Venkataramana Temple, Karnataka

Venkataramana Temple is dedicated to Lord Venkatarama, an incarnation of one of the chief deities of Hindu pantheon, Lord Vishnu. The temple is located on the eastern end of the town of Gokarna. The deity is enshrined in the sanctum sanctorum. The passageway to it is guarded by huge columns. It should be noted that non-natives are not allowed to enter the Venkataramana temple premises. They can enjoy all the ceremonies held in the temple from outside. Stalls of vendors selling incense sticks and fruits for offering the deity are sprawling outside the temple walls.

There is a popular legend regarding the existence of the Venkataramana temple. According to it, Ravana, the demon king of Lanka and an ardent disciple of Lord Shiva made a second endeavour to bring the Atmalingam along with him to Lanka. Being notified by Narada, Lord Vishnu played a trick to stop Ravana from taking away the Atmalingam. He persuaded Lord Ganesha to help him in this venture. With his ‘chakra’ he shadowed the sun. Being a true Brahmin, the illusion of dusk led Ravana to perform his ‘sandhyavandana’ or evening prayer. As Ravana took vow of not to keep the Atmalingam on the ground he asked a young sage to hold the linga until he finishes his prayer. The youthful friar was Lord Ganesha who tricked Ravana and put down the Atmalingam on the ground, thus becoming its final place of worship. It is said that Lord Venkataramana keeps an eye on the Atmalingam, Tamra Gauri and the Maha Ganpati Temple from the eastern side of the Gokarna town. The Venkataramana Temple is revered upon by the devotees who visit in huge numbers to seek the blessing of their Lord.

Timings

Venkataramana Temple open at 06:00 AM to 12:00 NOON and then from 05:00 PM to 08.30 PM - Everyday

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