Ananthapura near Kasaragod, 45 kms from Mangalore is a lake temple.
Though surrounded by barren land all around it is truely amazing to see a
lake and temple in the middle. Ananthapura is the holy abode of Lord
Ananthapadmanaabha (or Lord Vishnu). Interestingly Ananthapura is the
only lake temple in Kerala state.
Idols : Idols worshipped here is not made of metal or stone as in most of the temples in India. It is made of Kadusharkara Paaka(made
of various herbs). In this way of making idols of Gods, in addition to
the external organs, internal organs like heart, lungs, skeletal joints
and nervous system are also are realized. Also, there is no Abhishekam for idols made of Kadusharkara Paaka.
Vegetarian Crocodile : Most
of you may find it hard to believe that temple is guarded by a
vegetarian crocodile, which lives in the temple lake. Crocodile named
‘Babiya’, has been living in the temple lake for 63 years now. They say
there lived one crocodile before the present one appeared. People used
to get a glimpse of the crocodile when they called it. In 1945, that one
was killed by a British officer. After a few days, the present
crocodile appeared in the lake. But now, one hardly gets to see the
crocodile. One can see the crocodile, when the priests offerprasadam, naivedyam to it in the morning.
How to reach Ananthapura from Mangalore : Mangalore to Kumble (also known as Kumbla) – 40 km
One can catch the Mangalore-Kasaragod bus to reach Kumble.
From Kumble, take an auto to Ananthapura or
catch a bus to Naikap (4 km from Kumble) and then get an auto from there.
Idols : Idols worshipped here is not made of metal or stone as in most of the temples in India. It is made of Kadusharkara Paaka(made
of various herbs). In this way of making idols of Gods, in addition to
the external organs, internal organs like heart, lungs, skeletal joints
and nervous system are also are realized. Also, there is no Abhishekam for idols made of Kadusharkara Paaka.Vegetarian Crocodile : Most
of you may find it hard to believe that temple is guarded by a
vegetarian crocodile, which lives in the temple lake. Crocodile named
‘Babiya’, has been living in the temple lake for 63 years now. They say
there lived one crocodile before the present one appeared. People used
to get a glimpse of the crocodile when they called it. In 1945, that one
was killed by a British officer. After a few days, the present
crocodile appeared in the lake. But now, one hardly gets to see the
crocodile. One can see the crocodile, when the priests offerprasadam, naivedyam to it in the morning.How to reach Ananthapura from Mangalore : Mangalore to Kumble (also known as Kumbla) – 40 kmOne can catch the Mangalore-Kasaragod bus to reach Kumble.
From Kumble, take an auto to Ananthapura or
catch a bus to Naikap (4 km from Kumble) and then get an auto from there.
its visitors.Valiyaparamba is perhaps the most scenic backwater stretch in Kerala. Fed by four rivers and dotted with numerous little islands, Valiyaparamba is fast turning into a much favoured backwater resort that offers enchanting boat cruises. Valiyaparamba,a hinterland separated from the mainland, is a noted fishing centre in the district and is just an hour’s drive from Bekal – one of the most enchanting beaches of Kerala. The Bekal fort which stands on a headland that runs into the sea offers a spectacular view of the surroundings.
In the visiting card which was printed instantly, there are two more degrees. We got down from the boat and sat in the waiting shed on the shore. This place is called Pandyala Sea shore. Kunhi prepared our seats by cleaning the parapet of the shelter with his hands. Near by there is a tea shop. We had black tea and biscuits from there. ‘If you had informed them about your arrival before hand, they would hace prepared every thing for you.’ Kunhi was not satisfied even after feeding us well. Kunhi is like that. If he likes you his affection will over flow.
Location:
islands, Valiyaparamba is fast turning into a much favoured backwater resort that offers enchanting boat cruises.
Top Station is tourist destination, where you can feel the clouds are flying very close to you. Wild slopes and dense forests surround it. Though there is no sufficient facility, the place is a tourist hub. The place falls along the border of the state of Tamil Nadu. Top Station is 32 km from Munnar. Frequent public buses operate between Munnar and Top Station and there are taxis too.
It is dedicated to the Goddess Rajarajeswari. The nine day ‘Navarathri’ festival is celebrated twice a year and is of special significance to the people of Alappuzha. Another important festival of the temple is ‘Thaipooyakavadi’. Many tourists and pilgrims visit this temple everyday. It is believed that this Goddess is the mother of the people of Alappuzha.
Constructed in the typical Kerala architectural style, this temple is famous all over India, and is renowned for the Palpayasam, the daily offering of sweet milk porridge. This temple witnesses the performance of Pallipana by Velans (sorcerers) once every twelve years. Paintings of the Dasavatharam (the ten incarnations of Lord Vishnu) are displayed on the inner walls of the temple. The “Ottanthullal”, a satiric art form based on social themes was the brain child of the poet Kunchan Nambiar who performed it for the first time in the premises of this temple.
This is a prominent Christian Pilgrim centre near Cherthalai which is 22 km. north of Alappuzha. The St. Andrews Church here was built by Portuguese missionaries during the 15th century. One can see and feel the architectural beauty of the West in the construction of this church. The annual feast of St. Sebastian is held here in the month of January which attracts massive crowd from nearby and far off towns.
The St. Mary’s Church is one of the oldest church in Kerala. It is said to be one of the seven churches established by St.Thomas during his visit to India during A.D.54. Situated on the bank of the river this church is of historical importance. The annual feast is held on the 3rd Sunday of October. The feast of St. Joseph is celebrated on March 19th.
