PARAMBIKULAM WILDLIFE SANCTUARY -PALAKKAD-KERALA

       Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary is a 285 km² Protected area in Chittur taluk in Palakkad district of Kerala state, South India. Established in 1973, it is in the Sungam range of hills between the Anaimalai Hills and Nelliampathy Hills. The Western Ghats, Anamalai Sub-Cluster, including all of Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary, is under consideration by the UNESCO World Heritage Committee for selection as a World Heritage Site.^[ The sanctuary is the home of 4 different tribes of indigenous peoples including the Kadar, Malasar, Muduvar and Mala Malasar settled in six colonies. Parambikkulam Wildlife Sanctuary was declared as part of the 390.88 square kilometres (150.9 sq mi) Parambiculam Tiger Reserve on February 19, 2010. the Sanctuary, a haven of tranquil greenery boasts of the first ever scientifically managed teak plantation and the world's tallest and oldest teak tree. The famous Kannimara teak tree, believed to be over 350 years old is about 5 km from Thunacadavu, and is one of Parambikulam's prime attractions.

Many peaks are also seen here, of which the Karimala Gopuram is the tallest at 4,718 ft. A favourite with visitors, the Vengoli Peak is an easy climb and those lucky enough might even get to see the endangered Nilgiri tahrs. The sanctuary has three man-made reservoirs; Parambikulam, Thunacadavu and Peruvaripallam, with a combined area of 20.66 km². The Thuvaiar water falls empty into one of the reservoirs. There are 7 major valleys and 3 major rivers, the Parambikulam, the Sholayar and the Thekkedy. The Karappara river and Kuriarkutty river also drain the area.  a unique feature of this Sanctuary is the presence of a series of reservoirs interconnected with tunnels, channels, river courses and canals. The deep freshwater ecosystem created by the construction of these dams adds to the diversity of the Sanctuary.

Trekking in the forest is allowed with prior permission.Contact: Ecocare Centre, Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary, Anappady, Thunakadavu (PO), Pollachi (Via), Palakkad, Kerala – 678 661.Phone : 04253 – 245025
Ecotourism Activities

    Bestowed with rich flora and fauna, Parambikulam is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. While deer, sambar and gaur roam around in the Vayal area, deep inside the Sanctuary can be seen lion tailed macaques, slender loris, king cobras, the royal Bengal tiger, cane turtle and the Nilgiri marten; as also 250 species of birds including the Malabar grey hornbill, great pied hornbill and the Peninsular Bay owl. The Sanctuary's spectacular floral diversity - seen in the 285 species of endemic, rare and endangered flora, 1320 species of flowering plants, including 70 species of orchids, about 50 endangered medicinal plants - makes it ideal for nature lovers as well.

Numerous activities including camping out in the forests, staying in watchtowers to view the animals, boating in the reservoirs, row boating at Thunacadavu and Parambikulam lakes, bamboo rafting and bird watching are possible here. A hilly terrain with many peaks and valleys, Parambikulam offers an assortment of soft, medium, tough and adventure trekking trails, classified on the basis of their length, duration and difficulty of the terrain. Each group of visitors must get permission to trek, from the Forest Information Centre at Anappady and hire a tribal guide. 

Soft Trekking Trails

Elephant Song Trail
6 km (Anappady-Karianshola-Anappady).

Peacock Trail
6 km (Anappady-4000 Point-Seechali Vayal-Thunacadavu).

Flying Hooves Trail
8 km (Parambikulam Dam Site-Kothala-Parambikulam River Crossing-Tramway Line- Parambikulam).

Kannimara Trail
8 km (Thunacadavu-Teak Plantations-Kannimara Vayal-Kannimara Teak-Thunacadavu).

Medium Trekking Trails

Tarantula Trail
10 km (Parambikulam-Tunnel Entry-  
Evergreen Forests-Vengoli
Viewpoint-Rock Point-Thunacadavu).

Bison Trail
10 km (Anappady Depot-
TP Block 1-Chettivara-Seechali-
4000 Point-Anappady).

Dr. Salim Ali Trail
12 km (Parambikulam Dam Site-
Tramway-Kuriakutty-Parambikulam).

Tough Trekking Trails

Sundew Trail
12 km (Parambikulam-Earth Dam-Teak Plantations-Bamboo Break-Evergreen Forests-Grassland-Karimala Peak-Kalyanathee-Parambikulam).

Hornbill Trail 
20 km (Anappady-Karianshola -Pandaravaramalai Peak-Return to Anappady through Inter State Boundary).

Amphibious Trail
20 km (Parambikulam-Tunnel Entry-Waterfall-Alamaram-Velayudhankai-Return to Parambikulam by Bamboo Raft).

Adventure Trekking Trails

Needle Peak Trail
20 km (Keerappady Valley-Naikarkadu-Kuchimudi Teak- Keerappady).

Rocky Ridge Trail
25 km (Parambikulam Coupe Road-Vengoli Peak-Rocky Ridge-Inter State Boundary-TP Block 1-Anappady).

Accommodation

    Tented cottages in Parambikulam Sanctuary; The Forest Department Inspection Bungalow, Thunacadavu; PWD Inspection Bungalow, Thunacadavu; Treetop huts at Thunacadavu and Parambikulam; Wireless station on Vettikkunnu Island accessed only by boat; Overnight camping in machans at Chungam, Anappady, Vengoli, Kuriakutty and Annakal Vayal; Dormitory at Anappady; Community Hall at Parambikulam; the Bison Valley Lodge at Parambikulam all have to be booked in advance through the Anappady Information Centre.

Location: Chittur Taluk of Palakkad District. To reach the place one has to go to Pollachi via Coimbatore or Palakkad.
Altitude: 300 m to 1,400 m above sea level.

Distance
Air: The nearest airport is Coimbatore (55 km).
Rail: Nearest rail head is at Palakkad (125 km).
Road: 39 km from Pollachi, 98 km from Palakkad and 102 km from Kochi.

For enquiries and bookings, contact: 
Wildlife Sanctuary Office, Parambikulam, Ph: 04253-245005
District Tourist Promotion Council, Palakkad Ph: 0491-2538996

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PERIYAR WILDLIFE SANCTUARY -IDUKKI-KERALA

    Synonymous with elephants, misty hills and plantations, Thekkady in Idukki District captures the essence of all that is wild and wonderful. The most prestigious region on the high ranges of the Western Ghats, the Periyar Tiger Reserve is located on the Cardamom Hills of Thekkady. Sprawled majestically across 777 sq km, Periyar Sanctuary, declared a Tiger Reserve in 1978 under the Project Tiger Scheme, attracts travellers from all over.

An environmental hotspot, Periyar Sanctuary is noted for its geomorphology, diverse wildlife and beautiful landscape. Encompassing a 26 sq km artificial lake, the rich jungles of Periyar is one of the world's most fascinating natural wildlife reserves. The lake which serves as a watering hole for the animals during summer, harbours within itself a unique aquatic ecosystem. A cruise along it is perhaps the best way to watch the wildlife in the Reserve. Exciting trekking trails and other adventure activities like tracking the tiger, jungle patrolling etc. await the tourists at this enchanting Sanctuary.

Ecotourism Activities

      Evergreen, grassland and moist deciduous forests are found here with various species of flora in each type of forestland. The Periyar Reserve shelters over 1800 flowering plants including 171 grass species and 143 species of orchids. The only South Indian conifer, Podocarpus wallichiana grows here. A host of ecotourism activities have been developed for nature lovers in this unique spot.

Nature Walk 

(7 am to 10.30 am, 2 pm to 5 pm)

This involves trekking through select nature trails accompanied by trained tribal trackers cum guides. A three-hour interpretative programme, it takes one through interspersed evergreen and moist deciduous forests, providing incredible opportunities for close observation of birds, butterflies and wildlife.

Tiger Trail

This is a protection-oriented trekking and camping activity with reformed poachers as tourist guides. The most significant aspect of this package is the focus on prevention and detection of illicit activities within the forest. There are two programmes organised twice a week that visitors can choose from.

a) One night and two days; max. 5 persons in a group; reporting time: 9 am.

b) Two nights and three days; max. 5 persons in a group; reporting time: 9 am.

Border Hiking 

(8 am to 5 pm)

A conservation-oriented, hard trek along the boundary of the Tiger Reserve gives you a glimpse of the rich flora and fauna. Two guides and an armed forest guard accompany trekkers on this full-day programme that accommodates minimum 2 persons to maximum 10 persons in two groups each.

Bamboo Grove

Typical tribal huts, tents and tree houses made exclusively of natural materials and located in a vast bamboo grove in the middle of Anavachal, functions as eco-lodges for visitors. There is also a thatched seminar hall where nature lovers can avail of experiential learning and nature sensitization camps conducted by the forest department.

Bamboo Rafting 

(8 am to 5 pm)

The programme involves dawn to dusk trekking and rafting across some of the most luxuriant forest tracts of the Periyar Tiger Reserve. Package involves two hours of trekking, one and a half hours of rafting and then, after a lunch break, a journey back in the same manner. An armed guard and four guides accompany a maximum of 10 persons for this full-day programme.

Jungle Camp

Apart from camping in tents located on the banks of Periyar River at Vallakkadavu inside the Reserve, the package includes optional activities like visits to the Vanchivayal tribal colony and the historical Mullaperiyar Dam, trekking in the forests, tea factory and spice garden visits, vehicle safari, rafting, boating in the Periyar Lake, boating/angling at Vallakkadavu etc. Two to maximum thirty persons can partake in this camp.

Jungle Patrol 

(7 pm to 10 pm, 10 pm to 1 am, 1 am to 4 pm)

Visitors will be accompanied by two watchers and armed forest guards in this night patrolling programme which also helps the forest department in protecting the Reserve. Only upto 24 persons - ie, 4 persons each in two groups on three time slots - will be allowed per day.

Night Camping
(4 pm to 7 am)

Trek for an hour from the forest check post and camp at the jungle inn at Kokkara. Visitors can watch the jungle come alive with avian splendour and at night, experience its silence. They'll also be treated to the enchanting sight of wild animals roaming in the nearby grasslands.

Bullock Cart Discoveries
(6 am and 2.30 pm)

Visit to the farmlands of a tiny hamlet beyond the mountains of Periyar where guides enlighten tourists on the different traditional ways of farming. An optional coracle ride is also included in the package. This three-hour package will have minimum 2 persons and maximum 9 persons.

Tribal Heritage
(8 am to 12 am, 2 pm to 4 pm)

Visit to the tribal heritage museum inside the Mannan settlement that showcases various attractions of the tribal culture. The tour also involves a trek through the tribal hamlet within the periphery of the Reserve, accompanied by a tribal guide.

In and Around

Peermedu, 39 km from Periyar is a scenic hill town covered with aromatic spice gardens including coffee and vanilla as well as tea, rubber and various other crops.

Accommodation

Thekkady has a wide range of options including a stay atop the watchtower to stays at motels and luxury resorts like the Muthoot Cardamom County, Shalimar Spice Garden, Jungle Village etc. There are also a few retreats set right inside the Reserve - Bamboo Grove Lodge, Taj Garden Retreat and the Spice Village. Tented accommodation is also available at Vallakkadavu, run by the eco-development committee of the Reserve.

Location: Situated on the Kerala-Tamil Nadu border, Periyar Tiger Reserve is about 4 km from Kumily town.
Altitude: 900 to 2,019 m above sea level
Timing: 6 am to 6 pm

Distance

Air: The entry point to the Reserve is Thekkady, which is accessible by road from the airports of Madurai (145 km),
Kochi (190 km) and Thiruvananthapuram (272 km).

Rail: The nearest railhead is Kottayam (114 km).

Road: Thekkady is just 5 km from Kumily on NH 220. Kumily's KSRTC Bus Stand has regular connections with all the major cities in Kerala. Thekkady is on SH 19, connecting Munnar to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary.

For enquiries and bookings, contact:

Periyar Tiger Reserve, Thekkady Ph: 04869-222027
Periyar Ecotourism Centre Ph: 04869 - 224571
District Tourist Promotion Council, Idukki Ph: 04869-222620

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THENMALA ECOTOURISM / INDIA'S FIRST PLANNED ECOTOURISM DESTINATION -PUNALUR-KOLLAM-KERALA

       Thenmala (തെന്‍മല ) ,is a tourist place near Punalur town, Kollam district in Kerala. Thenmala is the first planned eco-tourism destination in India. The Thenmala dam was built across Kallada River. Thenmala is famous for being the shooting location in Malayalam and Tamil movies. Thenmala attracts foreign and domestic tourists with a host of attractions. Boating on the lake, a rope bridge, trekking, mountaineering, biking and a musical fountain. Thenmala is approachable both from Trivandrum and Punalur by road. The waterfall called Palaruvi is a prime attraction nearby. Also nearby is a deer rehabilitation center where visitors can see deer in a forest setting and have a peep into a traditional tree house used by forest dwellers to escape harm from wild animals. Other places near Thenmala are Kulathupuzha, Anchal, Punalur, Kamukumchery and Shenkottah in Tirunelveli district(Tamil Nadu). Themala is 72 km from Thiruvanathapuram and 16 km from Palaruvi Falls. Once much sought-after for its honey believed to have medicinal properties,thenmala is today home to India's first planned eco-tourism project. The nerve-centre of a chain of ten satellite eco-tourism destinations scattered across the hill ranges of Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam and Pathanamthitta districts, Thenmala is spread over acres of evergreen forest.

       A natural habitat of diverse flora and fauna, this unique eco-tourism habitat lies 500 m above sea level. The rugged terrain of this land harbouring a fragile ecosystem packs plenty of adventure activities. Nature trails dotted with delightful waterfalls and enchanting picnic spots attract naturalists, conservationists and adventure seekers. With its forests, rubber estates and tea plantations, Thenmala provides the perfect background for leisure activities.

Ecotourism Activities
    The principles of zoning in ecotourism have been adopted here to create various zones, featuring specific familiarisation activities for nature enthusiasts. The Thenmala Ecotourism Facilitation Centre has enough activities to entertain both adults and children.

Culture Zone

• Amphitheatre - For local art forms and other cultural performances.
• Shop Court - Managed by local women self-help groups for selling local forest products, souvenirs, local handicrafts etc.
• Musical Dancing Fountain - A rhythmic ballet of water, sound and light in a natural ambience.

Adventure Zone 
(9 am to 5.30 pm on all days)

• Nature Trail - Winding trail through various elevations in the zone.
• Canopy Walkway - Elevated path through a canopy of trees that helps explore the ecosystem and the level changes of the area.
• Lotus Pond - A water body that exhibits various forms of aquatic plants.
• Mountain Biking - A 2 m wide, 1000 m long bike path facilitates mountain biking with various levels of difficulty.
• Recreational Rock Climbing & Rappelling - Rocks of different heights and sizes are equipped with pegs and ropes to facilitate rock climbing and rappelling.
• River Crossing - Ropes are tied at a height across the river for adventurous river crossing activities.
• Hill Thrills - Valley crossing, spider net, shot range, trust fall, pedal boating etc.
• Resting Points - Quiet spots in the wilderness to take a break.

Leisure Zone 
(8.30 am to 6.30 pm)

• Pathways - Winding trails leading tourists to various sites.
• Boardwalk - 250 m riverfront built of wooden planks that gives the visitor a close view of the stream below.
• Sway Bridge - An unsupported bridge, made of wooden planks and hung from ropes across the river.
• Sculpture Garden - Based on the theme 'Man and Nature', this garden depicts the relationship between the two in the serene backdrop of the forest.
• Resting Points - Quiet spots in the wilderness to take a break.
• Deep Woods - Soft trekking and biking programme to explore the two patches of Niptica swamp forest (2 to 4 hrs).
• Boating at the Shenduruney Wildlife Sanctuary: Battery-operated vehicles to the boat landing from where begins an exciting boat cruise. Watch wildlife at close quarters and be prepared for surprises.

Deer Rehabilitation Centre
      An opportunity to befriend a deer and understand their delicate ecosystem. The deer that stray out from the forest are rehabilitated here. Spotted deer and the sambar are the main inhabitants. The Centre also has a children's eco-park with treetop huts, swings etc.Other Attractions
Trekking
    One to three-day guided trekking tours and bird watching trails in the Shenduruney Wildlife Sanctuary.

Bird Watching Trail: Two-day programme in the Shenduruney Wildlife Sanctuary.

Pilgrimage Tourism:

    An eco-pilgrimage connecting the three surrounding Ayyappa shrines at Kulathupuzha, Aryankavu and Achankovil can also be arranged from Thenmala.Environment Education Centre: 

     This Centre facilitates various activities inside the forest area, using the potential features of the site to educate the visitors.

One-day Ecotourism at Palaruvi:

     The eco-trip to the 300 ft waterfall is managed by the local community.

Ecotourism programmes are also available at the ten satellite spots that fall under a 50 km radius of Thenmala.

In and AroundHanging Bridge, Punalur (22 km) is en route to Thenmala from Kottarakkara. Achankovil is one of the major temples of Lord Ayyappa and along the way lies the Manalar Falls, a tiny strip of cascading water that is usually visible only after the rains. A little further is the Kumbavurutty Falls, to get to which you need to trek for half a kilometre. This is a nature interaction centre and it even has tree houses for children.
Accommodation

    Tented and dormitory accommodation by Thenmala Ecotourism Promotion Society, Green Valley and the Lake View Ayurvedic Resort offers excellent accommodation facilities.

Location: 
Altitude 1,640 ft above sea level.
Snuggled in the foothills of the Western Ghats in east Kollam District, adjacent to the Shenduruney Wildlife Sanctuary, Thenmala is 72 km north of Thiruvananthapuram. A short distance from Courtallam Falls in Tamil Nadu, this ecotourism destination lies on the northernmost end of Agasthyamalai Biosphere Reserve.

Distance
Air: The nearest airport is Thiruvananthapuram International Airport, about 80 km away.
Rail: Thenmala runs on metre gauge. The nearest broad gauge station is Kollam, about 66 km away.
Road: Equidistant from Thiruvananthapuram and Kollam, Thenmala is a two-hour drive from both cities. There are regular buses from Kollam, Kottarakkara and Punalur.For enquiries and bookings, contact:
Thenmala Ecotourism Promotion Society, Ph: 0475-2344800, 0471-2329770 
District Tourist Promotion Council Office, Kollam, Ph: 0474-2750170

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THOMMANKUTHU FALLS -THODUPUZHA-IDUKKI-KERALA

    

    Thommankuthu (തൊമ്മന്‍കുത്ത്) is a very scenic waterfall near Thodupuzha, in the southern state of Kerala, India and is named after the great hunter, Mr. Thommachen Kuruvinakunnel, who let the world know of this beautiful waterfall in the jungle in the late 1920s. Thommachen also played a big part in the discovery of the site for the Idukki Dam. This panchayat, belonging to Thodupuzha Thaluk in Idukki District, is one of the major eco-tourism centres in Kerala. A song of the Malayalam movie Chattakaari was shot here. falls is about 20 km from Thodupuzha in Idukki district, and 74 km from Kochi, the mesmerizing Thommankuthu or Ezhunilakuthu is a series of 12 falls spread over a distance of 5 km. The seven-step falls are surrounded by a number of mysterious caves. At each step, there is a cascade and a pool beneath. Falling from a height of 1,500 m, the difference between the first and last fall is about 500 m. Named after Thomban, a tribal leader who was washed away near the waterfall while crossing a river, Thommankuthu is in the Kaliyar Forest Range. The wild beauty of the scenic waterfall and the pristine surroundings attract hordes of tourists.

      If you are a nature lover or an adventure seeker, Thommankuthu is just the right place in Kerala. this site draws the attention of several tourists. The exhilarating beauty of Thommankuthu waterfalls captures the heart and soul of every traveler. Thommankuthu waterfall is a beautiful seven-step waterfall offering salubrious weather. Amidst verdure foliage, this shimmering waterfall is a perfect place to spend time in the lap of nature. Thommankuthu waterfall tours will allow tourist to savor the wild beauty of forest and stream. Tours to Thommankuthu Waterfalls in Kerala with Kerala Travel Tourism truly has something for everyone. If you are looking for an adventurous vacation, Thommankuthu waterfall tours offer all the adventure you can handle. This exotic place is congenial for trekking or mountain climbing. Tourists looking for adventure can trek the mountain, which is around 12 km of climbing. Since there are no accommodation facilities available at this site, tourists can enjoy only one-day tours. Tourists can also enjoy boating on the lake. Fishing and horse riding are other options available in this pleasant valley. If you are interested in visiting this amazing Kerala highlight, you can board a bus from Thodupuzha, 18 km from Thommankuthu. For lodging, there are many hotels, rest houses and restaurants at Thadupuzha. The nearest railway station is Nedumbassery Airport, which is 80km away. The nearest railway stations are at a distance of 60 km away at Kochi and Kottayam.
Ecotourism Activities
   The best way to enjoy this much-loved picnic spot is to undertake a 12 km trek that will take visitors to the top of the mountain. The less adventurous can have an equally good time frolicking in the shallow pools below. Trekking, night camping, boating and bird watching are some of the major recreations here.

How To Get There: 
Lot of private buses direct to thommankuthu are available from Thodupuzha. the water falls located 2km away from thommankuthu town. autorickshaws are available from there.

Location:

Situated in Idukki District, Thommankuthu is 17 km from Thodupuzha and 74 km from Kochi.
Altitude: 810 m above sea level.

DistanceAir: 70 km from Cochin International Airport (via Perumbavoor, Muvattupuzha).
Rail: 70 km from Aluva Station near Ernakulam (via Perumbavoor, Muvattupuzha).
Road: KSRTC Bus Station is 20 km from Thodupuzha.

For enquiries and bookings, contact:
District Tourism Promotion Council Office, Idukki Ph: 0486-2232248
Divisional Forest Office, Kothamangalam Ph: 0485-2822317
Accommodation
   A variety of accommodation options are available in and around the city of Thodupuzha. 

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KOLLUR SREE MOOKAMBIKA TEMPLE -KARNATAKA

History Of Kollur Mookambika Temple, Karnataka

      The history of Kollur Mookambika temple states that there lived a demon named Kaumasura who was unleashing a reign of terror upon all the gods with his special power given by Lord Shiva. When all the gods were trying their best to stay away from his vicinity, Guru Shukracharya brings good news to the gods that this demon would face death by a woman, that is Parvathi Devi. Knowing this Kaumasura undertakes severe penance, Lord Shiva asks this demon to ask for the boon, sensing grave danger if he his offered the boon, this goddess of speech makes this demon dumb.

Hence this Kaumasura came to be known as Mookasura (mooka means to be dumb). Thereafter Devi mobilised all the powers of the gods and then this demon was killed by Kollur Devi Parvathi. She was hence forth called Mookambikai. This place where Devi killed Mookasura is known as Marana Katte.

The Kollur Devi thereafter became the deity of this place offering her blessings to all who sought her. She poses with all her radiance along with the shank and chakra in both her hands sitting in the padmahasana posture. 

Suyambulingam at Mookambika temple

        The Suyambulingam at Sri Mookambika temple is said to have come into existence when Parameshwara drew the chakra with his toe. This chakra is believed to be the Udhbava linga which has drawn its strength due its proximity to all divine beings. It is also very sacred since Kollur Devi is supposed to be merged with this Suyambulinga and that has made her acquire great power.

Here she is said to have formed part of Lingam along with Lakshmi and Saraswathi on one side and Lord Brahma, Vishnu and Parameshwara on the other side. Apart from this there is also an carved image of Shiva said to be injured by during the clash with Arjuna known as Kiratharjuna and this is on the right side of this Suyambulinga.

Adhi Shankaracharya is believed to be instrumental in Devi Mookambika taking this place Kollur as her abode. It is this place near the bank of Souparnika river that Adhi Shankarar stopped to fix the Chakram and on above it placed the Devi and this forms the central idol behind the Linga. This temple has been patronized by many ancient kings who donated many precious jewels to Sri Kollur Devi and they are still adorned by her. Many other hindu kings have also donated to this temple since it was believed to be the state temple in those days.

Sanctum of Kollur Sri Mookambika Temple

       The history of idol installation at Kollur Mookambika temple is nearly 1200 years old. King Halugallu Veera Sangayya is said to have laid the valuable stone to cover the inside premises and this was done by him under the instructions of Rani Chennamaji. The temple comprises of the sanctorum, a hall and the Lakshmi Mantapa at the rear. This Lakshmi Mandapam has four pillars and it is about 135 feet long. These four pillars are adorned with splendidly carved images of Indian deities.

The beautiful sculptures are figurines of various Gods and Goddesses such as Vinayaka or Ganesh, Subrahmanya, Naga, Mahishasura Mardini and the mother goddess or Devi in various forms. The Garbagriha at this Kollur temple is contemporary and artisitic in value. A huge deepasthambam stands tall with its base like a tortoise’s head. This Deepasthambam has 21 beautiful concentric circles which appear very divine and similar to that of Makara jothi when all the lamps are lit and viewed from distance.

The Navrathri festival begins with an invocation to Lord Ganesha who is on this pillar. As we move inside the corridor beyond the Garbhagriha there are four types of idols of Ganapathi. Among them are Dasa bhuja Ganapathi and Balamuri Ganapathi which is beautifully sculpted using white marble.

Then there is an image of a serpent that is worshipped by all Devi’s devotees in order to wade off the evil effects of Sarpodosa and other doshas. And it is believed that when touched while offeringprayers, the devotees are said to be blessed with good fortune.

The outer side of the pradikshana we see the idol of Lord Muruga followed by the idol of Saraswathi, Pranalingeswara, Prartheshwar and Mukya Prana. This Mukya Prana is placed just opposite to Veerabadrasamy shrine to strike a balance for its dangerous appearance. This Veerabadrasamy is said to be the presiding deity here.

Pooja timings and practices at Sri Mookambika temple

       At this temple prayers are offered following two traditions. - one as per the sacrificial ritual and the other as per Vijay Yagna Shastra. The poojas are performed at the temple everyday and it is performed in the morning, afternoon and evening and in the night. Among the many important rituals that are performed and celebrated, Navarathri is considered very important and the other is Brahmotsava and both are celebrated with great pomp and gaiety. This Navarathri is also is known as Sharannavarathri that falls during October month. The Goddess is said to grant boons to many an ardent devotee during these days.

Devi Mookambika’s exquisite jewellery

      Kollur Devi adorns some exquisite ornaments that has been donated to her by her ardent devotees among them are Shri Gundu Rao the ex Chief Minister of Karnataka who has donated to Devi a silver sword. The legendary Rani Chennamma offered precious emerald which is still adorned by her till date. Late M.G. Ramachandran, former Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu also has gifted a golden sword to Sri Mookambika as a token of gratitude and as an ardent devotee. The Vijayanagaram king Krishnadevaraya presented Kollur Devi with a gold mask which is now considered very valuable. Chennamaji of Keladi gifted a gold face for Lingam that is also said to be of great value.

The River Souparnika’s origin

        The source of this river Souparnika is from the Kodachadri hills lying near the temple as a backdrop. The mythology about this temple and river says that a Garuda named Suparna performed penance on this river bank in order to save his mother from the continuous misfortunes and sorrows. Then the Kollur Devi appeared before him to grant her good wishes and at this juncture this garuda requested Devi that this river be named after him hence forth and thus this river came to be known as river Souparnika.

The place where the Suparna garuda sat is popularly known as Garuda caves. This river is joined by two more rivers at the down stream. They are known as Bhrungisha and Pippalada that falls now under the Oluru region. There after it flows west ward to end at the sea near the Maharajaswamy temple.

This river is said to be not only holy but also to contain rich extracts of valuable herbs as it passes through many mountains that has abundant herbs and rare plants.

Festivals In Mookambika Temple - Kollur, Karnataka

Nithyothsavam – Every day ritual Nithyotsava ritual is performed everyday at Devi Mookambika temple. Janmastami announces the birth of Lord Krishna. From then on till Navrathri every year, various rituals are followed at the ancient Mandapam. Sri Mookambikai is taken on the palanquin around the temple and thereafter ashtavadhana seva is conducted at Saraswathi mandapam that which is located inside the temple. Varothsavam - Weekly ritual Every Friday, at around six p.m. between Janmashtami and Navrathri, varothsavam celebrations are held. Before the Pradoshakala pooja the Devi Mookambika’s idol is carried to the olaga mandapam in the north. Here the ashtavadhana seva is offered to the goddess Mookambika.

Pakshotsavam – Fortnightly ritual

This fortnightly ritual involves carrying the deity on all new moon days and full moon days. After the night bali pooja the Devi’s idol is carried to the Saraswathi Mandapam located on the west. This street procession is rigorously followed and there after the idol goes back and the Kashaya Thirtha is given to the devotees.

Varshika Uthsavam – Annual ritual

Every Year in the month of March, the annual ritual is observed at this glorious temple and it is celebrated for ten full days. On the moola nakshatra day the Brahma Rathothsava is undertaken for Kollur Devi.

Kollur Mookambikai temple celebrations

On the first day the flag is hoisted soon after the Punya kala rites.

The second day at about five in the evening the Kollur goddess is taken around the village known as Grama pradhakshina in Kannada. Followed with night bali and after the ashtavadhana seva the procession is taken to the Saraswathi mandapam on the peocock chariot.

The third day program is the taking Devi to the Saraswathi mandapam in the north known as Toppalu Katte, night ritual Dolarohan, then pooja is performed for Mookambika and taken to the west side of the Sarawathi mandapam and ashtavadhana seva is performed.

Fourth day celebrations commences with the Katte pooja held at Sri GopalaKrishna temple. There after the night ritual follows with the Sri Mookambika being taken on the chariot Pushparatham to the Saraswathi mandapam on the west side and the ashtavadhana pooja is performed.

The fifth day ritual, Sri Mookambika is taken on the Rishaba Vahana to the Saraswathi mandapam in the west and Ashtavadhana seva is offered for devotees. In the day the goddess is taken in procession to the Gopalakrishna temple.

On the sixth day the procession to Patelara Katte at Balegadde begins at the day and the night ritual begins with the Kollur Devi being carried on the Gaja vahana to the Saraswathi mandapam in the west.

The seventh day program starts with the taking Kollur Mookambika Devi to the Saraswathi mandapam on the west side after the Pradosha pooja and glorious Rangapooja is performed. The night Bali follows where the Mookambika is taken on the Simma Vahana again to the Saraswathi Mandapam in the west for pooja and Ashtavadhana seva.

On the eight day the Maharathothsavam Odu Bali and the Brahma Ratha Arohanam is performed at 11.30 in the morning. The evening procession starts with the Brahma Ratham taken to the Saraswathi Mandapam at around 5 o clock in the evening in the west side.

Choornothsavam, okuli, Avabhritha Snanam at the Sauparnika are all part of the ninth day celebrations. The roving ceremony known as Theppothsavam and Miruga bette happens at night and then followed by pooja for Kollur Mookambika seated on the horse back and this function starts at around night 8 O clock until the next morning 8 O clock.

The tenth day celebrations start with Poornahuthi conducted at the north eastern side Yagashala and followed by the lowering of the flag known as Dhawaja Avarohana.

Navarathri festival at Kollur Mookambika Temple is considered to be the most auspicious time to offer prayers to goddess Shakthi and its other forms. Millions of pilgrims visit the temple on these nine days. In South India, it is a belief that Vijayadashami is an auspicious day for small children to start their education called Vidya Arambam, hence pilgrims throng the temple from 4 am onwards for aksharabhishekam.

Offerings of Shri Mookambika

Sri Devi Mookambika is very generous in offering her blessings to all her devotees and she considers them as equal with out any disparity. It is solely said that it is the sincerity of the individual that matters when it comes to getting her support in all their pursuits. Devi Mookambika as Goddess of Learning This Goddess of learning and fine arts blesses her devotees with knowledge and wisdom. Confidence, Concentration and accomplishment are the hallmarks of this deity. Every sincere prayer will help the devotees to improve their education and reap good results in the examination. In order to achieve her blessings Mahatrimadhura is the important offering and it is said by consuming Mahathrimadhura for continuous period of 41 days makes the individual clever in studies. Great concentration in studies can be achieved by undertaking meditation at Sri Devi’s temple. Doing regular Alankara pooja, Payasa Nivedaya, Puspanjali for Sri Mookambika helps to improve their education at all levels. Goddess of Wealth Aishwaryam or prosperity and good fortune accompany all who pray to goddess Sri Mookambika with sincere devotion. In order to earn her blessings and to improve the wealth regular Friday poojas like Sarvalankara, Sahasranama kunkuma archana, chandika homam besides maha poojas are recommended in order to get her blessings Goddess of Health and Well Being Shakthi Mookambika has excellent cure for all sorts of ailments. Doing regular Nithya nivedaya, Vidhi, Harivana nivedya, Mahathrimadhura, Parivarayuktha panchapooja, Chandika homa and Pushpa rathsova can help to maintain good health. Devotees firmly believe that Kollur Mookambika Devi can cure ailments with her immense power of healing. Kollur Devi - The Supreme Protector  Devi Mookambika ensures all round prosperity, health, progeny and protects devotees from all evil. Conducting regular poojas such as Shatha Rudrabhisheka, Chandi homams every day and particularly on Fridays helps to keep away enemies from doing any harm. Apart from the above performing Shaktheya pooja at Kutachadri and Mariamma temple proves very effective for the devotees. Goddess for business growth Devi Mookambika helps devotees to nurture their business in a profitable way by doing simple poojas such as Lalki Utsava, Chandika homas, Maha pooja, Nithyanna nivedaya, Sheerabhisheka, Pushpanjali along with regular Friday poojas. Sri Mookambika – Blesses the childless Childless couple upon regular prayers to Devi and performing poojas like Maha pooja, Vidhi, Chandika homams and offering Thulabharam helps them to beget children. Devi blesses for early marriage It is believed that marriage obstacles are set right by offering Mookambika with sarees, mangalsutra and by performing Chandika homam and thulabharam. Besides offering Thirumadhura, lighting ghee deepam, nanda deepam, sarvalankara pooja and offering payasa nivedaya. Other obstacles cleared by Devi Sri Mookambika helps her devotees to clear many obstacles by conducting regular Friday pooja, Chandi homam, Vidhi and Ganapathi homam. Speciality of Chandika Homa (Chandi Homa) This Chandika homa is highly beneficial to all devotees and it has to be performed usually from 9 A.M. to 12 noon. One has to wait for their turn to come for nearly two years to perform this homa at Sri Devi’s temple. Advance booking has to be made by the devotees. This homa is very important to invoke Kollur Mookambika devi’s blessings and to fulfill all their wishes. The importance of Pushpa Rathotsavam This type of offering can be done for Sri Mookambika for general wellbeing and it is highly beneficial for the whole family. Offering ghee deepam, sarees and gold mangalsutra is said to bring the desired effect.

How to reach Mookambika Temple - Kollur

• Mangalore city is only 50 km away from Udupi. Express buses ply between Mangalore to Udupi at regular intervals.From udupi we can reach Mookambika Temple - Kollur by bus from Udupi.
• The railway station at Udupi falls on the Konkan Railway network and there are trains to most major cities of the state.From Udupi we can reach mookambika temple by bus or by taxi easily.
• The nearest airport is the Mangalore airport located at Bajpe, 60 km away from Udupi. There are 2 flights daily from Mumbai,Bangalore and from other parts of India.From their we can reach KollurMookambika Temple by car.

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