Temples in India are doorway to heaven. Since time immemorial the pilgrimages of South India has been attracting devotees from different corners of the world. The centuries old temples are known for their uniqueness in design, rituals, traditions, festivals and believes.

Lets know about some most popular temples in South India

Meenakshi Temple, Madurai – Tamil Nadu

Built sometime between 16th and 18th century AD, Meenakshi temple is popular in the religious circuit all over the world. The shrine is dedicated to Lord Shiva and His consort Parvati, also called as Sundareshwara and Meenakshi. Its 12 gopuras and the tall towers are the major attraction. Each corner of the tower is furnished with stucco figures of mythological deities and animals

Tirupati Temple – Andhra Pradesh

Tirupati temple is draws countless attention of devotees all the year round. The world’s richest temple sits on the Tirumala hill(cluster of seven hills) in Chittoor district. It is devoted to Shri Venkateswara and pilgrims in order to pay special homage before the Lord, organizes an 11 days Brahmotsavam festival in the month of February.

Guruvayoor Temple – Kerala

Located 80 kms from Kochi, Guruvayoor temple is among the popular temples in Kerala. Pilgrims from different parts of the world visit the the holy abode and find pleasure to chant the holy name of Lord Krishna. It is also called as Healing Temple or Bhoolokavaikunta(heaven on Earth). The 23-ft high ‘deepastambham’(pillar of lamps) and koothambalam are the major attractions of the temple.

Lakshmi Narasimha deva Temple – Andhra Pradesh

This divine temple is located upon a 300 foot hill and is called as gateway to Vaikuntha(Vaikuntha-dwara). Pilgrims here will receive chance to offer prayer before the three forms of Lord Narasimha, namely- Jwala Narasimha, Gandabheranda Narasimha and Yogananda Narasimha. A cave inside the temple is believed to the place where the Lord manifested Himself in the form of Gandabheranda Narasimha. One can also find the sculptures of Him in the other two form.

By: Mithi Dey