Eri Katha Ramar Temple - Madhuranthakam, Mahabalipuram - Timings, History, Darshan, Pooja Timings

At a distance of 43 km from Mahabalipuram, Eri Katha Ramar Temple is a Hindu temple located in the town of Maduranthakam, Tamil Nadu, India. It is one of the most popular places to visit as part of Mahabalipuram pilgrimage packages.

Sri Eri Katha Temple is dedicated to Lord Rama, revered here as Ramanujar. Constructed during the Pallava period, the temple is approximately 1600 years old, making it one of the oldest Rama temples in South India. The temple features inscriptions that attest to the generous donations made by Chola king Parantaka I. This site gained prominence during the Chola dynasty, known as Maduranthaga Chaturvedi Mangalam, named after the Chola ruler Madurantaga Uttama Chola (973-985 CE). The temple is also referred to by various names, including Vaikunda Varthanam, Thirumathurai, Thirumanthira Tirupathi, and Karunagara Vilagam.

The temple is renowned for its association with the legend of Lord Rama safeguarding the Madurantakam Lake from flooding during intense rainfall. It is honored by figures such as Ramanujar and Thirumalisai Alvar and is recognized as one of the 108 Abhimana Kshethrams within the Vaishnavite tradition. This location is significant as it is where the presiding deity was named Ramanuja, and Thirumalisai Alvar achieved enlightenment here. Additionally, Sri Ramanujar received the Pancha Samskara Mantram at this site.

The temple is constructed in the traditional Dravidian architectural style, distinguished by its towering gopurams (gateway towers) and elaborate carvings. The temple complex, oriented towards the east and situated near Lake Madhuranthakam, features an 8-foot-tall standing idol of Lord Ramanuja alongside Seetha and Lakshmana, while Lord Anjaneya is enshrined in a separate location outside the temple. Notably, this temple uniquely depicts Rama in a standing position with a bow. There are dedicated shrines for Sri Ramanujar and Sri Periya Nambigal. A concealed tunnel connects the lake to the temple tank. The Pushkarani, known as Sri Rama Theertham, requires maintenance and cleanliness. Additionally, there is a Vasantha Mandapam, and beyond it lies a Goshala for the care of cattle.

The principal festival celebrated at the temple is Sri Rama Navami, commemorating the birth anniversary of Sri Rama. Ani Brahmostavam during the Tamil month of Aani (July - August), and Panchasamskaram festival signifying the sanctification of Ramanuja are the other major festival celebrated in the temple.

Timings: 7.30 AM - 11.30 AM, & 4.30 PM - 8.30 PM

Entry: Free