Pondicherry - Temples
Though Pondicherry is widely known as a French Enclave with the influence of French culture and tradition in all verticals, spirituality is also an essential aspect to be explored in Pondicherry. Whenever we hear about Pondicherry, we are getting reminded of Aurobindo Ashram, a popular location witnessing hundreds of devotees and tourists. ManakulaVinayagar temple is the iconic temple of Pondicherry. The temple is believed to be at least few hundred years old with Lord Ganesh as the presiding deity. Vedhapureeswarar temple where Lord Shiva is the presiding deity has a spacious architecture and a grand façade tower. Lord Vishnu receives equal number of devotees in Varadharaja Perumal temple adjacent to Vedhapureeswarar temple. KannigaParameswari temple is the another spiritual icon of Pondicherry with the presiding deity as Goddess Durga. The architecture of this temple is a blend of French and Tamil styles. When the anctum is in the tamil culture, there are stained glass panes around symbolising the French culture, an interesting combination to explore around. If you happen to be at Pondicherry during any of the festival days like Diwali, Pongal or Navaratri, pay a visit to Kamatchi Amman temple, and it is a delight to witness special poojas and rituals.
Irumbai Shiva Temple
Temple's Peculiarity: This temple is hailed as one of the Thevara stalas, with Lord Siva as the prime effigy. This temple is a hoary one but now renovated into a stunning temple. This temple is anchored a few kilometers from Auroville village. Festivals:...
Kanniga Parameswari
Temple’s Peculiarity: This temple nestles in the MG Road at Pondicherry; it is a perfect blend of Dravidian and French architecture. Goddess Sakthi is the prime deity. It is a tranquil temple with excellent sculptures and art works. Festivals: Mostly...
Manakula Vinayagar
Temple's Peculiarity: This is the most famous Vinayaka temple in India, and is worshipped by all religion. Most of the features here are unique; this is the only temple were Lord Ganesha poses with his consorts and stands in three legs which is the rarest...
Navagraha Temple
Temple's Peculiarity: This enormous temple sprawls across two acre farm; all statues here are gigantic and amazing. The main God Saneeswara effigy is about 27 feet tall and all other star effigies are 15 feet tall. People from all over the world come here...
Panchavati Anjaneya Temple
Temple's Peculiarity: This famous Anjaneya temple is situated 12 km away from Pondicherry. This temple beams with the pride as it has the world's second largest Anjaneya effigy in the world. Festivals: This temple is mostly crowded during Saturdays; some...
Sri Vedapureeswarar Temple
Temple’s Peculiarity: This time worn temple is praised by many saints and has been renovated newly by Dewan Kandappa Mudaliyar .The prime deity Lord Siva is a swayambu lingam. This startling temple is dated 234 years back. Festivals: Being a famous Shiva...
Varadaraja Perumal Temple
Temple's Peculiarity: This age old temple is an important icon of Pondicherry and is praised as it is closely associated with one among the 108 Divya Desams at Thiruvahindrapuram. Lord Vishnu is the presiding deity gracing his devotees in a standing...