Sri Srikanteshwara swamy Temple, Rastrapathi Road, Nanjangudu

The Sri Srikanteshwara Swamy Temple is a famous Hindu temple located in Nanjangud, a town in the Mysore district of Karnataka, India. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is considered one of the important pilgrimage sites in the region.

Here are some key details about the Sri Srikanteshwara Swamy Temple:

• Location: The temple is situated on Rastrapathi Road in Nanjangud, which is approximately 23 kilometres away from the city of Mysore.
• Deity: The presiding deity of the temple is Lord Shiva, who is worshipped as Sri Srikanteshwara Swamy. It is believed to be an ancient temple and holds great religious significance.
• Architecture: The temple showcases the Dravidian style of architecture, characterized by its intricate carvings, towering gopuram (entrance tower), and beautifully adorned sanctum sanctorum.
• Festivals: The temple celebrates several festivals throughout the year, with the annual Shivaratri festival being the most significant. During this time, devotees from various parts of the state gather to offer prayers and seek blessings.
• Legend: According to mythology, it is believed that Lord Shiva visited Nanjangud and stayed in the form of a Lingam (symbolic representation) beneath a tree. The temple was later constructed at the same spot to commemorate this event.

Here are some common amenities you can typically find at Hindu temples:

1. Darshan (Prayer Hall): The temple provides a dedicated space for devotees to offer prayers and has a darshan (sight) of the deity. This area is usually well-maintained and organized.
2. Annadanam (Free Meals): Many temples offer annadanam, where free meals are served to devotees. This service is often provided on certain days or during festivals.
3. Restrooms: Temples generally have restroom facilities available for visitors to use.
4. Shoe Stands: As a customary practice, visitors are required to remove their footwear before entering the temple premises. Shoe stands or designated areas are provided to store shoes securely.
5. Prasad Counter: Prasad, which is considered a blessed offering, is distributed to devotees after offering prayers. Temples usually have a designated counter where Prasad can be collected.
6. Parking: Some temples provide parking facilities for the convenience of visitors. These parking areas may be free or require a nominal fee.
7. Shops and Bazaars: Near the temple premises, you might find shops and bazaars selling religious items, souvenirs, and other products.
8. Drinking Water: Water facilities, such as drinking water fountains or water dispensers, may be available for visitors to quench their thirst.

Here are the general timings:

Morning:

• Darshan: The temple usually opens early in the morning, around 6:00 AM or 6:30 AM.
• Abhishekam: The ritualistic bathing of the deity with holy water and offerings usually takes place in the morning hours. Devotees can witness or participate in this ceremony.
• Archana and Puja: Special prayers and rituals are performed by the temple priests during the morning hours.

Afternoon: 

• The temple may close for a few hours during the afternoon. The closing time can vary but is typically around 1:00 PM or 2:00 PM.
• During this time, the temple premises may undergo cleaning and preparations for the evening rituals.

Evening:

• Darshan: The temple reopens in the evening, usually around 4:00 PM or 5:00 PM.
• Evening Arati: Aarti (ritual of offering light to the deity) is performed, accompanied by chanting and devotional songs.
• Darshan continues until the closing time.