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Do you know the tales of Vivekananda Rock Memorial?

By Akshatha Vinayak

Truely, this memorial amidst the rocky patch on the sea is elegantly alluring. It is dedicated to Swami Vivekananda, who stood as an inspiration to the Indian youngsters. Swami Vivekananda Rock Memorial is a famous tourist attraction in Kanyakumari of Tamil Nadu.

Vivekananda Rock

An Overview of Vivekananda Rock
Photo Courtesy: Bhawani Gautam

Vivekananda Rock Memorial is built on one of the rocks near the coast of Vavathurai represents the Southernmost tip of India. Swami Vivekananda is said to have attained enlightenment here; so, a memorial was constructed in the year 1970.

Local legends say that this is also a rock where Goddess Kanyakumari performed meditation. So it is not just a tourist place but also an important pilgrimage site.

Vivekananda Memorial

Entrance of the memorial
Photo Courtesy: Nikhil B

The memorial also consists of a meditation hall (Dhyana Mandapam). Tourists can also meditate in this meditation hall. The structure has a blend of architectural styles found in India. A tall statue of Swami Vivekananda is one of the major attractions of this place.

The memorial has two parts: one is the Vivekananda Mandapam and another is the Shripada Mandapam. There is an interesting story behind these constructions. In the year 1962, a group of Vivekananda's followers decided to build a memorial on the occasion of centenary (birth anniversary) of Swami Vivekananda.

Vivekananda memorial

Vivekananda Rock at Night
Photo Courtesy: Nomad Tales

This idea didn't go well with Catholics residing there. They firmly believed it as St.Xavier's rock and fixed a Cross. Later, the whole place was under dispute. After some time, it was decided that it is Vivekananda rock. Initially, the government had only given permission to build a small memorial. It was only due to the efforts of Eknath Ranade that the statue and the structure were created in 1970. Today, Vivekananda Rock Memorial is a well-known landmark of India.

Places to Visit in Kanyakumari

Kanyakumari is one of the famous tourist places in Tamil Nadu. Tiruvalluvar Statue, Kumari Amman Temple, Thanumalayam Temple, Vattakotai Fort, Our Lady of Ransom Church, Padmanabhapuram Palace, Gandhi Memorial, Kanyakumari Beach, etc. are the popular places to visit in Kanyakumari.

How to Reach Vivekananda Rock Memorial

Vivekananda Memorial is open from 8 AM to 5 PM on all days except Tuesdays. It can only be reached by ferries which are available from the mainland.

Click - How to Reach Kanyakumari

Read more about: kanyakumari tamil nadu
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