Tuesday 20 November 2012

Sri Thirunaraiyur Nambi Temple / ஸ்ரீ திருநறையூர் நம்பி திருக்கோவில், திருநறையூர் / Thirunaraiyur / Nachiyarkovil / Natchiyar Kovil / Nachiyar Koil / Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple / Kal Garudan Sannidhi, Nachiyar Koil, Thanjavur District, Tamil Nadu.

 20, November 2012.
During Yathra to Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalangal around Kumbakonam- South side, had been to this Nachiyar Koil, to worship Sri Srinivasa Perumal  and Kal Garudan.



This  Sri Thirunaraiyur Nambi Temple, Nachiyarkoil / Nachiyar Koil is one of the 108 Divya Desam and 14th Diva desam of Chozha Nadu. Since Importance is given to Thayar ie Nachiyar, this place is called as Nachiyarkoil.  

Mangalasasanam was done by  Thirumangai Azhwar  (1078,1329, 1470, 1478-1577, 1611, 1659, 1852, 2067, 2068, 2673 (71), 2674 (73, 133), in Nalayira Divya Prabandham.

1470
மானேய் நோக்குநல்லார் மதிபோல்முகத்துலவும்,
ஊனேய் கண்வாளிக் குடைந்தோட் டந்துன் னடைந்தேன்,
கோனே குறுங்குடியுள் குழகா திருநறையூர்த் தேனே,
வருபுனல்சூழ் திருவிண் ணகரானே
….. திருமங்கை ஆழ்வார், பெரிய திருமொழி, ஆறாம் பத்து

2673 – 2712 ( 71)
பேராலித-ண்கால் நரையூர் திருப்புலியூர்
ஆராமம் சூழ்ந்தவர-ண்கம் -- கணம-ண்கை
….. திருமங்கை ஆழ்வார், சிறிய திருமடல்

Moolavar  : Sri Thirunaraiyur Nambi, Sri Vasudevar, Srinivasa Perumal
Utsavar    : Sri Srinivasa Perumal
Thayar     : Sri Vanjulavalli
Utsavar    : Sri Vanjulavalli.

Some of the salient features of this temple are ….
The temple is facing east with a Rajagopuram. Dwajasthambam, Balipeedam and Garudan are in the ground level mandapam with big pillars. On the top level Sri Thirunaraiyur Nambi also known as Vasudevar / Srinivasa Perumal is with Thayar Vanjulavalli in Kalyana kolam. Since Thayar is with Srinivasa Perumal, there is no separate sannadhi for Thayar. The other deities in the sanctum sanctorum are Sankarshana in the east, Pradyumna in the south, Anirudha in the west, Purushothaman in the north and Vasudeva in the center.  

In praharam Yoga Narasimhar, Chakkarathalwar, Varadharajar, Ramar, Hanuman, Senaimudalvar and Chakrapani sannidhis.

At the ground level Srinivasa Perumal, Alwars, Thirumangai Alwar.

In praharam Manavala Mamunigal, Lakshmi Varahar and Desikar. On the outer wall of sanctum sanctorum stucco images of Maha Vishnu’s 10 avatar sculptures in the form of kosta images.

The speciality of this temple is the Kal Garudan, which is at the second level. Garudan is seen with nine serpents and is believed to have the powers to remove the Navagraha Dosha. It was learnt that during utsavam Kal Garudan, with utsava Murthis weight will increase to manifold and the same will reduce when it came back to shrine. To start with 4 peoples will become 8 and it will become 16, 32, 64 and so on up to 128.

During the festival Nachiyar leads the procession on Hamsa Vahanam.
 




ARCHITECTURE
This temple is one of the maada temple built by Ko Chenkat Chozhan in 3 levels. The sanctum sanctorum is on a Upanam with kapotam. The Adhistanam is on the padma peetam on the upanam. Adhistanam is with jagathy, vrudha kumudam and pattikai. The Pilasters are of Vishnu kantha pilasters with kalasam, kudam, lotus petals mandi palakai,  and vettu pothyal. The prastaram consists of Valapi, Kapotam with nasi kudus and Viyyalavari. The Vimanam is called as Srinivasa Hema Vimanam.





A Ceiling relief
 ( Perumal's avatars in stucco images )


 ( Pillars of the front ground level mandapam are tooo big )
 ( Praharam )

The kal Garudan is in the second level ( It was learnt that during urchavam  Kal Garudan’s weight will increase to manifold and the same will reduce  when it came back to shrine. To start with 4 peoples will become 8 and it will become 16, 32, 64, 128 ).

PC - Website

HISTORY & INSCRIPTIONS
As per thirumangai Alwar, this temple was built by the Chozha king Ko Chenganan alias Ko Chengat Chozha. He mentions this temple as manimada koil.

அம்பரமும் பெரு நிலனும் திசைகளெட்டும்
    அலைகடலும் குலவரையும் உண்ட கண்டன்
கொம்பமரும் வடமரத்தினிலை மேல் பள்ளி
    கூடினான் திருவடியே கூடுகிற்பீர்
வம்பவிழும் செண்பகத்தின் வாசமுண்டு
    மணிவண்டு வகுளத்தின் மலர் மேல் வைகு
செம்பியன் கோச் செங்கணான் சேர்ந்த கோயில்
    திருநறையூர் மணிமாடம் சேர்மின்களே
(1498) - பெரிய திருமொழி 6-6-1

Maha Kumbhabhishekam was conducted on 06th May 1992. The estimated cost of Katta Gopuram thirupani was Rs 60000 and the same was sponsored by Dr S Lakshminarayanan and Dr Mahalakshmi. Rajagopuram thirupani was  carried out at a cost of Rs 1 lakh by the members of Sri Srinivasa Perumal Arul Venduvor Narpani Sangam.

The temple chariot was restored with a  new axle replacement and trial procession was also carried out at a cost of 4.25 Lakhs on 1st April 2009.

 



LEGENDS
As per the legend  MahaLakshmi as Vanjulavalli was born at the foot of a Vanchula Tree to Medhavi Munivar.  Maha Vishnu, took the Pancha Vyuha forms and married Vanjulavalli.

It is believed that worshipping kal Garudan continuously 7, thursdays, will be relieved from marriage obstacles.

It is believed that this temple is equivalent to tirupati since Thirumangai Alwar praises moolavar as … “தேன் கொண்ட சாரம் திருவேங்கடத்தானை நான் சென்று நாடி திருநறையூரில் ( நாச்சியார் கோயில் ) கண்டேனே….”

POOJAS AND CELEBRATIONS
Apart from regular poojas as per Vaikanasa agama of Thenkalai Sampradayam, special poojas are conducted on Vasantha utsavam in the month of Vaikasi, Thirukalyana utsavam in the month of Avani, Mukkodi Theppa Utsavam Margazhi month, Panguni Brahmotsavam.

Ratha Saptami is celebrated with Pakal paththu and Ra paththu

During the festival Nachiyar leads the procession on Hamsa Vahanam.

TEMPLE TIMINGS
The temple will be kept opened between 07.30 hrs to 12.30 hrs and 16.30 hrs to 21.00 hrs.

CONTACT DETAILS
The Land line number +91 435 246 7017 and mobile number +919443597388 may be contacted for further details.

HOW TO REACH
This Place Nachiyar Koil is midway between Thirunageswaram and Kudavasal.
The temple is 6 KM from Thirunageswaram, 9 KM from Kumbakonam, 10 KM from Kudavasal, 49 KM from Thanjavur.
Nearest Railway station is Kumbakonam.

LOCATION OF THE TEMPLE     CLICK HERE  











( Rajagopuram )

--- OM SHIVAYA NAMA ---

Sri Madhuvaneswarar Temple at Nannilam, Sri Pasupatheeswarar Temple At Thirukondeswaram, Sri Soundareswarar Temple At Thirupanaiyur, Sri Veerataneswarar Temple at Thiruvirkudi, Sri Muktheeswarar Temple / Thiruppayatrunathar Temple, At Thiruppayatrur ( Thirupayathangudi ), Sri Uthrapasupathiswaraswamy Temple at Thiruchengattangudi, Sri Ramanatheeswarar Temple at Thirukkannapuram, Sri Agnipureeswarar Temple at Thirupugalur and Varthamaneecharam, Ambal Brahmapureeswarar Temple at Ambal, Sri Mahakalanathar Temple at Ambal Makalam, Iravatheeswarar Temple at Thirukottaram - PAADAL PETRA SHIVA STHALANGAL - AROUND KUMBAKONAM - SOUTH SIDE

19, November 2012.
18-11-2012, DAY – 2. SUNDAY.
Started our Second day’s yathra  after vacating the hotel room from Kumbakonam at 07.15 Hrs. Today I had given a list of 11 temples on the south east side of Kumbakonam. Thought of covering the maximum possible temples during forenoon session. The driver only  suggested to complete the all 11 temples and return to Chennai. The temples and the routes covered are as follows.
1. NANNILAM – 
2. KONDEECHARAM (Thirukandeeswaram) 
3. THIRUPANAIYUR - 
4. THIRUVIRKUDI(Virkudi)
5. THIRUPAYATRUR (Thirupayathaangudi)
6. THIRUCHENGATTANKUDI 
    (From here up to rest of the temples Mr Kannan from HR & CE             Department accompanied with us )  
7. RAAMATHEECHARAM (Thirukkannapuram)
8. THIRUPUGALUR &
9. THIRUPUGALUR VARTHAMAANEECHARAM 
    (This temple is within the first temple)
10.AMBAR PERUNTHIRUKKOIL ( Ambal ) 
11.AMBAR MAKALAM ( KOIL THIRUMALAM)
12.KOTTARU ( Thirukkottaram )
    Since this temple’s exact location is not known, thought, it will be        near to Peralam. But latter it was learnt that the temple is very near      to Karaikal ).

188/71. SRI MADHUVANESWARAR TEMPLE, NANNILAM.


This is the 188th Devaram Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalam and 71st sthalam on the south side of river Kaveri  in Chozha Nadu. Sundarar has sung hymns in praise of Lord Shiva of this temple.

 ( Temple view - A maada Koil )

Moolavar    : Sri Madhuvaneswarar, Sri Prakasa Nathar,
    Sri Devaranyeswarar.
Consort      : Sri Madhuvaneswari, Sri Devakandhara Nayagi

Some of the important features of this temple are…..
The Temple is facing east without Rajagopuram. Dwajasthambam, Rishabam and balipeedam are after the entrance and in front of Ambal Sannadhi. Moolavar on the square avudayar worshiped by Brahma. In koshtam Vinayagar, Dhakshinamoorthy, Lingothbavar, Brahma, Durgai in the ground level. In the Upper level only Dakshinamurthy.

Sannadhi for Brahma worshiped  Mahadeva lingam, Agasthiyar worshiped Agastheeswarar, Vinayagar, Subramaniyar, Gajalakshmi, Somaskandar and Chandikeswarar. Chandikeswarar  is with his wives.
Only picture of Natarajar is available in the Saba mandapam.

ARCHITECTURE
This is one of the maada temple built by  Ko Chenkat Chozhan, which has 18 steps. The temple consists of Sanctum Sanctorum, antarala and ardha mandapam. 

LEGENDS
Brahma, Suryan, Agasthiyar, Devars ( in the form of honey bees ) worshiped Lord Shiva of this temple.

TEMPLE TIMINGS:
The temple will be kept opened between 07.00 hrs to 11.00 hrs and 17.00 hrs to 19.00 hrs

CONTACT DETAILS : 
Mobile numbers +9194426 82346,  +91 99432 09771 may be contacted for further details

HOW TO REACH : 
On the bus route Mayiladuthurai to Thiruvarur
Buses also available from Kumbakonam.

LOCATION OF THE TEMPLE : CLICK HERE 

 ( Somaskandar sannadhi adjacent to moolavar sannidhi in the first level )
 ( Ambal sannadhi view from main shrine entrance steps )

( Ambal sannadhi entrance ) 


189/72. SRI PASUPATHEESWARAR TEMPLE. THIRUKONDESWARAM.


Now this place is called as Thirukondeecharam. This is the 189th Devaram Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalam and 72nd sthalam on the south side of river Kaveri in Chozha Nadu. Appar has sung hymns in praise of lord Shiva of this temple.

 ( Inside arch view from Rishabam )

Moolavar    : Sri Pasupatheeswarar,
Consort      : Sri Santhanayagi

Some of the important features of this temple are….
The temple is facing east with an entrance arch. Balipeedam and Rishabam are in front of sanctum sanctorum. An arch with stucco images  above the sanctum entrance. In Koshtam Dakshinamurthy, Lingothbavar, Brahma and Durgai. 

Moolavar came from earth when cow as Ambal hit the earth through her horns ( There is scar / (வெடிப்பு ) on the top of moolavar).

In prakaram Sannadhi for Vinayagar, Subramaniyar, Gajalakshmi, Brahmapureeswarar, Agastheeswarar, Viswanathar Visalakshi, Bairavar, Naagar, Sambandar ( Thalangal very near ), Suryan. Navagrahas, Aabathsahaya maharishi, Jurahareswarar with three thiruvadikal.

ARCHITECTURE
The temple consists of sanctum sanctorum, antarala and artha mandapam. a 2 tier Vimana is on the sanctum. All the mandapams are of Vavval nethi style. 

Dwarap[alakar's are made of stucco. The Sthala puranam is painted on the ceiling of artha  mandapam. 

TEMPLE TIMINGS:
The temple will be kept opened between 07.00 hrs to 10.00 hrs and 17.00 hrs to 19.00 hrs

CONTACT DETAILS :
Land line number is 04366 - 228 033.

HOW TO REACH :
On the bus route Nagapattinam to Nannilam, Mayiladuthurai to Thiruthuraipoondi, Nagapattinam  to Kumbakonam  before entering Nannilam Thoothukudi stop from there walk-able distance.

LOCATION OF THE TEMPLE :CLICK HERE

 ( Entrance of the moolavar sannadhi with dwarapalakas)
 ( Sthala puranam in painting over the mandapam )
 ( Moolavar vimanam with Dakshinamurthy sannadhi )
 ( Moolavar vimanam view with Chandikeswarar sannadhi )
( Front arch )

190/73. SRI SOUNDARESWARAR TEMPLE, THIRUPANAIYUR.


This is the 190th Devaram Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalam and 73rd sthalam on the south side of river Kaveri in Chozha Nadu. Thirugnanasambandar and Sundarar has sung hymns in praise of lord Shiva of this temple.

( Front arch )

Moolavar    : Sri Soundareswarar, Sri Azhahiyanathar,
    Sri Thaalavaneswarar.
Consort      : Sri Brukanthanayagi, Sri Periyanayagi.

Some of the important features of this temple are as follows.
The temple is facing eat with an entrance arch/ Rajagopuram base with stucco images of Roshabarooder at the centre. A balipeedam and Rishabam are immediately  after the entrance arch. In Koshtam Agasthiyar,Dhakshinamoorthy, Mahavishnu, Brahma, Durgai.

In prakaram,  Thunai Iruntha Vinayagar ( for Karikal Chozhan ), Martruraitha Vinayagar, Subramaniyar, Sandeswarar, Mahalakshmi ( Sudhai sirpam ) and ashta lingam, Somaskandar ( a different one with fruit in left hand ).

ARCHITECTURE
The temple consists of sanctum sanctorum, antarala, ardha mandapam and a mukha mandapam. An ekathala Vesara Vimanam is over the sanctum.  

LEGENDS
Saptha rishis, Parasara Muni, Mahalakshmi, Karikarchozhan lived in this place  ( Vinayagar is called as Thunai iruntha Vinayagar ) and worshiped Lord Shiva of this temple.

Sundarar got gold from Lord Shiva for the celebration of Panguni Uthiram thirunal at Thiruvarur.

TEMPLE TIMINGS:
The temple will be kept opened between 07.00 hrs to 10.00 hrs to 17.00 to 19.00 hrs.

CONTACT DETAILS :
Land line number is 04366 - 237 007

HOW TO REACH :
On the route Thiruvarur get down at Sannanallur then Panayur stop from there 1 KM.
On the bus route Peralam to Thiruvarur get down at Andipandal  then Konamadhu from there 1 KM

LOCATION OF THE TEMPLE : CLICK HERE

 ( Un installed sculptures of Manickavasagar and a King  under the sthala vruksham )
 ( Temple view )
 ( Moolavar vimanam with Dakshinamurthy sannidhi )
 ( Inside arch with sthala vruksham )


191/74. SRI VEERATANESWARAR TEMPLE. THIRUVIRKUDI.


This is the 191st Devaram Paadal petra Shiva Sthalam and 74th sthalam on the south side of river Kaveri in Chozha Nadu. Thirugnanasambandar has sung hymns in praise of Lord Shiva of this temple.

( Front mandapam with kodimaram inside )

Moolavar    : Sri Veerataneswarar
Consort      : Eelavar Kuzhali, Parimala Nayagi.

Some of the important features of this temple are.....
The temple is facing west with 5 tier Rajagopuram. Dwajasthambam, balipeedam and Rishabam are in the mukha mandapam. Moolavar is Swayambhu on a square avudayar. In koshtam Brahma, Mahavishnu, Dakshinamurthy, Narthana Vinayagar.

In Prakaram Vinayagar, Sri Valli Devasena Subramaniar, Mahalakshmi, Bhairavar, Bhairavi,  Saneeswarar, Navagrahas, Suryan, Pidari, Mariamman, Bairavar, Nalvar with Sekkizhar, Somaskandar.

ARCHITECTURE
The temple consists of sanctum sanctorum, antarala, artha mandapam and a mukha mandapam. Moolavar is of swayambhu on a square avudayar. A Cheppu Rishabam is in-front of moolavar. Special sculpture of pranala / Komugam is supported by a lady.

 (Special sculpture of pranala / Komugam is supported by a lady.)

LEGENDS
This is one of the atta veeratta sthalam ( 8 places where Lord Shiva destroyed the evil forces ). In this place Lord Shiva has done samharam of Jalanthan. Urchavar  Jalanthara vatha moorthy, - holding Chakra in right hand and Maan, Mazhu, Aayutha mudra in the other hands. Maha Vishnu  also worshiped Lord Shiva of this temple. 

TEMPLE TIMINGS:
The temple will be kept opened between 07.00 hrs to 09.00 hrs and 17.30 hrs to 19.00 hrs.

CONTACT DETAILS :
Shanmuga Sundaresa Gurukkal may be contacted through his mobile number 8870887717 

HOW TO REACH :
On the bus route Mayiladuthurai to Thiruvarur – a place after Vettaru, Kangalajery and after that Virkudi Railway station, from there 2 KM
On the bus route Nagore to Nagapattinam via Karaikal get down at Virkudi Koot road, from there 1 KM.
The bus  to Thirumarugal, Aamur from Thiruvarur passes through Thiruvirkudi.

LOCATION OF THE TEMPLE :CLICK HERE

 ( Navagraha bas reliefs on the ceiling )
Beautiful bas-relief  called Rishaba Kunjaram, on one of the pillar in front of Ambal temple - Cow and elephant heads together - to view elephant close the body of the cow on the left side and to see the cow close the head of the elephant up to the ears on the right side.



195/78. THIRUPPAYATRANATHAR TEMPLE / SRI MUKTHAPUREESWARAR TEMPLE. THIRUPPAYARTRUR  - THIRUPPAYATHANGUDI. 


Now this place is called as Thirupayathangudi. This is the 195th Devaram Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalam and 78th Sthalam on the south side of river Kaveri. Appar has sung hymns in praise of Lord shiva of this temple.

 ( Moolavar vimanam with Dakshinamurthy sannadhi )

Moolavar    : Sri Mukthapureswarar, Sri Thirupayarteu Nathar
Conosrt      : Sri Nethrambigai, Sri Kaaviyanganni.

Some of the important features of this temple are……
The temple is facing east with an entrance arch. Balipeedam, Rishabam and Dwajasthambam are in a newly built mukha mandapam. In sanctum Moolavar is little large on a square avudayar. In Koshtam only Dakshinamurthy. In artha mandapam Natarajar, Somaskandar and Urchavars.

In prakaram Siddhi Vinayagar, Subramaniyar, Viswanathar, Mahalakshmi, Veera Maahali, Dhandapani, Navagrahas, Suryan, Bhairavar, Somaskandar, Dakshinamurthy

Ambal is in with four hands Abayam, Rudhra malai, Lotus and left hand on the thigh.

ARCHITECTURE
The temple consists of sanctum sanctorum, antarala and artha mandapam. A Three tier Vimana is on the sanctum.  

LEGENDS
Bhairava maharishi worshiped lord Shiva of this temple.

TEMPLE TIMINGS:
The temple will be kept opened between 07.00 hrs to 10.00 hrs and 17.00 hrs to 19.30 hrs.

HOW TO REACH : 
The place is on the bus route Thiruvarur to Mayiladuthurai after Kangalajeri and Melapputhur.
This temple is on the bus route Thiruvarur  ( 10 KM ) to Thirumarugal. 

LOCATION OF THE TEMPLE CLICK HERE


 ( Temple complex view )
( Front entrance arch )

196/79. SRI UTHRAPATHISWARASWAMY TEMPLE /UTHRAPATHEESHWARASWAMY TEMPLE. THIRUCHENGATTANKUDI.


This is the 196th Devaram Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalam and 79th sthalam on the south side of river Kaveri in Chozha Nadu. Thirugnanasambandar and Appar has sung hymns in praise of Lord Shiva of this temple. 
 

Moolavar    : Sri Uthrapureeswarar, Sri Athivana nathar,
    Sri Manthira Pureeswarar, Sri Brahmapureeswarar, 
    Sri Baskarapureeswarar.
Consort      : Sri Chulikambal ( Kuzhammai ).

Some of the important features of this temple are…..
The temple is facing east with a 5 tier Rajagopuram. Dwajasthambam, balipeedam and Rishabam are  in mukha mandapam. In Koshtam Dhakshinamoorthy, Lingothbavar, Arthanareeswarar and  Durgai.

In prakaram Sannadhi for Brahma, Arthanareeswarar, Sidhi Vinayagar, Naalvar, Sangapathumanithigal, Vatapikalapar, Subramaniyar, Valli Devasena Subramaniar.

Urchavars are Durgai, Veerattalingam, Vilvalingam, Pujangalalithar, Gajasamharar, Urdhva Thandavam, Kala samhara, Gangalar, Pitchadanar, Thiripurar,  Bairavar, Vinayagar.

Maragatha Lingam is in safety locker. Urchavar Uthrapathy to be watched. ( Similar story of Konerirajapuram – Thirunallam )

ARCHITECTURE
The sanctum sanctorum consists of sanctum, antarala and artha mandapam. There is a second level 3 tier Rajagopuram.  

LEGENDS
Siruthondar Nayanar got blessings of Lord Shiva for offering Lord Shiva with pillaikari  ( offering of his son after cooking ). Stucco image to be watched.

Vinayagar worshiped Lord Shiva to get rid of  Sin /Brahmahathi dosham due to killing of Kayamugasuran.

TEMPLE TIMINGS:
The temple will be kept opened between 07.00 hrs to 10.00 hrs and 17.00 hrs to 17.00 hrs

CONTACT DETAILS :
mobile and landline numbers are 94431 13025, 04366 - 270 278.

HOW TO REACH : 
The place is on  Thiruvarur to Thirumarugal road. 3 KM after Thirumarugal  veterinary Hospital.
Buses available from Thiruvarur and Thirumarugal.

LOCATION OF THE TEMPLE :CLICK HERE

 ( Temple complex view )
 ( Front mandapam view from other angle )
 ( Ambal temple arch in the front mandapam )
 ( Rajagopuram inside view )
( Sthalapuranam sudhai sirpam in Rajagopuram )

194/77. SRI RAMANATHEESWARAR TEMPLE. RAMANATHEECHARAM - THIRUKKANNAPURAM. 


This place is now called as Thirukkannapuram. This is the 194th Devaram Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalam and 77th sthalam on the south side of river Kaveri in Chozha Nadu. Thirugnanasambandar has sung hymns in praise of Lord Shiva of this temple.

 ( Moolavar vimanam with front mandapam )

Moolavar    : Sri Ramanatheeswarar
Consort      : Sri Soolikambal, Sri Sarivar Kuzhali.

Some of the important features of this temple are…..
The temple is facing east with a recently built entrance arch. Balipeedam and Rishabam / Idabam are in front of Sanctum sanctorum.  TIn koshtam Dakshinamurthy, Lingothbavar, Brahma, Durgai.

In prakaram Sannadhi for Vinayagar, Subramaniyar, Gajalakshmi, Kalabairavar, Suryan, Chandran.

The urchavar Somaskandar is kept at Thirupugalur for safety reasons.

Kumbhabhishekam was conducted recently and mandala pooja is on during my visit. 

ARCHITECTURE
The temple consists of sanctum Sanctorum, antarala and ardha mandapam. There is an arch at the entrance of sanctum with stucco images of Shiva’s family. A 2 tier vesara Vimana is over the sanctum. 

LEGENDS 
Raman came to the temple Rishabam obstructed for the darshan of Ambal. So Ambal asked Rishabam to move side and gave darshan. Rama embarrassed Shiva Lingam and worshiped.

TEMPLE TIMINGS:
The temple will be kept opened between 07.00 hrs to 10.00 hrs and 17.00 hrs to 19.00 hrs.

CONTACT DETAILS 
Mobile and land line numbers are 94431 13025, 04366 - 292 300.

HOW TO REACH :
Buses from Nannilam, Thirupugalur are available.
3 Km from Thiruchengattankudi.
Near to Thirupugalur.

LOCATION OF THE TEMPLE CLICK HERE

 ( Vinayagar and Subramaniyar Sannadhi )
 ( Moolavar vimanam with Chandikeswarar sannadhi )
( Front entrance of the shrine )

192/75. SRI AGNIPUREESWARAR TEMPLE. THIRUPUGALUR.
193/76. SRI VARTHAMANEECHARAR TEMPLE. THIRUPUGALUR VARTHAMANEECHARAM.

This post was updated with Two separate Posts. The updated posts covers Thevara Hymns, History, Architecture, Legends, etc,. For the updated post details please click this link.

These are the 192nd and 193rd Devaram Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalam on the south side of river Kaveri in Chozha Nadu. These are moovar Padal Petra sthalam. These two temples are in the same complex.

  ( Smaller vimanam is for the Varthamaneeswarar and big one for the Thirupugalur main shrine )
THIRUPUGALUR
Moolavar  :Sri  Agnipureeswarar, Sri Saranya Pureeswarar,
Sri Konapiran.
Consort    :Soolikambal, Sri Karuntharkuzhali.

VARTHAMANEECHARAM
Moolavar  :Sri Varthamaneecharar
Consort    :Sri Manonmani

Some of the important features of these temples are…..
The temple is facing east with a Moat / agazhi around, believed to be excavated by Banasuran. The first level Rajagopuram is of 5 tiers and the  second level is of 3 tiers. In between the two Rajagopuram Dwajasthambam, balipeedam and Rishabam / Idabam.  Both Thirupugalur and Thirupugalur Varthamaneecharam are side by side. Moolavar Sri Agnipureeswarar is in slanting position. In Koshtam Vinayagar, Dakshinamurthy, Mahavishnu, Brahma and Durgai. Ambal is in a separate Sannadhi near Rajagopuram.

In prakaram Sannadhi for Chinthamani Eswarar, Narthana Vinayagar, Shiva Lingam worshiped by Bharadwaja, Appar’s Iykaya sirpam, Agni, 63 var /Arupathumoovar, Panchalingam, Appar, Vatha Vinayagar, Subramaniyar, Shiva Lingam worshiped by Maharishis, Mahalakshmi, Saneeswarar, Navagrahas, Kalaimagal, Annapoorni, Kaalasamharar, Agora Lingam, Bootheswarar, Vatabi Ganapathy, Bhavitcheswarar. Paintings of Shiva turning the Bricks in to gold and Agneeswarar are one Prakaram wall. 

Urchavars are Agneeswarar with 1 Agni, 2 faces, 7 hands, 3 Thiruvadikal, 4 horns,  7 jyothis-   worth to see), Mooga Sura Samhara Moorthy, Somaskandar. Silamoortham of Agneeswarar is also like urchavar available in prakaram.

Ramanatheecharam ( Thirukkannapuram ) urchava moorthy is kept in this temple for safety reasons.

LEGENDS
Lord Shiva changed bricks in to Gold for  Sundarar. Agni and Bharadwaja worshiped lord Shiva of this temple.

On Chitra sathayam thithi Thirunavukkarasar attained mukthi in this sthalam ( சிவஜோதியுடன் ஐகியம் ஆனார்), hence a 10 day festival is celebrated. This is a birth place of Muruga Nayanar.

TEMPLE TIMINGS:
The temple will be kept open between 07.00 hrs to 11.00 hrs and 17.00 hrs to 20.00 Hrs

CONTACT DETAILS :
Mobile and Land line numbers are 94431 13025, 04366 - 292 300.

HOW TO REACH :
This place is on the bus route Nagapattinam to Nannilam.

LOCATION OF THE TEMPLE :CLICK HERE

 ( Temple complex view )
 ( Corridor view )
 ( Shiva changed brick to gold  for Sundarar)
 ( Agni bhagavan on the left side one agni  2 head, three legs, seven hands etc )
 ( Rajagopuram with Kodimaram view )
 ( Temple view from Rajagopuram entrance )
(Kalai arangam and Natya mandapam in damaged condition )


171/54. AMBAL BRAHMAPUREESWARAR TEMPLE. AMBAR PERUNTHIRUKOIL - AMBAL. 


Now this place is called as Ambal. This is the 171st Devaram Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalam and 54th sthalam on the south side of river Kaveri in Chozha Nadu. Thirugnanasambandar has sung hymns in praise of Lord  Shiva of this temple..

 ( 3 tier Rajagopuram )

Moolavar  :Sri Brahma Pureswarar
Consort    :Sri Sugunthakauntahalambigai, Sri Poongulazhiammai.

Some of the important features of this temple are…..
The temple is facing east with a 3 tier Rajagopuram. Dwajasthambam, balipeedam, a stone Rishabam and a big stucco Rishabam after the rajagopuram. In the upper level sanctum sanctorum Koshtam, only Dakshinamurthy. In the lower level Koshtam  Vinayagar, Vishnu, Brahma and Durgai. Somaskandar is  in front of moolavar.

In Prakaram Sannadhi for Padikasu Vinayagar ( 3 nos), Subramaniyar, Mahalakshmi, Jambukeswarar, Somaskandar, Vinayagar, Ko Chenkat Chozhan, Saraswathi, Thirugnanasambandar, Appar, Suseela Ambal, Bhairavar, Suryan, Somasimaarar, Punnai Vana  nathar, Sthala Vinayagar, Subramaniyar, Iyappan, Mahalakshmi, Jambukeswarar, Chandikeswarar.

ARCHITECTURE
This is one of the Maada Temple built by Ko Chenkat Chozhan with sannidhis on the upper and lower level. The temple consists of sanctum Sanctorum, antarala and ardha mandapam. 

LEGENDS
Urchavars for Swamy who gave Darshan to Brahma with Nandhi, Brahma, Naalvar. Brahma recovered from Annaparavai shape after worshiped lord shiva of this temple.

TEMPLE TIMINGS:
The temple will be kept opened between 07.00 hrs to 10.00 hrs and 17.00 hrs to 19.00 hrs

CONTACT DETAILS :
The Land line number is 04366 - 238 973.

HOW TO REACH :
Peralam , Poonthottam is on the bus route  Mayiladuthurai from there  Ambar Makaalam is 4 KM and Ambar is 1 Km from Ambar Makalam.

LOCATION OF THE TEMPLE :CLICK HERE

 ( Stucco Rishabam in front of temple )
 ( Molavar vimanam in the first level - Maada koil )
( View of the temple from front rajagopuram  )


172/55. SRI MAHAKALANATHAR TEMPLE. AMBAR MAKALAM


Now this place is called as  - Kovil Thirumangalam. This is the 172nd Devaram Paadal Petra Shiva sthalam and 55th Sthalam on the south side of river Kaveri in Chozha Nadu.  Thirugnanasambandar has sung hymns in praise of Lord Shiva of this temple.

 ( Moolavar Vimanam )

Moolavar    :Sri Mahakalanathar, Sri Kalakandeswarar.
Consort      :Sri Bayakshambikai. Sri Acham Thavirtha Nayaki

Some of the important features of this temple are as follows.
The temple is facing east with a  5 tier Rajagopuram at first level and a 3 tier Rajagopuram on the second level. Balipeedam and Rishabam are between two Rajagopuram. It is believed that Moolavar was made by Kaali by her hands. In Koshtam, Vinayagar, Dakshinamurthy, Lingothbavar, Brahma and Durgai.

In prakaram Vanmika nathar, Somasiyar with his wife Susila, 63var Vinayagar, Subramaniyar, Sattainathar ( On the north side 2nd tier - side of Compound wall). Sannadhi for Mahalakshmi, Eesana javaraha lingam, Navagrahas, Natarajar Mandapam, Saneeswarar, Bhairavar, Dhandapani. Subramaniyar with bow to be seen.

Urchavars for Thiagarajar, Katchi kodutha Nayagar, Somachimarar with his wife, Murugan with bow,  Somaskandar, Siva Lingam in the hands of Kali. 

Katchi Kodutha Nayagar – Rishabanthikar ( With right leg in ground, left leg little folded and left hand touching Rishaba’s head ).

ARCHITECTURE
The temple consists of Sanctum sanctorum, antarala, artha mandapam, maha mandapam and a Mukha mandapam. The mukha mandapam is of Vavval nethi style. 

LEGENDS
Urchavar Thyagesar is not of regular sila roopam and is different from other temples.  Shiva is in the form of Vettiyan and Ma Parvati as his wife with Toddy pot / kallu kudam on her head and Vinayagar and murugan are as small children.

Amban, Ambasuran was killed by Kaali and worshiped Lord Shiva of this temple to get rid of the sin.

Soma yagam was performed for Somasi Nayanar in this place and Iraivan also  participated.

TEMPLE TIMINGS:
The temple will be kept open between 07.00 hrs to 10.00 hrs and 17.00 hrs to 20.00 hrs.

CONTACT DETAILS :
Mobile and Land line numbers are. 94427 66818, 04366 - 291 457

HOW TO REACH :
On the bus route Mayiladuthurai to Thiruvarur, after Peralam – Poonthottam from there 4 KM on the east side.

LOCATION OF THE TEMPLE :CLICK HERE

 ( View of the temple complex view from Sattainathar sannadhi )
 ( 5 Tier Rajagopuram )
( Sudhai sirpam of Sthala varalaru in  rajagopuram )

170/53. IRAVATHEESWARAR TEMPLE - THIRUKKOTTARAM. KOTTARU - THIRUKKOTTARAM


Now this place is called as Thirukkottaram. This is the 170th Devaram Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalam and 53rd sthalam on the south side of river Kaveri in Chozha Nadu. Thirugnanasambandar has sung hymns in praise of Lord Shiva of this temple.

 ( Moolavar Vimanam with Dakshinamurthy sannadhi)

Moolavar  :Sri Iravatheeswarar
Consort    :Sri Sukuntha Kundhalambigai, Sri Vandamar Kuzhali.

Some of the features of this temple are…
The temple is facing east with a 3 tier Rajagopuram. Dwajasthambam, Rishabam and balipeedam are immediately after the Rajagopuram. In Koshtam, Dakshinamurthy, Brahma and Vishnu. In prakaram Sannadhi for Bala Ganapathy, Kumara bhuvaneswarar, Arumagar, Agasthiyar, Natarajar Saba, Sundarar with Paravai Nachiyar, Suba Maharishi.

ARCHITECTURE
The temple consists of sanctum Sanctorum, antarala and ardha mandapam. The Dwarapalakas are made in stucco. Two balipedams and a Rishabam also in the mandapam. A Vesara Vimanam is on the sanctum. 

HISTORY & INSCRIPTION
As per the inscription the temple was built by “Chozha mandalathu Manni Nattu, Muzhaiyur Udayan Araiyan Mathuranthagan Kulothunga Chozha Kerala Rajan” in 1253 CE and Iraivan is called as Rajenda Chozhisvaramudaiya Mahadevar and the Place was called as “Rajaraja Pandya Nattu Uthama Chozha valanattu Nanjil Kottarana Mummudichozha nallur”.

LEGENDS
Indira's vahana White elephant ( Iravatham ) worshiped lord Shiva of this temple. Kumara bhuvaneswarar, Agasthiyar, Subar worshiped lord Shiva of this temple and their images are kept in the prakaram.

TEMPLE TIMINGS:
The temple will be kept open between 06.00 hrs to 10.30 hrs and 17.00 hrs to 20.30 hrs.

CONTACT DETAILS :
The Land line number is 04368 - 261 447.

HOW TO REACH :
On Karaikal to Kumbakonam bus route, After Thirunallar place called Ambagarathur. Then  2 KM.
Kumbakonam to Karaikal bus route place called Kottaram Koot road, from there 1 KM.

LOCATION OF THE TEMPLE :CLICK HERE

 ( Front Rajagopuram with Kodimaram)
 ( entrance from mandapam  entrance )
( Two balipeedam front and back of Rishabam )
--- OM SHIVAYA NAMA ---