If you are looking to make your travel itinerary based on top travel destination lists, then there is already so much you will miss out on your holiday.
Travel tickets, check!
Hotel Bookings, done!
Car rental in Mauritius, good to go!
But what you don’t realize is that a short description of any tourist spot or place cannot tell you what to experience out there. If you are opting for a car rental in Mauritius, then moving around the island isn’t much of a problem.
We are here with our 101 guides for the new age traveller so they know what to look forward to on their next Maurication
What is Sockalingum Meenatchee Ammen Kovil?
When looking across the horizon at Port Louis, you can see a glimpse of what may look like a scene Willy Wonka’s chocolate factory. But, this is the famous Sockalingum Meenatchee Ammen Tirukovil Shrine. It is locally popular by the name of Kaylasson Temple.
Believe it or not, but this place of religion is the most sought after by all the Tamil Hindus in Mauritius. The temple was built in the 19th century and the construction was finished in 2 phases primarily.
Drive with a car rental Mauritius & learn the history of Kaylasson
This rainbow looking temple has an equally colorful inception history. Architecturally, it is an amazing example of the Dravidian sculptures, which can easily be seen all around the dome. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva.
In 1854, the population of Mauritius was hit by a cholera epidemic. Scared of this, the religious Tamil merchants and traders of Port Louis decided to join hands in building a temple in the North of the city.
The first building phase came in 1854 when Indian artists and masons migrated with just a block of stone and commenced their work. It was during the next 4 years that the archways and temple were dedicated.
In the second phase that lasted till 1868, the artisans focused on construction of an entrance that lies outside the hall before returning back to India.
What to expect out here?
With a car rental in Mauritius it may be easy to drive around, but it’s best to learn as much as one can about religious attractions. The Kaylasson, has its own aura. Because even though it is quite a popular place for the locatites to be. But, you will be surprised to see how calm and serene it actually is.
Lush greens and vibrantly hued sculptures add color to the storytelling. It takes you to a completely different level. Devotees enjoy this peaceful atmosphere as everyone seems to be okay with it.
Keep this in mind
Like most other places of worship, this temple also has its code of conduct. Make sure you are well covered and dressed decently. It is customary for people to remove their footwear when entering the shrine area.
Devotees are requested to make their offerings in silence. They should respect the meditating groups. Lastly and as in most places, make sure you are respectful of all the rituals, rites and customs happening at the temple.
Wrapping it up!
Yes, not something you’d like to spend an entire day doing, but do head out to the Kaylasson for that peace of mind. If you have a car rental in Mauritius then it is very easy to get here at Port Louis.
We will continue our 101 Mauri guides just so you can plan you next itinerary to Mauritius even better.