Raju's Temple Visits

Temples around Chennai (South)

Listed below are many of the ancient temples around Chennai that have great legendary significance. A few popular modern day temples are also listed alongside. This is a dynamic list and will be constantly updated as and when information is got.

The ‘Around Chennai’ page was becoming bulkier and so has been split into two parts as follows:

Around Chennai-South (this page) (South of Chennai – Bangalore highways):

• East Coast Road (ECR)
• Marakkanam – Tindivanam
• Kelambakkam – Vandalur
• Thirupporur – Chenglepat
• Tambaram – Chenglepat
• Chenglepat
• Chenglepat - Thirukkazhukundram
• Chenglepat – Tindivanam
  
• Around Chenglepat
• Chenglepat – Kanchipuram
• Walajabad – Thirumaagaral
• Kanchipuram – Uthiramerur
• Kanchipuram – Manmapathi – Vandavasi
• Singaperumal Koil – Oragadam
• Vandalur – Padappai – Oragadam
• Oragadam – Walajabad (Kanchipuram)
• Walajabad – Sunguvarchathram (Sriperumpudur) 
• Oragadam – Sriperumpudur
  
• Sriperumpudur – Kaveripakkam (Bangalore Highway)

Around Chennai-North (North of Chennai – Bangalore highways):

• Thirumazhisai – Thiruvallur
• Mappedu – Perambakkam – Thakkolam
• Kanchipuram – Arakkonam
• Kaveripakkam – Sholingur
• In and around Thiruvallur
• Perambakkam – Thiruvallur
• Thiruvallur – Thirvalankadu – Arakkonam
• Thiruvallur – Thiruthani
• Thiruvallur – Poondi – Uthukkottai
• Redhills (Puzhal) – Thiruvallur
• Avadi – Thiruvallur
• Around Thiruthani
• Arakkonam – Sholingur
• Uthukottai – Thirupathi
• Around Ponneri

Last updated : 15th May 2012

East Coast Road (ECR)

Kailasanathar Temple at Kovalam

A parihara sthalam for marriage obstacles. Girls having marriage obstacles tie mangalsutras directly to the Ambal by themselves; boys with marriage obstacles tie mangalsutras to the Nandikeswar opposite the Kailasanathar. There are three Ganapthis in the temple. Gubera Ganapathy is facing the North (the direction of Guberan);  Vijaya Ganapathy in another shrine gives success in exam and profession; Sivasakthi Ganapathy is present in the Koshtam. Sri Venkatesa Perumal with boodevi, Suryan, Mahalingam, Mahakali, Swarna Bairavar and Nagathamman are present in the mandapam. Ramayana incident sculptures are present in the pillars. The pillar sculpture of Sivan kicking Yaman to save Markandeyan is being worshipped by people for longevity in life.

Links: Location Photos Weblink

Nithya Kalyana Perumal Temple at Thiruvidanthai

Significance: One of 108 divya desams.
Location: In Chennai – Mahabalipuram ECR, after Kovalam, about 10 kms before Mahabalipuram. The temple arch can be seen on the ECR road itself on the right side.
Main deity: Lakshmi varaha perumal in standing posture.
Utsavar: Nithya kalyana perumal and Komavalli thayar.
Legend: Vara perumal married 360 daughters of Sage Klava and He is known as Nithya Kalyana perumal. All 360 were united into one and named as Lakshmi and He has her on His lap, so the name as Thiruvidanthai.
Theertham: Kalyana teertham & Varaha teertham.

Links: Location Photos Weblink1 Weblink2

Sthala Sayana Perumal Temple at Thirukkadalmallai / Mahabalipuram (Divya Desam)

Significance: One of 108 Divya desams.
Location: Near Mahabalipuram bus stand; 60 kms from Chennai; 11 kms from Thiruvidanthai.
Main deity: Sthala sayana perumal in sleeping posture; Bujanga sayanam with his right hand on his chest as Upadesa mudra; Thaayaar – Nilamangai Thaayaar
Theertham: Pundareeka Pushkarini, Garuda river.

Links: Location Weblink

Sri Ranganathar Temple at Nathamedu

The temple is a small one and Sri Ranganathar, who is usually seen in a sayana posture, is seen here in an unusual sitting posture and that too in a very stylish and relaxed posture. Seems to be relaxing after a big war / task. (When you go, it would be nice to take some oil also for lighting deepams – the temple needs it).

Just opposite the temple across the main road, there is a small old Shiva temple as well but modernised with bathroom tiles.

Links: Location Photos

Sri Malaimandala Perumal temple at Sathurangapattinam (Sadras)

This was originally a Lakshmi Narayana temple. Later, with Varadaraja Perumal appearing here as a Swayambu Murthy, Lakshmi Narayana is said to have given way for Lord Varadaraja. Though this is not one of the Divya desams, this temple has a rich legend and significances behind.

• Sridevi is looking at the earth and Boodevi is looking at us (usually it will be the other way). All graha / vasthu doshas are expected to be cleared here since boodevi is looking at us.
• The conch (sangu) at the hands of Lord Varadarajar is in a posture of ready for prayoga in a Gajendra moksha swaroopam.
• Sridevis slightly higher than Boodevi as told by sasthra.
• Narasimhar is on top of the entrance to sanctum (usually Gaja Lakshmi will be present).
• The Garudazhwar is called Ashta naga garudan and having eight nagars around his body.
• The Anjaneyar idol was specially designed by Sankaracharyar and is a rare one.
• The real fact that the sanctum sanctorum is on an elevated hillock (as the name malai mandalam suggests) came to light during sunami.
• The first of the Azhvaars, Bhoothath Azhvaar, is said to have stayed at this place. He is seen in a Gnana Mudra Posture similar to the one at Thiru Kadal Mallai Divya Desam.
• The outer entrance door is many hundred years old with copper inscriptions in it.
• Sri Raghavendhra Swamigal stayed in this region for quite some time and conducted regular discourses in this temple and there are records at Manthralaya for this.

A Raghavendhra Mrithika Brindhavan is present very near this temple.

Links:  Location Photos Weblink

Shiva Temple at Sathurangapattinam

An ancient temple

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Sri Premika Vittal temple at Vittalapuram

This is located on the ECR, after Mahabalipuram, 2 km from Pudhupattinam. Built by the representative of the Vijayanagara King Krishna Dhevarayar (1507-1529), this is being maintained by Archeological Survey of India (ASI). Unlike the other Panduranan temples, 5 feet tall Vittal here is seen with Rukmani and Sathyabama. There is a separate shrine for Santhana lakshmi thayar as well. There are shrines for Srinivasa Perumal, Varadharaja Perumal, Ramanujar and Viswasenar.

On every Ekadasi day, poojas are taking place in a grand scale from morning 9AM to 1PM with Samprdhaya nama sankeerthana bhajans. Muralidhara Swamigal is closely associated with this temple.

A beautiful temple, very neatly maintained, sincere bhattars, highly vibrant bajans and poojas – what else we need? Though the temple is open from 7 AM to 11 AM in the morning, it is best to visit by 9 AM for the morning pooja and be there till it is over by 9:45 or so. The namasankeerthans and bajans are sung during everyday pooja and everyone will love it.

Contact:  92458 94065

Links: Location Photos

Bairahi madam

Located at about 3 kms from Vittalapuram and has a legend connection with the Perumal temple of Sathurangapatnam.

Thirupuleeswarar and Vaikuntanatha Swamy (Shiva-Vishnu) Temple in Voyalur

Voyalur is located just before the big Palar bridge, 4 kms away from Kalpakkam and the temple is on the left side of the ECR while going from Chennai at about 300 meters inside.  Little information about the temple states that the temple was constructed by Mahendravarma Pallavan during 400 AD. The temple has lots of inscriptions in Sanskrit, Pali and ancient Tamil. In the temple compound, Shiva and Vishnu have separate sanctum sanctorums. This beautiful temple is very well maintained by Archeological Survey of India (ASI).

Links: Location Photos

Kanakambigai sametha Kailasanathar temple at Natham Parameswara Mangalam

It is located immediately after Voyalur and the big Palar bridge, to the right (west) side of the ECR while going from Chennai. The temple is located in a tiny rocky island on one side of the Palar river in a beautiful environment. A small bridge across the palar has been constructed by the temple authorities to reach the temple. Per inscription, the temple was built in 800 AD in the regime of Nirpathunga varma Pallavan. The beautiful legend sculpture shows Kailasanathar in meditation in rain, with a Rajanagam covering Him as an umbrella and a cow pouring milk on Him. Worshipped by Sukha Brahmma rishi. The temple was renovated with calcium (sudhai) only without using cement using REACH foundation’s expertise. The kumbabhishegam took place recently in Feb 2013.

Contact: Mr. V.S.Ravikumar @ 97890 56615 / vsravikumar15@yahoo.com
Sri Sambakeswara Sivacharyar @ 97860 58325
Mr.Arjunan @ 98439 16069 / Mr.Arul @ 99529 51142

Links: Location Photos

Sri Sowmya dhamodhara Perumal temple at Natham Parameswara Mangalam

Sri Vasthu Lakshmi, Bhoomi devi thayar sametha Sri Sowmya dhamodhara Perumal temple is located on the way to the Kailasanathar temple and the Kumbabhishegam took place along with the Kailasanathar temple in Feb 2013. This is a new temple with ancient deities and inscriptions. The Perumal and the Thayars were housed in a thatched shed for so long and a proper temple has been constructed now. A very rare urchava idol had been found during renovation which is now kept in the Archaeological museum. It is considered that all vasthu related problems will get solved by worshipping the Perumal and Thayars here.

Links: Location Photos

Shiva temple at Parameswari Mangalam

This is an ancient Pallava period Temple and a treasure house for history lovers.

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Kandhaswamy Temple at Nergunapattu

This is located in a branch off road from ECR to Maduranthaham. While going from Mahabalipuram on the ECR, after the big palar bridge, there is a road to the right to Maduranthakam. Take that road for about 2 kms, you will reach the temple. It’s a small temple but with a great legend behind. Chidhambaram Swamigal, before going to Thirupporur, got permission from this Murugan only.

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Sanyasi hill

From Nergunapattu, this is about 6 kms. There is a big lingam atop a small hillock with Nandhi in front in open space surrounded by other hillocks. There are water streams on top. A massive banyan tree and a village God temple underneath gives a picturesque atmosphere. Sidhars are believed to worship Lord Shiva here; Girivalm on a full moon day is famous here.

Links: Location  Raju’s Temple visit travelogue 

Cheyyur

Cheyyur (Don’t confuse this with Cheyyar which is near Kanchipuram) is mid-way between Mahabalipuram and Marakkanam in the ECR. One of the roads from Maduranthakam lso joins ECR here. Cheyyur junction is 27 kms from Madurantakkam and 110 kms from Chennai. This village was developed during the reign of Veera Rajendra Chola and Kulothungan-III.

1) Kandaswamy Temple

Located in the middle of the Cheyyur town, Shiva’s 27 bootha ganangal worshipped Murugar here. Murugar gave dharshan to Arunagirinathar here. It is said that there were 9 Vinayagar shrines around this temple worshipped by the Navagrahas but now only 6 remains. Lord Murugar is seen in the sanctum with Abhaya hastham along with Valli and Devayanai. Unusually, Murugar Himself shows up in all the koshtams in five different forms.

Priest: Sakthidharan – 94447 29512

Links: Location Photos

2) Kariya Manicka Perumal temple

Bhattar: Muralidhara Bhattar – 97875 81323

Links: Location Photos

3) Vanmikinathar Shiva temple

Priest: Sakthidharan – 94447 29512

Links: Location Photos

Kadukkaloor

While coming from Chennai, this is about 10 kms on the right side (west) of Kadappakkam on the ECR, after Midway restaurant and ECR-Inn restaurant; before the road to Alamparai fort. This can also be reached from Madhuranthaham via Soonambedu. There is a Perumal temple and a Shiva temple separated by a beautiful temple tank. The temples, tank and the huge trees form a beautiful and serene village atmosphere for worship. A very good place to visit.

1) Sri Ambujvalli sametha Sri Aadhi Kesava Perumal Temple

This is a 400 year old very beautiful temple and well maintained. Gigantic Adikeshava Perumal with Thayar, typical of a Divya desam, are very beautiful. The adjacent temple tank also is very huge with full of water. Vimanam is Aadhi Vimanam. Many priests of Thirupathi temple are from this place.

Contact: Sri. S. Manivanna Battachariyar Ph: 98653 14072 / 98439 01224 / 99430 90385 / 98428 29919

Links:  Location Photos  Weblink

2) Sri Mukthambihai sametha Sri Agastheeswarar Temple

This is also a many centuries old Shiva temple. As the temple was not in good condition the entire temple was brought down and reconstructed. Very nice temple with Gopuram, Separate Sannidhi for Thayar and a beautiful Nandhi.

Contact: Sri.D.Balakrishna Reddiyar @ 99437 31155 / Kandhaswamy Gurukkal @ 94435 96370

Links: Location Photos

Vedaal Shiva temple

Situated near the Vedaal lake, one of the biggest lakes of Kanchipuram district, this temple was built during the Raja Raja Chola period. The historical name of the village being “Çhola Kerala Chathurvethi mangalam”, a village donated to the brahmins for vedic chanting.
The temple is more ancient than 994 A.D per archaeological findings and is a treasure trove for the history lovers. It has many unique forms of different deities. The temple is a Thoonganai maada temple with Gajaprashta vimanam. Though in a dilapidated condition, daily poojas are taking place.
The main detity is Sri Vadavaamughaneeswarar as a 6 feel high lingam facing east on  padma peedam. The Lord is in Agni swaroopam and so Sandal abhishegam and curd rice prasadam are special for Him. The Ambal is Sri Vasanthanayagi facing South in a separate shrine. There are two ambals in the shrine. One is slightly damaged and so when attempts were made to replace the damaged one with a new one, the Lord appeared in the King’s dream and asked him to keep it by the side itself.
The Nandhi is beautiful on a 4 feet tall pedastal.
Vinayagar is very special with Elephant as the vahanam.
Murugar is seen with Rudhraksham and Pasa ayudham without His usual Vajrayutham and Sakthi ayutham. He is special to worship for education related boons.
Dakshinamoorthy is seen with His right leg folded instead of the usual left leg.
Jeshta Devi is also present in the temple. She is the wife of Saneeswarar and was the prime deity worshipped during the Chola period. Worshipping Her for Sani related dhoshams is said to give good results.

Contact: K.Velu, the temple priest lives nearby and can be contacted at 99443 26789 / 96269 26789 / 94430 74074 / 99439 11541

Links: Location Photos

Agutheewar temple at Puthirankottai

Built by Rajendra Chola III

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Villipakkam Agastheeswarar temple

A cat got moksha at this temple. From Vennangupet, take the road to Soonambed and travel for 5 kms.

Links: Location

Shiva Temple at Soonambedu

An ancient temple

Boominatheswar temple at Marakkanam

This ancient temple, more than 1000 years old, is on the ECR itself just before Marakkanam. Boomeeswarar with Girijambihai. Manmathan and Sage Kanvar worshipped here.

Links: Location Photos

Marakkanam – Tindivanam

Munnur

This village is about half way between Marakkanam and Tinidivanm, around 20 kms from either side and has two ancient temples built by Pallavas, Cholas and Vijayanagara empire.

1) Sri Aada valleswarar Shiva Temple

The temple facing south is a Guru Parihara Sthalam and has three thayars – Sri Bragannayagi, Easwari and Kamakshi.

Links: Location

2) Sridevi, Bhoodevi Ssmedha Sri Arulala Peruma Temple

In this temple facing West, unusually Lakshmi is in a standing posture as VAISHNAVI as worshipped in North. During the renovation of the temple recently, an idol of YOGA NARASIMHAR was unearthed and has been installed now in the temple during the  Samprokshanam which was held in Jan 2011. Kumudham Jyothidam A.M.R,  has special interest in this temple.
Contact: 94441 03813, 94440 24751, 98412 12145, 044-22470545

Links: Location

Athchipakkam Jain Hillock

1.5 km North of Mannur

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Bhuvaneswarar Shiva Temple at Mannur

Goddess Bhavaneswari, located at 4 kms east of Keezh Sevur.

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Jambunatheswarar Temple at Keezh Sevur

A Swayambu lingam; 15 kms North-East of Tindivanam.

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Brammadesam

Located at 14 kms east of Tindivanam, there is an ancient Shiva temple here

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Perumukkal

Located at 10 kms east of Tindivanam, there are two temples, one at the hill base and the other on the hill;  Seetha cave on hilltop and a beautiful temple tank at the hill base. Now the place is under the control of Archeology survey of India (ASI) (ASI should take care of the this hillock temple as nearby stone quarries are functioning).

Significances:

It is believed that Sita devi give birth to the twins Lava and Kucha here only and Kanchi MahaPeriyavar got the Dhiksha here.

Saleeswarar Temple at the hill base

A Swayambu lingam.

Links: Location

Mukthialeeswarar Temple on hill top

Beutiful temple situated at the top of the Perumukkal Hill. This temple which was in brick originally was converted onto stone temple during the period of Vikrama Chola (1183-1235 A.D). The deity of the temple is known Thiruvanmikai Eswaramudayar as well as Perumukkal Udayar in Tamil and Mukthialeeswarar in Sanskrit. The donations made by the Chola, Pandya, Sambuvaraya and Vijayanagara rulers have been recorded in more than 60 inscriptions found on the rocks. A cave found on the western hillock is called seetha cave. There are some carvings and “Vattezhuthu” (Tamil circle letters) inscriptions dating back to 7th century A.D. In the bottom of the hill, nice feet carvings are found. Hence this may be a jain temple earlier. Also a damaged Vinayaga idol is there at the bottom of the hillock.

Thanks to Mr.Saravanakumar for the information.

Links: Location

Thirupporur – Kattur

Sri Yoga  Anjaneyar Temple and Ashram at Sengadu

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Sri Aadhikesava Perumal Temple at Illalur

About 5 kms before Thirupporur, turn right (West) and travel further for about 3 kms. It’s a small old temple renovated recently located beautifully in an elevated position with a cleanly maintained temple tank by the side.

There is an ancient shiva temple also nearby.

Links: Location Photos

Sri Vaidhyalingeswarar temple at Kaattur

The ambal name is Thaiyal nayaki and the temple is being called Uthra Vaitheeswaran koil. An old temple renovated recently.

Links: Location Photos

Bairavar hill temple at Ammapettai

An exclusive bairavar temple on a hillock near the Kattur Validyalingeswar temple.

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Kelambakkam – Vandalur

Shiva Temple at Pudupakkam

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Sri Veera Anjaneyar Temple at Pudupakkam

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Muruga Natheeswarar Shiva Temple at Mambakkam

Goddess Deiva Nayagi sculpture is in similar to Thirukkadiyur Abirami ambal. There is a beautiful pond.

Contact: V.Siva Iyer 94449 24525 / 94447 79245

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Shiva Temple at Ponmar

Sakthipureeswarar temple is an ancient temple

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Agastheeswarar Temple at Kolapakkam

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Sri Kodandaramar temple at Oonamanjeri

This is a Vijayanagar temple. This temple has a deepastamba instead of dwajastamba. Seems lamps were lit in the deepastamba to illuminate the temple. A temple tank is also there. A sculpture of Varaha with Sun, Moon and a dagger can be seen here. This was the royal emblem of the Vijayanagara dynasty.  Copper plate inscriptions belonging to the Vijayanagaras are still there in this temple.

The best time to visit this temple is before 7:30 am since the temple priest leaves by that time after performing the pooja!

Links: Location

Virudhagireeswarar Temple at Oonamanjeri

An ancient temple

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Thirupporur – Chenglepat

Sembakkam Jambukeswarar Temple

This ancient, beautiful and cleanly maintained Shivasthalam is located in a calm village called Sembakkam, 7 km from Thirupporur and 20 km from Chenglepat. This is called North Thiruvanaikka (South Thiruvanaikka is near Srirangam, a Pancha bootha sthalam for Water). Per legend, great legends like Indiran, Naradar, Agasthiyar, Navagrhagangal, Naga Kings like Adhishesan, Anandan, Vasuki, Karkodagan, 32 Naga Kanniargal and Sithargal (Saints) came here and worshipped Lord Jambugeswarar and other Deities. The temple has divinity by which the devotees got blessings and salvation for their sins or get out of the curse of the God/saints.

Links: Location ‘Raju’s Temple Visits’ Travelogue Weblink

Agora Veerabadra Swamy (Shiva) temple at Hanumanthapuram

The temple can also be reached from Singaperumalkoil and is located at 10 kms east of Singaperumalkoil. This temple is famous to cure mentally ill people and there will be many such people wandering over. The road to the temple is deserted with Govt reserved forest area for a few kms. So you may not want to visit during the nights.

Links: Location Weblink

Shiva Temple at Tiruvidaisoolam or Thiruvidaichuram

Significance: One of the 275 sacred temples glorified by the Thevara hymns; 7^thCentury temple.
Location: 9 kms from Chinglepat and 18 km from Tirupporur in the Chenglepat-Thirupporur road. The village is in a beautiful location between two hills and so the name Idai-churam (churam meaning a place of hills and forests).
Main deity: Swayambu Maragatha linga known as Idaichuranathar with Emayamadakkodi ammai in separate shrines. Also known as Gyanapureeswarar and Govardhanambikai.
Legend: Goddess Parvathi came here as Kamadhenu (cow) with her brother Lord Vishnu and worshipped Shiva by pouring milk on the Shivalingam. Sages Gowtama and Sanathkumarar worshipped Shiva here.
Temple: Maragadha linga glitters during harathi time. Santhana prapthi (child boon) is the special worship benefit of this temple.
Theertham: Mdhura teertham.
Sthala vruksham: Padhiri.

Links: Location  ‘Raju’s Temple Visits’ Travelogue Weblink(Tamil)

51 feet Devi Karumariamman temple

This is a temple of beautiful 51 feet Devi Karumariamman idol, a new one.

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Anjaneyar Temple on a hillock

This is an Anjaneyar temple on a hillock near the 51 feet karumariamman temple.

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Tambaram – Chenglepat

Ooraneeswarar Temple at Urapakkam

Ooraneeswarar Temple near the bus stand on the GST road itself  to the eastern side. A small temple but very devotionally being maintained. Pradhosha abhishehams are being done very systematically and sincerely.

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Sri Nandeeswarar temple at Nandivaram

Nandivaram is just half a kilometer east of Guduvancherry bus stand and this temple is very ancient Thevara Reference Temple. Built by Pallava Emperor Nandivarman in 715AD, the temple is worshipped by Palli.

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Sri Lakshmi Narayana Swamy Temple at Madambakkam

This temple is located at Madambakkam (this is different form the Madambakkam near Rajakilpakkam/ Selaiyur) 2 km to the west of Guduvancheri. This is considered to be a Pallava temple. Navagraha shrine normally not present in a Vishnu temple is seen here. In the sanctum sanctorum, Sri Lakshmi Narayana Perumal is seen keeping Sridevi at his left lap embracing her. Ladies do the Kedhara Gowri vradha the day after Deepavali; Marriage prayers are answered.

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Sri Kalyana Anjaneyar Temple at Guduvancheri

It is located between Guduvancheri and Potheri, near Valliammai Polytecnic.  Anjaneya Swami is seen with his wife Suvarchala, which is very rarely seen.

Contact: 94442 94783 / 99405 48119

More information here

Sri Kalatheeswarar temple at Kattankulathur

Those who are unable to visit Kalahasthi can do prayers here.

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Sri Lakshmi Narasimhar Temple at Maraimalai Nagar

This temple is situated opposite Ford Car Factory at Vivekananda Nagar at Maraimalai Nagar. Though the temple was constructed in the 1990s, the deity enshrined here has an ancient history.

Links: Location Weblink

Thirukachur

About 6 kms from Maraimalai Nagar and 2 kms from Singaperumal koil towards West. This Shiva temple is one of the 275 Thevara Padal petra Sthalams and is a typical Chola temple with beautiful pillars, sculptures and mandapams. Girivalam is taking place during full moon days. This is a group of 3 temples.

1) Kachabeshwarar / Sri Anjalakshi samedha Thiyagaraja Swamy Temple

This is one of the important Thyagaraja Swamy temples (the others being Thiruvotriyur, Thiruvarur, Thiruvanmiyur. Surprisingly all places start with Thiru..!)

Links: Location Photos Weblink

2) Virundhitteeswarar Temple

When Sundaramoorthy nayanar came here after worshipping at Thirukkazhkundram, he and his group of devotees were too hungry. Then Lord himself went house by house and got food for them. It is believed that worshipping here will make one’s generation of people free of poverty and famine.

Links: Location

3) Sri Oushadheeswarar / Marundheeswarar Temple

The sand from here is taken as the medicine to cure many diseases.

Links: Location Weblink

Sri Varadharajar / Yoga Hayagreevar temple at Chettipunyam

Chettipunyam village is at about three km west of Singaperumalkoil, near Chengalpattu. Hayagreevar is the Vishnu God of knowledge / education. This highly popular temple has a legend connection to the Hayagreevar temple at Thiruvanthipuram near Cuddalore. During public exam times, the temple is crowded with students.

Links: Location  Photos  Weblink1 Weblink2

Padaladhri Narasimhaswamy temple at Singaperumal Koil

To the west of the GST road at Singaperumal Koil, just about 100-200 meters away from the highway. This ancient temple is one of the very important Narasimha Swamy temples of Tamilnadu.

According to temple sources, this temple has been referred in the Brahmaanda Puraanam. Lord Vishnu took the Avataar of Sri Narasimha and killed the demon king Hiranyakasipu. At the time of Narasimha Avataar, this place was surrounded by dense forests. A sage called ‘Jaapaali’ was performing Thapas, praying Lord Vishnu. As per his wish, the Lord gave dharshan to him in the form of Ugra (fierce) Narasimhar

Links: Location Weblink1 Weblink2

Vyagrapureeswarar temple at Pulipparakkoil/ Pulipakkam

On the way to Chengelpattu from Chennai, immediately after the Tollgate, one can see a board written “Siva, Siva” on a roadside hillock on the right side. The tollgate is located in the Pulipakkam village. Atop the hill is the Vyagrapureeswarar temple with rich historic value. We can have a clear view of the Chengalpattu lake and is a nice scenic spot to visit.

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Chenglepat

Sri Kothanda Ramaswami temple

When you are inside this beautiful temple for Sri Kothanda Ramaswami temple in the serene atmosphere surrounded by green looking mountains on the backdrop, you will feel you are not in a town by name Chengalpat but in heaven.

There is a separate sannadhi for Veera Anjaneya where he is in a unique posture pinning Sri Sani Bhagawan to the ground.

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Vallam Sri Vedhaantheeswarar & Sri Giri Varadharaaja Perumaal Temple at Sivan malai

This hill has a 1300 years old Pallava rock cut temple for Lord Shiva built by the Princess Kommai. The top of the hill provides a wonderful view of Chengalpattu and Kolavai lake, particularly during sunset

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Chenglepat – Thirukkazhukundram

Pon Vilaintha Kalathur

P V Kalathur village is the abode of historically famous temples. This village with high green fields is 10 km south of Chengalpattu and 10 km west of Tirukazhukundram. It is said that the village derives its name because many years back gold was harvested in the fields.

1) Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple

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2) Sri Kothanda Ramaswamy Temple

This is adjacent to the Lakshmi Narasimhar Temple. This is a twin temple of Sri Ramar within the same complex. Usually Lakshman will be to the left side but here Ramar is in Kalyana kolam (marriage posture) with Seetha devi on the left side and Lakshman on the right side.

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2) Sri Meenakshi Amman Samathe Sri Munkudumeeswara temple

Just a km from PV Kalathur, on the way to Pon Pathir Kudam this is another fantastic ancient shiva temple maintained by ASI and bulit by Rajendra chola.

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Chaturbuja Ramar Temple at Pon Pathar Koodam

This is located at 4 miles away from Pon Vilaintha Kalathur. After the death of Ravanana, Mandhothari, wife of Ravavana asked Rama what is that she did so as to suffer the loss of her husband. She pleaded Him that she didn’t want nothing else other than the viswaroopa dharshan of Him. Per her request Rama gave dharshan as Chathurpuja ramar with 4 hands and Conch and Wheel (as Vishnu) at Ponpathar koodam. Whereas Krishna has shown that He is a Vishnu Avathar to many from birth itself, Ramar lived as a human king throughout and showed that his face of Vishnu only to 3-4 people on 3-4 occasions. Mondathari, though the wife of an enemy,  is one of those blessed ones .

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Thirukkazhukundram

Tirukkazhukundram, also known as Dakshina Kailasam, is one of the most celebrated temples of the 275 glorified by the Thevara hymns.

Rudhra Kodeeswarar Temple:

Locted at half a km east of Vedhagreeswarar temple, the Rudhran Temple is older than the Vedhagreeswarar temple. As per procedure, one has to first visit Rudhran temple and then only the Vedhagreeswarar. Once Vishnu came to see Shiva here in the form of  Garudan; When Garudazhwar was waiting outside, before Vishnu came out, Nandhikeswarar blew his breath over Garudazhwar and the feathers of Garudazhwar fell off. Shiva then punished Nandhikeswarar by making him sink to the ground. When Nandhi’s body started to sink into the ground, at the behest of Vishnu, Shiva stopped Nandhikeswar at that point. So, you can see Nandhikeswar partly buried at the ground. By worshipping here once, one can get the benefit of doing Pradhikshna of a crore of Rudhras at a time.

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Bhakthavatsaleswarar Temple:

At the foot of the hill and in the centre of the town is a big temple forBhaktavatsaleswarar. This temple has 4 gopurams on each direction like Madurai, the tallest with 9 tiers is on the south side and the other 3 are with 7 tiers. There is a huge Nandhi facing Vedagiriswarar of the hilltop. The absence of a Nandhi on the hilltop in front of the presiding deity Vedagiriswarar is a unique feature. The main mandapam that fringes the inner gopuram contains a fine sculptural representation of Agora Veerabadrar (Siva in a ferocious form), of 7 feet high. The sculptures of the temples are examples for Pallava kings skills built in 6^th century.

Near the temple, there is a Sangu (conch) Theertha kulam (Temple tank) where a Sangu used to appear once every 12 years.

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Vedhagreeswarar temple:

According to legend, the four Vedas, Rig, Yajur, Sama and Atharvana, are seen here in the shape of four boulders, placed one above the other with Lord Shiva as Vedagiriswarar, emerging from the head of the 4th Veda, Atharvana. Hence the place gets the name Vedagiri. The hill is 500 feet high and has about 550 steps. The central shrine of Vedagiriswarar is seen built of three large boulders, constituting the 3 walls of the sanctum sanctorum. The main deity is a Swaymbu Lingam. In the enclosure around the sanctum sanctorum, are the shrines for Sokkanayagi and for Vinayakar (in a dancing posture).

Till a few years back, a pair of sacred eagles used to come and worship the Lord Shiva everyday at an exact time in the noon. They used to come down to a rock where sweet rice was being offered which was a big attraction. Since the whole eagle sect itself has become extinct (almost) now, this is not seen nowadays unfortunately.

Links: Location Photos

Vadamalleeswarar Temple at Oragadam

There is one more Oragadam near Sriperumpudhur and don’t confused with that. This small Sivan temple is built on a small hillock and is located amidst beautiful setting- a huge Banyan tree at the base and a big tank opposite to this banyan tree adds to the serenity.

Kodhanda Ramar Temple at Orgadam

This small and beautiful Kodhanda Ramar Temple is near the Vadamalleeswarar Temple at Oragadam. This ancient temple of Chola Regime is well maintained by Ahibila Mutt.

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Periyandavar Temple, Thirunilai village

Located at 7 k.m, North West of Thirukalukundram. The legend being that once Lord Shiva incarnated as a human because of Parvathi Devi’s curse. He was roaming here and there and could not stay anywhere. Due to this the whole world was in chaos. Finally when He came here, His Soolayudham fell on this ground and He took shelter permanently.The place is called Thirunilai, nilai in Tamil meaning staying permanently, named after this holy dwelling.

For many years only a Swayambu Lingam was here in the open ground and only recently a temple was constructed dedicating it to Periyandavar, an incarnation of Lord Shiva. Devi Angalaparameshwari is also blessing along with Periyandavar. When Sakthi’s soolayudham fell on earth, 21 sand rounds came out and later they took the form of Sivaganams which perform pooja to Lord Shiva. Swayambu Lingam in the middle of twenty one Sivaganams in the open ground is a rare view.

The temple is located in a beautiful natural atmosphere by the side of a lake, a small hill and in the middle of paddy-fields. People can go at anytime and can have the dharshan. The very unique feature of this temple being the Nandhi is in a standing posture. The temple pond is very big and called ‘Siddha  Amirdha kulam’. Childless couples, after taking a holy dip in the temple pond perform poojas and abisekams by themselves to get their wish fulfilled.

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Nenmeli

Puja for Ancestors/ Forefathers on Amavasya: Nenmeli is situated at about 6 kms from Chingleput, on the road leading to Mahabalipuram, near Thirukazhukundram. Nenmeli is also known as Pundarikanallur or Pindam vaiththa nallur as the Lord Srartha Samrakshana Narayanan at Sri Lakshminarayana Perumal Temple here accepts offerings for the ancestors and forefathers called pithrus. Any offerings made here are considered as offerings made at Gaya for the pithrus. Lord Srartha Samrakshana Narayanan Himself is considered to perform the annual rites and ceremonies for the departed souls for and on behalf of the persons who are unable to offer prayers, rites and ceremonies for their ancestors.

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Vinayagar Temple on a Hill 

Beautiful location

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Meyyur – Salavakkam – Thirumukkoodal

Immediately after the Palar bridge near the stinking beer factory at the outskirts of Chenglepat and before the Andal Alagar College, you have to take a right turn to go to Meyyur – Salavakkam

Sri Sundararaja Perumal Temple at Meyyur

Contact: Balaji Bhattar – 94440 06963

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Shiva temple at Meyyur

A beautiful and ancient Shiva temple under construction

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Sri Sundhara Varadharaja Perumal Temple at Alappakkam

Alappakkam also called Salavakkam is 4kms from Meyyur. This is a 300 years old temple. In the main shrine, moolavar and urchavar Sri Ahagu Sundara Varadhraja Perumal are present. In the Thayar shrine, moolavar and Urchava Thayar Sri Anandhavalli are present.

Links: Location

Sri Kamakshi amman sametha Sri Mukttheeswarar Temple at Edamachi

An ancient temple renovated by the good efforts of a 20+ years old girl

Links: Location Raju’s Temple Visits Travelogue

Chenglepat – Madurathagam

Picheeswarar Temple at Mamandur

Manduga maharishi penanced here and got the dharshan of Lord Shiva. There is a big temple tank also. It is believed that worshipping the Lord here will solve any kind of problem, however big it is.

Note: The temple is being renovated and the deities are under balalayam now (Aug 2011)

Links: Location

Vyagrapureeswarar temple at Pulippara koil

A 1300 years old Shiva temple at Pulippara koil village. After crossing the Palar bridge in the outskirts of Chenglepat and Mamandur, one has to take the left at the Padalam junction and travel further for about 2 kms to reach the temple.

Contact: 24991964

Links: Location ‘Raju’s Temple Visit’ Travelogue

Lord Varadarajar / Sundara Mahalakshmi Temple at Arasar koil

This temple is located at Arasarkoil about 1.5 km from the Vyagrapureeswarar temple. It is said to be older than the Kancheepuram Varadaraja temple. According to legend, Brahma penanced here praying to Lord Narayana and got His dharshan along with His Consorts Sridevi and Bhoodevi. Per another legend when Brahma collected holy earth from the Palar river to set up the Yagakunda in Kanchipuram, the idols of Lord Varadaraja and His Consorts were unearthed and he kept them in this temple built by the divine sculptor and worshipped them. Hence this temple, it is claimed, is more ancient than the Kanchipuram temple.

Sundara Mahalakshmi Thayar is very beautiful as the name signifies and has rich legend and significances. She is called Aadhi Lakshmi Thaayar since She is considered the earliest Thaayar formed in the world.

The temple is under renovation.

Links: Location Photos ’Raju’s Temple Visit’ Travelogue

Sri Prasanna Venkatachalapathy Temple at Thirumalai Vaiyavur

Location:
While going from Chenglepat, one has to take a diversion to right at Padalam junction to reach this temple. There are about 500 steps to climb but there is a motorable toad to the top itself.  Called as ‘Then(South) Thirupathy’, this ancient temple is very popular and lot of marriages take place in the temple.

Legend:
Hanuman while carrying the Sanjeevi hill is believed to have stayed here. Without placing the hill on the ground, he transferred the mountain from his right hand to left. Hence this place is referred to as ‘Vaiyaa – Oor’.

After defeating Asura Hiranya, Lord Vishnu in his Varaha Avatar asked Garuda to bring from Vaikuntam a mountain where he could play and enjoy himself. Garuda went all the way to Vaikuntam and while on his way back, a piece fell on the banks of Paali river. Garuda placed the mountain on the banks of Swarnmukhi river. It is here that Garuda had Vishwaroopa darshan of the Lord.

Prior to his Pancha Samskaram at Eri Kaatha Rama temple at Madurantakam, Ramanuja is believed to have stayed here in a Yogic Posture before making the trip south wards to Madurantakam.

Temple:
Lord Srinivasa is seen in a standing posture with Adisesha atop him.  King Thondaiman is said to have built the temple as a thanking gesture to the Lord, who helped him win his battle.

Quick Facts:
Moolavar: Prasanna Venkatesan East Facing standing posture
Thaayar: Alarmel Mangai
Temple Time: 8am-12noon and 4pm-7pm
Priest: Devaraja Bhattar@ 94432 39005

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Ranganathar temple at Karunkuzhi

Karunkuzhi is just before Madhuranthakam. Located on a small hill, this temple is visible from GST road itself.

Vada Thirunallar at Karunkunzhi

Like Thirunallar, east facing Sani Bhagwan temple

Sri Amba nayahi sametha VeeraVaranathar Shiva temple at Kinar

This Pallava period temple at Kinar (Thiru Kannar Village) is one of the Thevara reference temples. The lingam is one of the biggest in Tamilnadu. The deity was worshipped by Sage Gowthamar, Agalya and Pancha Pandavars.  Between the main deity and the Nandhi, Indhra is sitting on his Iravatha elephant and getting his curse cured. On the back of the lingam, a big Somaskantha sculpture is present in big size.

Contact: Sri.K.N.Vatseeswaran 94421 77959 / 27598259

Links: Location Photos

Vada Chitrambalam Murugan temple at Maduranthagam

One of the temples glorified by the Thiruppugazh by Arunagirinathar

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Yeri katha Ramar temple at Maduranthakam

One of the 108 Divya desams and a very popular one. Under the British rule, once during floods, the Maduranthagam lake was protected by Sri Ramar and He had shown dharshan to a British officer which is recorded in Govt gazette.

Links: Location Weblink1 Weblink2

Thiruvenkaatteeshvarar Shiva temple at Kadapperi, Maduranthakam

One of the Thevara reference temples. A skin disease of a Pandya King got cured with a dip in the temple tank and so is considered a prarthana temple for skin diseases.

Links: Location Photos

Sri Aadhi Parasakthi temple at Mel Maruvathoor

Some 35 years back this was a small temple in a small village. Now this is a highly popular temple with the dedication and devotion of Sri Bangaru Adigalar. The temple has expanded exponentially and devotees throng the temple.

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Dhandayuthapani Murugan Temple at Nadu Palani

After Mel maruvathur just before Achirupakkam town you have to take a diversion to the left. There is an arch in the highway itself. This is a Murugan temple on a small hillock in a beautiful environment with about 10 huge banyan trees. Kanchi Periyavar once visited this place asked the people to name this as ‘Nadu Palani’. 

Links: Location Raju’s Temple Visits Travelogue

Ilangiliammai udanurai Aatcheeswarar temple at Achirupakkam

Significances:

• One of 275 sacred temples glorified by the Thevara hymns
• Swyambu lingam
• There are two shiva shrines
• Dwajasthambam and Nandhi are not in straight line to main entrance. The Dwajastham and Nandhi are in line with one shiva shrine whereas Rajagopura entrance is in line with the other shiva shrine.
• The axle of Shiva’s chariot was broken here and got repaired after worshipping ‘Achu muri Vinayagar’ (in a separate adjacent temple) and so one’s obstacles will get cleared after worshipping the Vinayagar here.
• There is also Maha Vishnu shrine and He is standing on a linga aavudaiyar; Anjaneyar is opposite Maha Vishnu.

Links: Location Raju’s Temple Visits Travelogue

Pasupatheeswarar temple

Near Achirupakkam, this temple is on a small hill immediately after the highway overbridge to the right side of the highway.  The temple is visible from the highway itself.

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Murugan temple at Perumber Kandigai

About half a km from the highway, this is another Murugan temple on hillock in a beautiful environment. The location of the hill base with huge banyan trees, Village God temple and a beautiful temple tank is just beautiful. Vehicles can go to the hill top itself.

Links: Location Raju’s Temple Visits Travelogue 

Thanthondreeswarar Temple

Around 1 km from Perumber Kandigai temple, this very ancient Shiva temple has a very rare conch with which abhishehams are done.

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Vijaya Varadha Perumal Temple at Baburayanpettai

Around 4 kms from Perumber Kandigai, this is a massive Perumal Temple in a highly dilapidated condition, now under renovation.

Links: Photos

Around Chenglepat

Gunam Thandha Nadhar Shiva Temple at Orakkattupettai

A 600 years old Shiva temple. Orakkattupettai is about 8 kms from Chengalpat in the Chengalpat – Kanchipuram and taking a diversion at around 2 kms before Athur, towards west across Palar river. There are ashta lingams in the eight directions within the temple. The temple tank is beautiful though there was no water.

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Kailasanathar Temple at Kavithandalam

Near Orakkattupettai

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Sri Sivakamasundari Ambal sametha Sri Kaleeswara Swamy Temple at Cheettanancheri

Cheettannancheri is about 7 kms North-west of Orakkattupettai. A fairly big temple with beautiful sculptures. Both Swamy and Ambal are facing the same direction in separate shrine in a marriage posture. So a good place to worship for marriage wishes. The temple tank and the whole temple are beautiful.

Links: Location Photos

Sri Anandhavalli Thayar sametha Sri Vaikunthavasa Perumal Temple at Arumbuliyur

7 kms from Pazhaya Seevaram on the bank of Palar

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Shiva temple at Thiruvanaikkaval

An ancient temple with Gajaprashta vimanam renovated recently. The outer praharam is filled with beautiful nandavanams.

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Chenglepat – Kanchipuram

Sri Muktheeshwarar Temple at Athur

An ancient temple, nicely renovated and being maintained neatly. Beautiful nandavanams all around in the outer praharam inside the temple

Note: Athur brinjal (with thorns) is very popular

Links:  Location  Photos Weblink

Sri Kalyana Varadharaja Perumal Temple at Athur

An ancient temple, nicely renovated and being maintained neatly. The perumal is huge typically like a Divya desa temple and is in nithya kalyana kolam.

Links:  Location  Photos

Villiambakkam

There are two ancient temples here.

1) Srinivasa Perumal Temple

Links: Location

2) Sri Thokkiswaran Temple

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Pathangeeswarar Shiva Temple at Palur

Goddess here is called Brahmmarambigai. Surya worshipped Shiva here.

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Pazhaya Seevaram Narasimha Swamy

While going from chenglepat, Pazhaya Seevaram is just before Wallajabad on the main road itself on the banks of Palar.

Links: Location ‘Raju’s Temple Visits’ Travelogue 

Thirumukkoodal Appan Venkatesa Perumal

Thirumukkoodal is just on the opposite bank of the river. This is an ASI maintained temple and once this village was flourishing with Vedic College, Ayurvedic hospital and hostels. Appan Venkatesa Perumal is standing on an (Shiva linga) Avudayar which is very rare to see.

Links: Location ‘Raju’s Temple Visits’ Travelogue Weblink

Walajabad – Thirumaagaral

Ilayanar Velur Murugan temple

8 kms from Walajabad and 2 kms from Kavanthandalam, this is a beautiful Murugan temple and has a legend link with Maagaral and Kadambar koil

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Kariya manika temple at Kavanthandalam

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Kanchipuram – Uthiramerur

Thiru Maakaraleeswarar temple at ThiruMaagaral

One of the 275 Thevara padal Petra sthalams. A beautifully maintained Thevara Padal Petra Sthalam.  Shiva is said to have manifested himself as a giant golden lizard to Rajendra Cholan here and in another legend, a giant lizard  (உடும்பு) is said to have worshipped Shiva in an ant hill. Indhra is said to have worshipped Shiva here. The main deity, lingam, is in the form of the tail of a big lizaard. The temple has a Gajaprashta Vimanam

Links: Location ‘Raju’s Temple Visits’ Travelogue

Perumal Temple at Thirumaagaral

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Kadambar Koil

Highights:

* Suyambu lingam
* The Cheyyar river which normally flows east-west, flows north-south at this place and so considered very holy (Ganges also normally flows east-west but is considered holy only at places where it flows north-south).
* Considered as holy as Kasi, a place to do all the rituals that are normally done at Kasi, a place for salvation.
* Small, beautiful and cleanly maintained without any great sculpture works.
* Sung by Thirugnana Sambandar and so should be more than 1300 years old

Links: Location ’Raju’s Temple Visits’ Travelogue

Sri Agilandeswami sametha Agatheeswarar temple at Olugarai

This is about 5 KM from Kadambarkoil.

Sri Vyagapureeswarar temple at Thiruppulivanam

An ancient Shiva temple Klothunga Chozhan renovated recently. Sage Vyakrapadhar  (with  human body and tigers legs) worshipped Lord Shiva here. This is an important Gurusthalam since Dakshinamurthy in the form of Arthanaareswarar is on a lion. This is a Simha rasi parihara sthalam as well. The Shivalingam is very tall and has jada mudi. A secret path exists from here till Uthiramerur Sundara varadhar temple but this has been closed in the recent renovation. Dwarabalakar statues are very huge and artistically done.  From Nandhi to the sanctum sanctorum the flooring has 7 levels of height.

Contact: Gunasekar – 9445221236

Links: Location Photos Weblink1 Weblink2

Uthiramerur

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a) Sundara Varadaraja Perumal Temple

This beautiful Sundara varadharajar temple has 9 perumals. 3 perumals are in the praharams around the main shrine; 3 perumals are in 3 tiers – Ninra (standing), Irundha (sitting) and Kidantha (lying) postures and 3 perumals within the vimanam while going up the 3 tiers. There is a way to go around the vimanam. 5 perumals of this temple had given dharshans to the Pancha pandavas individually. Chennai Besant nagar Ashtalakshmi temple had been constructed based on this architecture only. A veera anjaneya shrine is front of the temple is also a beautiful one.

Links: Location Photos Weblink1 Weblink2

b) Balasubramania Swamy temple

This is immediately next to the Sundara Varadharaja Perumal temple. This very ancient Balasubramania Swamy temple houses Swayambu Lord Murugar in tapas posture to get the vel for Soora samharam. The vahana in front is elephant instead of usual peacock

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c) Vaikuntha Perumal Temple 

This is an ASI maintained temple right opposite the bus stand. This has the inscriptions all around the sanctum mandapam about the rules and regulations to conduct elections for a democratic rule. It demands a good character and conduct from the people who wish to face the election. These inscriptions are highly popular and proclaim the democratic process and the good governance existed at that time (a big sigh……!)

Links: Location Photos  Weblink1 Weblink2

d) Kailasanathar Temple

An ancient temple which was in a dilapidated state has been renovated stone by stone as it was before by the expertise of REACH foundation. The main deity is a huge and beautiful lingam with a glittering shine. The temple is almost back to its glamour. (The temple is also called Irathai Thaleeswarar Temple ???)

Links: Location Photos

Kanchipuram – Manampathi – Vandavasi

Valesswarar Temple at Kuranganil Muttam

Location: 8 km to SouthWest of Kanchepuram. After crossing the Palar bridge in the Vandavasi/ Cheyyar route, you will see Dusi village at around 4 kms. There is a road diversion to Kuranganilmuttam there and the temple is around 2 kms from there.
Significance: One of the 275 sacred temples glorified by the Thevara hymns
Main deity: Swayambu linga known as Valeeswarar with Valai ammai in separate shrines.
Legend: Vali, Indhran and Yama worshipped shiva here in the form of Kurangu (Monkey), Anil (Squirrel) and Muttam (Crow) respectively and that’s why the name. This shows that the animals and birds have worshipped and attained salvation. Vaali worshipped Shiva and hence the name Vaaleswarar.
Temple: The temple is located in a beautiful place surrounded by fields. Other deities are Vinakaya, Subramanya, Kasi Viswanadhar, Visalakshi, Durgai, Brahma, Chandeeswarar, Bairavar Vishnu, Sapthamadhar, Dakshinamoorthy, & Navagraha.
Sthala Vruksham: Elanndi

Links: Location Weblink(Tamil)

Kal-Mandakam Cave Temple at Kuranganil Muttam

Located in the middle of the village, this cave temple is excavated below the ground level which is very unique among the cave temples. It seems that the original rock was scooped out of the ground to make a vertical shaft for the excavation. Remember to carry good electric torches with you, and wear sturdy shoes, when you visit the cave temple.

Links: Weblink

Cave temples at Narasapalaiyam

The cave temples, being maintained by ASI, are carved out on a scenic chain of hillocks abutting the huge Mamandur Lake. According to documented sources, the caves were carved during the Mahendra Pallava reign dating back to 600 AD. These cave temples built atop a hillock, are visible from the road as you drive past Mamandur.

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Pesum Perumal temple at Koozhamandal

This temple is 20 km from Kanchipuram in the Kanchipuram-Vandavasi route. From the main road, the temple is about 200 meters away towards west. This is a small temple with a single shrine but the Perumal is gigantic and beautiful. It was discovered from the field and installed here.

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Gangaikonda Choleeswarar temple at Koozhamandal

This temple is about 200 meters to the east of the main road and was bulit by ISANA SIVA PANDITA the spiritual guru of Rajendra chola I. The temple is more than 1000 years old and maintained by ASI.

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Arulmigu Maragathambigai sametha Sri Vaithyanathaswamy Temple at Ukkal

This 1200 years old Shiva temple at Ukkal village is 2.5 kms east of Koozhamandal. Pallava king Raja Simhan (Narasimha Varman II) was once suffering from severe stomach ache and he was guided to come to this place to worship Shiva. Here, he had the dharshan of a Siddhar who gave him some Vilva leaves which cured his stomach ache. So, the swamy here is called Vaidhyanatha Swamy. Lot of Pallava / Chola inscriptions are present.

Links: Location

Bhuvanamanikka Vishnugriham temple at Ukkal???

Ambujavalli Nayikaa Samedha Lakshmi Narayana temple at Akkur

As holy as Tirumala: About a km further to the west of Pesum Perumal temple at koozhamandal is this temple. The ancient temple may not attract devotees from far and wide to its precincts daily, yet it has its own unique features. The temple is very small but beautiful and apart from the sanctum sanctorum, there are only a couple of other shrines dedicated to Andal and Ambujavalli Thayar.

Links: Location Weblink

Brahmmapureeswarar temple at Perunugar

Ancient temple worshipped by Brahma. This temple is considered very special for the Jyeshta Devi worship. She is one who ensures that poverty never ever appears in the lives of Her devotees. This is much more than bestowing prosperity on one who is suffering. If we desire never to go through the throes of poverty and if we want our wealth never to get depleted, we must worship Sri Jyéshta Dévi. Mother Jyeshta likes worshipping large forms of Ganesh – Motta Ganapathi. So there is a big Ganapathy and a Jyeshta Devi in the inner praharam. Worshipping this Motta Ganesha that is worshipped by Jyeshta Devi removes misfortunes by the divine grace of both Ganesh and Mother Jyeshta Devi.

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Perumal temple at Perunugar

This is on the way to the Shiva temple

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Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple at Elanagar

This temple is famous because Sri Srinivasa Perumal is believed to have come into existence here more than 800 years ago, by the efforts of the Sadamarshana Gothram’s dynasty during 1212 A.D.

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Sri Udayeeswarar temple at Elanagar

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Periyanayaki samathe Sri Vaanasundraswarar temple at Manamathi

This Chola temple is more than 1200 years old with a rich history behind it. The village was called Vanavan Madevi swaram in the name of Raja Raja’s mother and became Manampathy later.

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Thennangur

Thennangur is 6 km before Vandavasi and has become a popular tourist place because of the beautiful Pandurangan temple.

Ragumayi sametha Pandurangan Temple

The uniqueness of this temple is reflected in the following: The Garba-Griha, Gopuram (sanctum-sanctorum) on the model of puri jagannath; the Chola type of Rajagopuram in its artistry and the presiding deities from Maharashtra. The tiny idols of Panduranga-Raghumayi manifested to a big-size (viswarupam). The speciality of this temple being the daily alankarams and the mural paintings of the mandapam. On any day Pandurangan is adorned with beautiful alankaram.

Links: Location Photos ‘Raju’s Temple Visits’ Travelogue

Meenakshi Sundareswarar Temple

Per Legend, Thennangur is the birth place of Sri Meenakshi. This temple for for Meenakshi and Sundareswarar has beautiful paintings of their marriage in the ceiling and all the navagrahas with their spouses (may be they are attending the Meenakshi – Sundareswarar marriage?). Every year the Meenakshi-Sundareswarar Kalyanam and other festivals are performed in this temple.

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Lakshmi Narayana Temple

This is an ancient temple renovated by Sri Haridoss Giri Swamigal. It is customary in this temple to have Sita Kalyanam festival, every year conducted by the Bhagavatha bakthas in the Bhajan tradition.

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Temples within Kanchipuram

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Singaperumal Koil – Oragadam

Sri Nithya Kalyana Prasanna Venkatesa Perumal Temple at Aappur

This temple is situated at 5 kms from Thirukkachur towards Sriperumbudur, at a village called Aappur, in a small hill called Aushadagiri (hill of medicinial herbs). By climbing about 500 steps you can reach the hill the steps are somewhat steeper than usual. In the hilltop you can see the beauty of the Nityakalyana perumal as well as beauty of the Nature with with full of lakes and reserve forests.

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Shri Varadaraja perumal temple at Vadakkupatti

This temple is located at Vadakkupatti approximately mid-way between Singaperumalkoil and Oragadam

Vandalur – Padappai – Oragadam

Sri Veemeeswarar temple at Serappanancheri

This ancient temple has Gajaprashta vimanam and has been renovated recently.

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Oragadam – Walajabad (Kanchipuram)

Sri Mah Meru Meditation Center at Sri Nagaram

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Sri Nallinakkeeswarar Shiva temple at Ezhichur

The main deity here is called Sri Nallinakkeeswarar (நல்லிணக்கீஸ்வரர்),  meaning ‘God of harmony’. Goddess here is Sri Deivanaayagi. This Chola period temple is being renovated at a cost of more than a crore with full stone work. Once this was athishtanam of one of the Kanchi peetathipathies. The main deity is a 2.5 feet high lingam on a huge aavudayar.

According to a copper inscription found in this temple, a Vijayanagara King called ‘Veera Narasimha’ gifted Ezhuchur and Venpaakkam villages to ‘Sri Vyaasaachala Mahadeva Saraswathi Swamigal’, the seer said to have headed the present Kanchi Mutt as 54th Peetadhipadhi in the lineage. The seer is said to have worshipped the Lord here and also attained ‘Mukthi’ at this place. The Adhishtaanam (Samadhi) of ‘Sri Vyaasaachala Mahadeva Saraswathi Swamigal’ is also found in the temple at south west of the sanctum. The idol of Sri Chandhramouleeswarar (Lingam) is also found in the temple which was originally found placed on the Adhishtaanam. Now some bricks and lamps are kept there for identification.

The Nandhi here, called as ‘Rajo Guna Nandhi’, is said to be very unique and not found anywhere else. The Nandhi has beautiful ornaments and clothing, all carved on it. One will need at least 10 minutes to go around and admire the Nandhi in detail.

There are 3 Sthala Virukshams for this temple:  a female Palm tree, Vilvam and a rare Erazhinjal (ankola) tree.

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Viswaroopa Lakshmi Narasimhar Temple at Kattavakkam

In the Padappai – Oragadam – Walajabad road, after Oragadam, 12 kms from Oragadam, 2 kms before Walajabad, turn right (North) at Krishna garden and travel further for about 1 km to reach the temple.

The Lord is seated, 16 feet high (possibly the biggest in the World), mounted on 5 peetams. 7 headed Aadhiseshan is shielding Him. The Lord has 12 teeth denoting 12 Rasis, 3 eyes and has bow & arrow in His left hand instead of Shangu. Mahalakshmi is seated on His Lap. The Lord is mounted on Kurma.
Contact: 27290805

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Walajabad – Sunguvarchathram (Sriperumpudur)

Thenneri

5 miles north of Walajabad, Thenneri is a beautiful village with a bg lake and green fields and there are two ASI Maintained shiva temples here

• Abathsahayeshvarar Large Siva Temple
• Kandha lingeswarar Shiva Temple

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Oragadam – Sriperumpudur

Shiva temple at Mathur

Adjacent to Temple Green Excello

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Murugan Temple at Vallakottai

This ancient Murugan temple is 12 kms south of Sriperumpudur on the Sriperumpudur-Chenglepat road. Lord Murugar is swayambu and is about 7 ft high and such a tall Swayambu murthy for Lord Muruga is very rare. This temple is more than 1200 years old. Bagirathan did penance to get back his lost kingdom to Lord Muruga. He got the dharshan of the Lord and also went and won his kingdom.

Links: Location Weblink Travelogue

Komaleshwarar Temple at Vallakottai

This is nearby Murugan temple.

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Sadaiesvarar Kovil at Vallam

Nandhi is turned towards the entrance protecting the temple and village from the demons.

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Sriperumpudur – Kaveripakkam (Bangalore Highway)

Sri Adhikesava Perumal Temple at SriPerumpudur

Significance: Birth place of Sri Ramanujar
Main deity: Sri Adhikesava Perumal with his consorts Sridevi and Bhoodevi in standing posture and Goddess Ethiraja Valli Thayar in separate shrines.
Legend: The place is known as Aranyaranam and Boodhapuri. To get rid of Shiva’s curse, Boodha ganas penanced here and were blessed by Vishnu. In turn, they built this temple for Vishnu and so this place came to be known as Boodhapuri which later became Bhoodur and after Ramanujar’s birth, became Sri Perumbhoodur.
Temple: There is an idol of Ramanujar here which was embraced by Ramanujar himself. At the time of eye opening ceremony of Ramanujar’s idol here, Ramanujar was preaching at Srirangam and it is said that at that instant, blood oozed out from both real-life Ramanjuar (at Srirangam) and the idol here. Other deities like Rama, Andal, Udayavar, Desikan, and Alavandhar are there.
Theertham: Anantha saras

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Other Tempels / shrines:

• Manavala mamunihal sannidhi
• Vedantha Desikan Temple
• Birth place of Sri Ramanujar just opposite the temple

Shiva Temple at Sriperumpudur

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Sri Embar temple at Maduramangalam

The temple is about 65 kms from Chennai and around 20 kms from Sriperumbudur after Sunguvar chathram. It is an ancient temple and people with eye problems should sure visit this place.

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Sri Agatheeswarar & Agilandeshwari amman Temple at Siruvallur

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Triad of sacred spots (Thiruputkuzhi-Thirupparkadal)

Thirupparkadal is famous for its twin temples, where the Lord is seen in lying and standing postures. This, along with Thiruputkuzhi, where the Lord is seen in sitting posture, is considered a triad of sacred spots where Perumal can be seen  in all the 3 postures -  sitting, standing and lying.

Vijayaraghava Perumal Temple at Thiruputkuzhi

Significance:

• One of the 108 Divya desams;
• Ramar performed the last rites for Jatayu who attained moksha here.
• Yadava prakasar, guru of Ramanujar preached Vedanta to Ramanujar here.

Location: Near Baluchetti Chattiram i the Bangalore highways, around 10  kms after the road to Kanchipuram,  about 100 meters inside from the Highways on the left side while going from Chennai.
Main deity: Vijaya ragava perumal in sitting posture with Maragadavalli thayar in separate shrines.
Worship significance:
Childless women come here, fry the green gram wash it and tie to their stomach and sleep in the temple premises that night. Next day if it sprouts, it is considered that their wish will be fulfilled.
On new moon days, doing poojas for ancestors after taking a dip at the tank is considered very sacred.
Theertham: Pond, Jatayu theertham, was created by Rama

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Dhaamal

This is 3.5 kms from Thirupputkuzhi / Baalu Chatram. There are 3  ancient temples here and are visible from the national highway itself.

1) Shri Varaga Eeswarar Temple

This is visible from the national highway itself. There are temples around Kanchipuram where Lord Vishnu worshipped Lord Shiva in all the ten avathars. This is one of those ten temples that corresponds to Varaha avathar.

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2) Nasingeshwarar Temple

This is just opposite the Varaga Eeswarar Temple.  This is another one of the ten temples where Mahavishnu worshipped Shiva during the ten avatars. This temple corresponds to Narasimha avathar.

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3) Sri Thirumalazhagi sametha Dhamodhra Perumal Temple

This is little inside the village.

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Shiva Temple at Kilar

You have to take a diversion to the left (south) while going from Chennai at Dhamal to reach Kilar. A beautiful shodasa lingam with 16 stripes, in open space, in the midst of green fields is present and work to construct a temple has just begun. I was moved with the affection and involvement of the villagers towards the Lord when the initiation abhishham was done.

Contact: M.Subramaniam, Panchayat President, 99421 67501

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Mayuranathar Temple at Panappakkam

The deity here was worshipped by Tiger and Peacock;  Nandhidevar, Indran, Agasthiar and Brahmma worshipped Shiva here. Ambal is named as Sondaravalli.

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Suganatheswarar Temple at Karivedu Kalathur

A 1200 years old temple with the architecture of Vijayanagara, Chola and Pallava periods.  The main deity was worshipped by Suhka Brhmma rishi with the parrot face and so is called Suganatheswarar; ambal is called Sondaravalli.

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Chandramouleeswarar Temple at Brahmmadesam

There are many brahmmadesam villages in tamilnadu (to get confused easily) and this is one of them. Historians believe that Rajendra Chola I and his wife Veeramadevi died here and their memorials are located here. Temple is maintained by the Archaeological survey of India.

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Agastheeswar temple nearby?

Hariprasatha Eswar Temple at Karivedu

The Swayambu lingam here was worshipped by Mahavishnu and so Shiva here is called Hariprasadeswar. This is a small temple facing south with Shiva facing East and Ambal facing South. Surya worship takes place everyday, i.e., sun rays fall on the Lord everyday morning. So it is considered that worshipping the Lord here will remove one’s Surya dosha. Dharma samvardhini Ambal is present with four hands in Abhayavaradha posture with Pasangusam. There are shrines for Mahavishnu and Kailasanathar also.  There is a shrine in the name of Badhalalingeswarar and this will be filled with water when there is a flood in Palar.

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Swayambunathar temple at Ocheri

An unattended 2000 years old temple with swayambu lingam as Swayambunathar facing east; ambal facing south. It is said that worshipping the Lord here will cure all stomach related problems. In 1840, when a Muslim merchant was suffering with stomach pain, the easwaran appeared in his dream and asked him to renovate this temple. He did so and got his stomach problem cured.

Note: There is also a 6 feet Varadharaja perumal housed in Kothanda Ramaswamy Temple nearby.

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Dharmeswar temple at Dhrmaneedhi village

There are temples worshipped by Pancha Pandavas around this area. Here the Lord Dharmeswar, facing East, was worshipped by Dharmar. Ambal is Dhrmasamvardhini facing South.

Note: In Mahendravadi, the main deity is Dhramalingeswar and there are four other lingams worshipped by the other four Pandavas. Near Mahendravadi, at Siruvalayam, there is Beemeswar Temple worshipped by Beema.

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Sundara Kamakshi temple at Siru Karumbur near Ocheri

The temple with beautiful sculptures is situated in a very beautiful and fertile location. Though a Shiva Temple, importance is for Ambal. Ambal here is really beautiful, as the name signifies and is famous for giving boon to all people; specially for marriage and Child birth. Kanchi Paramacharya, after visiting this temple for the first time, did not feel like going away and stayed there for 3 days. At the entrance to Shiva there are carvings of Patanchali on the right side and Vyaghrapathar on the left.

Another speciality is the Bilva tree with Neem tree. Usually we see only neem tree with banyan tree. Here it is twined with Bilva tree. Bilva tree represents Shiva and Neem tree Parvathi/Ambal. Here the Bilva tree is branched into three like a Trishul, just at a height of about 10 feet from the ground. The branch of the neem tree is embracing the Trishul region. It reminds us of Parvati embracing Shiva.

This temple is being maintained by Archelogical Survey of India and is a treasure trove.

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Parasurameswar Temple at Vegamangalam

This is 2 kms south of Sirukarumbur. There are ten temples around Kanchipuram where Lord Vishnu worshipped Lord Shiva in the ten avathars. This is one of those that corresponds to Parasurama avathar.

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There are also Kasi Viswanathar – Visalakshi temple and Pachaiamman temple in Vegamangalam.

Thirupparkadal

Thiruparkadal is on the Chennai – Vellore (Bangalore) highway, beyond Thiruputkuzhi, about 10 kms from Thiruputkuzhi, on the left side of Highways while going from Chennai, about 2 kms from the highways at the Kaveripakkam junction.  Two beautiful Vaishnavite temples are present side by side. It is said that this place can be considered to be the 107th Divyadesam. The location of the temples is awesome

a) Prasanna Venkatesa Perumal temple:

This temple is considered to be testimony for the unity of Shaivism and Vaishanavism. The Lord here, stands on “Aavudaiyaar” (base of Lingam”)

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b) Ranganathar Temple:

The main deity in this temple is made of wood from the tree of “Aththi”. It is believed that Yama’s assistant Chitraguptan was releaved of his diseases here and hence this place is said to have healing powers.

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c) Sri Vaaleeswarar Temple

An ancient temple

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Acknowldgement:

Thanks to many Blog readers for providing information about many temples here.