Sripuram, Vellore - Timings, Festivals, History, Darshan, Pooja Timings

About Sripuram Golden Temple

At a distance of 10 Km from Vellore, 70 Km from Kanchipuram, 120 Km from Tirupati, 146 Km from Chennai, and 212 Km from Bangalore, Sripuram Golden Temple, officially known as Sri Lakshmi Narayani Golden Temple, is a sacred Hindu temple situated in Tirumalaikodi suburb of Vellore, Tamil Nadu. It is one of the popular pilgrimage sites near Bangalore, and among the must visit places as part of Vellore tour. Dedicated to the goddess Lakshmi, the temple is famous for its stunning gold-covered architecture, made of real gold foil, making it unique in the world.

History of Sripuram Golden Temple

The Sripuram Golden Temple was established by Sri Sakthi Amma, the founder of Sri Narayani Peedam, a spiritual organization dedicated to fostering peace, harmony, and spirituality. The temple's construction commenced in 2001 and reached completion in 2007. It is devoted to Goddess Mahalakshmi, who is revered for granting wealth, prosperity, and blessings to her followers. The Sripuram Golden Temple serves as a testament to faith, devotion, and divine grace.

Architecture of Sripuram Golden Temple

Spanning an impressive 100 acres, the Golden Temple of Sripuram is constructed in the Vedic architectural style, serving as a remarkable oasis of spirituality. The temple is adorned with 1500 kg of pure gold foil applied in fifteen layers, which is double the 750 kg used to gild the dome of the Amritsar Golden Temple in Punjab. Both the interior and exterior of the vimanam and the ardha mandapam of the Mahalakshmi Temple are embellished with pure gold. Every intricate detail of the gold craftsmanship has been meticulously created by hand. A 70 kg idol of Mahalakshmi, made of pure gold, has been consecrated in the sanctum sanctorum of the Golden Temple of Sripuram, Tamil Nadu, where the presiding deity is revered as Sri Swarna Lakshmi. Devotees are permitted to perform abhishekam to the idol at this location.

A prominent feature of the Sripuram Temple complex is a star-shaped pathway, inspired by Lord Vishnu's Sudarshan Chakra, which extends over 1.8 km. The main shrine dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi Narayani is situated at the center of this star-shaped path. As devotees walk along the starpath, they encounter various Vedic verses, spiritual messages, and teachings on human virtues.

Surrounding the temple is a vast, lush green park that boasts nearly 20,000 different species of plants. Additionally, there is an Eco-pond named 'Sarvatheertham,' created by sourcing water from all major rivers across India. The temple complex offers a range of facilities, including guesthouses, a dormitory, a dining hall, helipads, waiting areas, a prasadam counter, parking, medical assistance, a cloakroom, restrooms, and a souvenir shop. The entire complex is illuminated in such a manner that the temple sparkles even during the darkest hours of the night.

Festivals of Sripuram Golden Temple

The Sripuram Golden Temple in Vellore organizes a range of festivals and events annually, such as the Natyanjali Dance Festival, Navaratri, and specific pujas and homams during Dasara, in addition to the celebrations for Sri Sakthi Amma's Jayanthi. The Natyanjali Dance Festival, a five-day event held in February or March on the eve of Maha Shivarathri, is a must-see for those who appreciate art, dance, and spirituality.

Dress Code & Other Restrictions of Sripuram Golden Temple

While there isn't a strict dress code for visiting the Sripuram Golden Temple, it's recommended to dress modestly and respectfully, covering your shoulders and legs, as a mark of respect for the temple's sanctity. Men are encouraged to wear a dhoti or pajama paired with an upper garment, as well as formal trousers and shirts. Women may opt for a saree, half saree, or churidhar. Avoid wearing nightwear, short pants, midis, short dresses, and bermudas.

Non-Hindus are welcome to explore the temple complex and appreciate its architectural beauty; however, access to the sanctum sanctorum may be restricted.

Sripuram Golden Temple Timings

Monday: 8 AM - 8 PM
Tuesday: 8 AM - 8 PM
Wednesday: 8 AM - 8 PM
Thursday: 8 AM - 8 PM
Friday: 8 AM - 8 PM
Saturday: 8 AM - 8 PM
Sunday: 8 AM - 8 PM

Sripuram Golden Temple Entry Fee

General Entry is Free
Special Darshan available for Rs. 250

Best Time to Visit Sripuram

The best time to visit Sripuram Golden Temple is between the months of October to February when the weather is pleasant, and suitable for exploration. It is also the time to witness the Natyanjali Dance Festival, and Navaratri celebrations at the temple. The temple is open to visitors throughout the year, but it is recommended to avoid visiting during peak hours or festivals when the temple can get overcrowded. Summer months from March-May are very hot, and humid so avoid visiting the temple.

How to Reach Sripuram

The Golden Temple in Sripuram is 6 Km away from the city centre which can be reached via a private taxi, cab or auto. One needs to walk about 1 km to reach the central gopuram from the main temple entrance. About 126 Km from Vellore, Chennai International Airport is the nearest airport that has well-flight connectivity with almost all the major cities of India, and abroad. Katpadi Junction on the outskirts of Vellore has frequent train connectivity with cities like Chennai, Bangalore, Tirupati, Vijayawada, Mangalore, Trivandrum, Coimbatore, etc. Vellore Bus Station is connected with frequent buses with Chennai, Kanchipuram, Pondicherry, Chittoor, Tirupathi, and Bangalore.