural style and play an important role in the daily lives of the residents of the archipelago. These temples are immensely steeped in the local rituals, beliefs and traditions in Lakshadweep.
1. Shree Shiva Kshethram
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Shree Shiva Kshethram is one of the most important Shiva Temples in Lakshadweep. The palace witnesses many Hindu devotees daily. Shree Shiva Kshethram was erected in 1978 and has orange-coloured walls. There is a poster in the temple which reads “Sree Mahadeva Temple’. On special occasions and festivals, Aarti is conducted for Lord Hanuman, Lord Krishna, Mata Rani and other deities too. The atmosphere of the temple provides a serene vibe to perform daily rituals and prayers. During aartis, a five-layer oil lamp is beautifully lit up.
Location: Kavaratti, Lakshadweep
Timings: 24*7
2. Shree Krishna Temple
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Shree Krishna Temple is a temple to Lord Krishna and is located in Minicoy which is one of the islands in Lakshadweep. This temple is located near the Indian Reserve Battalion (IRB). Aartis take place during the morning and evening time. All devotees can take part in the devotional singing or Kirtans which are organised daily and on special occasions. The ambience of the temple is immensely spiritual. It is believed that the Shree Krishna Temple was built during the times when multiple dynasties used to rule in South India.
Location: Minicoy, Lakshadweep, India
Timings: 24*7
3. Hanuman Mandir
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Hanuman Mandir in Lakshadweep is solely dedicated to Lord Hanuman. The temple is largely visited by devotees on Tuesday and Saturday to offer prayers and perform rituals to Lord Hanuman. The sages inside the temple recommend devotees to keep on the above two days for fruitful grains. The temple is orange-coloured. Prashad and other offerings are offered to the figure of Hanuman Ji inside the temple premises. There are vibrant celebrations and festivities witnessed during special occasions and on festivals like Hanuman Jayanti, Ram Navami and Diwali.
Location: Amini, Lakshadweep, India
Timings: 24*7
4. Shiva Temple
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This Shiva Temple is comparatively smaller than other temples in Lakshadweep. The temple is built in a very small chamber. There is a shed attached to the chamber. Shiva mantras are engraved and carved out on the walls of this temple on the left and right sides. The temple can be visited daily. Shiva Temple expects a decent crowd during the aarti time in the morning and evening. The temple is located in the residential area near the Police Station in Lakshadweep.
Location: Residential Area Near Police Station, Lakshadweep, India
Timings: Morning
How To Reach
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To visit the four temples, a blend of air, water and land transportation is used. There are multiple ways to reach the temples which promise a hassle-free experience.
To Reach Shree Shiva Kshetram: Those wanting to travel to Shree Shiva Kshethram temple shall first land at Agatti Airport. Ferry rides are available from the jetty at Agatti so take a boat ride to Kavaratti Island. Visitors can either walk or take local transportation to the temple which is just 1.1 kilometres away.
To Reach Shree Krishna Temple: To reach Shree Krishna Temple in Minicoy, visitors shall land at Agatti Airport and take a ferry ride or boat ride to Minicoy Island. Local transportation is available at Minicoy Island with the help of which visitors shall reach Shree Krishna Temple.
To Reach Hanuman Mandir: Hanuman Mandir is located at Amini, one of the islands in the Lakshadweep Archipelago. After landing at Agatti Airport, visitors shall take a ferry ride to Amini Island. From here, local transportation or cycles can be hired to reach the temple.
To Reach Shiva Temple: Shiva Temple is located inside the residential area near the police station in Kavaratti. Travellers shall first land at Agatti Airport. Ferry rides are available from the jetty at Agatti so take a boat ride to Kavaratti Island.
Where To Stay
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There are multiple beachside resorts, exquisite hotels and budget-friendly guest houses in Kavaratti, Amini and Minicoy for travellers to stay when they visit the temple and explore other areas of the region. In Kavaratti, a few of the considerable options to stay are Kavaratti Island Beach Resort and Sea Shells Beach Resort Kavaratti. The only notable option in Minicoy is Minicoy Island Beach Resort.
Where To Eat
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There are multiple restaurants on the islands of Lakshadweep which serve delicious cuisine. The restaurants serve tasty seafood and cater to every individual’s taste preferences. A few worth visiting restaurants in Kavaratti are Heaven’s Treat Beach Restaurant, Capital Food Court, Mubia Cafe and Royal Arabia Restaurant. Other notable options in Minicoy Island are Hotel Aboo’s, Delhi Chaap Express and Baan Huraa..
Best Time To Visit Temples In Lakshadweep
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The best time to visit these temples in Lakshadweep is during the festival time. Three of the important festivals celebrated at these temples in Lakshadweep are Navratri, Onam and Diwali. Other than festivals, the ideal time to visit is during the cooler and drier months to avoid interrupting rainfall.
Other Factors To Consider
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Visitors are requested to keep other factors to consider in mind to enhance their visit to the place. These factors ensure a meaningful devotion and enjoyable time.
Timings Of Aarti: To attend the aarti and other daily rituals, visitors are recommended to check the timings of the aarti which might be performed twice or thrice in the day. Ask locals or contact the temple authorities for accurate timings.
Avoid Monsoon: Avoid travelling during the monsoon months from June To September. There might be interrupting rainfall which may hinder daily plans and itinerary.
Travelling: Plan between the scheduled time of the ferries. The movement and timings of the ferry between the two islands may be limited. Book in advance if it is required.
Each temple in Lakshadweep holds immense significance among the residents of the archipelago. These temples are scattered on different islands of Lakshadweep but are easily accessible. The temples belong to different Hindu deities who are worshipped by the locals on a daily basis. All temples in Lakshadweep are deeply steeped in the traditions and beliefs of the residents. Book a trip to Lakshadweep with TripXL and visit these unique temples which bring you close to the almighty even when away from home.
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