Index of Contents
- Introduction
- Google Map of Temples around Tirunelveli
- Thevara Padal Petra Sthalangal
- Pancha Asana Sthalam
- OTHER SHIVA TEMPLES
- 5.1 Kasinathar Temple, Ambasamudram
- 5.2 Artha Nareeswarar Temple, Vasudevanallur
- 5.3 Thirumoola Nathar Temple, Ambasamudram
- 5.4 Vaithyanadhar Swamy Temple, Cheranmahadevi
- 5.5 Kasi Vishwanathar Temple, Tenkasi
- 5.6 Agasthiar Kovil, Kallidaikurchi
- 5.7 Agastheeswarar temple, Ambasamudram
- 5.8 Abhimukteswar temple, Kodaganallur
NOTE Since the Blog is lengthy, If you Click on any Title, you will be taken to the concerned paragragh by the link provided. Also you can return to the Index of Contents for which links have been provided at several places in the Blog.
1 Introduction
Some of the most revered Saivaite and Vishnu temples are located across the length and breadth of the Tirunelveli district. The vibrant landscape is dotted with multitudes of big and small temples dating back hundreds of years. There are several big Shiva temples which are relatively unknown and one should definitely visit these temples. There are several legends associated with each one of these divine temples making them Divine and Breath taking.. Most of the temples were covered during 2-9-2017 to 14-9-2017 (13 days).
The details of the Shiva Temples have been given in 4 parts :
Part 1 : Nava Kailayam Temples, Pancha Guru Sthalangal
Part 2: Pancha Booths Sthalangal , Panchakrosha Kshetras, Pancha Natarajar Sthalams
Part 3 Vaipu Sthalams
Part 4 This Blog : Thevara Padal Petra Sthalangal, Pancha Asana Sthalams, and Other Shiva Temples.
While planning the trip to these temples, it is suggested to use the Google Map given below of Tirunelveli Temples so that cris – crossing could be avoided.
2.Google Map of Temples around Tirunelveli
Google Map Locations of Tirunelveli Temples could be seen in the embedded Interactive Google Map below:By clicking on a location, photo of the temple, web links for more details of temple, Video (Youtube) links if any can be seen.
3. Thevara Padal Petra Sthalangal
There are 278 Padal Petra Sthalams (Sung by Great Saivaite Saints (Appar, Sundarar, Gna Sambhandar & Manickavachakar) . Thevaram literally means “garland of divine songs” and refers to the collection of verses sung praising Shiva, the primary god of the Shaivite sect of Hindu religion, by three Tamil poets known as Saiva Kuruvars – Thirugnana Sambanthar, Tirunavukkarasar (aka Appar) and Sundaramoorthy Nayanar (aka Sundarar). The three are considered the primary three among the sixty three Nayanmars of the Saivite sect of Hinduism. The 278 temples that are mentioned in Thevaram are referred as Paadal Petra Thalam, meaning the temples that were sung in the verses. To return to the Index of Contents, Click Here. Otherwise Continue
3.1 Arulmigu Nellaiappar Temple, Tirunelveli
Arulmigu Nellaiappar Temple, 162, E Car St, Tirunelveli Town, Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu 627006 PNT014 Arulmigu Nellaiappar Temple is located in the heart of the Tirunelveli Town, Tamil Nadu. The river Tamirabharani referred to by poets as “Porunai” flows round the town.This temple is special for devotees with Punarpoosam birth star.
One of the famous temples in Tamil Nadu steeped in tradition and history and also known for its Musical Pillars and other Brilliant Sculptural Splendours, this is one of the largest temples in South India.
This temple is a Thevara Padal Petra Sthalam – Songs rendered by Saint Thiru Gna Sambhandar. There are 278 Padal Petra Sthalams (Sung by Great Saivaite Saints (Appar, Sundarar, Gna Sambhandar & Manickavachakar)
The region is believed to have been covered with Venu Forest and hence called Venuvanam.
Moolavar : Sri Nellaiyappar, Swamy Venunathar , Nelveli Nathar, Chaleevadeesar ; Suyambu Lingam (self manifested) Ambal : Arultharum Gandhimathi Amman, Vadivudaya Ammal Kamakottamudaya Naachiyaar,; Theertham :Potraamarai Theertham (Swarna Pushkarani),Kari Uru Maari Theertham,Velitheppakulam (Chandrapushkarani) Sinthupoonthurai includes 32 Theerthas Sthala Vriksham : Bamboo; Agamam: Kamika Agamam
Nellaiappar temple is spread over 14 acres. It is a big temple in the city with five Gopurams. The gopuram of this temple is 850 feet long and 756 feet wide. Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvathy temples are linked by a big terraced hall namely Sangili Mandapam that has life sized sculptures adoring the pillars. The Nandi mandapam has a fairly big statue of Nandi similar to those at Tanjore and Rameswaram . The unique feature of the temple is the ‘Mani manadapam’ located near the nandi mandapam with two giant pillars carved out of a single stone and each one is having 48 sub pillars which produce musical notes when struck.
Unique Mandapams are : 1) 1000 Pillars Mandapam 2) Oonjal Mandapam 3) Somawar Mandapam 4) Chain Mandapam 5) Mani Mandapam 6) Vasantha Mandapam
According to the puranas, both the Gopurams were built by Muluthukanda Rama Pandiyan and the other important parts of the temple were constructed by Nindraseer Nedumaran who reigned in the 7th century A.D. Thirunelveli also is one of the five places where Lord Shiva is said to have displayed his dance and all these places have stages/ ambalams. While Tirunelveli has the Thaamirai (Copper) Ambalam, the others are the Rathina Ambalam at Thiruvaalangadu (rathinam – ruby / red), the Chitra Ambalam at Courtallam (chitra – painting), the Velli Ambalam at Madurai Meenakshi Amman Temple (velli – silver) and the Pon (Gold) Ambalam at Thillai Nataraja Temple, Chidambaram.
As per the Legend, Goddess Gandhimathi to protect the world, performed penance towards Lord Shiva to gain His Blessings. The Goddess Umadevi departed from the abode of Kailasam, got two measurement of paddy reached Venuvanam and nurtured the growth of charity. She sat on the bank of river kamba, and meditated towards the Lord, got the vision of Lord Shiva and got married. The Lord and the Ambal together taught us the pleasures of worldly life and protected all the lives. To inculcate the practice of penance to the people, the Goddess came in the name of Goddess Kamakshi and performed penance. In this shrine God had played divine game (Thiruvilaiyadal) the truth that God is omnipresent in all living beings and all the soul will reach God ultimately.To offer naivedya to the Lord Shiva, Vedha Sharma, a Brahmin begged paddy grains and spread it on the floor to dry. Unfortunately rain lashed the city, Vedha Sharma prayed to God. The Lord Shiva paid heed to his prayers, and fenced the paddy grains from the rain. Hence he was called Nelvelinathar. And the place was called Tirunelveli from then onwards.
As per another legend, the four Vedas requested the Lord to grant boon to be a tree in Venuvanam. (bamboo groove). Hence the four Vedas represented the bamboo trees and the Lord Shiva incarnated himself in the form of Lingam. Ramakone, a milkman, who crossed the Venuvanam carrying milk was made to stumble down by the Lord Shiva. As a result milk spilled, and the Lord Shiva with a deep scar on his forehead revealed His real self as Venuvananathar.The vainglorious sages were brought under control by the Gangalanathar in the name of Pitchadhana Moorthy is also well known.
Indra Thuiman got relieved from the curse of sage Dhurvasar with the help of “Kari Uru Maari Theertham” of this temple. The temple construction is based on saiva cults and therefore it is beautiful. The King Swetha Kethu ruled over Nellayampathi, and worshipped Nellaiappar daily. He was childless, and when he was counting his last days he went and performed shiva pooja in the temple. When the God of death Yama came to capture his soul by throwing a rope, the rope fell on the Lord Shiva. The Lord kicked the Yama. The Lord shiva pleaded the king not to die. But the king wished to attain moksha. This incident had been made note in Periyapuranam in these words, Kurtruthaitha Nelveli. The stone carvings of Kaala Samharamoorthy is found on the first circle of the temple near Subramaniar sannathi. This thiruvilaiyadal is celebrated every year on the month of Vaikasi, especially when the zodiacal signs fall on pooram, Uthiram & Haitham. In all there days, it is celebrated as a function. Shivalinga pooja is performed, and the Pancha Moorthy is taken out in a chariot.
The Kalaari Moorthy’s story revered by Appar and Sambanthar insists the universal truth that those who surrender themselves to God will not have fear of death. The divine game which the Lord Shiva performed on Thirukadayur is he kicked the God of death Yama to save the young man who knows of his death, even in his birth itself. And the God redeemed an old man from the fear of death and granted salvation. So Nellaiappar temple is far better than Thirukadaiyur because the Goddess Gandhimathi nurtured charity and married the Lord Nellaiappar and the sage Agasthiar got the divine glimpse of the wedding ceremony of the Lord Nellaiappar with the Goddess Gandhimathi. This holy shrine is renowned for the celebration of wedding, shastriabdapoorti, bheema ratha shanthi, sathabhishekam and mrithunjaya yaham.
Lord Shiva is said to have been worshipped by Agastya in a bamboo grove and by Rama after having killed Mareecha some nine miles away at Manoor. There is also a shrine to Vishnu near the sanctum, signifying the belief that Nellai Govindan (Vishnu) visited Tirunelveli to officiate the divine marriage of Shiva and Kantimathi. A little to the south of Swami Nellaiappar Gopuram stands the Gopuram of Arultharum Kanthimathi Ambal temple. It was here, where composer Sri Muthuswami Dikshithar composed the carnatic song ‘Sri Kanthimatheem’ in Hemavathi ragam.
Nellaiappar Temple car is the third largest car in Tamilnadu. It is only in this temple in Tamilnadu, the Amman temple car has thousands of marvellous wooden carvings.
Thamira Sabha (The Copper Hall of Dance) : The Copper hall of dance is the most indispensable one in the history of Gandhimathiamman with Nellaiappar temple. Among the different type of Halls, Lord Shiva who performed Aananda Thandavam in the Golden Hall (Porsabai) at Chidambaram, Urduva Thandavam in Ruby Hall (Rathna Sabai) at Thiruvalangadu, Sundara Thandavam in Silver Hall (Velli Sabai) at Madurai, Asaba Thandavam in Chitra Sabha,a hall made out of paintings at Courtallam, performed Brahma Thandavam known as Gnana Dance in Copper Hall (Thamirasabai) at Tirunelveli which was beautifully portrayed by the Venuvana Purana. Lord Ursava Moorthy is also called as Thamira Sabapathi and Sandana Sabapathi.The Sannithi of Agni Sabapathi also known as Azhagiya Urchava Natarajar is one of the beautiful sannithi to be seen. This was depicted in Appar’s song “kunindha puruvamum kovvai sevvayil kumin siripum”
Literary Features : U.V.Saminatha Iyer considers “Saliyur” as “Tirunelveli” from the lines of Madurai Kanji. “seer saandra nellin oorkonda uyar Kotravai”. Kanthiyammai Pillai Tamil also says “Saliyur” The name of the place is nothing but “Tirunelveli”.The hint about the place Tirunelveli can be seen in many literary works such as Thirugana Sambandhar’s 3rd Thirumarai, Sundara Moorthy Nayanar aruliya 7th and 12th Tirumarai, Azhagiya Sokkanathar Gandhiyammai Pillai Tamil, Pagazhikoothar’s Thirchendur Pillai tamil etc. Thirunelveli Shrine‘s history is written by Nellaiyappar Pillai, and the book has 120 parts and 6891 poetry.
Temple timings are : 6.30 AM – 12 PM, 6 PM – 8.30 PM Contact Telephone No: 0462 – 2339910 Ph (E.O) : 89733 30707;
3.2 Courtrallanathar Temple
Arulmigu Courtrallanathar Temple, Courtallam Rd, Courtallam, Tamil Nadu 627802 PNT013 Courtrallanathar Temple is located at Courtallam, Tamil Nadu at a distance of 60 kms from Tirunelveli. Courtallam is a popular tourist resort in Southern Tamilnadu known for its waterfalls, amidst picturesque surroundings and is a source of inspiration of many a literary work.
It is a Padal Petra Sthalam (Sung by Saint Gnana Sambhandar) There are 278 Padal Petra Sthalams (Sung by Great Saivaite Saints (Appar, Sundarar, Gna Sambhandar & Manickavachakar). Thirugnanasambandar, Appar, Manickavasagar, Pattinathar, Vallalar has sung hymns in praise of Lord Shiva of this temple. Saint Arunagirinathar has sung hymns in praise of Lord Murugan of this temple.
Moolavar:Sri Thirkkutralanathar; Ambal : Sri Arul tharum Kuzhalvoimozhi; Theertham : Sivamathu Ganga Theertham (Peraruvi); Sthala Vriksham: Jack Tree or Kurumbala tree; Agamam :Maguda Agamum; Sakthi Peetam : Dharani Peetam – Sri Parasakthi Peetam; Sabai : Chitrasabai
The temple has five entrances, with four representing the four Vedas and one serving as a special entrance for Pilavendan who came to the temple to enjoy the dance of Lord Shiva. The Devas in this temple are believed to be worshipping the Lord in the day while Sage Agastya is believed to do it in the night.
Dwarapalakas in this temple are very unique because they are designed to look like they are conversing with each other. The temple also has Panchaboodha Lingams representing Fire, Earth, Water, Air, and Space.
The temple is facing east with a 3 tier Rajagopuram. There are beautiful stucco images on the Rajagopuram with 3 Kalasas. Dwajasthambam, Rishabam and Balipeedam are after the Rajagopuram in vasantha mandapam. The temple is in the shape of conch ( Sangu ). The moolavar is small/ short. In koshtam Vinayagar, Dakshinamurthy ( not in the niche ), Mahavishnu in place of Lingothbavar. In the artha mandapam Urchavars and Natarajar Sabha.
In the inner prakaram Kumbamuni, Brahma, Saptamatrikas, Suradevar, Ayyanar, Brahmi, Thurayanar, Mahavishnu, Narasimhar, Kanni Vinayagar, Chandran, Vanmeekanathar, Jambukeswarar, Annamalaiyar, Kalathiappar, Thirumoolanathar ( Very small moortham ), Ramalingar, Subramaniyar, Chandikeswarar, Shaniswarar and Suryan.
In the outer prakaram Ambal is in a separate temple with a Rishabam and Balipeedam are in front ( Kailasanathar and Durgai are in the Ambal temple’s prakaram ) on the right side of moolavar sannadhi, Kurumbala Nathar ( from here we could hear the sound of main falls ), 63var, Nannagara perumal, Pabhanasar with Ulagamman, Nellaiappar with Gandhimathi, Manakolanathar, Narumbunathar, Sankaralingam, Palvannanathar, Chokkalingam with Meenakshi, Dharmasastha, Mathunatheswarar with Aramvalarthamman, Agasthiyar, Vasuki, Somalingam, Maha Lingam, Sahasralinga, Kasi Viswanathar with Visalakshi, Shivalaya Munivar ( 2 steps below the ground level ), Parasakthi Peedam and Navagrahas. The Main falls top view can be seen, near one of the sannadhi on the south side.
The maha mandapam pillars are with Chinna Pattar and Periyapattar Kings reliefs, who built this temple This temple has two parts. One is this temple and the other is Chitra sabai which is about ½ a KM from the main temple.
As per the Legend, due to an unmanageable crowd of Devas, Rishis to attend the Celestial Wedding of Lord Shiva with Mother Parvathi north began to sink due the heavy weight and south began to rise up. To balance the ground level, Lord Shiva called Sage Agastya to go south and said his single weight alone could solve this problem. Lord also assured the sage that he would be able to have the wedding darshan from Kuttralam itself, because, he changed Vishnu to Shivalinga and worshipped him according to Makudagama rules here. Agasthya took the command of Lord and reached Kuttralam
When Sage Agasthiar came to Coutrallam, he visited a temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Using his mystic powers, he changed the image of the presiding deity into Lingam and transformed the temple into an abode for Lord Shiva. He also transformed Goddesses Sridevi and Bhudevi (Lord Visnu’s consorts) into Kuzhalvai Mozhi Nayaki and Parasakthi, respectively.
Goddess Parasakthi sits on a ledge or Peetam with a Sri Chakra design. This Peetam is popularly called Dharani Peetam. Dharani, which means Earth, signifies that Bhudevi or Mother Earth was transformed into Parasakthi. Considering Sakthi”s furious nature, a Shivalinga called Kamakoteeswara is installed before her peetam to appease her.
Lord Vishnu’s conch expanded to become the temple, with the chakra transforming into the temple tower. Devotees say that Sage Agasthiar’s fingerprints are still evident on the Lingam.
It is believed that since Sage Agasthiar shrunk the image of Lord Vishnu, the now-presiding deity has a permanent headache. Hence, as a daily ritual, the deity Lord Kutralanathar is consecrated with a special concoction of 64 herbs. The same herbal concoction is prepared as Prasadam for the night.
As per another legend, Arjuna lost in Kasi – now Varanasi – his small box containing the Shivalinga he was worshipping. Surprisingly, he got it back in this place. He left this Linga here itself after his usual worship. This Linga is in the Prakara in a separate shrine. Those who had lost anything worship in this shrine for recovery of the object they missed. Arjuna got back this Linga on the Panguni Uthiram day in March-April.
The Nivedhana offered to Lord during the Arthajama puja is a medicinal preparation made of a nut called Kadukkai in Tamil along with dry ginger, pepper etc. As Lord is always under the falls water, these are offered to protect him from cold and fever attacks, it is explained.
Coutrallam is also home to Chitra Sabha Temple, one of the Pancha Sabha Kshetrams of Lord Shiva. This picturesque Chitra Sabha hall is located 500 metres away from the main temple. This Chitra Sabha is popular in this region for its stunning wall paintings and carvings, which closely resemble the Chitra Sabha at Chidambaram. Several carvings in the Chitra Sabha depict legends, deities, and some significant religious events that have taken place in Coutrallam.
Coutrallam’s Chitra Sabha is also famous for its copper-plated roof and is decorated with paintings created completely out of natural dyes. Historical records state that Parakrima Pandiyan commenced the work on the Chitra Sabha, which was then completed by Uthayamarthanda Varman.
Temple timings : 6 am to 12 noon , 6 pm to 8 pm. Contact Phone numbers :, +91 4633 283 138, Joint Commissioner PH:0462 – 2572783
3.3 Chitra Sabai Sivan Temple, Courtrallam
Chitra Sabai Sivan Temple, Tigar Falls Rd, Courtrallam, Courtallam, Tamil Nadu 627802 Chitra Sabai Sivan Temple or the Hall of Painting is located at a walkable distance from the main falls of Coutrallam in Tenkasi District.
Among the Great Divine Halls (Ambalams) associated with Lord Siva-Nataraja, two are situated in the environs of the sacred Tamiraparani. The Taamra Sabha, representing the Tureeya force or the Sahasraara Chakra of the Soul is enshrined in the divine exquisite precincts of the Kantimati-Nelliappar temple. The Chitra Sabha — Hall of Pictures — is situated in the beautiful surroundings of Tirukkutraaleeswarar -Kuzhalvaymozhi Ammai temple in Kutralam. Both these spaces are replete with exquisite sculptures, murals, paintings and wooden figurines, most of them depicting Siva-Nataraja as Tandava Murti, in His other manifestations as Tripura Tandavamurti, forms of Sri Dakshinamurti and so on.
The place is a treasure trove of beautiful mural art and hence the name Chitra Sabhai. It is one of the five locations where Lord Shiva is said to have performed his Cosmic Dance.
Pancha Sabhai refers to the temples of Lord Shiva located in Tamil Nadu. It marks the place where Lord Shiva performed the Cosmic Dance in the form Lord Nataraja. The five temples are found at Thiruvalangadu (Rathina Sabhai), Chidambaram (Por Sabhai), Madurai (Velli Sabhai), Tirunelveli (Thamira Sabhai) and Coutrallam (Chitra Sabhai). Each of the temple names is associated with a particular dance form or Thandavam of Lord Shiva.
As per the legend, once there had been imbalance on Earth due to the multitude of crowd present to witness the marriage of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvathi in the Himalayas. At the Lord’s request, Sage Agastyar went southward to balance the instability. The sage came down to Coutrallam but was dejected that he was not able to witness the divine wedding. Lord Shiva, on understanding the sage’s desire, is said to have presented himself before the sage along with Goddess Parvathi. The Lord then performed the Thirupura Thandavam.
A couple of paintings that really attracted me strongly were that of Gangalanathar and Natarajar. Gangalanathar is a form of Lord Shiva as a human. The large size solo painting is so very real and soulful . Natarajar painting depicts the dance of the lord being watched by a huge gathering of people. This painting is a great example of detailed sketching. As one observes closely through the gathering in the painting, one could see that no two people have a similar feature. Each one in the gathering seem to be different from each other and one wonders how many artists were involved in this highest level of artistic exercise.
Chitra Sabai Sivan Temple is a rectangular structure with a wooden entrance and pyramid style of roofing. The hall within the Sabha is classified broadly into two compartments in the form of two rings. The two rings are adorned with artistic mural paintings on the wall.
The Chitra Sabha is celebrated in the song ‘Sankara Sri Giri’ (Nrtta Viraajita Chitra Sabha me) of the royal composer Swati Tirunal.‘Vaanarangal Kani Koduttu…’ sang Tirikoota Rasapakkavirayar, in his Tirukkutrala Kuravanji, extolling the exquisite beauty of Nature and adds ‘Sutrada oor Thorum Sutra Vendam Pulaveer! Kutralam Endru Oru Kaal Koorinaal” (mention once the name of Kutralam, your search ends there, oh! poets); his unique blend of philosophy and Nature’s beauty comes out beautifully in ‘Odakkaanbathu Poompunal Vellam, Odunkakkaanbathu Yogiyar Ullam!” while admiring the fresh flow of expansive waters and its impact on the minds of the saints who withdraw themselves into yogic practice.
The holy waters of Tamiraparani used for the 1000-kalasa ablution with sankha (conch) and recitation of the 108 names (Sankhadyashtottara Sahasra Kalasaabhishekaa modam), which creates joy for Devi Kantimati, is embedded in the lilting lyric of the Samashti Charana kriti with a majestic Madhyama Kala sahitya, ‘Sri Kantimatim’ (Hemavati) of Sri Muthuswami Dikshitar, who addresses, ‘Sankara Yuvatee’ (the goddess) as ‘Suddha Tamraparnee Tata Sthitaam’. ‘Salivateesvaram,’ and Sri Lakshmi Varaham’ are some of the other compositions of Dikshitar with references to the gods residing on the banks of Tamiraparani.
Temple timings : 7AM to 12 PM 6 PM to 8 PM ; Contact phone number : +91 4633 283 138; To return to the Index of Contents, Click Here. Otherwise Continue
4 Pancha Asana Sthalams
As per Tamirabarani Mahatmiyam, five important Shiva temples in Tirunelveli region were considered as Pancha Aasana Sthalams. These were: Satyavakeeswarar, Kalakkad, Tirunelveli, Valutheeswarar, Eruvadi, Tirunelveli, Ramalingeswarar, Shenbagaramanallur Tirunelveli, Tirunageswarar , Nanguneri ,Tirunelveli, Manonmaneeswarar Vijayanarayanam, Tirunelveli
4.1 Gomathiamal Sathyawageswarar Temple , Kalakkad
Gomathiamal Sathyawageswarar Temple அருள்மிகு கோமதியம்பாள் உடனுறை சத்தியவாகீஸ்வரர் திருக்கோவில், களக்காடு , GH82+F49, Kovilpathu, Kalakkad, Tamil Nadu 627501 – Vaipu Sthalam + Pancha Asana Sthalam – Details already given See Part 3 Para 3.6
4.2 Thiruvalutheeswarar Periayanayaki Amman Temple, Eruvadi
Thiruvalutheeswarar Periayanayaki Amman Temple, Kovil Vasal, CJP2+4JH, Kovil Vasal, Eruvadi, Tamil Nadu 627103 Thiruvalutheeswarar Periayanayaki Amman Temple is located in, Kovil Vasal, Eruvadi, Tamil Nadu at a distance of 42 Kms from Tirunelveli. The Temple is located very close to Valliyur and is located on the banks of Nambiyaru. The Temple is believed to be 1600 years old. This place was called as Veera Ravivarma Chathurvedhi Mangalam.
The original ancient name of the Eruvadi was “AIR PAADI”. During the ploughing season in the paddy field, the people used to sing songs while ploughing that is why it was called as “AIR PAADI’. But when time passed it was became “AIR VAADI” as it is easy to pronounce. During the period of British Rule the district collector could not pronounce Airvaadi properly. They used to call “ERUVADI” for example Thutukodi is called as Tutcorin and Thirunelvelli as Tinneveli. So in English it has became “Eruvadi”.
As per Tamirabarani Mahatmiyam, five important Shiva temples in Tirunelveli region were considered as Pancha Aasana Sthalams. This Temple is considered to be part of Pancha Aasana Sthalams of Thirunelveli District. Pancha Asana Sthalams are as follows; · Kalakkad Satyavageeswarar Temple,Ervadi Tiruvazhundeesar Temple, · Nanguneri Tirunageshwarar Temple, Vijayanarayanam Manonmaneesar Temple and Shenbagaramanallur Ramalingar Temple.
Moolavar : Sri Tiruvazhudeeswarar; Ambal : Sri Periya Nayagi Amman; Theertham : Nambiyaru River; Both mother and the lord are east-facing.
The Temple is entered through an entrance arch. There is a Mottai Gopuram (unfinished Gopuram) after the entrance arch. This Gopuram is unfinished because of the foreign invasions and past political situations. Fish Symbol of Pandyas is engraved on the western side of Nandhi Mandapam Roof.This testifies that the Temple was built during Pandyan rule.
Mostly Presiding Deity and Utsavar Idols looks different in most of the Temples. The speciality of thisTemple is both looks similar. Nandhi, Balipeedam and Dwajasthambam are found facing the Sanctum. Mother takes precedence in the worship.
This temple is based on the four Vedas known as the Chaturveda. It is also said that worship was conducted by Brahmins who recited the Chaturveda, Shastras and Upanishads.Although there is ample evidence that this is a very ancient temple, the iconic fish symbol of the Pandyan kings is engraved on the north side just west of the Nandi pedestal of the temple. The symbol here is proof that they were under their direct rule. It may therefore have been built by the Pandya kings. Or may be reconstructed. Moreover, its period is said to be 1500 years old.
One of the specialties of this place is that it is produced in the mountains from the east and relies on flowing towards the west. It contains herbal nutrients. Some people have been cured of diseases like leprosy by bathing in this river and worshiping the Lord daily.This is a place of reparation. Lamp worship is done to keep the peace, happiness, balanced wealth and love in the family.
Also, the marriage ban will be lifted by the lamp puja held here every full moon. It is also believed that those who are not blessed will be blessed. Why, an elder there said that the marriage ban was lifted for the three women who continued to attend the lamp puja here. For some, the barriers have been removed and they have been blessed.
A very old temple neglected and mis managed .In the recent years with help from private and devotee the temple has got a facelift. Looks very clean .
4.3 Sri Thirunageshwarar Temple, Nanguneri
Sri Thirunageshwarar Temple, FMV6+6V4, Kamaraj Nagar, Nanguneri, Tamil Nadu 627108 Sri Thirunageshwarar Temple is located in the centre of the Nanguneri town, Tamil Nadu at a distance of 34 kms from Tirunelveli. This temple is close to the famous Vanamamalai Perumal temple. Arunagiri Nathar sang Thirupugazh on Lord Subramanyar of this place.
As per Tamirabarani Mahatmiyam, five important Shiva temples in Tirunelveli region were considered as Pancha Aasana Sthalams. This Temple is considered to be part of Pancha Aasana Sthalams of Thirunelveli District. Pancha Asana Sthalams are as follows; · Kalakkad Satyavageeswarar Temple,Ervadi Tiruvazhundeesar Temple, · Nanguneri Tirunageshwarar Temple, Vijayanarayanam Manonmaneesar Temple and Shenbagaramanallur Ramalingar Temple.
Moolavar : Sri Thiru Nageswarar ; Swayambu Lingam (self manifested) ; Ambal : Sri Sivakami Ammai.
The temple is with a single prakaram. A big Pushkarani can be seen in front of the temple. Lord Murugan appears with a single face with four hands in standing posture along with peacock in this Temple. Arunagiri Nathar sang Thirupugazh on Lord Subramanyar of this place. One can come out of severe Sarpa Dosha by conducting pooja here.
4.4 ManonManieshwarar Temple, Vijayanarayanam
Manon Manieshwarar Temple, CQFR+596, North Vijayanarayanam, Tamil Nadu 627119 ManonManieshwarar Temple is located in Vijayanarayanam, Tamil Nadu at a distance of 53 kms from Tirunelveli.
This place was called as Manonmaneeswaram. Since, Presiding Deity, Mother, Theertham, Vimanam andplace has Manonmani as prefix, the place is called as Pancha Manonmaneeswaram.
As per Tamirabarani Mahatmiyam, five important Shiva temples in Tirunelveli region were considered as Pancha Aasana Sthalams. This Temple is considered to be part of Pancha Aasana Sthalams of Thirunelveli District. Pancha Asana Sthalams are as follows; · Kalakkad Satyavageeswarar Temple,Ervadi Tiruvazhundeesar Temple, · Nanguneri Tirunageshwarar Temple, Vijayanarayanam Manonmaneesar Temple and Shenbagaramanallur Ramalingar Temple.
Moolavar : Sri Manonmaneesar facing east; Ambal : Manonmaneeswari / Shivakami facing south ; Theertham : Manonmani Theertham (Sivagangai Theertham);
The Temple is famous for Pournami Girivalam (Circumbulation) on Pournami days. Vimanam over the sanctum is called as Manonmani Vimanam. Dwajasthambam, Balipeedam and Nandhi can be found facing towards sanctum. Here Nandhi can be seen in leaning position, as if Nandhi is ready to hear the grievances of devotees and solve it with the help of Lord Shiva.
Ambal Shrine is located to the right side of the sanctum. There are shrines for 63 Nayanmars, Vinayagar, Dakshinamoorthy, Kanni MoolaVinayagar, Kasi Viswanathar, Lord Murugan with his consorts Valli and Deivanai, Chandikeswarar, Bhairavar and 21 Siddhars in the Temple premises.
There is a Theertham called Manonmani Theertham (Sivagangai Theertham) located in front of theTemple. The water from this Theertham has many medicinal values. Vallanadu Siddhar Sadhu ChidambaraSwamigal used to treat patients with the water from this Theertham.
There is an inscription dated to 17th regnal year of Pandya King Sadaiyan Maran on the south wall of the Temple. It records the gift of money made to the god Karrali-Perumanadigal of the Manomaya-Isvaram temple by a certain Tiruvengada Erichchi in the name of Puvanavan Tirumaladhikarigal of Valainjiya-Kurichchi. The Perunguri-sabha of the village which met in the temple on a day of the solar eclipse in that year invested this amount in the purchase of land 6 ma in extent. As the month in which the solar eclipse occurred has not been specified, the year cannot be calculated.
As per the Legend, Goddess Parvathi was doing penance on Lord Shiva for world welfare. She was having 1008 Lotus kept in her hands and she scattered all the flowers on earth. Wherever it touches the earth, Lord Shiva manifested in the form of Lingam and graces the devotees. These places are praised as 1008 Shiva Kshetrams. Vijayanarayanam is one among them and ranks 74th in the List.
As per another Legend, When Arjuna had a doubt that whether Pandavas would win the war against kowaravas, he came here on the advice of Sage Vyasa and worshipped Lord Vishnu of this place for Victory. As he won the war, he came here again and built a temple for Vishnu. He also made a settlement for 1008 Brahmanas in this Village. Since Arjuna (Vijayan) built the Temple for Vishnu (Narayana), this place came to be known as Vijayanarayanam.
As per another Legend, Vijayanarayanam was once a forest abundant with Vilva Trees and Maruthani Trees.There was Swayambu Linga on the banks of Poigai River inside the forest. Sapta Rishis used to worship this Linga on Pournami Nights. Days rolled, once a hunter came to this forest and he did not had any catch. He climbed a Vilwa Tree and was taking rest. To pass time, he plucked Vilva leaves and threw down. Vilva leaves fell down on the Shiva Linga as if someone was doing Pooja to the Shiva Linga.
When he woke up in the morning, he was surprised to see Lord Shiva with Mother Parvathi. He worshipped them and asked Lord Shiva about the reason of darshan to him. Lord replied that you had done Shiva Pooja on Shivarathri night without sleeping and taking food. So, I came here to give salvation to you. Joyful hunter requested Lord to give salvation for anyone who worship Lord Shiva on Shivarathri and Pournami days. Lord accepted his wish. Worshipping Lord Shiva here is similar to worship Lord in Kailash. Worshipping him Shivarathri and Pournami days will make the devotees attain salvation.
It is believed that Mother Parvathi, Sapta Rishis and 21 Siddhars circumbulate Lord Shiva on Pournami days. It is auspicious to worship Lord Shiva and circumbulate this Temple on Pournami days.
The Temple timings : 5.30 AM to 1 PM and 4 PM to 10.PM; Contact Phone numbers : +91 98421 93453 / 99629 19933
4.5 Sri Ramalingar Temple, Senbagaramanallur
Sri Ramalingar Temple, FPVF+R6F, Senbagaramanallur, Tamil Nadu 627108 Sri Ramalingar Temple is located in Senbagaramanallur, Tamil Nadu at a distance of 37 Kms from Tirunelveli. It is an ancient temple. It is located close to the famous Senbagaramanallur Jagannatha Perumal Temple.
As per Tamirabarani Mahatmiyam, five important Shiva temples in Tirunelveli region were considered as Pancha Aasana Sthalams. This Temple is considered to be part of Pancha Aasana Sthalams of Thirunelveli District. Pancha Asana Sthalams are as follows; · Kalakkad Satyavageeswarar Temple,Ervadi Tiruvazhundeesar Temple, · Nanguneri Tirunageshwarar Temple, Vijayanarayanam Manonmaneesar Temple and Shenbagaramanallur Ramalingar Temple.
Moolavar : Sri Ramalingeswarar, facing east ; Ambal : Sri Soundaryanayaki (also called Azhagamman) facing South; Theertham : Temple Pond;
Other Deities : Surya, Juradevar, Kanni Vinayakar, Kasi Viswanathar, Visalakshi, Murugan with consorts Valli and Deivayanai,, Saneeswarar, Bhairavar, Chandran, Nataraja, Dakshinamurthy and Chandikeswarar.
Ramalingeswarar Shenbagaramanallur is a large east-facing temple situated in 2 Prakarams. The entrance is through a large stone gateway mandapam which has some beautiful carvings on it. Outside this gateway are a small mandapam and a temple tank. The outer prakaram is large and has a large Nataraja mandapam on the north side. The idol of Lord Nataraja is a large and beautiful one. The mandapam has a pillared section before the shrine. Nataraja is seen with his consort Sivakami Amman here.
The inner Prakaram is entered through a doorway. This prakaram is a completely covered one. A Maha Mandapam is common to both the sanctum sanctorum and the south-facing shrine of the goddess. Both have separate Ardha Mandapams. There are many beautiful pillars in the mandapams. One behind the sanctum of the lord is of particular interest. If you blow on the ears of the Yaali you get a different note on each side. One is said to resemble a conch being blown. To return to the Index of Contents, Click Here. Otherwise Continue
5 OTHER SHIVA TEMPLES
Details of 8 other Shiva temples which could not be categorised in the list are given here. Some of them are quite big temples.
5.1 Kasinathar Temple, Ambasamudram
Arulmigu Kasinathaswamy Temple, Ambasamudram, MFW4+FRW, solaipuram, Ambasamudram, Tamil Nadu 627401 Arulmigu Kasinathaswamy Temple ((Kasipanathar)) is located in solaipuram, Ambasamudram, Tamil Nadu at a distance of 34 Kms from Tirunelveli.
The temple is located on the banks of Tamirabarani River. It is believed that Tamirabarani is a confluence of Seven Theerthams – Devi, Shala, Kasipa, Kirumikara,Deepa Kokila etc. Lord visits the river on Thaipoosam, Thai new moon day and Chithirai first day. As Ambal (Mother) is all merciful as an ocean, the place is named as Amba Samudram (ocean).
In the Sivapuranam, the 9 chapters from 23 to 31 explain the glory of this temple. An Eagle, a Brahmmachari, 4 doves, a King called Vasumanan got salvation here.Agasthiar, Kashyapa, Vasumanan and Brahmin Kannadian worshipped Shiva here
Moolavar : Sri: Kasibha Nadhar.,Kasinathar; Ambal : Maragathambikai; Sthala Vriksham : Gooseberry or Amla tree; Theerthams : Kasibha Theertha, Rudra Theertha, Kokila Theertha, Purzhumari Theertha in Tairaparani. Agamam: Shivagamam;
Sage Kashyapa installed a Linga near Tambirabarani river in Ambasamudram, now known as Kashyapa Linga and later changed as Kasipa Linga. This temple has Lord Natarajawho is worshipped as Punugu Sabapathy. On the Thai Poosam day special pooja is performed to him.Perumal graces in the temple from a shrine opposite Shiva shrine.
As per the legend, a king of Kerala fell ill which could not be cured by the best physicians of that day. A voice advised theking to make a doll of black dhil (Ellu), transfer the disease to the doll and donate it to a Brahmin. Kingfollowed the advice. A poor Karnataka Brahmin youth accepted the doll donation. The king also giftedto him valuable gems and diamonds. The doll became alive and told the youth that it would leave him ifhe parted with it half the benefit of the Gayathri mantra chanting he had done so far. The youth agreedand freed him from the disease he acquired from the king through the doll.
The youth wanted to spend the material gifts he got for a public cause. He proceeded to Pothigai hillsto seek the advice of Sage Agasthya. Before leaving, he left his valuables with the Archaka of the templeto get it back after his return. The Archaka gave the youth a dal bag when he returned saying it was thebag he was given originally. The youth took the case to the king.
When asked to depose before the Lord, the priest unhesitatingly spoke lie in the temple. Angry Lordburnt the priest. The youth begged the Lord to restore the priest to life again and the merciful Lordresponded to youth’s prayer. Based on this event, Lord Shiva is named Erithatkondar and Erichudayar. Erithal in Tamil means burning. The first puja is dedicated to Erithatkondar in the temple.
The youth spent the wealth he got from the king by digging a canal known as Kannadian (native of Karnataka) canal which passes through between Kallidaikurichi and Ambasamudram. Even after burning the priest for his fraud, Lord did not become normal in temperament and continued to be furious. Mother Parvathi requested Lord Vishnu to cool him down and restore him to mercy as before. Perumal brought Shiva to normalcy. Perumal graces in the temple from a shrine opposite Shiva shrine..
The temple measures 440×260 feet with two praharams. Those seeking childboon offer bangles in the shrine and hang cradles. . According to Agama Rules, six time puja is followed in the temple. The east facing temple of Kasibanatha Swami is magnificent in size. The location is very calm and scenic. The main region of the temple is built in the ‘maada kovil’ architectural style (raised platforms).
The sanctum sanctorum of the God as well as the shrine of the Goddess is located atop the platform.The main shrine has moolasthanam (sanctum), ardha mandapa, maha mandapa and a front side pillared mandapa. There are two prakaras around the main shrine. The area connecting the temple andthe main entrance is huge and is in the form of a pillared mandapa with its roof covered. Rajagopuramhas been constructed recently. The entire temple complex is covered by the thick fortress walls.
The sanctum sanctorum is facing the east direction. It houses a small Shiva Linga namedas Kasibanatha Swami. The entrance of ardha mandapa has an idol of Ganesha. In the maha mandapa,there is a beautiful painting of Sivakami and Nataraja. Nandi is installed in the Maha mandapa facingtowards Lord Shiva. There are many pillars with sculptures in the maha mandapa. The entranceof maha mandapa has another idol of Ganesha called as ‘Anugnai Vinayaka’.
As this region of the temple is located on a raised platform (maada kovil), there is also a front sidepillared mandapa. The steps that lead to this mandapa too have few beautiful sculptures. In this frontside mandapa the main shrine of the Goddess Maragathambigai is found; she is found in the standingposture with a flower on her right arm.
The first prakara has the following sub-shrines: Dhakshinamoorthi, Chandikeswara, Ganesha, Subramanya-Valli-Devasena, Punugu Sabhapati – big idols of Nataraja and Sivakami along with the regular rishis – made upof Punugu – a kind of perfume, Uma Maheswarar along with Ganesha and Nandi and Utsava idols (metal idols).
In addition, following idols are also there : Surya, Chandra, Saneeswara, Ganesha, Agastya, Yogeeswara, Nalvar, 63 Nayanmars ,Suradeva, Veerabhadra and Sapta matas.
The following Shrines are located in outer prakara: Vishwanathar – Vishalakshi ,Annamalai – Unnamalai, Subramanya-Valli-Devasena, Meenakshi – Chokkanathar.
The shrine of a big Shiva Linga named as Eritthatkondaar which is associated with the legend of the site islocated in the inner prakara. The Nandi idol is placed facing this shrine. In addition there is anothershrine for Vishnu located opposite to this shrine. It is believed that he calmed down Lord Shiva. He is standing on “Aavudai”. He has four arms holding conch and discus in his upper arms.
There is a broad mandapa that connects the temple with the main entrance. The mandapa is full ofpillars and its roof is covered. The big and tall flag staff, Bali peetha and Nandi are located inthis mandapa. It should be noted that the flag staff is located between Nandi and the main templein Ambasamudram and the surrounding areas; usually, nothing is placed between Nandi and the Lord. The following sub-shrines are found in this mandapa: Navagrahas and , Shasta with his consorts Poorna and Pushkala.
Temple timings : 6 am. to 11 pm. and 5 pm. to 7.30 pm. Contact Phone numbers: +91- 4634 – 253 921, +91- 98423 31372; kaideeswara bhatter :9365841179
5.2 Artha Nareeswarar Temple, Vasudevanallur
Artha Nareeswarar Temple, 6CP6+WH7, Vasudevanallur, Tamil Nadu 627758 (Chintamani nathar) Artha Nareeswarar Temple (Chintamani nathar) is located at Vasudevanallur, Tamil Nadu at a distance of 75 kms from Tirunelveli.
Moolavar : Sri Chintamaninadar (Ardhanareeswarar) facing East; Ambal : Sri Idabagavalli (as part of the main deity facing East; Theertham : Kumba Theertham; Sthala Vriksham :Tamarind tree..
As per the Legend, Sage Bhrungi, was deeply devoted to Lord Shiva. One day, when Lord Shiva and Mother Parvathi were seated in kailash, Sage Bhrungi came in the form of a beetle and circumambulated Lord Shiva only and worshipping him. Angered by this, Mother Parvathi gets angry with Sage Bhrungi who insulted her. Ammai, who leaves Mount Kailash in angry mood, sits in the tree-filled forest of Chinthai on the foothills of pothigai hills on earth and performs penance on Lord Shiva, with the intention of making the world aware that there is no Shiva without shakti, and if there is no Shiva, there is no power.
Seeing that severe penance of Mother Parvathi, Lord Shiva appeared before Mother Parvathi and accepted her in half on his left side and made the world aware of the philosophy that Shiva and Shakti are one and the same. When Lord Shiva and Parvathi appeared in half as Arthanarishvara, Sage Bhrungi, who came there, realized his mistake and worshipped Ammai and Appan. According to the history of this temple, the form in which Ammai and Appan appeared together in half as Arthanariswarar is the sri Chintamaninathar – Sri Idabagavalli residing in this temple.
The spot where she undertook the penance was Vasudevanallur. Once Lord Indra was roaming the world as a mad man because of a curse. He came here to rdhanareeswarar Vasudevanallur to worship Lord Ardhanareeswara and he was relieved of the curse. Indra’s other name is Vasavan. He then requested Lord Ardhanareeswara that the place be called after him as Vasudevanallur.
As per another legend, dating back to the Pandya period, Gunasekaran, the son of King Ravivarman, was once suffering from chronic stomach pain. A Sivan adiyar, said that he would be cured if he prays to Lord Ardhanareeswarar of this place. Accordingly, when he came here and offered prayers to the Lord in the temple, the stomach pain was relieved andKing kulasekharan, who was happy, expanded the temple and built it.
As per another legend, It is said that if you take a bath in the Karuppa river opposite to the temple and pray to the Goddess you will be blessed with a child. It was called Karuppayaru because worshipping Amman would lead to the formation of an embryo. It is said that it later became karuppanadhi
Other Deities : Outer Prakaram – Gopura Ganapathi, Gopura Shanmuga, Vinayaka, Ayyappan, Naagar, Kala Bhairava, Nataraja, Maha Ganapathy, Balasubramanyam.Inner Prakaram – Adhikara Nandi, Suryan, Chamundi, Nataraja, 63 Nayanmar, Sapthamaadhar, Shiva Lingam, Kanni Vinayaka (Huge Idol) Pancha Lingam, Arthanareeswara, Mahalakshmi, Sastha, Sidhdhi Vinayaka, Muruga with consorts, Saneeswara, Vishnu Durga, Navagraha, Chandran with Rohini. Niches – Dakshinamurthy, Lingotbavar, Brahmha and Chandikeswara.
Ardhanareeswarar Vasudevanallur is a large east-facing temple with 2 Prakarams. The entrance is through a broad gateway mandapam in the east.Two long corridor mandapams lead inside, the first one with about 44 pillars,and the second one is with 22 pillars. This is followed by a Mahamandapam and Ardhamandapam. The main deity is an amalgamation of the god and goddess and is called Ardhanareeswarar (male and female halves).
There are several beautifully carved Yaali Pillars in the mandapam in front of the Sanctum Sanctorum. In the Panchalingam installation behind the sanctum sanctorum, a beam of daylight illuminates only on the Lingam in the center. The outlet spout for the ablution water from the main deity is unique in the form of a beautifully carved small elephant with a short trunk. A large temple tank is outside the entrance gateway. The old and new temple cars are stationed adjacent to the temple tank.
Ardhanareeswarar Vasudevanallur is an ancient temple as is evident from the numerous inscriptions found here. It is mentioned in them that Jatavarman Parakrama Kulasekhara Pandyan (14th Century CE) completed this temple’s construction.
Temple timings are : 6 am. to 11.30 am. and from 4.30 p.m. to 8.30 p.m. Contact Phone number : +91- 94423 29420
5.3 Thirumoola Nathar Temple, Ambasamudram
Thirumoola Nathar Temple, Ambasamudram, Tamil Nadu 627401Thirumoola Nathar Temple is located in Ambasamudram, Tamil Nadu at a distance of 34 Kms from Tirunelveli. The temple is called Thiruchalaithurai in the scripts
Thirumoola Nathar Temple is one of the Muppeeda Shrines (Three Holy shrine). The other two are at Thirugoshtiyoor Temple (Oorakaadu) and Thirumoolanathar Temple (Vallanadu).It is a big temple ;
Moolavar : Sri Thirumoolanathar – a syambhu lingam (self manifested) ; Ambal : Sri Ulagambal. Theerthams : Bramha theertham & Sarasvathi theertham;
Sage Agasthyar prayed here and got the vision of the divine wedding of Lord Shiva and Ulagammai.
As per the legend, Lord Brahma wanted himself to get rid of birth and death cycle. When he approached Lord Shiva for help, he was advised to perform Yagna on the banks of the river Tamirabarani. Accordingly, Brahma along with his consort Saraswathi came to Aamalaka Vanam (Forest full of gooseberry trees) and created two ponds, which were later called as Brahma Theertham and Saraswathi Theertham. Both of them took bath in those ponds and performed Yagna towards Lord Shiva. Lord Shiva appeared in the form of Shiva Linga made of Vibhuti (sacred ash) along with his consort Ulagammai. Shiva fulfilled the wishes of Brahma and Saraswathi.
The east facing temple is located in a scenic location amidst paddy fields. The temple ponds are located well in front of the main entrance of the temple. There is no temple tower. The temple which is arguably the oldest temple of Ambasamudram town is big in size. However, the other usual symbols such as flag staff, bali peetha and Nandi statue are all located facing the main entrance. The unique feature of the temples in this region is that the flag staff is located in the middle of main shrine and Nandi. It can be found in the same way in this temple too. The sanctum sanctorum has a very big idol of Lord Shiva Linga named as Thirumoolanathar.
In the maha mandapa, the Goddess Ulagammai is found in a separate south facing shrine. The beautifuland big mural painting of Nataraja-Sivakami is found in the wall of Maha Mandapa. At the entrance ofthe sanctum sanctorum, the idols of two Shiva Lingas and two Ganeshas are located. The Maha Mandapaalso has a Nandi statue facing the Lord. The entrance of Maha mandapa has another idol of Ganesha.The corridor facing the maha mandapa has many pillars full of sculptures.
Other deities in the temple are : Nalvar, Bhairava, Saneeswara, Surya, Chandra, Adhikara Nandi (Nandi in the standing posture), big shrine for Meenakshi and Chokkanathar, tall idol of Lord Vishnu along with his two consorts, Navagraha (nine planets), Ganesha, Subramanya with Valli and Devasena, Shasta with his two consorts and Annamalaiyar.
The Koshta idols are usually found in the form of bas-relief or relief images in the outer walls ofsanctum sanctorum. However, in this temple the two Koshta deities Dhakshinamoorthi and VishnuDurga are found in the form of complete sculpture inside small sub-shrine. Chandikeswara is also foundas usual. There is a nearby temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu named as Purushothama Perumal temple.Importantly, Purushothama carries two conches and two discuses. It is believed that both the templeswere built by Parantaka Chola
Aani – 10 days festival Brahmotsavam, Nithya Pooja, Pradosham, Pournami special Vilakku Pooja, Sashti,Karthigai, Navarathri, Sivarathiri, and Bairavar Pooja are the prominent festivals celebrated here.
Contact Phone number : Mani Iyer 9488668017,9442493176
5.4 Vaithyanadhar Swamy Temple, Cheranmahadevi
Sree Vaithyanadhar Swamy Temple, MHM7+89G, Pallivasal, Cheranmahadevi, Tamil Nadu 627414 Sree Vaithyanadhar Swamy Temple is located at Pallivasal, Cheranmahadevi, Tamil Nadu at a distance of 18 kms from Titunelveli. One of the ancient and nice temples of Ambasamudram area. There is another very famous Vaidyanathaswamy Temple located in Vaitheeswarankovil at a distance of 7 Kms from Sirkazhi, Tamil Nadu.
This town is known as Chermadevi (சேர்மாதேவி) Cher+Ma+Devi . This means “The place where River Goddesses gather together”. As per Another legend, a Cheran king gifted this town to his daughter, hence it is also known as Cheranmahadevi.
Sathurvethimangalam is the historical name of cheranmahadevi in that mangalam means “a place donated by a king to a priest”. Saturvedi – means 4 Vedas – Rig, Yadur, Sama & Atharvana Vedas. So this village was gifted to the Veda Pandits who excelled in 4 Vedas
Moolavar : Sree Vaithyanadhar Swamy; Ambal : Oppilla Nayaki Ambal (Not comparable). Theertham : Thamrabarani river; Sthala Vriksham : Nagavalli tree;
As per the legend, Vaidyanathaswamy Cheranmahadevi is where Sage Agastya is believed to have worshiped the Lord in acknowledgment of his medical (Vaidhyam in Tamil) learnings from Lord Shiva’s son Muruga and hence the name of the Lord here is so.
Vaidyanathaswamy Cheranmahadevi is an east-facing temple with 2 Prakarams. Entrance is through a large gateway in the east which is followed by a 3 tiered Gopuram. The Jadamandalam Kalabhairava is a special feature here. The Sanctum Sanctorum is entered through a Mahamantapa and Ardha Mantapa.
Other Deities in the temple are : Inner Prakaram – Vinayakar, Dakshinamurthy, 63 Nayanmar, Juradevar, Mahaganapathi, Kasi Visvanathar, Visalakshi ,Ekantha lingam, Subramanya with His consorts, Chamundeswari, Saneeswarar, Natarajar, Sivakami, Kanni Ganapathi. Outer Prakaram : Navagraha, Shanmugar, Vishnu Durga, Jadamandalam Kalabhairavar, Chandran, Suryan, Adhikara Nandi, Pancha Kannigal and Sastha.
Vaidyanathaswamy Cheranmahadevi is an ancient temple going back to the Chola era. There are a lot of stone inscriptions on the walls of the inner Prakaram. The sanctum sanctorum and the Ardha Mantapa go back to the Raja Raja Chola period. The Mahamantapam and other additions were constructed by Jatavarma Kulasekara Pandyan in 1322 CE. Later additions were made by Viswanatha Naicker and Krishnappa Naicker. In the ancient days, this village was called Nadambuja Kshetram. The Cholas changed it to Cholachaturvedi Mangalam. Parantaka Chola II (regnal years 957–970 CE) married one of the princesses of the Chera Dynasty by name Vanavan Mahadevi. The name of the town was then changed to Cheran Mahadevi. She is the mother of the famous Rajaraja Chola.. To return to the Index of Contents, Click Here. Otherwise Continue
5.5 Kasi Vishwanathar Temple, Tenkasi
Ulagamman Kasi Viswanathar Kovil Tenkasi, Tamil Nadu 627811 Ulagamman Kasi Viswanathar Kovil is located in the center of Tenkasi Town in Thirunelveli District of Tamilnadu at a distance of 50 kms from Tirunelveli. Tenkasi is located in the foothills of the Western Ghats near Courtallam The seven-tiered gopuram of the temple is ranked as the second largest of the state of Tamil nadu.
This temple holds equal importance of Kasi, hence termed as “Tenkasi” literally means “Kasi of the South” The Chittar river flowing nearby too holds equal importance as the river Ganga.
Moolavar : Sri Kasi Viswanathar – Swayambu murthi (self manifested) Ambal : Sri Ulagamman , Loganayaki- faces west ; Sthala Vriksham : Shenbagam ; Theerthams : Kasi Theertham, Sagasranauna Theertham, Anandha Theertham, Kasikkinaru (Kasi well), Vairava Theertham, Annapoorani Theertham and Visuva Theertham
The temple is housed in an area of 4 acres and is built in Somaskanda style. The temple is divided into three main sections with three shrines : Lord Shiva, Ambal and Lord Subramanya. There is a small Ganesha shrine near the temple tower. The southern corridor of the temple has the idols of Sapta Kanya, Suradevar, 63 Nayanmars and the shrine of Velavan (Subramanya). The western corridor has the idols of Ayyanar, Mahalakshmi, Vinayaka, and Subramanya. The northern corridor has the idols of Gajalakshmi, Saniswarar, Chandikeswara and Nataraja,
There is a hall with musical pillars. Apart from all these shrines and idols, the outer corridor and the other areas of the temple have the idols/shrines of Ganesha, Subramanya, Parasakthi Peetha, SahashraLinga, Bhairava, Meenakshi & Chokkanathar.
The front hall that houses these mind-boggling wonders and hymns in stone is truly a masterpiece.There are eight such pieces in two rows, showcasing the artistic genius and aesthetic sense of our forefathers. Rathi, the goddess known for her beauty, is seen sitting on a swan.
Goddess Kali , Krishna (Venugopala), the Oordhva Thandavam of Lord Siva are breath taking. The statues of the two courtesans, at the entrance, with one holding the mirror in one hand and theother engaged in make-up, Manmada,with a sugarcane bow, stories from the Puranam comealive in sculptures – Kannappa Nayanar Puranam, Siruthondar Puranam, Markandeya Puranam andEripathra Nayanar Puranam etc are not to be missed. Episodes from Ramayana and stone. statues of Pandavas are impressive.
As per the Legend, about 700 years ago, King Parakrama Pandiya was taking up a pilgrimage to Kasi as and when hedesired to worship Lord Viswanatha. The Lord appeared in his dream that he could build a temple hereitself to avoid a long journey to north. He advised the king to follow the movement of ants row andbuild the temple where it ended. The ant-line ended on the banks Chitraru River dense with Shenbaga trees. He found a Swayambulinga near an anthill and built the temple as directed by the Lord. The statue of Parakrama Pandyan who built this temple is in the sanctorum of the lord. The king is offered respect as the chief of all the festivals at this shrine a practice which is kept up even today.
Sages Narada, Agasthya, Mynagam, Kanva Rishi, Mrugandu and Indira, Vali, Nandhi had worshipped the Lord in this temple.
Temple Timings: 6 AM – 11 AM and 4 PM to 8 PM Contact Phone: +91 – 4633 – 222 373, 9842196474 / 9487058621.
5.6 Agasthiar Kovil, Kallidaikurchi
Shri Agasthiar Kovil , Kallidaikurchi, Tamil Nadu 627416 Shri Agasthiar Kovil is located in Kallidaikurchi, Tamil Nadu at a distance of 31 kms from Tirunelveli. There are 2 Agastheeswarar temples one in Ambasamudram & one in Kallidaikurichi
Ambasamudram is a picturesque town located on the banks of the beautiful Tamraparni river and on the foothills of the Western Ghats. Kallidaikurichi is another picturesque village located on the other side of the river.
Moolavar : Sri Agastheeshwarar; Goddess : Sri Lopamudra;
As per the legend, when Lord Shiva married Parvati in Himalayas, since all Devas assembled there to attend the marriage, the earth tilted and to balance it, Lord Shiva asked Sage Agasthya to go to south of Vindhya mountains.Agasthya enrouts installed many Shiva lingas and that is how there are a lot of Agastheeswarar temples in South India.
As per another legend, Sage Agasthya was taking rest under a tamarind tree in Kallidaikurichi village, . A devotee invited him for lunch in his house and the sage asked him to bring it to him. Since he did not return in time, sage left towards Podhigai hills. The devotee who returned late was aghast. He took a vow that he would not return home untill the sage accepts the food. Moved by his devotion, the sage gave him appearance in Ambasamudram and took the food.
Unlike the otherAgastheeshwarar temple in Ambasamudram , the Agastheeshwarar temple located at the heart of Kallidaikurichi village is a very small temple. Although the temple is supposed to be very old as per the legend, the current structure cannot be dated more than half a century. Perhaps it could have been renovated multiple times. There are many temples named as’Agastheeshwarar temples’ in Tamilnadu state of India. However, they all are dedicated to Lord Shiva Lingas installed by the sage Agastya. However, in Ambasamudram and Kallidaikurichi, the name Agastheeshwarar denotes to the sage Agastya himself.
This temple in Kallidaikurichi is dedicated to Sage Agastya. He is the main deity who is present in the sitting posture and his sanctum sanctorum faces the east direction. A separate north facing shrine of the Goddess Lopamudra is located. She resembles the posture of any typical Uma/Parvati/Amman in Shiva temples; she is in the standing posture and holding a flower in her right arm. There is a small prakara around the main shrine where the small idols of Ganesha, Uma & Maheshwara (Shiva Linga) and PazhaniAndi (Kartikeya) are located.
There is an outer prakara which has the sub-shrines of Ganesha, Subramanya-Valli-Devasena andNavagraha. The outer wall of the main shrine has the Koshta idols of Dhakshinamoorthi and VishnuDurga. A small sub-shrine with the metal (Utsava) idols of Agastya with his wife is also located withinthis temple. The temple does not have a tower; however flag staff and bali peetha are found.
5.7 Agastheeswarar temple, Ambasamudram
Agastheeswarar temple, SH 40, Ambasamudram, Tamil Nadu 627401 Agastheeswarar temple is located in the heart of Ambasamudram, Tamil Nadu at a distance of 33 kms from Tirunelveli. It is believed to be more than 1000 years Old. It is a big temple having Agastya as the main deity. There are 2 Agastheeswarar temples – one in Ambasamudram & another in Kallidaikurichi
Presiding Deity : Sri Agastheeshwarar; Goddess : Sri Lopamudra.
It is slightly a bigger temple with two entrances facing east and north directions. Both the entrances have small and simple towers.Although the eastern entrance is supposed to be the main one, the northern entrance is largely used bypeople today as it is located on the main road. Although the temple is supposed to be very old as perthe legend, the current structure cannot be dated more than half a century. Perhaps it could have beenrenovated multiple times.
There are many temples named as Agastheeshwarar temples in Tamilnadu. However, they all are dedicated to Lord Shiva Lingas installed by the sage Agastya. However, in Ambasamudram andKallidaikurichi, the name Agastheeshwarar denotes to the sage Agastya himself. This temple in Ambasamudram is dedicated to him. He is the main deity who is present in the standing posture and his sanctum sanctorum faces the east direction.
The main shrine is built in the “maada kovil” architecture style (the main shrines of God and Goddess are located on a raised platform). Agasthya and his consort are worshipped as Agastheeshwarar and Lopamudra respectively. Kurumuni (Sage Agastya) is having a separate shrine and graces in a standingform with Rudraksha mala in right hand showing the Chin Mudra symbolizing the Jeevatma-Paramatma union and the palm leaves in left. There is Nandhi before his shrine.
Outside the sanctum, the shrine of the Goddess Lopamudra is located. She resembles the posture ofany typical Uma /Parvati / Amman in Shiva temples; she is in the standing posture and holding a flower inher right arm. The flag staff, Bali peetha and Nandi are placed facing the Agastya shrine. It should benoted that the mount of Shiva, Nandi, is found here as the mount of the sage. The temple has only oneprakara. The exterior wall of the sanctum sanctorum has the sub-shrines of Dhakshinamoorthi and Chandikeswara.
There are big metal idols of Nataraja and Sivakami . Sri Chandikeswara graces from a shrine in the prakara. Pujas are performed as to Lord Shiva. Four night pujas are performed on Shivaratri day. On the temple’s front side we can see Lord Shiva and GoddessParvati sitting on Nandi the powerful bull which belongs to Lord Shiva and Sage Agasthya is worshipping them.
There is a north facing sub-shrine where a big and beautiful mural painting of Agastya, Lopamudra and the other seers is found. Another east facing sub-shrine named as ‘Anna Mandapa’ is also located in thistemple, where a small attractive metal idol of Agastya is placed. Every year during the 28th day ofPanguni month of Tamil calendar, cooked rice is placed inside the shrine through the window located at the back side wall. People could notice the foot steps of Agastya and also the mark of Kamandalu (an oblong water pot) in that room on the very next day morning.
There is one more sub-shrine where two attractive metal (Utsava) idols of Agastya and Lopamudra arefound. Beautiful Utsava idols of Ganesha, Shankara linga and Gomati in the sitting posture, Shankara Narayana (a combination of Shiva and Vishnu) and Gomati in the standing posture, Subramanya-Valli-Devasena and Nalvar are found in this Temple.
There are separate shrines for Saivite Saint Thirunavukkarasar, Thirugnana Sambandar, Manickavasagar, Kanni Vinayaka, Subramanya-Valli-Devasena, Lord Nataraja, Bhairava and Sani Bhagwan. There are shrines for Lord Nataraja; Nalvar-four celebrated Saivite Saints Thirugnana Sambandar, Thirunavukkarasar, Sundarar and Manickavasagar, Sani Bhagwan and Bhairava in the prakara.
As per the Legend, when Lord Shiva married Parvati in Himalayas, since all Devas assembled there to attend the marriage, the earth tilted and to balance it, Lord Shiva asked Sage Agasthya to go to south of Vindhya mountains.Agasthya enrouts installed many Shiva lingas and that is how there are a lot of Agastheeswarar temples in South India.
There are many temples named as’Agastheeshwarar temples’ in Tamilnadu state of India. However, they all are dedicated to Lord Shiva Lingas installed by the sage Agastya. However, in Ambasamudram and Kallidaikurichi, the name Agastheeshwarar denotes to the sage Agastya himself
As per another legend, when the Sage Agasthya was in Kallidaikurichi , a devotee invited him for lunch in his house and the sage asked him to bring it to him. Since he did not return in time, sage left towards Podhigai hills. The devotee who returned late was aghast. He took a vow that he would not return home untill the sage accepts the food. Moved by his devotion, the sage gave him appearance in Ambasamudram and took the food.
Temple timings : 6 AM to 10 AM and 5 PM to 8 PM; Contact phone number : +91 – 4634 – 250 882.
5.8 Abhimukteswar temple, Kodaganallur
Abhimukteswar temple, Kodaganallur, Tamil Nadu 627010,
Abhimukteswar temple is located at Kodaganallur, on the banks of Tambraparani river, Tamil Nadu at a distance of 14 kms from Tirunelveli. It is an ancient temple situated close to the Sri Kailasanathar temple – Nava Kailayam temple- kodaganallur. Reconstruction work was going on when we visited.
Karkotakan attained liberation due to his penance here, and hence the place was known as Karkotaka Nallur, which has been modified to Kodaganallur with passage of time.
Moolavar : Sri Abhimukteeswarar; Ambal : Sri Soundaranayaki; . This temple is an unusual west-facing temple, abutting the Tambraparani river. The temple was in reasonable shape, but would have definitely seen better days in the past. This temple was patronized by Kodaganallur Sundara Swamigal, hailing from the lineage of Appaiya Deekshitar. The temple is simple, but said to be very powerful. It is estimated that the temple is over 500 years old,
Interestingly, while the garbhagriham faces west, the other deities are aligned in the same way as any other east-facing Siva temple. While this arrangement is not unique to this temple, it is quite rare to find. Also, there is a separate south-facing shrine for Dakshinamurti on the left, as soon as one enters the temple. Dakshinamurti here is seated with His right leg folded, which is unusual (normally it is the left that is folded).
Very close to this temple are the Brihan Madhavan temple and the Kailasanathar temple – the latter being one of the Nava Kailasam temples in the region. The temple is located in a calm and serene atmosphere.
References: 1) https://tamilnadu-favtourism.blogspot.com/ To return to the Index of Contents, Click Here.
Kshethradanam 
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