Kanniyakumari

Kanyakumari Temple

Devi Kanya Kumari (a form of Goddess Parvati) who inspires the name of mainland India’s southernmost city is worshipped at Kanyakumari Temple. The temple is located close to the grand confluence of Indian Ocean, Bay of Bengal and Arabian Sea, the aspect which makes it religiously significant and worth a visit. Hindu pilgrims consider it auspicious to bathe in the holy waters at the confluence which they call Triveni Sangam. The temple is counted among the 51 shakti-peethas (abodes of Goddess Shakti or Parvati) and is of great reverence among the Hindus. The temple, which portrays beautiful architecture, was originally established by Lord Parshurama. The mesmerizing idol of Kanya Kumari holds a garland and is well-known for the diamond nose ring. It is believed that the glitters of the ring would misguide ships which would ultimately suffer wreck. To avoid it, the eastern door of the temple remains closed and is opened only on few special occasions. Another highlight of the temple is its ancient well, called Patal Ganga Teertha, that supplies water to worship the idol. Once can also visit the Sripadapaara Rock located offshore where the goddess performed tough penance.