Ranganathaswami Temple Divya Desam Srirangapatna

Srirangam is the foremost of the eight self-manifested shrines (Swayam Vyakta Kshetras) of Lord Vishnu . It is also considered the first, foremost and the most important of the 108 main Vishnu temples (Divyadesams). This temple is also known as Thiruvaranga Tirupati, Periyakoil, Bhoologa Vaikundam, Bhogamandabam.

Srirangapatna Ranganathaswami temple built in 894 AD is an abode to Sri Maha Vishnu, lord here is in a reclining position, resting over the coils of Adi Seshu (A seven head serpent). The reclining posture statue is said to be the largest statue of its kind in the state of Karnataka.

Srirangapatna Ranganathaswami Temple is one of the largest temples with a lofty tower. The Lord is reclining on Adi Sesha with the Goddess in His chest. The images of sage Gautama and Goddess Cauvery are enshrined at the holy feet of the Lord.

Saints and Alwars are enshrined on the corridors. Two pillars in front of the inner entrance are called Chaturvimsati. The 24 forms of Vishnu with their names are engraved thereon. In the north-west corner is the shrine of the Divine Consort Ranganayaki Thayar and the sacred feet of the Lord. Pattabhirama with Sita and Anjaneya at His feet and Lord Rajamannar are wonderful sculptures. There is another Krishna shrine, which is very popular among the devotees. The images of Srinivasa and Panchamukha Anjaneya, installed by Guru Vyasaraya, are noteworthy.

Hyder Ali and his son Tipu Sultan, who ruled the region, had great respect for Lord Ranganatha. They have donated much towards the development of the temple.

Other shrines nearby: The temples of Gangadhareshwara and Lakshminarayana are situated nearby. They are known for beautiful sculptures. Rare images of Hamsa Gayatri, Dakshinamurti and Sri Adi Sankara are worshipped. Nimishambika shrine Goddess Nimishambika is enshrined in an ancient Shiva temple (20 km from Mysore) on the banks of river Cauvery. The temple is dedicated to Lord Mouktikeshwara. Also enshrined in the temple is Lord Lakshminarasimha. The devout strongly believe that the Goddess helps them succeed in any step they take by invoking Her. Many devotees make a thanks-giving visit to this temple later.