Located on Srirangapatna, an island in the river Kaveri, Ranganathaswamy Temple is one of the country’s most revered Temples. It is dedicated to Ranganatha, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. It is considered to be one of the Pancharanga Kshetram (five most important shrines devoted to Lord Vishnu) in South India. The presiding deity is known as Adi Ranga as it is the first Temple from upstream.
Besides the religious significance, the Temple is also renowned for its fine architecture. A stunning example of Hindu architecture, the Temple has a striking tower along with two huge Prakarams around the sanctum at the entrance. A pavilion, lined with pillars leads to the main shrine. These pillars are intricately carved, showcasing the exceptional craftsmanship of the people of the past era.
Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple
Srirangapatna Temple is dedicated to Lord Sri Ranganathaswamy located in Mysore. Lord Sri Ranganatha is in the reclining posture on a seven hooded Adisesha. This temple was built in the 9th Century AD by Ganga chieftain Tirumala Raya. The huge temple tower was built in 849 AD. Even Pandya kings contributed towards the temple construction. This temple received huge patronage from Hoysala and Vijayanagara kings, Mysore Wodeyars, Hyder Ali. Temple was enlarged in 1454 A.D by Thimmana who was the viceroy in the Vijayanagara dynasty. Hoysala King Vishnu Vardhan invited Sri Ramanujacharya to stay at Srirangapatnam. Sri Ramanujam stayed here at Thondanur which is 20 km from Srirangapatna.
Srirangapatna Temple
One of the prominent Hindu shrines, Sri Ranganathaswamy/Srirangapatna Temple also presents a brilliant example of architectural magnificence. Its architecture can be traced back to Vijayanagar as well as Hoysala style.
The entrance of the temple with four majestic pillars which have been beautifully crafted with 24 forms of Lord Vishnu is an example of Hoysala architectural style which gives importance to artistic side of any creation. It is said that as Hoysalas appreciated art and crafts as well as supported artisans in their creations. The exquisite works on the temple reflect the same style of architecture. Another example is the temple’s prakaram which has been painted with wide array of mythological stories. At the same time, one can also see influences of Vijayanagar style of architecture. Gopuram of the temple with intricate carvings reflect Vijayanagar style. Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple also has magnificent walls, similar to those around forts. There is a navaranga mandapam, surrounding the sanctum sanctorum of the temple.
What is Panchranga Kshetrams?
Panchranga Kshetrams is a group of five temples of Ranganatha (a form of Lord Vishnu) located on the banks of river Kaveri. The five temples are as follows:
- Sri Ranganatha Swamy Temple, Srirangapatna (Mysore)
- Sri Ranganatha Swamy Temple, Srirangam (Trichy)
- Sri Rangapani Temple, Kumbakonam
- Sri Apakudatham Temple, (Trichy)
- Sri Parimala Ranganath Perumal Temple, Mayiladudurai
Popular Legends of Ranganathaswamy Temple Srirangapatna
Many people take a holy dip in the Kaveri River to rid themselves of their sins. Even the Goddess Ganga used to come and get rid of the sins of the people which she absorbed (through river). Kaveri was surrounded by all these sins. The only refuge she had was Lord Vishnu. Kaveri performed austerities at Srirangapatna to please Lord Vishnu. The Lord was pleased with his penance and gave her three boons:
- The Kaveri River will have greater purity than the Ganges River.
- Srirangapatna will become a pilgrimage.
- Lord Vishnu will appear here as Lord Ranganatha to bless the devotees and fulfill their wishes.
After being honored with these boons, Kaveri worshiped God. Prabhu then revealed himself as a very beautiful deity resting on the serpent Aditya. Hearing this, Lakshmi, who is the consort of Lord Vishnu, came with Kaveri to see God. She then bathes in the holy river, and after worshiping the Lord, reveals herself to the southeast of the Lord.
Srirangapatna Temple Timings
Srirangapatna Temple Timings or Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple timings are from 07.30 am to 01.00 pm. Temple again opens for devotees in the evening hours from 04.00 pm to 08.00 pm. While visiting Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple from Mysore, tourists can also go explore other popular places in and around Srirangapatna. Tipu Fort, Nimishamba temple, Gosai Ghat and Jama Masjid are a few popular sightseeing places here.
Srirangapatna Tourist Places
Located to the western end of the Srirangapatna town which boasts of great historical and religious significance, Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple is about 14 km from Mysore. From Bangalore this town is at a distance of 125 km.
The best time to visit Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple is during Kotarothsava festival. This festival which is dedicated to Lord Ranganatha, is celebrated with great vigour and grandeur.
One can reach this town via road from Mysore and Bangalore as it lies on the Bangalore-Mysore State Highway. There are many buses that run regularly between these places. One can also hire taxis to reach the temple from Mysore. To reach Bangalore and Mysore, tourists can travel via trains and even fly to Bangalore as well. Mysore is the nearest railway station to Srirangapatna.
