Thirupparankundram Temple



The Thirupparankundram Temple is one of the most commonly visited places of interest in Madurai. This temple is of special interest to those who are hardcore devotees of the Hindu religion. It is situated at the top of a hill. It is located at a distance of about 8 km towards the south of the railway junction of Madurai.

The Thirupparankundram Temple at Madurai built up by the Pandyas in as early as the 8th century. The tourists have to reach the temple after walking through a number of mandapas belonging to the 17th and the 18th centuries. These mandapas are located at ascending levels. One has to travel from one to another by walking up the steps cut out of stone.

The Thirupparankundram Temple of Madurai is considered to be one of the abodes of the Hindu God Subramanya. The innermost shrine of the temple has been carved out of stone. One of the major attractions of the temple is the image of Hindu deities that are carved on the temple walls. One can view a shrine dedicated to goddess Durga in this cave temple. The two images of Subramanya and Ganesh are placed on either sides of the Durga image.

There are a number of shrines in the temple. Some of the most prominent shrines are dedicated to Ganapathy, Shiva, Vishnu and Durgai. The entrance of the temple is marked by as many as 48 pillars. These pillars are decorated with intricate carvings. The mandapa that is located at the entrance has pillars that are identified with the Nayaka period.



Last Updated on 9/15/2011