Kalady is a small town in Ernakulam district of Kerala, India. It is famous for being the birthplace of Adi Shankara, one of the most influential philosophers and reformers of Hinduism. Kalady is a pilgrimage destination for devotees of Adi Shankara and his philosophy of Advaita Vedanta. Kalady is also home to several ancient temples, monuments, and cultural centers that reflect the rich heritage and diversity of Kerala.
Kalady is situated on the banks of the Periyar river, which adds to its scenic beauty and spiritual significance. In this article, we will explore the history, culture, and attractions of Kalady, and why it is a must-visit place for anyone interested in spirituality, philosophy, and nature.
Adi Shankara: The 8th Century Indian Philosopher and the Founder of Advaita Vedanta
Adi Shankara was born in Kalady in the 8th century CE. He was a prodigy who mastered the Vedas and the Upanishads at a young age. He renounced the worldly life and became a wandering monk, spreading his teachings of Advaita Vedanta across India. Advaita Vedanta is a school of Hindu philosophy that asserts the non-duality of the ultimate reality, Brahman, and the individual self, Atman. Adi Shankara also revived the tradition of monasticism and established four mathas or monasteries in the four corners of India. He also wrote commentaries on the scriptures and composed hymns and verses that are still revered and recited by millions of Hindus. Adi Shankara is regarded as one of the greatest thinkers and reformers of Indian history, and his influence can be seen in various aspects of Indian culture, religion, and art.
Kirti Stambh: The Seven-Storey Tower that Commemorates the Life and Teachings of Adi Shankara
One of the main attractions in Kalady is the Kirti Stambh, or the Tower of Fame, that stands tall in the center of the town. It is a seven-storey tower that was built by the Kanchi Kamakoti Peetham, one of the mathas founded by Adi Shankara. The tower is dedicated to the life and teachings of Adi Shankara, and each floor of the tower represents a different aspect of his philosophy and achievements. The tower also houses a museum that displays various artifacts, paintings, and sculptures related to Adi Shankara and his times. The tower offers a panoramic view of the town and the river from the top floor. The tower is open from 8 am to 6 pm, and the entry fee is Rs. 10 per person. The tower is easily accessible by road and is located near the bus stand.
Sringeri Math: The Monastery Complex that Houses the Shrines of Adi Shankara and Goddess Sharada
Another attraction in Kalady is the Sringeri Math, or the Sringeri Sharada Peetham, which is the first and the most important of the four mathas established by Adi Shankara. The math is a sprawling complex that houses the shrines of Adi Shankara and Goddess Sharada, the presiding deity of the math. The math also has a Vedic school, a library, and a museum that showcase the history and culture of the math and its lineage of Shankaracharyas, or the head monks. The math is a center of learning and spirituality, and hosts various festivals and events throughout the year. The math is open from 6 am to 12 pm and from 4 pm to 8 pm, and the entry is free. The math is located on the eastern bank of the Periyar river, and can be reached by boat or by road.
Shiva Temple: The Temple of the ‘Dancing White Deer’, Where Adi Shankara’s Parents Prayed for a Child
The Shiva Temple in Kalady is a unique and ancient temple that is associated with the birth of Adi Shankara. According to legend, Adi Shankara’s parents, Shivaguru and Aryamba, were childless and prayed to Lord Shiva for a son. Shiva appeared in their dreams and gave them a choice: they could have a son who would live a long and ordinary life, or a son who would live a short and extraordinary life. They chose the latter, and Shiva blessed them with Adi Shankara. The temple is also known for its rare feature of a white deer that dances in front of the deity. The deer is believed to be an incarnation of Shiva, and is worshipped by the devotees. The temple also has idols of Shiva and Parvati, a pond, and a garden. The temple is open from 5 am to 12 pm and from 4 pm to 8 pm, and the entry is free. The temple is located on the western bank of the Periyar river, and can be reached by boat or by road.
Periyar River: The Second Longest River in Kerala and the Lifeline of Kalady
The Periyar river is the second longest river in Kerala and the lifeline of Kalady. The river flows through the town and divides it into two parts: the eastern and the western banks. The river is also connected with the life and philosophy of Adi Shankara, who was cremated on its banks. The river is a source of irrigation, drinking water, and hydroelectricity for the region. The river also offers various attractions and activities for the visitors, such as boating, fishing, birdwatching, and picnicking. The river is also home to various species of flora and fauna, such as elephants, deer, monkeys, crocodiles, turtles, and migratory birds. The best time to visit the river is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and the water level is moderate. The river can be reached by road or by boat from various points in the town.
Nearby Places to Visit: Other Popular and Interesting Destinations in and Around Kochi
Kalady is not only a spiritual and historical destination, but also a gateway to other popular and interesting destinations in and around Kochi, the commercial capital of Kerala. Kochi is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city that offers a blend of culture, history, nature, and adventure. Some of the nearby places to visit in Kochi are:
Subhash Park:
A lush and green park that overlooks the Arabian Sea and the Cochin Harbour. It is a popular spot for relaxation, recreation, and entertainment. It also has a children’s play area, a musical fountain, and a boating facility.
Cherai Beach:
A beautiful and clean beach that is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing. It is also known for its dolphin sightings and its seafood delicacies.
Mattancherry Palace:
A historical and cultural palace that was built by the Portuguese and gifted to the Raja of Kochi in the 16th century. It is also known as the Dutch Palace, as it was renovated by the Dutch in the 17th century. It showcases the art, architecture, and lifestyle of the royal family of Kochi, as well as the history and culture of Kerala.
Santa Cruz Basilica:
A majestic and elegant church that was built by the Portuguese in the 16th century and rebuilt by the British in the 19th century. It is one of the oldest and most important churches in Kerala, and is known for its Gothic and Romanesque style of architecture and its exquisite paintings and murals.
Jewish Synagogue:
A historic and religious synagogue that was built by the Jewish community in the 16th century. It is the oldest active synagogue in the Commonwealth of Nations, and is known for its ornate interiors, antique furniture, and rare artifacts.
Hill Palace of Tripunithura:
A grand and magnificent palace that was the official residence of the Maharaja of Cochin in the 19th century. It is now a museum that displays the royal collection of paintings, sculptures, coins, weapons, and jewellery. It also has a deer park, a herbal garden, and an archaeological gallery.
These are just some of the nearby places to visit in Kochi, and there are many more to explore and enjoy. You can view and book Kochi packages here and plan your trip to Kalady and Kochi.
Kalady is a town that offers a unique and enriching experience for anyone interested in spirituality, philosophy, and nature. It is the birthplace of Adi Shankara, the founder of Advaita Vedanta, and a pilgrimage destination for his devotees. It is also home to several ancient temples, monuments, and cultural centers that reflect the rich heritage and diversity of Kerala. Kalady is situated on the banks of the Periyar river, which adds to its scenic beauty and spiritual significance.
Kalady is also a gateway to other popular and interesting destinations in and around Kochi, the commercial capital of Kerala. Kalady is a place that will inspire you, enlighten you, and delight you. So, what are you waiting for? Book your trip to Kalady and Kochi today and experience the magic of Kerala.
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