9 Iconic Divya Desams In South India

1. Venkateswara Temple, Andhra Pradesh:

This temple is located in Tirumala near Tirupathi, Andhra Pradesh. It's perched atop the Seshachalam Hills and attracts millions of devotees who seek blessings for prosperity, protection, and salvation.

2. Parthasarathy Temple, Tamil Nadu:

Parthasarathy Temple is one of the oldest and most revered temples in South India. It was originally built in the 8th century by the Pallavas. This ancient shrine is not just a place of worship but a spiritual and cultural landmark as well.

3. Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Kerala:

Padmanabhaswamy Temple is located in Thiruvananthapuram, the capital of Kerala. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, this gained worldwide fame when hidden treasure worth billions was discovered in one of the underground vaults here.

4. Varadaraja Perumal Temple, Tamil Nadu:

Varadaraja Perumal Temple in Tamil Nadu was built in th 11th century by the Cholas. Set amidst the sacred city of Kanchipuram, this temple is known for its huge carved stone pillar, ornate 100-pillared hall, and decorated Rajagopuram.

5. Ranganathaswamy Temple, Tamil Nadu:

Ranganathaswamy Temple, spread over 150 acres, is one of the largest Hindu temples in the world. The tallest gopuram of this temple lies at 236 feet. It's dedicated to Lord Ranganatha, who lies on the serpent Adisesha.

6. Cheluvanarayana Swamy Temple, Karnataka:

Cheluvanarayana Swamy Temple, also known as Thirunarayana Temple is located in Melukote. It's a major pilgrimage centre that's dedicated to Lord Cheluvanarayana Swamy. This temple is known to have deep roots in the religious history of South India.

7. Tiruneermalai, Tamil Nadu:

Tiruneermalai is a sacred hill temple that's known for its mythological significance in Vaishnavism. It's unique for housing the four forms of Lord Vishnu. The holy temple tank and surrounding ponds add to the peaceful ambiance of the temple.

8. Imayavarappan Temple, Kerala:

Imayavarappan Temple is located in the serene village of Perungottukara. It's famous for its traditional Kerala-style architecture and vibrant festivals like Vaikunta Ekadashi and Vishu. The presiding deity is said to have been worshipped by sages and celestial beings.

9. Thirumogoor Shri Kalameghaperumal Temple, Tamil Nadu:

Thirumogoor Shri Kalameghaperumal Temple located near Madurai is known for its Dravidian architecture. This temple in Tamil Nadu features majestic gopurams, intricate carvings, and sacred tanks.