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Kerala Janardana Swami Temple
This is a 2000 years old temple situated in the Varkala district of Kerala. Exact historical evidences are not available in support of the dates of construction of the temple. The location of this temple is 25 kilometers north from capital city Trivandrum. The temple is nearing the sea and falls on national highway No. 66. This temple is located near Arabian Sea and seeing the importance, the same is also referred as Kashi of South India. Famous Papanasham beach is adjacent to this temple. Famous Ayurveda center is also located in this area. The bell of this temple was a donation from the captain of a ship which was sank near this beach. In this temple, the presiding deity is Sri Janardana Swami. The idol of the Lord is in posture of sitting and eating. One hand of the lord is in the Aachmanam position and other is near to his mouth. It is a general belief that once the hand of the lord will get into the mouth, the world will finish on same day. A pond is also located near the temple. Geographical coordinates of this temple are between 8.731826°N 76.709869°E.
Architecture
Architecture of this temple is purely based on Portuguese style of construction. A hutted type building which has sloppy roves of brick tiles has boundary walls on both side of the main entrance. Outside of the building a hall type rectangular building has been erected with an entrance having some carving on top front facing. A huge pillar covered with brass layer is also installed in front of the temple. The hall is being used for all the religious activities. Four pillars colored with dark orange or Terracotta is erected in support to main gate. Fine wood work has been done on the entrance gate roof beadings. On the top roof of the entrance wooden carving and support as wall is also done in magnificent way. Top of the temple has conical roof. On the left side of main gate a shed is also erected to perform any religious activities. Inside the temple a place has been created for placing the idol of Lord Janardana Swami with goddesses on both sides.
Festivals
Arattu is the major festival organised here. This celebration lasts for ten days and on this occasion, various sub-deities of the temple Lord Ganesh, Lord Hanuman and Lord Shasti are specially worshipped. This celebration takes place in the month of Meenam. Uthram day is considered to be the most sacred day to celebrate the festival.
How to Reach
Varkala is reachable by all the means of transportation as this temple is located in the plains.
By Air
Trivandrum is the nearest airport located at the distance of 66 kilometers from this place. Well road and rail connectivity is available to reach this temple.
By Rail
Varkala railway station is the nearest located at 12 kilometers from the temple. Major trains are directly connected with this station and road conveyances are also available.
By Road
Trivandrum and Kochi are the nearest bus terminuses. KSRTC and private taxies are available. Govt buses are more convenient and comfortable to reach this place if a visitor has fewer luggages.
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