Villupuram

Temples around Tindivanam, Villupuram, Ulundurpet, Thozhudur and Perambalur

This directory essentially covers the entire Chennai – Trichy National Highway.

Last Updated: 24th Sep 2016

Tambaram – Achirupakkam
Covered under the ”Áround Chennai (South)” Directory

Achirupakkam – Tindivanam

Sri Kailasanathar temple at Pallipakkam

At 11 kms from Thozhuppedu (and 11 kms before Tindivanam) and after the Vanniar Sangam Trust College, a 1 km diversion from the Highway to the left side will take us to the temple.

This ancient Shiva temple has got south gopuram and Goddess Kamakshi devi is also facing south. South facing Ambal is considered very auspicious and a parihara sthalam.

Links: Location Photos

Olakkur

1) Sri Agastheeswarar Temple

At 12 kms from Thozhuppedu (and 10 kms before Tindivanam) and after the Vanniar Sangam Trust College, a 3 kms diversion from the Highway to the right side will take us to this temple with a Swayambu lingam.

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2) Sri Sundara Varadharaja Perumal Temple
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Tindivanam

Sri Thinthrineeswarar temple at Tindivanam

Significance: Thevara Vaipu Sthalam
Main deity: Swayambu linga known as Thiru Thinthrineeswarar with Maragadavalli amman.

Legend:
The place was called “Tindirivanam” – “Tindiri” means Tamarind in Tamil and “Vanam” means Jungle.
The linga was under the tamarind tree, hence the name Thinthrineeswarar.
Worshipped by Sages Valmiki, Vyasar, Dwarapalakas (securities) of Lord Shiva Thindi and Mundi, Gilli, Gillali. The place where Thindi worshipped Lord Shiva is called Thindeeswaram (Thindivanam) and the place where Mundi worshipped the Lord is called Mundeeswaram.

Temple:
Navakkarasar sang hymns on Shiva here.
A big temple with stone work at the bottom and brick work at the top; the vimanam was installed by Sage Vyasar.

Sthala vruksham: Tamarind tree.

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Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple at Thindivanam

• Here Anjaneya Swamy is with Sangu and Chakram
• Sri Mahalakshmi is sitting in the left lap of Sri Narasimhar in a Praying Posture.
• Importance is given for Sri Mahalakshmi than Narasimhar. That’s why this temple is also called as Narasimha Lakshmi Koil.
• Here Sri Narasimhar is Santha Moorthy.
• Thayar Kanakavalli in separate sannidhi.

Contact: 04147-225 077 / 99432 40662.

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Shiva Temple at Gidangai
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Tindivanam – Vandavasi

Note: This the region where we can find ancient Digambar Jain temples in almost every village.

Sri Thiripura Sundari Sametha Sri Somasundareswarar Temple at Vairapuram

The historical name of the village is Vairamega Pallavapuram which became Vairapuram. This is the birth place of famous poet Poyyamozhi Pulavar.

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Sri Ananthavalli Sametha Sri Agastheeswarar Temple at Ananthamangalam
The temple is on a small hillock
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Sri Kailasanathar Temple at Thaniyal
A popular temple 15 kms NorthWest of Tindivanam,
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Murugan Temple at Veeranamur

Sri Kotteeswarar Temple at Sirivalur
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Dhadhapuram / Thadapuram / Rajarajapuram

The town, 14 km North-West of Tindivanam, is of great historic significances connected with the lives of Kundavai Devi and great Rajaraja Chola.The Chola Princess Kundavai Devi created this town, Rajarajapuram, in the name of his loving brother Rajaraja Chola. She also constructed the temple for Lord Manickeshwarar and Sri Varadharaja Perumal temple. The temples are rich in architecture with lots of inscriptions that tell the history of the land.

1) Sri Ravikula Manikkeshwar Temple
The main deity as Swayambu lingam
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2) Sri Varadharaja Perumal Temple
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3) Jain Temple

Sri Lakshmi Narayana Perumal Temple at Katteri
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Nallur

1) Sri Prasanna Venkatesa Perumal temple
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2) Sri Sundara Varadaraja Perumal temple
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3) There is also a beautiful Jain temple at Nallur
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Sri Yoga Narasimhar Temple and Ahobila Mutt at Sogathur
This is located at about 7 kms to the south of Vandavasi
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Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple at Navalpakkam
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Ponnur

1) Sri Parasareswarar Temple at Ponnur
A Thevara Vaippu Sthalam
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2) Sri Subramanya Temple
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Tindivanam – Marakkanam
Covered under the ”Áround Chennai (South)” Directory

Tindivanam – Pondicherry
To be done

Tindivanam – Villupuram

Peramandur

1) Sri Aadhi Varaha Perumal Temple

It is rare to see Varaha Perumal temple and apart from Srimushnam, Kallidai kurichi and Thiruvidanthai this is another rare one here.

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2) Sri Bhuvaneswar Shiva Temple
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3) Sri 1008 Bhagwan Adinath Digambar Jain Temple
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Alagramam

1) Sri Thirupura sundhari ambal sametha Yama Dhandeeswarar temple

Location: At Kootteripattu junction, about 10 kms from Tindivanam, turn right and cross the railway line, take the first left and travel further for about 3 kms to reach the temple.

• It is considered that Ganga devi herself is present in the temple tank and Yama bathed here and got his curse cleansed out.
• Mahavishnu is present with Sridevi and boodevi
• Visited by Maha Periyava more than 10 times
• The Pillaiyar here is said to be one of the oldest in Tamil Nadu. Vattezhuthu inscriptions dating back to the 5th century CE is present on His seat.
• The unique Lakulisa image holding the club is also present before Thiripurasundari  Ambal sanctum. Another Lakulisa image holding the weapon is present in the southern corridor of the main sanctum.
• Square shaped Avudaiyar
• Sathurasra vimanam
• Amman Thirupura sundhara nayahi seems to appear differently on different days.
• Chithra gupthan is also present in the praharam
• A jeeva samdhi of an unknown Siddhar is also present in the paraharam
• This is considered to be an appropriate place to conduct Sashtiapthapoorthi, Beemaratha Santhi, Sathabishegam and Mrithyunja homam
• Since Lord Shiva Himself is present here as Kala Anugraha moorthy, this is considered to be a good place for Kala Sarba dhosha parihrams.
• As in any ancient temple, here also there is no Navagraha shrine.

Note: Since this is a village temple, always call and go: Sakthivel @ 97870 83707

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2) Sri Janakavalli thayar sametha Sri Vaikundavasa Perumal Temple
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3) Digambar  Jain Temple
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Sridevi Boodevi Sametha Sri Varadharaja Perumal Temple at Chendur
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Sri Subramanya Swami Temple at Mayilam

Location: At Kootteripattu junction, about 10 kms from Tindivanam, turn left and travel further for about 4 kms to reach the temple.

Main deity: Though this is a Shiva temple with Viswanadhar and Visalakshi ammai, the main deity is Subramanya Swamy
Significances: A popular place of pilgrimage, Murugar got his peacock vahana only here

Legend:

After the Soora samharam by Lord Subramanya, Soora requested that he be a vahana for Murugar. Soora was asked by Subramanyar to penance at varaha river. Soora took the form of a peacock and started the penance. Subramanyar was pleased and accepted him as a peacock vahana at this place and hence the name Mayilam (Mayil in tamil means peacock).  Also the shape of the hill is in the form of a peacock.
It is said that Srilasri Sivagnana Palaya Swamigal was in yoga nishta for 100 years here drinking the milk of Kalli plant and merged with Lord Shiva.

Temple:

Located on a small hillock with a motorable road to the hill top.
Lord Subramanya is present with four arms in a standing marriage posture with Valli and Deivanai facing East.
Arunagirinadhar sang Thirupugazh on Murugar here.
There is a 5 tier Rajagopuram.

Theertham: Varaha river
Sthala Vruksham: Punnai

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Sri Purna Pushkalambiga Samedha Sri Aishwarya Ayannar Temple at Perumpakkam
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Sri Vakra Kali amman temple at Thiruvakkarai

Location: At the center of the triangle formed by Tindivanam, Pondicherry and Villupuram, about 25 kms from each place. Located on the bank of the Varaha river at the base of a hillock.

Significance:
One of 275 sacred temples glorified by the Thevara hymns.
Parihara sthlam for all vakra dhoshams

Main deity: Swaymbu linga known as Chandramouleeswarar with Goddess Vadivambikai in different sanctums.
Name: Demon Vakrasaran worshipped Lord Shiva here and was killed by Vishnu, hence the name Thiru Vakkarai.

Legend:
When Lord Vishnu fought with Vakkrasura, blood started oozing out and demons started multiplying in numbers. Vakkra kali was sent to drink the blood without dropping it on the ground. She has baby like form in her right ear. It is said that when she fought with the pregnant sister of Vakkrasuran, out of soft corner, she adorned the baby of womb in her ear.

Temple:
Main deity Chandramouleeswarar is a huge lingam with 3 faces representing Shiva, Brahmma and Vishnu. This idol is known as Dhanumalayan. (Dhanu -Shiva, Mal-Vishnu and Ayan- Brahma) The three faces are facing three directions, East, North and South.
Opposite to Vakkra kali, linga known as Vakralinga worshipped by Vakrasura is present. During summer this linga is cool and during winter water drops are seen on top of the linga.
Varadaja Perumal, who killed the demon Vakrasura, is standing alone without the company of Sridevi and Bhoodevi and with abaya hastham, sanku and prayoga chakkra in His hands. He is over six feet tall.
There is Sahasra linga also.
The Rajagopuram is 85 feet with 7 tier.
The Samadhi shrine of Kundalini Maharishi is found to the right of the Chandramouleeswara Shrine.

There are many vakra (unusual) depictions in the temple:
Main entrance, Nandi, Dwajasthamba and the main deity (Lord Shiva) are not in a straight line.
Sani graha is different with his vahana crow to the left.
Natarajar has his right leg lifted up and left leg placed on the ground, contrary to the normal posture. Also his hair is tied up and not flowing, like in other temple

Worship Benefits: People who suffer of vakkra grahas can worship in this place and prosper in life.
Sthala Vruksham: Vilvam
Contact: Ph: 0413-2688949, 2680870
Timing: The temple is kept open continuously from 6 AM to 8 PM, does NOT get closed during lunch hours.

Other interests: In and around this village there are a number of petrified tree trunks of fossil (wood becoming stone over millions of years) wood. We can also see change of course of water-ways (rivers !) and mass-burials here.

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Nedimozhiyanur

1) Perumal Temple
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2) Sri Ramalingeswarar Temple
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Sri Kailasanathar Temple at Pathiripuliyur
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Sri Bhuvaneswari Sametha Sri Bhuvaneswar Shiva Temple at Vikravandi
A Swayambu lingam
There is another Sri Agastheeswarar Temple at Vikravandi?? (not sure)
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ThiruValeeswarar Temple at Sathanur

Vaali worshipped Shiva here

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NNT20 – Panankatteeswarar temple at Puravar Panankattur (Panayapuram)

Location: Located close to Villupuram; immediately after the Vikravandi tollgate, take the left towards Panruti / Kumabakonam and the temple is located at less than a km from the toll gate.

Significances:
A Thevara Padal Petra Sthalam.
One of the five Thevara Padal Petra sthalams that are associated with Palm tree.

Deities: The presiding deity is Panankatteesar, a Swayambu lingam, and the Ambal Meyyambal / Satyambika, both facing east

Legend:
Surya was blinded by Veerabadra for attending the Daksha’s yagna where Lord Shiva was insulted. Surya worshipped Lord Shiva here and got his eye sight restored. Every year, sun’s rays illuminate Shiva’s sanctum and then Parvati’s sanctum for a period of seven days from the 1st of the Tamil New year. Hence, the Lord of this place came to be known as ‘Kan parithu aruliya kadavul’ (the God who blessed the eyes). People worship Lord here for their eye problems.
In order to rescue a pigeon (from a vulture) that surrendered to him King Sibi sliced a portion of his thigh flesh equivalent to the weight of the pigeon and gave as food to the vulture. Goddess Parvati (Satyambigai) was pleased with King Sibi’s sacrifice and righteousness and gave him moksha at this palm grove. The later Cholas are said to be descendants of King Sibi and rightfully they have built a beautiful temple at the spot associated with King Sibi.

Temple:
Sambandar composed the Pathigam of this kshetram.
In the inner praharam are the sanctums of Vinayaka, Arumuga, Sani Bhagawan, Navagrahas, Sun, the 63 Nayanmars, Saptamaathas, Lord on the Rishaba vahana, Thirumal, Gajalakshmi, Naalvar, Bhikshaatanar, Dakshinamurthi, Brahma, Linghotbavar, Durga, Chantikeswarar, Nataraja, and Somaskandar.
There is a rare image of Thiruneelakantar with his wife, both holding together a staff and praying with folded hands. There is also a rare image of Polla (not sculpted with a chisel) Pillaiyar at the entrance.

Sthala Vriksham: Palm tree
Theertham: Padma Theertham
Contact: Ganesh Gurukkal – 94448 97861

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Sri Vaitheeswaran Temple at Chinthamani

One of the most beautiful temple locations and a “not to be missed” temple! Surrounded by giant age old trees and sugarcane fields, the Shiva shrine is of Vikrama Chola period. Usually only Pancha koshtams (5 Gods) can be seen in most of the temples around Shiva shrine in the graba graha walls, i.e.,  of Vinayagar & Dakshinamoorthy towards South, Lingothbavar or Perumal behind towards West, Brahmma and Durga towards North whereas here there are 9 beautiful Chola period Koshta Gods with the addition of Oorthva Thandavar, Shiva & Parvathi, Kala Bairavar and Bitchadanar. The other shrines including the Ambal shrine have been constructed of late. An 87 years old Shivacharyar taking care of the temple is an added feature. You should visit atleast for him! He visits close to the temple and so even if the temple is closed you can call him up from neighbourhood and he will be happy to open the temple for you.
If you are on a long trip and pass by this way, this is a nice place for a break and dharshan!

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Villupuram

Sri Vaikundavasagar Perumal Temple

This is considered to be the Nadu nattu Vaikundam. Three of the Mudhal Azhawars and Thirumangai Azhwar visited this temple. Near the entrance to the Thayar shrine, there is a 1200+ years old Kotravai sculpture with eight hands standing on top of the head of Mahishan.

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Sri Kottai Vinayagar Temple

Villupuram was once a battlefield with forts and this Kottai Vinayagar stands as a symbol of that.

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Sri Periyanayahi Sametha Sri Abiramieswarar / Kailasanathar Temple

The Nandhi mandapam is a Vijayanagara Architecute.There is a 40 pillar front mandapam with Nayakkar period sculptures on each pillar. The Ardha mandapam is of Chola architecture.

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Sri Anjaneyar Temple
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Sri Sankara Madam

Villupuram is the birth place of Kanchi Maha Periyavar and so the Sankara Madam here is of great significance.

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Sri Aadhi Valeeswarar Temple

Located at Ponthottam behind the old bus stand, this is an ancient heritage treasure and the oldest temple of Villupuram containing the important heritage informations on Villupuram.

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Sri Navadurga Amman Temple

It is one of the famous temples in Villupuram at about 3 kms from the Villupuram Railway Station along the Pondicherry road towards east.

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Sri Meenkashi Sundareswarar Temple at Maharajapuram (East Villupuram)
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Sri Vaaleeswarar / Sanishvaran temple at Koliyanur

The main deity of the temple is Vaaleeswarar, a Swayambu lingam, facing west with Ambal Periyanayahi. The temple is adorned with a 40 feet Rajagopuram and a 30 feet vimanam built fully of stone. Dhandapani Swamigal had sung hymns on this Murugar.

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Sri Chokkanathar Temple at Anangur

Located at about 5 kms South East of Villupuram, the main deities are Chokkanathar and Meenakshi amman.

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NNT21 – Sri Abhirameswarar Temple at Thiru Aamaathur

Location:
This Shivastalam is located at a distance of 6 Kms. from Villuppuram enroute Gingee on the banks of the Pampa river, a branch of the Pennar river.

Significances:
One of the 275 Thevara Padal Petra Sthalams
The first Kaumara Madam of the world was established here.
The shrines of Lord and the Goddess are such that they face each other and because of this, this temple is believed to unite lovers and improve the intimacy among the couples.

Main Deities:
The presiding deity is Azhagiyanayanar, Abhirameswarar and the Ambal Muthambika.

Legend:
Once, cows did not have horns and were harassed by wild animals.  They prayed to Lord Shiva and were blessed with horns to protect themselves.  This happened in this place, Tiru Aa Mathur – Aa-cow.  The land is being revered as the Mother House of cows.  According to Hindu faith, all Gods including Lords Brahmma, Vishnu and Shiva, Mothers Durga, Lakshmi and Saraswathi and all Devas reside in the body of the cow.  As cows worshipped here, the place has additional reputation.  Lord Abhirameswarar appears holding the feet of the cow on His head.
Sage Brungi refusing to worship none other than Lord Shiva was cursed as tree by Mother Parvathi.  He became the sacred Vanni tree of the temple now standing between the shrines of Lord and Mother.
Shivalingamurthy of Tiruvattaparai is very famously treated here. Per legend, Lord Sri Rama and Sugriva entered into an alliance to fight and kill Ravana sitting at this spot
To cleanse Himself of the sin of killing Ravana, Lord Sri Rama worshipped Lord Shiva here performing abishek with Danda Theertha.
Before marching on Surapadma, Lord Muruga worshipped Lord Shiva and Mother Parvathi here and was blessed with the Vel weapon.
Vinayaka, Muruga, Parvathi, Sri Rama, Mother Sita, Lakshmana, Maharshi Naradha, Sages Vysa, Romasa, Madanga Muni, Ashta Vasus, Kamadhenu had worshipped Lord Shiva in the temple.

History:
Inscriptions reveal that a Chola King had provided a grant for the benefit of several blind people to learn the Thevara hymns and sing them in traditional tunes. This temple was built originally by the Pallava rulers, while the Chola rulers made several endowments, as seen in inscriptions from the days of Parantaka, Raja Raja Cholan and Kulottunga Cholan. There is an image of Achyuta Raya who is said to have effected renovations here.

Temple:
Lord Shiva, a swayambu murthy is facing east. Mother Muthambika, installed by Sri Adi Sankara is facing west. Here, Lord Shiva and Mother have their own temples facing each other which is a rare one. There is a hole between the two temples through which Lord and Mother see each other. Because of this, this temple is believed to unite lovers and improve the intimacy among the couples.
There are two prakarams in this temple which covers an area of under 3 acres; There is a rare image of Shiva and Parvati facing each other in the Updesa posture. The Amman gopuram is about 80 ft in height.
Sambandar and Appar composed the Pathigam; Ramalinga Adigalar and Arunagirinathar have also sung of this shrine.

Sthala vriksham: Vanni
Theertham: Kadamba river
Contact: Shri. Arunachala shivachariyar and Shri.A Mahesha gurukkal at 04146 223319 and cell: 9842022544 / 9976887652

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Villupuram – Gingee
Villupuram – Thiruvannamalai
Villupuram – Thiruvennainallur – Siddhalingamadam – Thirukkovilur
Villupuram – Mambazhapattu – Mugaiyur – Thirukkoyilur

All listed under ‘Thiruvannamalai’ directory

Villupuram – Ulundurpet

Sri Agastheeswarar Temple at Maragathapuram

The temple with Lord Shiva as Swayambu lingam is located at 10 km Southwest of Villupuram on the northern bank of Ponnaiyar river.

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Sri Mannaatheeswarar Temple at Veliambakkam
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Perangiyur

1) Sri Thirumoolanathar Shiva Temple

This is a heritage monument with rare and unique sculptures under the maintenance of ASI. There is an underground passage with ancient scripts on the walls. There are many myths and mysteries about this Shiva temple. The temple is NOT under worship.

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2) Sri Chamundeeswari Temple
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3) Perumal Temple
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Thirumundeeswaram (Gramam)

Tirumundeeswaram village was also known as Mouli-Gramam and now simply as Gramam. It is located on the southern bank of the Pennaar river, now known as Malattaar at 3.5 kms from the Arasur Cross road at Chennai – Trichy National Highway.

1) NNT19 – Sri Sivalokanathar Temple

Significances: A Thevara Padal Petra Sthalam

Deities: The presiding deity is Mundeeswarar, Sivaloka Nathar and the Ambal Kaanaarkuzhali, Soundara Nayaki.

Legend:

Brahma and Indra are said to have worshipped Shiva here.
A king Chokkalingam by name came here in Dwapara Yuga for hunting and found a strange lotus flower in a tank.  His men were not able to pick up the flower as it began to circle around the tank.  The king shot an arrow on the flower and the tank became red.  The king then realized it was a Shivalinga and immediately built a temple on the bank of the tank. Based on this, the name of the place, as in the scriptures is Mouli Gramam – Mouli meaning Head or crown.  The lingam still has a scar on its head.
It is also said that the Lord presented king Veerapandiyan a Pokkalam-bag of sacred ash (Vibhuthi) and hence known as “Pokkalam Kodutha Nayanar”.
Dwarapalakas (securities) of Lord Shiva are Thindi and Mundi and the place where Thindi worshipped Lord Shiva is called Thindeeswaram (Thindivanam) and the place where Mundi worshipped the Lord is called Mundeeswaram.
Also as the temple is on the bank of a river (Aaru), He is also known as ‘Aattruthali Mahadeva’.

Temple:

Lord Dakshinamurthy is seated on His Rishaba Bull vahana on a hill instead of under the Kallala tree.
The Rajagopuram is facing east.
Lord Vinayaka and Lord Muruga have changed positions at the entrance.
Lord Muruga’s left hand shows the Naarasa Mudra.
The temple is of Somaskanda design as the shrine of Lord Muruga is in between those of Lord and Mother.
Appar composed the Pathigam; One of the temples glorified by the Thiruthandaga Thiruppathigam by Thirunavukkarasar.

Festivals: Appar Vizha is celebrated in the Tamil month of Chittirai and Arudra Darisanam during Margazhi.
Special Prayers: Those desirous of mastering music and dance pray to Mother.
Sthala vriksham: Vanni
Theertham: Mundaka Theertham
Contact: 04146-206700

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2) Sri AadhiKesava Perumal Temple
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Sri Lakshmi Narasimhar temple at Parikkal

Location:
At 1 km before the Gedilam junction on the National highway, we can see a huge Anjaneya sudai sculpture standing on the left side facing west (Anjaneya is facing the Parikkal temple). From here, 3 kms west ward diversion is the Parikkal temple.

Significance: This is a highly popular and powerful Prarthana Sthalam for the major worries of human beings – Debts, Enemies and Diseases.

Deities: Sri Lakshmi Narasimhar and Kanagavalli Thayar in separate shrines

Legend:
Vasantharaja ruled this place with his capital at Vriddachalam and wanted to build a temple for Lord Narasimha. Constantly troubled by Parakalasura (said to be a relative of Hiranyakashipu), Vasantharaja undertook a penance here as directed by his Guru. Answering his prayers, Lord Narasimha is said to have appeared here and killed the Asura. Having seen only the destructive (angry) mood of Narasimha, Vasantharaja invoked the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi to provide darshan with the Lord displaying His soft form. Kanakavalli Thaayar is said to have sat on His lap, cooled Him down and provided darshan to Vasantharaja, the Devas and the Rishis at this place.
This place was named after the asura who provided the king with the opportunity of the Lord’s darshan. Hence, this place was referred to as ‘Parikala’ puram, which became ‘Parikkal’ later.

Temple:
As the temple is situated between the two rivers Thenpennai and Garuda, it is considered very holy like Srirangam.
The presiding deity, Lakshmi Narasimha with His Consort, seated on His left lap is said to be a Swayambu Murthi and according to some scholars, was installed by Vyasaraja. The Anjaneya idol, found inside the sanctum sanctorum, was also installed by him and is one of the 732 idols installed by the saint all over the south.
An interesting feature at this temple is the presence of two Anjaneya idols, Bhakta Anjaneya and Veera Anjaneya, in the same shrine. Unlike other temples, Anjaneya gets the 2nd right of Thirumanjanam after Lord Narasimha, even before the Thaayar.
Unlike in most of the Narasimha temples, the Utsavar idol here is also that of Narasimha in standing posture with Sridevi and Bhoodevi on either side.

Sthala Vriksham: Magizham

Note: This is one of the three Narasimha Swamy temples in the Villupuram – Pondy segment, people visit on a single day; the other two being Singirikoil in the Pondy-Cuddalore route and Poovarasan kuppam in the Villupuram-Panruti segment.

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Sri Thazhuvakozhuntheeswarar Temple at Parikkal
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Sri Koothandavar Temple at Koovagam

This is the only temple for eunuchs whose family deity is the “Koothandavar”. A fifteen day Chitrai festival based on Mahabaratha is celebrated every year in grand style. According to the Mahabaratha, Rajakumaran, a eunuch was born to Arjuna and Naga Kannigai. The Pandavas, decided to sacrifice a human to ensure victory in the war and Rajakumaran was made the sacrificial goat. His last wish was to get married but no one came forward to marry Rajakumaran. Lord Krishna appeared as a female and married him. The next day he was killed. To signify this, the marriage is held the previous night and breaking of the ‘thali’ the next morning is done every year as a ritual.

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Sri Aadhikesava Perumal temple at Poongapalayam
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Sri Appandai nadhar Jain temple at Thirunarungondai

Thirunarungondai Appandai nadhar temple is situated between Ulundrupet – Thiruvennainallur near kalamarudhur. It is 16 km Northwest of Ulundurpet and 21 km East of Thirukkoilur. This temple is one of the oldest tamil jain temples. The appandai nadhar is sculptured in the rock inside the cave. The moola gopuram is built on top of the same rock. Cave served as the monastery of the monks of Virasangha in the 8th – 9th century A.D. Rich collection of bronze images found in the temple.

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NNT08 – Sri Bhakta Janeswarar Temple at Thirunavalur

Location:
At Gedilam junction on the National Highway, 1 km after the Anjaneya statue for Parikkal diversion, take the left (East) for another 2 kms to the temple. There is an over bridge at the Gedilam junction and you have to take the service road under the bridge.

Significances:

• A Thevara Padal Petra Sthalam\
• Birthplace of Sundaramoorthy Nayanar and a place that should be visited by every shaivaite.
• Star temple for ”Pooradam”
• Worship here to get relief from Sukra dosham
• The temple is considered as the one that was present even before the 4 yugas

Deities:
The presiding deity is Naavaleesar, Bhakta Janeswarar as Swayambu lingam and the Ambal Manonmani, Sundaranayaki both facing East.

Legend:
Parvati, Brahmma, Vishnu, Chandikeswarar, Sukran, Indhran, AshtathikBalahars, Suryan, Saptharishis and Garudan worshipped Shiva at this kshetram.
Sukran worshipped the Lord and the Goddess as per the advice of the Goddess and got his Vakra dhosham cleared off. This lingam, as Bargaveeswarar, is present in the temple. There are special poojas to this lingam on Fridays.
Parvathi devi worshipped and married Lord Shiva here.
Sivapriyar worshipped Shiva and got his Chandikeswar post here; Images depicting the life of Chandikeswarar are seen carved in the temple.
By praying to Shiva here, Garuda got cleared off his poisonous blue colour that he got due to the spit of poison by Aadhiseshan
Maha Vishnu worshipped Shiva here and got the power to take the Narasimha Avatar to kill Hiranyan. There is a separate shrine for Varadaraja Perumal in this temple.
There are lingams worshipped by Vishnu in Girutha yugam; Chandikeswar in Thretha yugam; Brahmma in Dwabara yugam; and Sundarar in Kali yugam.

Temple:
Goddess is seen in meditative posture with loose hair.
Dakshinamurthy is portrayed in a standing posture with the left hand bearing scriptures and the right hand placed on a rishabham portrayed behind.
A separate shrine for Sundaramoorthy Nayanar with Sangili Nachiyar and Paravai Nachiyar is inside the temple.
The bronze images of Natarajar, Bhikshatanar and Sundaramoorthy Nayanar are noteworthy.
Generally the Sun of Navagrahas will face East but here he faces West, facing the Lord.
From 23 to 27 of the Tamil month Panguni, Sun rays fall directly on the main deity.
Five tier Rajagopuram with two praharams.
Arunagiri nathar sung on Murugar of this temple
The significance of this place is fully described in Seekizhar’s Periya puranam.

Sthala Vriksham:  Naaval
Theertham: Gedila river, Komugi
Contact: Chandra sekara Hurukkal / Sambandha Sivacharyar: 9943359480 / 94436 24585

Note: There is a madam nearby at the birth place of Sri Sundaramoorthy Nayanar. Also there is a Murugan temple in the village.

Links: Location Weblink Photos

Sri Abathsahayeswarar Temple at Senthamangalam

Location:
After 1.5 kms from the Gedilam junction on the National Highway, about 700 meters South ward (left) diversion from the highway.

Significances:
A place with lot of heritage importance.
The place that saw the very last battle of Chola regime. After this war, the chola regime came to an end.

Temple:
This massive 3 prahara temple is part of the Kopperunchingan kadavarayan King’s fort. It is being renovated / excavated by ASI for many years but in daily pooja. The lingam is very huge. The Dakshinamoorthy is sitting on a rishabam and the Murugar here is having six faces and six hands (normally he will have 12 hands).

Just opposite the temple, there is an abandoned (musical) stone horse on the bank of the temple tank, which will emanate different musical notes when you strike on different places. Unfortunately it is lying uncared in a place that is being used as a public toilet by the villagers.

Links: Location Photos

Padur

Location: 8 kilometres before Ulundurpet and further 4.5 kms from the Senthamangalam diversion on the Chennai-Trichy highway and 1 km diversion to the North (right side).

1) Sri Prasanna Venkatesa Perumal Temple

Deities: Sri Prasanna Venkatesa Perumal in standing form with Alarmelmangai thayar
Urchavar: Azhagar
Pooja: Vaikasana Agamam

Temple:
Sri Prasanna Venkatesa Perumal was enshrined by Dehaleesa Perumal (Aayanar) of Thirukoyilur. Hence, the temple is referred to as “Abhimana Khestram”. To the North of the temple, “Sesha Nadhi” and “Garuda Nadhi” flow, which are considered similar to “Viraja Nadhi” of Sri Vaikuntam.
This ancient temple rose to cultural and religious glory during 932 A. D. under the reign of Rashtrakuta King, Krishnan II. The Chola King Kulothunga established Chaturvedamangalam at Padur. The temple was constructed by the Chola king Kopperunchingan.

The Lord bestows grace on people in the form of Lord Srinivasa of Thirumala and Lord Varadaraja of Kanchi. Both Perumal and Thayar face east. The temple is equivalent to the Pancha Krishnaranya kshetras. The other deities worshipped here are Navaneethakrishnan, Sudarsanaazhwar, Aanjaneyar, Andal, Nammazhwar, Thirumangaiazhwar, Ramanuja, Swamy Desikan, Aadivann Satagopa Yathindra Mahadesikan (the first Jeer of Sri Ahobila Mutt). There is also Veera Anjaneya Swamy, which was taken from the dilapidated Fort (not in existence now) of the King Kopperunsingan who ruled this area.

The Jeeva Brindavan of the 36th Jeeyar Azhagia Singar Vansadagopa Srinivasa Mahadesikan Swami is in this temple.
The rays of Sun fall on the feet of the Lord of the temple from Avani 7 to 12 – August September.

Special Thirumanjanam is performed to Mother on Fridays with kumkum archana when people pray for child boon and reunion of separated husband and wife.

Contact: Sri. S. Vijayaraghava Iyengar @97519 84402
The temple priest lives next door to temple.

Links: Location Photos Weblink

2) Sri Agastheeswaramudaiyar Temple

A heritage Chola temple with lots of inscriptions
Goddess Unnamulai amman is smiling; Vinayagar is in a different posture

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Ulundurpet

Sri Mashapureeswarar Temple at Ulundandarkovil

UlundandarKovil is named after the main Shiva temple in the village. It also has a Durga temple. It has three ponds and it was an important town during the medieval times. The nearby Ulundurpet was a suburb of this village for a long time. After the Chennai – Trichy NH road was built, Ulundurpet gained over Ulundandarkovil

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Perumal temple at Ulundurpet
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Sri Sankaralinga swamigal Ashram

Sri Sankaralinga swamigal was one of great saint who stayed and attained samadhi in Uluundurpet. Nobody knows about his early life period.He produced lot of miracles to his devotees.He attained samadhi on Anusha star (Tamil month Aani).Every year Guru Pooja is conducted on that day.Ashram is run by devotees. Annadhana is provided three times a day.Five times Pooja is carried on daily. Special occasion will be full moon day and new moon day.

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Sri Sarada Ashram

Sri Sarada Ashram, a wonderful spiritual centre, is located conveniently on the Chennai-Trichy highway. The ashram is managed by ascetic sisters, the disciples of Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa, Sri Sarada Devi and Sri Swami Vivekananda.

Contact:
Sri Saradha Ashram, New Edaikal, Trichy Trunk Road, Ulundurpet  606 107
Ph:04149-220432  Mob:9487481452, 9487475432 Email: ashram@srisaradaashram.org

Links: Location

Ulundurpet – Elavansurkottai (Salem)

NNT10 Swarnakadeswarar Temple at Neivanai, Thirunelvennai

Location: 15 kms North-West of Ulundurpet

Significances: One of the 275 Thevara Padal Petra Sthalams

Deities: Venneiyappar, Swarnaghateswarar, Porkudam Koduthu Aruliya Nayanaar as swayamu lingam and the Ambal Neelamalarkkanni.

Legend:
Once the place was very fertile with paddy fields and people were happy and prosperous which made them forget God.  Lord directed Varuna, the God of rain, to pour his power incessantly and lakes, tanks and all water resources began to breach. Heavy floods began to threaten the safety of the people and they ran to Lord for safety.  Lord came as a youth, asked them to bring all the paddy bags from their homes and built a dam preventing further calamity. Though the people lost their possessions, they praised the youth as their saviour. The young man gave them pots of gold (Swarna) and advised them to recover the loss by using it and disappeared.  When the villagers were wonderstruck, Lord appeared before them as Swaymabu and people built the temple then.
As the Lord gave them Swarna-gold, He is praised as Swarnakadeswarar. Since Lord Shiva Himself built the dam (Anai in Tamil) with paddy (Nel in Tamil) the place was named Nel Anai which later changed as Neivanai.
Sanakar, sananthanar, sanathanar and Sanatkumarar worshipped Shiva here
It was dark when Saint Gnanasambandar reached this place during his pilgrimage.  He had difficulty in tracing the path.  Lord sent Ambal to guide Sambandar to the temple.  The place from where Mother called the child saint is called Ethalavadi nearby.  In his excitement, Sambandar danced and sang the praise of Lord.  The idol of Gnanasambandar is designed in a dancing form beautifully with the other saints Appar-Tirunavukkarasar and Sundarar nearby.

The Temple:
Lord Shiva in the sanctum sanctorum is seated under a Rudraksha Pandal (roof).
Lord Shiva, as a procession deity is in a standing form in the middle of a trident symbolizing the oneness of Shiva and Shakti and the Arthanareeswara form.
Lord Mahavishnu graces from the front Mandap with Mother Mahalakshmi on His lap in a worshipping form as Lord Lakshmi Narayana.  Both look with closed eyes as if in meditation.
There is a separate shrine for Lord Nataraja.  There are shrines for Lord Muruga with His consorts Valli and Deivanai, Navagrahas, Lord Kasi Viswanatha, Mother Visalakshi in the prakara.  Special pujas are offered to Sri Bhairava on new moon days.
Sambandar composed the Pathigam

Special Significance:
Each year, in the early morning of Maha Shivrathri day, the rays of Sun prostrates at the feet of the Lord when the Lord appears in different colours blue, green, white and red. This is a rare darshan to the devotees.

Sthala Vruksham: Punnai
Theertham: pennai river
Contact: Ph: 4149 291786, Mob: 94862 82952.

Links: Location

Aadhanur

1) Sri Arunachaleswarar Temple
Links: Location

2) Sri Azhagiya Venkatesa Perumal Temple
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Sri Ardhanareeswarar Temple at Elavanasurkottai (Pidagam).

A big temple with 150 feet Rajagopuram and 5 praharams
Swayambu lingam, Goddess: Periyanayahi
Nandhi is facing west
Indhran, Sage Mirugandu worshipped here.
As per inscription, when Rajaraja Chola came for hunting, he found this lingam and built the temple in the midst of the forest

Links: Location Photos

Sri Rajanarayana Vinnaga Perumal Temple at Elavansurkottai
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Sri Sailanatha Easwar Temple at Kunjaram
Swayambu lingam, more than 1000 years old ancient Temple
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Ulundurpet – Veppur

Sri Mangalanayahi amman Temple at Mangalampet
Mangalampet is 6.5 kms south of Ulundurpet and 4.5 kms diversion from the highway
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Sri Kailasanathar Temple at Pali
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Sri Aadhi Kesava Perumal Temple at Kattuparur
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Sri Aanantheeswarar Shiva temple at Edaichitthur
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Sri Viswanathar Shiva temple at Valasai
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Sri Viswanathar Shiva Temple at Pinjanur

There are shrines for Lord Shiva, Ambal and Jeshta devi.
The main deity lingam is long and thin.

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Sri Kailasanathar Shiva Temple at Erainji
The temple is located on the highway itself
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Sri Unnamalai Amman sametha Sri Annamalaiyar Temple at Koothakudi

7 kms north of Veppur and 3 kms diversion from the Highway on the Kallakurichi road, this temple is suggested as a special prayer temple for people with stammering problems.

Links: Location

Sri Nallanaygar / Vilvaveneswarar Temple at Nallur

It is located at 10 kms North East of Veppur and around 6 kms diversion from the National Highway.
This ancient Chola temple with heritage importance and lots of inscriptions is very popular. It is located in a beautiful environment surrounded by five rivers manimutha, mura, gomugi and other two rivers.
It is said that Pancha Pandavs were staying in this village

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Sri Meenakshi Sundareswarar Shiva Temple, Seppakkam
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Sri Thiripurasundari ambal sametha Sri Thiru karam thondreeswarar Temple at KattuMayilur

Kattumayilur is located at 4 kms north of Veppur and the temple is present on the southern bank of the Manimuthar river with Lord Shiva as a Swayambu lingam.
As the name suggests it’s a forest having plenty of peacocks and the temple is located in the middle of it. It’s a granite Chola temple with vimanam in brick work.
Lord Shiva is facing East and Ambal Sri Thiripurasundari is present in a separate shrine to the left of Lord Shiva facing East.
More than 100 years old Vanni tree is present.
In the praharam, shrines for Selva Vinayagar, Annamalaiyar, Lord Vishnu and Murugar are present.
When Parvathi devi attained the age for marriage She made a Shiva lingam out of river sand and worshipped Him. One day, an arm of Lord Shiva appeared out of the lingam and held Her hand. That’s why He is named Karam Thondreeswarar (In tamil, Hand means Karam (கரம்), appear means Thondruthal (தோன்றுதல்))

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Sri Brahannayagi Sametha Sri Villvaneshvarar Temple at Veppur (Thiruppugazh temple)

Arunagirinathar sang Thiruppugazh hymn on this Murugan
Note: There is also Varadharaja Perumal temple in Veppur

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Veppur – Thalaivasal -Athur – Salem

Covered under Salem Directory

Veppur – Vridhachalam

Thiruppayar

1) Perumal Temple
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2) Shiva Temple
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3) Sri Sadaiyappar Temple
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Sri Pasupatheeswarar Temple at T.Pudaiyur
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Sathiyam

1) Sri Varadharaja Perumal Temple
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2) Sri Vilvarutheeswarar Temple
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Sri Vaidhyanatha Swamy Temple at Thoravalur
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Sri Meenakshi Sundareswarar Temple at Paravalur
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Veppur – Thittakkudi

Shiva Temple at Keezh Adhanur
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Perumal Temple at Mel Adhanur
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Sri SivakamaSundari sametha Shiva Temple at Sevveri

Sevveri is located 7 kms north of Thittakudi.
The village is on the bank of Sembianmadevi lake and so the name became as Sevveri.
Lord Shiva is facing East and Ambal is facing South.
Goumari, Vaishnavi and Maheswari are present in the koshtam of Ambal shrine

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Sri Pachai Amman Poomalai Temple at Komarai
A highly popular temple
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Sri MuthaiyaSwamy Shiva Temple at Perumulai
A popular temple
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Veppur – Thozhudhur

Sri Manjiappar Temple at Sirunesalur
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Sri Thiripura Sundari Ambal sametha Sri Thiruvanantheeswarar Temple at Ma.Pudaiyur

An old Chola temple
The snake Ananthan worshipped Lord Shiva and so He is called Sri Anantheeswarar.
Nandhi mandapam, Ardha and Maha mandapams. Inside the sanctum two chola King sculptures with folded hands are present inside the sanctum.
Perumal is seen in the koshtam in a standing posture.
Ambal shrine is located to the left of Lord Shiva shrine with Lord Murugar shrine in between in Somaskandhar form.
he sculpture of a bootham at the abhishega water outlet is looking beautiful. The abhishega water is flowing through a hole on his head and getting out through his mouth.
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Sri Vazhithunai Murugan Temple at Kallur
A small Murugan temple in a beautiful garden environment. 
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Sri Varadharaja Perumal Temple at Venganur
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Shiva Temple at Eluthur
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Thozhudhur – Veeraganur (Athur – Salem)

Sri Brahannayagi Ambal Sametha Sri Tholeeswarar Temple at Thiruvalanthurai

A Swayambu lingam at about 8 kms west ward diversion from Thozhudur. It is told that there is an underground passage from this temple to Thozhudhur. ‘Maasi Magam’ celebrations are popular here, almost people from more than 20 nearby villages participate in ‘Maasi Makam’ celebrations. ‘Maasi Makam’ is a 16-day festival.

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Thozhudhur – Thittakkudi- Pennadam

Sri Abhithaguja nayagi Ambal sametha Sri Arunachaleswarar Temple at Arangur
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Sri Kailasanathar Temple at Keezh Seruvai
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Thittakkudi

1) Sri Vaithyanatha Swamy Temple
A Swayambu lingam worshipped by Sage Vasishtar.
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2) Sri Sugasana Perumal Temple
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3) Sri Ranganatha Swamy Temple
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Kozhiyur

1) Shiva Temple
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2) Perumal Temple
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Sri Kasi Viswanathar Temple at Avinankudi
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Sri Karuppanar Swamy Temple at Kottaram

Thittakudi is a 13 kms East ward diversion from Thozhudur and this temple is located at 7 kms east of Thittakudi en route Pennadam. Karuppanar came and did the delivery service to a pregnant lady – so he is called ‘Sirai Meetta Karuppanar’ since he released the baby from the jail of stomach. The neighbouring villagers took the Karuppanar idol to conduct a festival but refused to return it back. When this was brought to the court, Karuppanar came in a horse and entered the court and it was adjudged to belong to Kottaram.

Links: Location

Sri Poomalaiappar Temple at Neivasal

This is a big and popular temple in a nice location at 8 kms east of Thittakkudi en route Pennadam.

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NNT01 – Theerthapureeswarar Temple at Thiruvattathurai

Location: 9 kms east of Thittakkudi en route Pennadam. In the Thittakkudi – Pennadam route take a diversion at Kodikkalam for 1 km towards South.

Significances:

• One of the 275 Thevara Padal Petra Sthalams
• Considered to be the sthalam to visit to get fame, recognition and position.
• One of the seven ‘Thurai’ (bank of a river) temples associated with Saptha rishis.

Deities: The presiding deity is Aratturai Naathar, Theerthapureeswarar, Anandeeswarar as Swayambu lingam and the Ambal Thripurasundari

Legend:

• The Saptha rishis called and brought the Vellar river by addressing as ‘Nee Vaa’ (meaning, you come here) and worshipped Lord Shiva at 7 holy places on the banks (thurai) of the Vellar river. These are called ‘’Thurai’’ temples and the other 6 are: Aadhi thurai (Kariyanur), Thiruvalanthurai, Thirumanthurai, Thiru Aduthurai, Thiruvattathurai (Thittakudi) and Thirukkaranthurai.
• Sage Vasishtar penanced here and got the title as ‘Rajarishi’ from Lord Shiva. On the basis of this title he was appointed as the ‘Kula Guru’ (family teacher) of their families by Manu, Dasarath and Sriram. As the Guru of Sriram, Vasisht gave a collection of advises which was written down and codified as the ‘Jnana Vasishtam’. This is like the Geetha advises to Arjuna by Lord Krishna.
• Aadhi Sesha worshipped Shiva here and hence the name Aravatturai, which became Aratturai. Thirunelvayil Arathurai is another name of this place.

Temple:

• Vellar river is on the southern side of the temple.
• To avoid ravages during flooding, Nandhi turned its head towards the river and the floods receded.  Hence, the head of the Nandhi is seen turned to a side.
• There is an entrance at the left side of the sanctum sanctorum known as Magam Vasal. Women, who had lost their husbands, after one year of their demise, bathe in the river nearby and enter the temple through this gate, worship the Lord and return the same way.
• Sambandar, after worshipping at Pralaya Kaleswarar at Pennadagam stayed overnight at Eraiyur or Thirumaranpadi. From there, he was coming to this temple and on the way, he was tired and exhausted. The Lord then asked a rich man in Thiruvattathurai to send a palanquin (Muththu Chivigai) lined with pearls and a MuthuKondai (Pearl Umbrella) for Thirugnana Sambandhar. They met Thirugnana Sambandar at a place called “Koodalur” (Or Gudalur).  From there on, Thirugnana sambandar travelled to many places in Muththu Chivigai. This is considered to be the sthalam to visit to get fame, recognition and position. The incidences of Sambandhar getting the palanquin and Sage Vasishtar getting the ‘’Rajaguru’’ title vouch this. 
• Sambandar, Appar and Sundarar have composed the Pathigam.
• Arunagirinathar had sung Thirupuugazh on this Murugan.

Sthala Vriksham: Banayan tree
Theertham:  Neelamalar Poikai, Vada Vellar river
Contact: Swaminatha Sivacharyar  04143 – 246467 / 246303

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Perumal Temple at Kodikkalam
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Goodalur

1) Sri Meenakshi Ambal Sametha Sri Chokkanathar Temple
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2) Sri Varadharaja Perumal Temple
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Sri Annapoorani Samedha Dhaagam Theertha Sri Pureeswarar Temple at Eraiyur or Thirumaaran Paadi

This is very near to Thiruvattathurai and the other name of the place is Thirumaran Padi. Eraiyur, or Irai (God) + Oor (Village), means God’s village.
Though this temple was not sung by moovar (excluding Maanikkavaasagar), the young Thirugnana Sambandar stayed in this temple overnight.
When Thirugnana Sambandar was visiting the temples, he stayed at Eraiyur one night. He was hungry and the Goddess came to him and gave food. When he was eating he got hiccups. It is then the Lord Shiva appeared and created a pond for him to drink (This is the pond just in front of ASHS School in Eraiyur and now a part of the pond is taken over by the Co-Operative Society for its building!). Because the Goddess gave food She is called “Anna Poorani” and because the Lord Shiva gave water and quenched his thirst, He is called “Thaakam Theertha Pureeswarar”.
Thirumaran Padi is mentioned in Periya Puranam atleast in 4 places.

Links: Location

Pennagadam

Pennadam is 26 kms east of Thozhudhur on the Chennai-Trichy National Highway; 18 kms South-West of Vridhachalam

1) NNT02 – Sri Pralayakaleshwarar Temple

Significances:

• One of the 275 Thevara Padal Petra Sthalams
• Thirunavukkarasar appealed to Lord Sudarkozhundhu Nathar to inscribe the stamp on him with the symbol of His Trident (Trishul) and Nandhi (Vrushba)
• Nandhi is facing the other side
• Birth place of Kalikamba Nayanar and Meikandar, the pioneer of Saiva philosophy.

Deities: The presiding deity is Sudarkozhuntheesar, Pralayakaleswarar as Swayambu lingam and the Ambal Gadantai Nayaki, Aamodanambikai, Azhagiya Kadhali

Legend:

• The world was once destroyed by Lord Shiva.  Barring this place, all parts of the world was submerged in water.  Devas rushed to this place and begged the Lord to protect all beings by keeping them here.  Lord directed Nandhi to prevent the flood entering here.  Nandhi, till then facing Lord Shiva, turned the other side to swallow the waters of the great deluge and saved the place.  Hence, Lord of the place is praised as Pralaya Kaleswarar – Lord who protected the world.  He destroyed and also protected.
  Nandhi, which turned the other side to protect the place from the deluge is still in the same position facing the entrance of the temple.
• Indira, the king of Devas needed flowers form Earth to perform Shiva Puja in his place.  He sent two maidens to earth to bring flowers, who found them in plenty but stayed here itself seeing a Shivaling in the garden and began doing pujas.  As they did not return, he sent the Divine cow Kamadenu to bring them back.  Kamadenu found the maidens and only joined them in the Shiva puja by pouring its milk on the Lord.  As it did not return, he sent his white elephant Iravadham in search of them. The elephant, seeing them in worship also joined the camp by standing in such a way to create a cool shadow for the Shivalinga. Finally, Indira himself came down, saw the maids, cow and the elephant and also joined them in the worship.  All returned together with the blessings of Lord Shiva. Since Virgins (Penn in Tamil), Divine cow (Aa) and Elephant (Gadam) worshipped Lord here, the name of the place was called “Penn- aa- Gadam – Pannagadam” which later became Pennadam.
  It is in this temple Thirunavukkarasar appealed to Lord Sudarkozhundhu Nathar to inscribe the stamp on him with the symbol of His Trident (Trishul) and Nandhi (Vrushba) if He so considered him deserved for the honour. Lord honoured the saint with His own hands in all His mercy.  This episode is described by divine poet Sekkizhar in his magnum opus Peria Puranam in touching devotional lines.
• A Chola King had to worship the Lord from the other side of the bank of the river due to heavy floods.  Lord acknowledged his worship by raising the ground level.  There is a temple within the temple, 30 meters above the ground level remembering the event.
• The place is referred to as Tunngaanai Maadam in scriptures.
• This is the birth place of celebrated saints Kalikamba Nayanar and Meikandar, the pioneer of Saiva philosophy. Also Saint Maraignana Sambandar in the Saivite Guru tradition lived here.
• Shiva devotee Kalikamba Nayanar used to do Pada Puja – washing the feet of Shiva devotees – with his wife, which she once refused for a devotee.  In fury, Kalikambar chopped off the hands of his wife for refusing a divine duty, but later Lord restored her hands.

Temple:
A five-tiered gopuram adorns this temple.
The sanctum is built in the form of an elephant, with three windows on three sides which facilitates dharshan of the Lord from all sides.
Sambandar and Appar composed the Pathigam

Shala Vriksham: Shanbaga tree
Theertham: Kapila Theertham, Kayilai Theertham, Indira theertham, Mukkulam, Vellar
Contact: 04143-222 788, 98425 64768

Note: Sri Vedavalli Sameda Vedanarayana Temple is also present in Pennadam

Links: Location

2) Sri Varadharaja Perumal Temple
Veetrirundha (sitting) Perumal
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3) Sri Pallikonda Perumal Temple
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Thirumandhurai – Agaram Sigoor

This road is to the south of Vellaru river parallel to the Ramanatham – Thittakudi road on the eastern side of Thozhudur / Ramantham

Sri Marudhanandheeswar Temple at Pennakonam
5 kms East ward diversion from the National Highway at Thrumandhurrai
Links: Location

Sri Kutram Poruthavar / Abaratha Rakshakar Shiva Temple at S.Aduthurai
A huge and ancient temple on the bank of river Vellaru
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Sri Amirthagadeswarar Shiva Temple at Ogaiyur
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Note:
Apart from the Amirthakadeswarar Shiva temple at Ogalur, there is also a Buddha temple here who is worshipped as the ‘Dubai God’. More than 500 people from here work in West Asia, helped, they believe, by their much-garlanded Buddha. As thanksgiving, dinar-enriched Gulf returnees have erected a nice podium where the ancient Buddha now sits. The Buddha is estimated to be between 800 and 1,200 years old.

Sri Vadamaleeswarar Shiva Temple at Athiyur
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Thozhudhur – Vaalikandapuram

Thozhudur

1) Manakavalai Matrum Sri Madurantaka Choleswarar Temple
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2) Perumal Temple
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Shiva Temple at Ramanatham
Links: Location

Sri Jotheeswarar Shiva Temple at Thirumanthurai

One of the seven thurai temples, which are worshipped by Saptharishis.

Links: Location

Sri Thirumakkatteeswarar Temple at Peraiyur

An ancient temple with a Swayambu lingam located at 4 kms West ward diversion from Thirumandhurai on the National highway.

Links: Location

Ranjankudi Fort
Links: Location

Sri Brahmmapureeswarar temple at Vaalikandapuram

Deities: Brahmmapureeswarar, Vaaleeswarar with Goddess Brahannayahi, Valambihai

Legend: Brahmma and Vaali worshipped Shiva here

Temple:
This temple is of Parantaka Chola period
This big temple has 7 tier Rajagopuram with praharams
There is a beautiful mandapam with 255 pillars
Bala Dhandayuthapani and Arumugar shrines are present. Lord Muruga is very much tall, possibly taller than Swamimalai Nathan.
Arumugar is seen sitting on His peacock vahana and Arunagirinathar had sung Thiruppugazh on this Bala Dhandayuthapani.

Sthala Vruksham: Mavilangai
Theertham: Saravan Theertham

Note: Nearby are ruins of another temple.

Links: Location Weblink Photos

Sri Prasanna Venkatesa Perumal Temple at Salai
A newly built temple
Links: Location

Vaalikandapuram – Perambalur

Sengunam

Sengunam is located at 6 kms before Perambalur to the EAST of the highway and there are many ancient temple here:

1) An ancient Rajendra Chola period Shiva temple
2) An ancient Perumal temple (700 years old)
3) Hanuman Temple

Sri Kamba Perumal Kovil at Bramma Rishi Hill at Elambalur

The holy Brahmma Rishi hill is located at 6 kms before Perambalur to the right (west) of the highway. Three famous saints’ (sidhas) samathis are in the area: Sri Valaiguru Swamikal, Sri Ganapathy Swamikal and Sri Mahalinga Swamikal. In 1995, another Sidhar called Thalayaadi Sidhar samathi was also established near Brammarishi hills. Karthikai Deepam is a very famous celebration held every year in Brammarishi Hills.

Links: Location

Sri Thirumangali Amman Temple near Elambalur

The ancient and popular Sri Thirumangali Amman Kovil is situated at 2 kms before Perambalur to the right (West) of the highway. She is a powerful as well as very kind. It is believed that this temple was constructed by traditional Tamil kings 500 years ago.
The temple will be opened for devotees only on Mondays and Fridays.

Links: Location

Perambalur

1) Sri Brahmmadheeswarar Shiva Temple
Links: Location

2) Sri Madhana Gopala Swamy Perumal Temple
Links: Location

3) Sri Varadharaja Perumal Temple
Links: Location

Perambalur – Trichy

Covered under the Directory “Trichy“

Perambalur – Kunnam (Ariyalur)

The road is to the East of Perambalur

Sri Azhageswarar Temple at Perali
Links: Location

Sri Veerappa Swamy Temple at Sithali
Links: Location

Sri Sokkanathar Temple at Asur
Links: Location

Sri Serakulathan Temple at Elumur East
Links: Location

Kunnam

1) Sri Akilandeswari sametha Aadhi Kumebeswarar Temple
Links: Location

2) Perumal Temple
Links: Location

Perambalur – Athur

Sri Renuka Devi Amman Temple at Somantaputhur, Keelakarai
An ancient temple
Links: Location

Sri Gananambika Sametha Sri Kaalatheeswarar Temple at Esanai
Links: Location

Sri Veera Anjaneyar Temple at Annamangalam
Links: Location

Sri Periyanayahi Sametha Sri Brahmmapureeswarar Temple at Neikuppai
Links: Location

Sri Sornambihai sametha Sornapureeswarar Temple at Venbavur
Links: Location

Sri Thaiyal Nayahi Sametha Sri Vaitheeswarar Temple, Periya Vadakarai
Links: Location

Sri Tharapureeswarar Temple at Vengalam
Links: Location

Thondamanthurai

1) Sri Visalakshi Sametha Sri Kasi Viswanathar Temple
Links: Location

2) Sri Varadharaja Perumal Temple
Links: Location

Sri Kamalakshi Amman Sametha Sri Kailasanathar Temple at Arumbavur
Links: Location

Poolambadi

1) Sri Soundareswarar Shiva Temple
Links: Location

2) Srinivasa Perumal Temple
Links: Location

Sri Virudhambigai / Balambigai sametha Sri Virudhachaleswarar / Pazhamalainathar Temple at Venganur
A highly Popular Shiva Temple known for its intricate sculptural works.
Links: Location

Shiva Temple at East Rajapalayam
Links: Location

Perumal Temple at Veeraganur
Links: Location

Perambalur – Thuraiyur

See in ‘Trichy’ Directory