Pandharpur Yatra, Maharashtra
Vithal Rukmini Temple Pandharpur
The god of Pandharpur lives in the land of the common people. Vithoba (Vishnu's local name, an affectionate form of Vithal) the village deity has traditionally been God of the masses, living them, even looking and behaving as one of them rather than an awesome superoir being. In heartland of the Bhakri movement. Vishnu's main abode the vithoba temple is located in the center of the raised, holy part of the town.
In 2010, the date of commencement of Tukaram Maharaj Palkhi from Dehu is July 3. The Pandarpur Yatra finishes on Ashadi Ekadasi on July 21, 2010. Pilgrims follow the Shri Tukaram Maharaj Palkhi from Dehu and Sant Dnyaneshwar Palkhi from Alandi, which is a 21-day travel by foot to Pandarpur.
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Tuljapur Bhavani Temple:The temple is situated on a very peculiar site. It is located on one of the deep slopes on the ranges of the Bala Ghat This stage consists mainly of the large tank known as the Kallola tirth. After the construction of the nivas of the Devi was over. Vishvakarma took leave of Brahmadeva on whose command he had Come down to the Yamunachala to build it. Brahmadeva decided to create the-tirths necessary for any kshetra.
Ganganapur Dattatreya Is considered to be the incarnation of either Vishnu or the all-powerful Trinity of Hindu mythology viz. Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesh. The story of his birth and his life is to be found in various texts. Dattatreya is the son of the sage Atri and his wife Anasuya
Mangala Devi Temple, Kerala
Mangala Devi Temple, Thekkady
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The Mangala Devi Temple is located in the forested Periyar wild life sanctuary near Kumily, Idukki Dt., Kerala. The 1000 year old temple is an architectural find in the middle of deep woods atop a 1337 m high peak. About 15 km from Thekkady, this ancient stone temple dedicated to local deity Mangala/ Kannaki, is designed in typical Pandian style. Timing 6 am to 6 pm. Entry up to 3 pm.
The temple serves as a perfect vantage point to view the Western Ghats from a different perspective, and enjoy panoramic views of the vast plains of Tamil Nadu stretching into distance.
Visitors are allowed to this sacred shrine only during the Chithra Pournami festival day when it is thronged by the locals from in and around Thekkady. Both Keralites and Tamilians visit the shrine to offer puja amidst of high security. To visit this temple otherwise, you would require permission from Wildlife Warden of Thekkady. Contact Wildlife Warden for permit : 04869 222027.
The pilgrimage route passes through dense forests and the impact is minimised through strict vigil by forest personnel. Night stay is not permitted. No photography is permitted due to an inter state border issue.
Route : Reach Kumily by bus from Kottayam/Kochi. Access from Kumily by jeep (Rs 50, Car Rs 800) and the rest by a 13 km trek.
Festival Date : 17/18 April 2011.