Nestled on the serene banks of Ashtamudi Lake in Kollam, Kerala, lies the Asramam Sree Krishna Swamy Temple, a place of profound spiritual significance. This sacred sanctuary draws devotees from far and wide, seeking the blessings of Lord Krishna, revered here as Navaneet Krishnan, the butter-loving child. The temple, with its rich history and vibrant traditions, offers a tranquil escape for those seeking solace and divine connection.
A Glimpse into History and Divinity
The Asramam Sree Krishna Swamy Temple’s history is steeped in legend and devotion. The idol of Unni Kannan (Toddler Krishna) is believed to have been installed by Villumangalam Swamy and is considered one of the first of its kind in Travancore. The temple, renovated in 1996, beautifully blends ancient reverence with modern accessibility. The walls are adorned with captivating murals depicting scenes from Hindu mythology, adding a layer of artistic richness to the spiritual atmosphere.
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Experiencing the Divine: Deities and Offerings
The main deity, Lord Sree Krishna, is the heart of the temple. Devotees offer Thrikkayyil Venna (butter), a symbolic offering representing Krishna’s fondness for it. Tulsi Mala (garlands of Tulsi leaves) are also offered as a mark of reverence. The temple is also home to other deities, including Swamy Ayyappan, majestically seated on an elephant, Naga Devatas, and the Navagrahas.
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Festivals: A Celebration of Faith
The temple comes alive during festivals, most notably Kollam Pooram, coinciding with Vishu in April. This vibrant festival draws numerous tourists and devotees, immersing them in a colorful celebration of faith. Ashtami Rohini, celebrating Lord Krishna’s birth, is another significant festival. The annual temple festival, held in the Malayalam month of Meenam (March-April), is a grand spectacle of rituals and cultural performances.
A Unique Setting: The Temple Mount and Pond
The temple is uniquely situated atop a mount, formed from earth excavated from a nearby location. This excavated area now forms the temple pond, adding a touch of serenity to the surroundings. This unique feature adds to the temple’s charm and offers a peaceful spot for reflection.
Visiting the Temple: Timings and Guidelines
The temple welcomes devotees throughout the year. For a truly immersive experience, consider visiting during the early morning hours for the morning abhishekam, a sacred ritual bathing of the deity. Modest attire is recommended as a mark of respect. The temple provides amenities like parking and restrooms for the convenience of visitors.
Reaching the Asramam Sree Krishna Swamy Temple
The temple is easily accessible by various modes of transport:
- By Air: Trivandrum International Airport is approximately 68-70 km away, offering convenient access for domestic and international travelers. From the airport, taxis and buses are readily available to Kollam.
- By Rail: Kollam Railway Station is just 2.8 km from the temple. Autos and taxis are readily available outside the station, ensuring a hassle-free journey to the temple.
- By Road: Kollam KSRTC Bus Station is about 1.9 km from the temple. Frequent bus services connect Kollam to other major cities in Kerala and neighboring states. Local buses and taxis are available from the bus station to the temple.
Poojn.in: Your Companion on Your Spiritual Journey
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- Complete Krishna Puja Samagri Kits: Everything you need for a reverent puja, conveniently packaged. Consider our Holy Cosmetic section for traditional adornments for your deities.
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- Traditional Krishna Idols in Various Sizes: Find the perfect Murti for your home, mandir or altar. You might also like our Dakshina Maa Kali Murti for other devotional needs.
- Authentic Bengali-style Namavali/Ramabali clothes: Dress your deities in traditional attire.
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- Sacred items for Krishna abhishekam: Perform this sacred ritual with authentic items. Explore our range of Holy Utensils for your puja needs.
- Temple-specific Puja Kits: Convenient kits tailored for specific rituals and deities.
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Embracing Tradition and Devotion at Asramam
The Asramam Sree Krishna Swamy Temple offers a unique blend of history, spirituality, and cultural richness. Whether you seek solace in the morning abhishekam, participate in the vibrant Kollam Pooram, or simply offer a quiet prayer, the temple provides a sanctuary for all. Plan your visit and experience the divine grace of Lord Krishna on the tranquil shores of Ashtamudi Lake.
Common Questions About Visiting Asramam Sree Krishna Swamy Temple
Is there a dress code? Yes, traditional attire is preferred. Men often wear dhotis, and women are encouraged to wear sarees or other traditional Indian dresses. This shows respect for the sanctity of the temple.
What are the temple timings? The temple generally opens early in the morning, around 4:30 AM, closes around 11:30 AM, and reopens in the evening, typically at 5:00 PM, closing around 8:00 PM. It’s always a good idea to check the specific timings, especially during festivals, as they can vary.
What offerings are appropriate for Lord Krishna? Traditional offerings include Thrikkayyil Venna (butter), Tulsi Mala (garlands of Tulsi leaves), and fruits. You can also offer special pujas. Looking for pure and authentic puja items? Explore poojn.in’s Holy Food selection.
What are the main festivals celebrated? Kollam Pooram, coinciding with Vishu in April, is a major festival, along with Ashtami Rohini and the annual temple festival in Meenam (March-April).
Can I find puja items related to these festivals online? Absolutely! Poojn.in offers a wide variety of Jaribooti and other puja essentials to help you observe these sacred occasions.
What is the historical significance of the temple? The idol is believed to be one of the first Unni Kannan (Toddler Krishna) idols installed in Travancore, making it historically significant.
