Lakshadeepam(one lac lights) at Sripadmanabhaswamy Temple Trivandrum

Lakshadeepam



Seeveli on January 14 2008

The famous Sri Padmanabhaswamy Temple of Trivandrum celebrates Lakshdeepam or one Lac Lights once in 6 years.In 2008 it was observed on January 14.The first such Lakshadeepam was held in mid January 1750 AD.Since then every six years this magnificieant spectacle is being celebrated.The entire temple and the Gopuram is decorated with lights and it is a treat to watch.

The Lakshadeepam is preceded by a 56 day Yajna known as the "Murajapam" literally means Japa done in cyclic rotation.The origin of this goes back to the Mabhabharatha and puranic times.To this day it is done without a break

The next Lakshadeepam is on January 14, 2014

A Trip to Karaiyar Dam

Karaiyar Dam

Karaiyar Dam or Tambraparani dam is around 20 km from the Town of Papanasam in Tirunelvely district of Tamil Nadu.The dam is inside the Kalakkad-Mundamthurai Tiger reserve.But spotting tigers is very remote as many vehicles ply in this route including State Transport buses everyday.

Karayar Dam and Surroundings

But a trip to this place is very invigorating as you pass thru beautiful landscapes,waterfalls and rivers.One may not spot the magnificient Indian cat,the tiger but Nilgiri Lnagurs,Lion tailed macaques,Deers and numerous birds are sure sightings.The Agastyar Falls and the more famous Banatheertham falls can be accessed from this route.

Serene....The dam is upstream

To reach Bana falls you have to catch a boat from the Karaiyar dam and an half an hour cruise will take you there.Depending on the water level you have to trek uphill to have a refreshing bath in the falls.

Quite and Beautiful.... Trees on the river...

The Agastya mountains can be trekked from here with prior permission from the Forest Department.

Relaxing.......

Kalakkad-Mundamthurai Tiger Reserve

Iron Bridge on way to Karaiyar Dam

Sure Sightings

Kids can have a nice time..

The Board says it...But difficult to sight

Boats at Karaiyar Dam...