Manakula Vinayagar Temple is a popular Hindu temple located in the city of Pondicherry, India. The temple is dedicated to Lord Ganesha, also known as Vinayagar, who is revered as the remover of obstacles and the Lord of Beginnings in Hinduism.
This temple has a long and rich history, and it is considered one of the most important cultural and spiritual landmarks in the city.
The temple is believed to have been established over 300 years ago during the French colonial era.
The temple is named after the Manakula Vinayagar deity, which is a combination of two words – ‘Manal’ meaning sand and ‘Kulam’ meaning pond.
Architecture of Manakula Vinayagar Temple
The deity is so named because the temple was built on a sandy beach, which used to have a natural pond. Over the years, the temple has undergone several renovations and restorations, and it has now become a major attraction in Pondicherry.
The Manakula Vinayagar Temple is a marvel of architectural design, featuring a unique blend of Indian and French styles. The temple has a tall and imposing Gopuram or gateway, which is adorned with intricate carvings and statues of various Hindu deities.
The main shrine of the temple houses a 5-foot-tall statue of Lord Vinayagar, which is made of granite and decorated with precious stones and jewels. The temple also has smaller shrines dedicated to other deities, such as Lord Murugan, Lord Shiva, and Goddess Durga.
One of the unique features of the temple is the resident elephant, Laxmi. Laxmi is a gentle and well-trained elephant who is kept at the temple to bless devotees with her trunk. Devotees believe that receiving a blessing from Laxmi brings good luck and prosperity.
The temple also has a large pond in front of it, which adds to the serene and tranquil atmosphere of the place.
Brahmothsavam Festival
Manakula Vinayagar Temple is famous for its annual Brahmotsavam festival, which is celebrated for ten days during the Tamil month of Avani (August-September).
During this festival, the temple is adorned with beautiful decorations and lights, and a colorful procession takes place around the temple with the statue of Lord Vinayagar. Thousands of devotees from all over the country come to witness the festivities and seek the blessings of the deity.
Quick Facts
- Address: Manakula Vinayagar Koil St, White Town, Puducherry, ,605001, India
- District: Puducherry
- Affiliation: Hinduism
- Timings: 6.30 am & 12.30 pm & 4.30 pm & 9.00 pm
- Deity: Lord Ganesha
- Entry Fee: Free
- Visit Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Dress Code: decent outfit recommended
- Festivals: Brahmothsavam
- Best Time to Visit: October to March
Pooja Timings
Nadai Thirapu – 5.45 AM
Kaalasanthi(Morning) Abishegam – 6.30 AM
Theeparathanai – 7.30 AM
Uchikaalam – 11.00 AM
Nadai Sathal- 12.30 PM
Nadai Thirapu – 4.00 PM
Saiyangalam(Evening) Abishegam – 4.30 PM
Theeparathanai – 5.30 PM
Arthajama Pooja – 9.00 PM
Nadai Sathal – 9.30 PM
Spadigalingam Pooja Daily – 11 AM
ABISHEGAM TIMINGS
6.30 am Everyday for Devotees
11.00 am Monday to Thursday for Devotees
(Except Festival Days Evening Abhishegam for Night Dharshanam)
SANKATAHARA CHATTURTTI ABHISHEGAM (4 Times)
Morining – 6.30 am & 11.00 am
Evening – 4.30 pm & 9.00 pm
Travel Tips for Arulmigu Manakula Vinayagar Temple, Puducherry
- Choose traditional or ethnic dress whenever you plan to head to this location. It is not advisable to wear something that cannot help you cover your shoulder, head, and neck.
- Remove all the leather items before entering the complex. Though it is not a strict rule, it looks better if one maintains the decorum and sanctity of the temple.
- Do not take your footwear/slippers inside the temple. Since it is a sacred place, it is important to keep them outside the premises.
How To Reach Manakula Vinayagar Temple?
By Air
Pondicherry Airport is the nearest Airport which is 4.17 km away from the temple
Private cabs are available for the last mile connectivity.
By Rail
Another convenient way to arrive in Puducherry is via train. Puducherry Railway Station, the main station of the city, maintains good railway connectivity to the other metro cities of India and is only 1.7 km away from the location.
Private cabs are available for the last mile connectivity.
By Road
A road journey to the city is no less than a dream for all those who are fond of road trips and are nature lovers.
There is also a facility of private and state-owned buses available that operate on a regular basis to and from the destination. So, you don’t have to worry about anything.
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