Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, Srirangam

Sthala Puranam

According to the Sriranga Mahatmyam, the Ranga Vimanam rose from the ocean of milk and stayed in Satyaloka. Later King Ikshvaku brought it to Ayodhya.

After Rama defeated Ravana, he gave the vimanam with Ranganatha to Vibhishana, who wanted to stay near Rama.

On his way to Lanka, Vibhishana stopped near Tiruchi and set the vimanam down. It would not move from the island. He gave it to the local king Dharmavarma on the condition that it face south, towards Lanka.

So the deity rests facing south on the coils of Adisesha.

Speciality

• Considered the foremost of the 108 Divya Desams.
• The temple and temple town cover about 63 hectares (155 acres). The complex counts dozens of shrines and 21 towers.
• The Rajagopuram is about 73 m (240 ft) tall and was completed in 1987.
• Vaikuntha Ekadasi, when the Paramapada Vasal (northern gate) is opened, draws huge crowds.

Festivals

• Vaikuntha Ekadasi and the Adhyayana Utsavam (Margazhi, December–January)
• Chithirai Brahmotsavam

How to reach

Before you go

• Dress modestly. Leave footwear outside the temple.
• Timings, ticket rules and dress codes change. Check the temple's own notice or website before you travel.
• Book darshan, rooms and special poojas only at the official counter or website, not through agents.
• The complex is very large. Allow at least half a day and wear footwear you can remove easily.

Prayers for this temple

• Vishnu Gayatri (Narayana)
• Achyutam Keshavam