KUMARI AMMAN TEMPLE

Kumari Amman Temple is a 3000-year-old temple located in the city of Kanyakumari. It is a symbol of spirituality and tradition. The temple honours Goddess Kumari Amman as a symbol of purity and innocence. The temple's location, where the Arabian Sea, the Bay of Bengal, and the Indian Ocean meet, adds to its charm. The main attraction here is the deity's diamond nose ring. According to legends, the glow from the nose ring is said to guide sailors.

The temple also has stunning architecture which reflects a rich tapestry of history. It blends elements from various dynasties that have shaped its structure over time. The temple's history is as captivating as its beauty.

It is said that the Goddess promised to remain a virgin after her marriage to Lord Shiva was not fulfilled. The diamond nose ring of the Goddess has caused ships to mistake it for a lighthouse. A trip to the Kumari Amman Temple is a must for anyone on their Kerala trip.

Highlights

• Witness the beauty of Goddess Kanya Kumari's idol famous for her diamond nose ring.
• Marvel at the temple's architecture, blending styles from the Pandya and Chola dynasties.
• Soak in views of panoramic sunrises and sunsets at the temple, where three seas meet.
• Enhance your visit to the Temple with a trip to the nearby Vivekananda Rock Memorial.
• Dive into stories of Goddess Kanya Kumari's bravery to understand local traditions.

How To Reach

1. By Road: Take an auto-rickshaw ride or hire a taxi to reach the Kumari Amman Temple from Kanyakumari city centre. Both of these are readily available. You can also walk to the temple from the city centre. This will take around 5 to 7 minutes since the temple is just 600 metres away.

2. By Bus: Avail a ride in a state bus, and get off at the Kanyakumari Circle Bus Stop, which is located 350 metres away. From here, you can take a 5-minute walk to reach the temple.

3. By Train: If you are coming to Kumari Amman Temple from nearby cities, you can also take a train. Most trains arrive at Kanyakumari Railway Station, which is 1.3 kilometres from the temple. From here, you can take an auto-rickshaw or taxi to get to the temple, which will take around 10 minutes.

Best Time To Visit

Kumari Amman Temple, a sacred spot, is open to visitors throughout the year. It provides a tranquil and divine atmosphere anytime you visit. Visiting on weekdays is recommended to avoid the large crowds on weekends. This ensures a quieter and more reflective experience in the temple's serene surroundings.

Early mornings, specifically between 06:00 a.m. and 08:00 a.m., are the best times to visit. These hours offer a peaceful atmosphere and cooler temperatures. They are also perfect for meditation and enjoying the temple's spiritual essence.

Other Essential Information

1. Dress modestly to respect the temple's traditions by wearing sarees or churidars (for women) and shirts and trousers (for men).

2. Men must remove their shirts before entering the inner sanctum, adhering to temple customs.

3. Visit during opening hours of 04:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and 04:00 p.m. to 08:00 p.m. to avoid missing the opportunity to see the deity.

4. Avoid carrying cameras or using flash since photography inside the temple is prohibited.

5. Plan your visit on weekdays to experience a quieter atmosphere and shorter queues.

6. Carry water and wear comfortable footwear, as you might need to walk or stand for extended periods.

7. Be mindful of the temple's serene ambience and speak softly without making any noise.

8. Leave your footwear outside or at designated spots before entering the temple premises.