If you plan a trip to Tamil Nadu, you must visit Krishnapuram Venkatachalapathy Temple, one of the most sought-after temples in the state. Located in Krishnapuram village of Tirunelveli district, this temple will give you a perfect vibe of Hindu culture, tradition, and religion. Krishnapuram Venkatachalapathy Temple is worth visiting, from its rich history to outstanding peculiar Dravidian architecture. With Lord Vishnu resting here, you will find the utmost peace here. Let’s explore more details about this temple and other details.
History Of Krishnapuram Venkatachalapathy Temple
Image Credit: Ssriram mt for Wikimedia Commons
Knowing Krishnapuram Venkatachalapathy Temple’s history will increase your curiosity about visiting the temple. The history of this temple dates back to the 16th Century. As per a scripture on the temple’s wall, it has been noted that Krishnappa Nayak, the ruler of the Madurai Nayak Dynasty was behind the sculpture of this temple. Not only the temple but the name of the village was also changed from Thiruvenkatapuram to Krishnapuram during the king’s rule. Besides, this temple was used to get grants such as copper plates from the rulers of Sadasiva Raya of the Vijayanagara Empire to lighten the temple and the garden. Krisnappa Nayak also constructed the temple tower, four streets (work as a passage for temple cars), precincts, etc.
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Architecture Of Krishnapuram Venkatachalapathy Temple
Krishnapuram Venkatachalapathy Temple is spread over land of 1.8 acres and stands as the finest example of Nayak Architecture. The speciality of Nayak rulers is their inclination towards the unique style of art and architecture.
The main feature of their architecture is the high gopurams or towers decorated with beautifully painted stucco statues on the surface. Pillared mandaps and long corridors are also some of the peculiar features of the Nayak architecture.
This temple further presents a perfect amalgamation of Dravidian and Islamic styles of architecture The granite walls surround the temple from every side. There are three precincts, one of which was raised by the Nawab of Arcot. The image of Venkatachalapathy is carved out of granite stone and it is an astounding work of sculpture. The images of Sridevi and Bhudevi beside him are works of art. Alongside, the temple features several halls like, Ranga Mandap, Nanguneri Jeeyar Mandap, Pandal Mandap, Vahana Mandap, and Unjal Mandap. Above all these, Krishnapuram temple sculptures glorify the traditional artwork of the Nayak Dynasty.
The Depiction Of Mahabharata On Temple’s Walls
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Many stories from Mahabharata are carved on the pillars of the temple. The story of Bheemsena and Purushamriga is one of the most popular mythical stories of all. Once Yudhistira asked Bheema to get the milk of Purushamriga, a half-beast half-man. He wanted it to perform a yajna. But, Purushmrigam caught Bheema while milking him during his penance and got angry at him and he chased him. Lord Krishna helped Bheema escape by giving him three stones, which, when thrown, would make a shrine of Lord Shiva appear.
Now, Purushmrigam was a devotee of Lord Shiva, so he had to slow his speed to pray at each shrine. Thus, Bheema was getting more time to escape. Still, Purushmrigam caught Bheema with one foot in civilization and the other in the deep forest. Yudhistira became ready to offer his half-body to Purushmrigam in exchange for Bheema’s life. The beast was impressed at Yudhistira’s judgement, so he let Bheema go. Besides this, there are also depictions of Arjuna’s penance, Karna’s princely features with a moustache and a bow, etc.
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Facts About Krishnapuram Venkatachalapathy Temple
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To visit Krishnapuram Venkatachalapathy Temple, you must know certain essential facts. Have a look-
Timings of Visiting the Temple: Krishnapuram Venkatachalapathy Temple is from 07:00 AM to 11.30 am and 5.30 PM to 8:00 PM.
Best Time to Visit the Temple: Winter is the best time to visit the temple. You can plan the trip between November and February. During this time, the temple celebrates the ten-day-long Vaikuntha Ekadasi, which you can witness.
Places To Visit Near Krishnapuram Venkatachalapathy Temple
Your visit to the temple won’t take the entire day, and you will be left with plenty of time to explore nearby places. Here are some outstanding places near the Krishnapuram Temple in Tirunelveli.
1. Sri Kanthimathi Nellaiappar Temple
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Located only 30 minutes away from Krishnapuram Temple, this is a beautiful temple of Lord Shiva. Located on the banks of the river Thamirabarani, it is one of the largest temples in Tamil Nadu. The rich history of this temple will introduce you to the traditions and culture of India, while the articulate architecture will keep you astounded.
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2. Sri Varadaraja Perumal Temple
Take a journey of 9 hours and visit this Vishnu temple which is one of the oldest in Tamil Nadu. This is an epitome of an architectural marvel that you must visit. The main deity of the temple is Veeraraghavan and you will be mesmerised by the beauty of the idol. Spend some time here and you will enjoy the serenity of the place.
3. District Science Centre
This place is only 24 minutes away from the temple. The museum here will be a perfect getaway for those who love to add to their knowledge. The Centre features a ‘Science Park’ and a gallery on ‘Treasures from Ocean’. Presently, there are four sections in this museum, ‘Fun Science’, ‘Electronics’, ‘Popular Science’, and ‘New Wing of Electronics’. Also, there is a well-equipped planetarium and a sky observatory.
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4. Manimuthar Dam & Falls
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Drive for an hour and the beauty of nature will unfold in front of your eyes! It is one of the largest artificial dams in Tamil Nadu. Located at the foothills of Pothigai Hills, the dam is built on the Manimuthar River, and is a great picnic spot for visitors. The water falls into the pond from a height of 25 feet and the depth of the pond is 90 feet. Stepping into the pond is not advisable.
5. Papanasam Falls
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Papanasam Falls is a 2-hour drive from Krishnapuram Temple and is also known as Agasthiyar Falls. Formed over the Thamirabarani River, this cascade falls from a whooping height of 120 metres. The Western Ghat has set the perfect background while the deep dense forest makes the cascade look ravishing. You can also visit Agasthiyar Temple, near the falls. It is a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.
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6. Manjolai Hills
If you are a nature lover, then you must include this place on your travelling list. After visiting Krishnapuram Temple, take a drive for 2 hours and reach this place. Manjolai is a deep dense forest on the Western Ghats and famous for its tiger reserve. This place is perfect for a summer resort and the lush greenery around the hills will soothe your eyes. The panoramic beauty of this place will be a treat for your sore eyes. .
7. Koonthankulam Bird Sanctuary
Located only 48 minutes away, this place is quite famous among bird lovers and nature enthusiasts. It is the largest reserve for breeding water birds in South India. Stretched across 1.29 sq.km., it attracts around 1 lakh migratory birds yearly. You can enjoy a day at this park, as there is an interpretation centre, a children’s park, and a watch tower.
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Krishnapuram Venkatachalapathy Temple doesn’t limit itself to being a temple but paints a picture of a perfect cultural centre. With its rich Dravidian architecture and sculptures from ancient times, you will have the time of your lifetime here, exploring every corner of this temple. Not everyday you will come across something this amusing so ensure to include this temple in your next trip to Tamil Nadu.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Krishnapuram Venkatachalapathy Temple
Where is Krishnapuram Venkatachalapathy Temple located?
This temple of Lord Vishnu is located at Krishnapuram Village in Tirunelveli District, Tamil Nadu.
Which is the best time of the year to visit the temple?
You can visit it any time of the year. However, if you want to visit it at the best time, winter is the season. Plan your trip to visit the temple from November to February, and around this time the temple celebrates Vaikuntha Ekadasi.
Which types of architectural examples can you see here?
Krishnapuram Venkatachalapathy Temple dates back to the 16th Century. So, you will see the architectural marvel of the Nayak Dynasty. Besides, it also has the touch of the Dravidian and Islamic styles of architecture.
Who built Krishnapuram Venkatachalapathy Temple?
Krisnapuram Temple was built during the Nayak Dynasty. Per the inscriptions, this temple was built by Krisnappa Nayak, the son of Viswanatha Nayak. He was the founder of the Madurai Nayak Dynasty.
What is Krishnapuram famous for?
Krishnapuram is a village in Tirunelveli District of Tamil Nadu. It is famous for Krishnapuram Venkatachalapathy Temple mainly and soothing nature.
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