Tuesday 6 March 2012

Uyyakondan Thirumalai Temple / Sri Ujjeeva Nathar Temple, Uyyakondan Malai, Karkudi, Nedungalanathar Temple, Thirunedungulam, Erumbeeswarar Temple, Thiruverumbur, Sri Adhimooleswarar Temple, Thirupalathurai / Thiruppaatrurai, Sri Agneeswarar Temple / Melai- Thirukkattupalli, Sri Aamra Vaneswarar Temple, Thirumanthurai, Anbil Sathyavageeswarar Temple, Anbilanthurai, Tiruchirappalli District, Tamil Nadu. - Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalangal of Chozha Nadu.

 05, March 2012
On 3rd and 4th March 2012, I continued my Phase II  Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalangal Yathra, in around Trichy. In Phase II, I had been to  Uyyakondan Thirumalai ( Karkudi ), Thirunedungulam, Thiruverumbur Erumbur, Thirupatrurai, Thirukattupalli on 3rd March 2012 and  Thirumandurai & Thiru Anbil on 4th March 2012. I really enjoyed the journey and the dharshan. For all the places I went through Town buses based from Trichy central bus-stand / Chatram bus-stand. In all the village temples, oru kaala pooja is conducted and it will be around 10.00 Hrs. So yathra timings to be restricted up to 11.30 Hrs  to 12.00 Hrs. The photos were taken through my Sony Ericsson mobile X10, Mini

121/4. UYYAKONDAN THIRUMALAI TEMPLE, 
SRI UJJEEVANATHASWAMY TEMPLE, KARKUDI


This place is now called as Uyyakondan Thirumalai on the way to Vayalur Murugan Temple. This is the 121st, Devaram Paadal Petra Shiva sthalam  and 4th  Sthalam on the south side of river Kaveri of Chozha Nadu.   Moovar has sung hymns in praise of Lord Shiva of this temple.

( Rajagopuram of 5 tiers)

Moolavar    : Sri Ujjeevanatha Swamy, Sri Uchinathar, 
                   Sri Muktheeswarar.
Consort      : Sri Balambikai ( facing East), Sri Anjanaakshi Amman  

The followings are important features of this temple.
The temple is on a small Hill with a 5 tier Rajagopuram at the base. After Rajagopuram  we have to climb steps to reach this small hill shrine. balipeedam,  Dwajasthambam and Rishabam / Idabam are in front of the sanctum.  In sanctum moolavar is Swayambhu and facing west. In Koshtam Vinayagar, Dakshinamurthy, Arthanareeswarar, Brahma and Durgai.

There are Two Ambal Sannadhis. ( Since, the lotus was damaged in one Ambal’s hand,  a New Ambal was installed ). In Prakaram sannadhis for for Idarkathaar,  Bairavar, Saniswaran, Suriyan.

ARCHITECTURE
The temple consists of sanctum sanctorum, antarala and Artha mandapam. The sanctum sanctorum was built like mada temple on the rocky surface. The sanctum Sanctorum is on a pada bandha adhistanam. An eka thala bricks vesara vimana is over the sanctum.
 

LEGENDS
In this temple Lord Shiva promised for his long life ( endrum pathinaru ) to Markandeyar, Lord Shiva came out of the temple and left his foot print on the south side of the entrance, near the Dwajasthambam,  to threaten Yamadharman.

  
( Kodimaram and Rishabam one level below Moolavar sannadhi with Shiva's Pada )

CONTACT DETAILS :
The mobile numbers are  + 91 94431 50332 and +91 94436 50493

HOW TO REACH : 
Town buses from Trichy Chatram bus stand to Voyaloor passes through this place and Temple is on road side.
From Central bus stand  one has to get down at Govt Hospital to catch bus to Voyaloor.
The distance from Central bus-stand is 5 Km on the south west direction.

LOCATION OF THE TEMPLE : CLICK HERE


( 2nd Rajagopuram on the hill )
( Gopuram at the starting of steps to top level )

125/8. SRI NEDUNGALANATHAR TEMPLE, THIRUNEDUNGULAM


This temple is 125th Devara Paadal petra Shiva sthalam and 8th Sthalam on the south side of river Kaveri of Chozha Nadu. Thirugnanasambandar has sung hymns in praise of Lord Shiva of this temple. Lord Shiva “kallathanamaka  Iraiviyai kaipatriayathal  Iraivi “ hide in this place ( இறைவியை இறைவன் கள்ளத்தனமாக கை பிடித்ததால் இறைவி ஒளிந்து கொண்ட இடம் ).
 
( Second prakaram rajagopuram )

Moolavar    : Sri Nidhya Sundareswarar, Sri Nedungalanathar,
Consort      : Sri Mangala Nayagi, Sri Oppilanayaki

The salient features of this temple are.
The temple is facing east with a 5 tier Rajagopuram. The stucco/ suthai sculptures, depicting the sthala purana of this temple are on Rajagopuram. The second level Rajagopuram is of  3 tiers. In between the two are the Dwajasthambam, balipeedam and Rishabam. Urchava Murtis are in artha mandapam looks very beautiful. Including bronze horse. In Koshtam Vinayagar, Dakshinamurthy, Arthanareeswarar, Brahma and Durgai. Valampuri Vinayagar Sannathi is slightly tilted towards north.

In the prakaram sannadhi for Saptamatrikas, Naalvar + Sekkilar, Bhairavar, Bhudevi Sridevi sametha Varadharaja Perumal and Agasthiya Lingam.

ARCHITECTURE
The temple consists of sanctum sanctorum, antarala and artha mandapam. An ekathala Dravida Vimana is on the sanctum sanctorum. 

( Moolavar vimanam with Dakshinamurthy sannathi )

CONTACT DETAILS :
The land line number is +91 431 252 0126

HOW TO REACH  : 
Trichy to Mangavanam town bus from Trichy bus stand passes through this temple. Frequency is very limited.
From Chatram bus stand buses available up to Vazhavanthan Kottai, from there it will be about 2 km ( After Thuvakudi ). Frequency is very limited and      this option may not suitable.
Buses available up to   Thuvakudi. From there autos available for the temple and they charges  around Rs 150.00.

LOCATION OF THE TEMPLE : CLICK HERE


( 5 Tier Rajagopuram ) 

124/7. ERUMBEESWARAR TEMPLE, THIRUVERUMBUR

 
Now this place is now called as Thiruverumbur. This is the 124th Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalam and 7th  Sthalam on the south side of river Kaveri of Chozha Nadu. Appar ( Thirunavukkarasu Swamigal ) has sung hymns in praise of Lord Shiva of this temple. 

Moolavar    : Sri Pipilikeswarar, Sri Erumbeeswarar,
                   Sri Erumbesar,   Sri Mathuvaneswarar,
                   Sri Manokoodachalapathy, Sri Manicka Nagar.
Consort     : Sri Soundara Nayagi, Sri Madhuvaneswari,
                   Sri Rathinambal.

The important features of the temple are...
The temple is on a small hill  with 100 steps. A Rajagopuram is in front of sanctum sanctorum. In Sanctum koshtam Vinayagar, Dakshinamurthy, Sankaranarayanan, Brahma and Durgai.  Ambal Sannadhi was built separately with a nagara vimana out side main prakaram and Ambal is facing south.

In the prakaram sannadhi for Navagrahas with their wives. This temple is also called as South Kailash.

ARCHITECTURE
The temple consists of sanctum Sanctorum, antarala and Artha mandapam. The pillars of the Artha mandaban to be watched for its beauty. 

( Ambal temple vimanam )

HISTORY AND INSCRIPTIONS
It seems that the temple was reconstructed due to damage caused by the Moguls. Latter the temple was used for  stay during British and French wars.
Lot of 10th to 12th century Tamil inscriptions are  found.

LEGENDS
It is believed that Rishis and Devars worshiping  Lord Shiva in the form of  Erumbu ( Ant ). To climb up easily for the ants lord tilted side to certain angle. The Shiva lingam has become an ant nest and no abhishekam is performed. 

CONTACT DETAILS
Mobile number is +91 98429 57568

HOW TO REACH
All the town buses  to Thuvakudi, BHEL, NIT passes through this temple and the temple is on the road side.
Thiruverumbur is on the Trichy to Thanjavur main road about 11 KM from central bus stand.

LOCATION OF THE TEMPLE :CLICK HERE

( Entrance gopuram to moolavar sannadhi )

( Rishabam mandapam )

( Ambal )
( Entrance full view of the Shiva's Temple )

113/59. SRI ADHIMOOLESWARAR TEMPLE, TIRUPPAATRURAI - THIRUPALATHURAI


Now this place is called as Thirupalathurai. This is the 113th Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalam and 59th  sthalam on the banks of river Kedilam and north side of river Kaveri of Chozha Nadu. Thirugnanasambandar has sung hymns in praise of Lord Shiva of this temple. 
  
( Dakshinamurthy with Sanagatha munivars sudhai sirpam on the compound wall)

Moolavar    : Sri Adhimooleswarar, Sri Aathi Moolanathar.
Consort      : Sri Megambihai, Sri Moganayagi, Sri Nidhya Kalyani.

The followings are important features of the temple.
The temple is facing east with a three tier Rajagopuram. Balipeedam and Rishabam are after Rajagopuram entrance. A Stucco image of Rishabarooder  is front entrance of the sanctum. There is a entrance of the south side which is not used. In sanctum moolavar is swayambhu. In Koshtam, Vinayagar, Dakshinamurthy, Brahma and Durgai.  

Ambal is in a separate temple like sannidhi and facing south.

ARCHITECTURE
The temple consists of sanctum sanctorum, antarala and artha mandapam. Artha mandapam is called as Deva Sabai and the pillars are very beautifully chiseled and worth to see. The Main sanctum Sanctorum is on a padabandha adhistanam. An Ekathala Vesara vimana is on the sanctum Sanctorum. Ashtadikpalakas are in the greevam. 
  
( Ambal temple vimanam)

HISTORY AND INSCRIPTIONS
Believed to be built during 10th & 12th century Chozha period  and inscriptions are found  on the walls. Latter Pallathur Chettiars had done Thiruppani to this temple.

LEGENDS
When Markandeyan visited this temple  and he has nothing to offer. To his true prayers milk was flowing from the head of Shiva Lingam, hence this place was called as Tiruppaatrurai.

( Stucco images on the entrance of maha mandapam )

CONTACT DETAILS : 
The Land line number is +91 431 246 0455

HOW TO REACH : 
The temple is 10 KM from Thiruvanaikaval.
Town Buses 2,  26  from Trichy Bus stand  to Kallanai passes through the Village Panayapuram ( From panayapuram  one has to take  bullock cart path towards Kollidam river bank. On the Kollidam river bank, the dusty road/ path  (negotiate with  sand lorries ) leads to Tiruppaatrurai. Total distance from Panayapuram to temple is 3 KM. ( My journey was my own Nataraja  service in the scotching sun at 14.00 Hrs on the bumpy and dusty road. )

LOCATION OF THE TEMPLE : CLICK HERE

( Rajagopuram )
( Bhuta gana with Rishabam )
( Full of paddy straw in front of the south side small entrance )


126/9. SRI AGNEESWARAR TEMPLE, ( MELAI ) THIRUKATTUPALLI


Now the place is called as Thirukattupalli. This is the 126th  Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalam and 9th  Sthalam on the north side of river Kaveri of Chozha Nadu. Thirugnanasambandar and Appar has sung hymns in praise of Lord Shiva of this temple. 

( Rajagopuram back side view )

Moolavar    : Sri Agneeswarar, Sri Theeyadiappar
Consort      : Sri Soundara Nayaki, Sri Azhagammai

The followings are important features of this temple.
The temple is facing east with a 5 tier Rajagopuram. Balipeedam, Rishabam and a small Dwajasthambam are in the newly constructed mandapam after the Rajagopuram. In the koshtam Vinayagar, Yoga Dakshinamurthy, Brahma and Durgai. 

In the prakaram  Naalvars, Bairavar and Navagrahas. In Navagrahas all are facing to Sun.

In the outer prakaram sannadhis for Valampuri Vinayagar, Sri Visalakshi sametha Viswanathar, Unnamulai Amman, Sri Valli Devasena sametha Subramanya Swamy, Sri Bhudevi, Sridevi sametha Srinivasa Perumal, Gajalakshmi, Saraswati and Sattainathar. 

ARCHITECTURE
The temple consists of sanctum sanctorum, antarala and artha mandapam.  The Sanctum Sanctorum is 4 steps below the ground level and the entrance is too small.

Ambal is in a separate sannadhi with Vesara Vimanam. On the Ambal temple Mandapam top stucco images of Shiva deities, Shiva, Parvathi, Murugan, Brahma, etc,.
 
( Ambal sannadhi vimanam )

HISTORY AND INSCRIPTIONS
10th to  12th century inscriptions are available on the walls of inner prakaram.

LEGENDS
One of the story about this temple goes like this. The King whose capital was Uraiyur send flowers from Nandavanam to his two wives. The first wife at Thirukattupalli offered the flowers to Lord Shiva and the other wife used for herself. Latter the Uraiyur was completely submerged with sand during piralayam and  Thirukattupalli was stayed with out any problem.

CONTACT DETAILS:
The mobile number is +91 94423 47433

HOW TO REACH: 
Buses are available from Thiruvaiyaru ( 25 KM ), Thanjavur, Thirukkandiyur, and Kallanai.
The temple is very near to Thirukattupalli bus stand. 

LOCATION OF THE TEMPLE : CLICK HERE

( 5 Tier Rajagopuram)
( Dakshinamurthy sannathi mandapam in the outer prakaram )




112/58. SRI AAMRA VANESWARAR TEMPLE, THIRU MANDURAI.


This place is now called as Manthurai. This is the 112th Devaram Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalam and 58th  sthalam on the northern side of river Kaveri of Chozha Nadu.  Thirugnanasambandar has sung hymns in praise of Lord Shiva of this temple.
 
( Rajagopuram )

Moolavar    : Sri Aamra Vaneswarar, Sri Suthrathaneswarar, 
                   Sri Aathirathneswarar
Consort      : Sri Azhagammai, Sri Balambigai

The followings are the important features of the temple.
The temple is facing east with a 3 tier Rajagopuram. Balipeedam and Rishabam are in front. In koshtam, Vinayagar, Dakshinamurthy, Brahma, Durgai.  Adhi Sankarar  is also in the koshta moortham.

Navagrahas are facing the SUN and Sun with his wives Samukya and Saya devi. In the prakaram sannadhi for Vinayagar and Sri Valli Devasena Subramaniar.

ARCHITECTURE
The Temple consists of sanctum sanctorum, antarala and Artha mandapam. Moolavar vimanam sikaram is of vesara style and  has beautiful stucco images. 

(மூலவர் கோபுரம் அற்புதமான வேலைப்பாடு . மற்ற கோபுரங்களில் இருந்து மாறுபட்டு கட்டப்பட்டது  ஒரு சிறப்பு )

HISTORY AND INSCRIPTIONS
As per the Inscriptions of Rajaraja Chozha-I, King had waived the tax, when the peoples  tried to vacate their villages due to drought.

LEGENDS
Mango trees were found around the temple in those days, hence this place was called as Mandurai. ( Aam – Mango in Sanskrit). Saaba vimosana sthalam for Brahma,  Suryan, Chandran, Samudhra Rajan,  Maruthanthagan  for Sukola munis’ son.

Lord Shiva turned to be a mother for the orphaned young deer, whose parents were killed by the hunter in this area.

CONTACT DETAILS:
Mobile numbers are + 91  99427 400562 and +91 94866 40260

HOW TO REACH : 
15 KM away  from Trichy
3 KM before Lalgudi from Trichy to Lalgudi bus route.
Frequent town buses are available from Trichy.

LOCATION OF THE TEMPLE : CLICK HERE

( மூலவர் கோபுரம் அற்புதமான வேலைப்பாடு . மற்ற கோபுரங்களில் இருந்து மாறுபட்டு கட்டப்பட்டது  ஒரு சிறப்பு )


111/57. ANBIL SATHYAVAGEESWARAR TEMPLE, ANBILANTHURAI /ANBIL.


This place is called as ANBIL ( Anbil – has three mel – Middle – Keel and the temple is in keel Anbil. This is the 111th Devara Paadal Petra Shiva sthalam  and 57th  Sthalam on the northern side of river Kaveri in Chozha Nadu. Thirugnanasambandar  & Appar has sung hymns in praise of Lord Shiva of this temple.

( 5 Tier Rajagopuram )

Moolavar    : Sri Sathyavageeswarar, Sri Bramapureeswarar, 
                    Sri Alanthuraiyar
Consort      : Sri Soundaranayagi

The followings are important features of this temple.
The temple is facing east with a 5 Tier Rajagopuram. Balipeedam, Dwajasthambam and Rishabam are after the Rajagopuram. Moolavar is Swayambhu. In Koshtam, Vinayagar, Dakshinamurthy, Mahavishnu, Brahma and Durgai.

In the prakaram Ambal is in a separate sannadhi. Sannadhi also for Vinayagar, Sri Valli Devasena Subramaniyar and Navagrahas. All the navagrahas are facing Sun.

“Sevi saitha Vinayagar” –( செவி சாய்த்த வினாயகர் )  is seen in hearing posture with head turned  to receive the hymns of Thirugnanasambandar and he is also called as ‘Samaveda Vinayagar’, since Jaimini families  had done sama veda parayanam  in front of Vinayagar. 

ARCHITECTURE
Architecture of the temple is very beautiful and worth to  be seen. The Temple consists of sanctum sanctorum, antarala and artha mandapam. A vesara Vimana is on the sanctum sanctorum. There many sculptures on the front mandapa pillars. Some of them are, Two snakes worshiping Shiva, Snake tail on one side and head on the other side of the pillar.
A moat/ agazhi type formation is around the sanctum Sanctorum.

( Moolavar and Ambal temple vimanam )

HISTORY AND INSCRIPTIONS
The  Temple might have reconstructed in latter state by Nayaks or Nattukottai Nagarathar. Middle entrance might have been built during 10th to 12th century. This is found from the inscriptions. The temple is madakoil believed to be built by Ko chengat Chozha and latter reconstructed as stone temple during Paranthaga Chozhan period. 

HOW TO REACH : 
Town buses are available from Trichy Chatram bus stand -28 Km.
Town buses also available from Lalgudi and the distance is- 8 KM.
About 3 KM from Mandurai.

CONTACT DETAILS :
Land line number is +91 431  254 4927

LOCATION OF THE TEMPLE :CLICK HERE

( Two snakes worshiping Shiva Lingam )



( Bas-reliefs of snake head one side and tail on one side on a pillar in front mandapam )
--- OM SHIVAYA NAMA ---

Tuesday 21 February 2012

Kadambavaneswarar Temple, Kadambathurai / Kulithalai, Rathnagiriswarar Temple, Ayyarmalai, Thiruvatpokki, Sri Maragadachaleswarar Temple, Thiruengoimalai, Sri Tharuka Vaneswarar Temple, Thirupparaithurai, Gneelivaneswarar Temple/ Sri Neelakandeswarar Temple, Thiruppainjeeli, Sri Matrurai Varadeeswarar Temple, Thiruvasi / Thirupachilachiramam - Tiruchirappalli, District, Tamil Nadu...

 21, February 2012
On 18th & 19th February 2012, I had been to Chozha Naadu Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalangal in and around Trichy. For the past one month I was preparing for the yathra, searching the web for locating the Temples, distance, route, stay etc,. Since it is about 2 days trip, the accommodation for the night was arranged at Trichy for one night. ( Hotel Anand very near to Central Bus Stand ). Started on 17th Feb 2012, at 23.00 hours from Chennai, Koyambedu Bus stand  reached Trichy at about 07.00 Hrs. After a bath started my Yathra. Had darshan of  4 temples on 18th Sat, Feb 2012 and 3 temples on 19th Sun, Feb 2012. In Next trip during march 2012, decided to cover some more temples. Returned back to Chennai on 19th, 20.30 Hrs through RPN from Trichy Central bus stand ( Started at 13.00 Hrs ) who Charged me Rs 250.00 

18th Feb 2012 YATHRA & ROUTE.
From Central Bus stand to  KADAMBATHURAI  (Now it is called as Kulithalai on the way to Karur 41 Km from Trichy) –THIRUVATPOKKI ( Now it is called as Iyermalai – Rathnagiri, Sivayamalai – on the way from Kulithalai to Manapparai about 10 Kilometre ) – THIRU ENGOI MALAI  ( Now it is called as Thiruvinganatha malai -  Sivasakthi Malai – 3 Km from Kulithalai Cauvery Bridge ) – THIRUPPARAITHURAI – ( It is between Kulithalai and  Trichy, 16 Km from Chatram Bus stand ).


119/2. SRI KADAMBAVANESWARAR TEMPLE, 
KULITHALAI - KADAMBATHURAI  


Now this place is called as Kulithalai on the way to Karur from Trichy and  41 Km from Trichy. This temple is 119th  Devaram Paadal petra Shiva sthalam and 2nd sthalam on the south side of river Cauvery in Chozha Naadu. Appar has sung hymns in praise of Lord Shiva of this temple. Paadal  Petra shiva sthalam. One of the saying for worshiping Lord Shiva is "Morning Kadambar,  after noon Thiruvatpokki and Evening Thiru Engoyi nathar" for the dharshan. Followed as per the saying.
 
( Rajagopurtam view from inside of the temple )

Moolavar    : Sri  Kadambavaneswarar, Sri Kadambavana Nathar.
Consort      : Sri Bala Kujalambal, Sri Mutrillamulayal.
Sthala Vruksham : Kadamba Tree.

Some of the important features of this temple are...
The Kadambar temple is at the center of Kulithalai and facing north with a 5 tier Rajagopuram. A mandapam is in front of Rajagopuram. The Dwajasthambam passes through the hole made in the roof. Balipeedam and Rishabam are immediately after the Rajagopuram. There is a separate Dwajasthambam to Ambal sannadhi.

In koshtam, Vinayagar, Dakshinamurthy, Lingothbavar, Brahma and durgai. Stucco images of  Saptaம்atrikas are behind moolavar. The Dwarapalakas Sri Dindi and Sri Mundi  are beautifully chiseled.

Sri Chandikeswarar is in a small pillar mandapam. Separate Saneeswarar and  Vinayagar are not in the usual place. There are two Natarajar, of one is with muyalakan and other without muyalakan. There is a small separate sannadhi for Sri Bairavar in the outer prakaram.

ARCHITECTURE
The temple consists of sanctum sanctorum, antarala, ardha mandapa and a mukha mandapam.  A Vesara Vimana is on the sanctum. 

HISTORY
Though the temple is very old, but there is no inscriptions found in temple walls to ascertain the age /antiquity of the temple.

HOW TO REACH
Town buses available from Chatram bus stand.
Karur, Salem route buses are available from central bus stand.
Kulithalai is on the train route from Trichy to Erode.

CONTACT DETAILS
Phone number 04323 - 225228.

LOCATION OF THE TEMPLE : CLICK HERE




( Entrance mandapam )

 ( Wooden carvings from temple car / chariot )
( Stucco images on the front mandapam ) 

118/1. SRI RATHNAGIRISWARAR TEMPLE, IYERNALAI,  
AYYARMALAI - THIRUVATPOKKI 


Now it is called as Iyer Malai – Rathnagiri, Sivayamalai – on the way from Kulithalai to Manapparai about 10 Kilometre. This is the 118th Devaram Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalam and 1st sthalam on the south banks of river Cauvery in Chozha Nadu. Appar and Sundarar has sung hymns in praise of Lord Shiva of this temple.
  

Moolavar    : Sri Rathnagirieswarar, Sri Arthanasaleswarar,
                   Sri Manikka Easar, Sri Mudi Thalumbar.
Consort      : Sri Surumbaar Kuzhali..

Some of the important features of this temple are....
At  foot hills sannadhi for Vinayagar, karuppasamy and  Vishwakarma Ganapathy in a big mandapam. On the way up the hill the Ponnidum Paarai, Where Sage Sundarar got the gold  from Lord Shiva. It is believed Shiva’s Patham is at Ponnidum Paarai.

When we climb further we can have the darshan of Saptamatrikas. Before that there are many small mandapams to take rest. At end of the steep steps Sri Ganapathi welcomes us to his father’s shrine. 

At 1017th step we can reach the sanctum sanctorum. The steep steps are neatly and evenly paved throughout the 1017 steps. Monkey menace is too high in this hill shrine. It is believed that rishis are mediating in the hill, to prove that there are number of natural caves in this hill shrine. 

The shrine was constructed on the rocky hill. The Ambal Sannadhi is one level below the Lord Shiva’s shrine.

The temple is facing west. There are some more special features in the temple are Chandran and Suriyan are along with their wives. Instead of Lingothbavar Sri Arthanareeswarar is installed.

HISTORY AND INSCRIPTIONS
We could see a lot of Tamil inscriptions dating back 10th to 12th century on the walls of  Moolavar and Ambal Sannadhi.

LEGENDS
The moolavar head looks like chopped. The story goes like this. The Arya King could not fill the  pot with Cauvery water, to get “Rathnam” for his crown, as per an Anthanar. The king got angry and chopped Anthanar’s ( Lord Shiva ) head. On realizing that the Anthanar is  Lord Shiva, The Arya King try to kill himself. The Lord appeared before him and gave Rathnam. 

It is still believed that Indran used to come and worship Lord through 9 holes opposite to moolavar in the form of thunder & lightning. To prove that the garland and vastaram of moolavar can be seen burnt on the next day even these years. The abhishekam milk will turn to curd.   

TEMPLE TIMINGS
The temple timings : Dharshan can be done during  10.00 Hrs to 17.00 Hrs

HOW TO REACH
From Kulithalai Cauvery river bridge junction, all the buses going towards south ( Manapparai )  passes through this hill shrine.
From Manapparai buses to Musuri, Kulithalai passes through this hill shrine.

CONTACT DETAILS 
The temple office may be contacted over phone 04323 245 522.

LOCATION OF THE TEMPLE CLICK HERE

( Base Temple )
( 3 leg / Pillar mandapam in front of ponnidum parai)
( Steps to the top of the Temple -Steep 1017 steps neatly paved )
( Village view from Top )
( Saptamatrikas in a cave )
( Top temple view )
( Top temple unfinished mandapam )
( Ambal temple vimanam one level below the Shiva's shrine )
(Ponnidum parai )

117/63. SRI MARAGADACHALESWARAR TEMPLE, THIRU ENGOYI MALAI 


Now this place is called as Thiruvinganatha malai -  Sivasakthi malai – 3 km from Kulithalai Cauvery river bridge. This is the 63rd (last ) Chozha Nadu-,  Thirugnanasambandar Paadal Petra Shiva sthalam on the north side of river cauvery. The temple is facing East. There are about 500 steep steps to reach the hill shrine. The steps are not uniform and many places they are deformed. The regular Pooja is performed in the evening. Very few people used to visit this temple. There are some special attractions about this temple.

( View of the Hill )

The Lord was worshiped by Agasthiya Munivar  in the form of bee, hence the temple shrine is called as EengoiMalai. There are different postures of Dakshinamurthy stucco image can be seen on the moolavar vimana. The Lingam is shining like Maragatham made of Green stone. Thirugnanasambandar Pathigam / hymns petra 207th temple. This is the 52nd Sakthi Peedam of  64 Sakthi Peedams.  Nakkeerar sung the "Eengoi ezhupathu" on this temple.  As per gurukal the hill shrine has the power of attracting good forces.

Moolavar    : Sri Maragathasaleswarar, Sri Maragatha nathar.
Consort      : Sri Maragathavalli.

Some of the important features of this temple are....
The temple is facing East. There are about 500 steep steps to reach the hill shrine. The steps are not uniform and many places they were deformed. The regular Pooja is performed in the evening. 

ARCHITECTURE
There are different postures of Dakshinamurthy stucco images can be seen on the moolavar vimanam. The moolavar is shining like Maragatham made of Green stone.

HISTORY AND INSCRIPTIONS
Understand that Sri Valli Deivanai  sametha Arumuga peruman utsava murtis are gifted by Thyagaraja bhagavathar and now they are kept at the base temple for safety reasons. 

LEGENDS
The Lord was worshiped by Agasthiya Munivar  in the form of a bee, hence the hill is called as Engoi Malai. There is an image to Agasthiya Munivar also.

In this hill, Lord promised to give half of his body to Ambal. This is the 52nd Sakthi Peedam of  64 Sakthi Peedams. 

Musukuntha Chakravarthy worshiped Lord Shiva. Bogar meditated and attained siddhi of making “Navapashanam“ in this hill temple, hence there is a Bogar Shrine at the foot hills. 

THE TEMPLE TIMINGS
The temple opens during 10.00 Hrs to 17.00 Hrs.   It is better to confirm before going to this temple. ( Telephone numbers are given below )

HOW TO REACH
3 Km from Kulithalai cauvery river bridge
Town buses are available from Musuri cauvery river junction.
Salem Karur buses passes through  this Village.

CONTACT DETAILS
The S Muthu Rathinam gurukkal may be contacted over his mobile 9944120135. or 9443950031 or 04326 262744 for poojas. 

LOCATION OF THE TEMPLE : CLICK HERE

( Base temple )



                                                                       ( Rajagopuram )
( Moolavar vimanam )
 ( Different postures of Dakshinamurthy on the moolavar vimanam )


120/3. SRI THARUKA VANESWARAR TEMPLE,  THIRUPPARAITHURAI


This place Thirupparaithurai is between Kulithalai and Trichy, 16 km from chatram bus stand. This is the 120th Devaram Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalam on south side of river Cauvery and 3rd sthalam of Chozha Nadu. Appar and Thirugnanasambandar  has sung hymns in praise of Lord Shiva of this temple.
 
Rajagopuram before sunset )

Moolavar    : Sri Tharuka Vaneswarar, Sri Paraithurai Nathar
Consort      : Sri Hemavarnaambal, Sri Pasumponmyilambal
Sthalaviruksham : Paraai tree

Some of the important features of this temple are...
The temple is facing east with a 5 tier Rajagopuram. Dwajasthambam, balipeedam and Rishabam are after the Rajagopuram. In Koshtam Vinayagar, Dakshinamurthy, Arthanareeswarar, Brahma and Durgai. The Arthanareeswarar is in the place of Lingothbavar. 

ARCHITECTURE
The Temple consists of sanctum sanctorum, antarala, Ardha mandapam and a mukha mandapam. A Vesara vimana is on the sanctum. In the entrance pillars of Ambal Shrine, the reliefs/ bas-reliefs of Lord's Urdhva thandavam and Kali's dance are very beautifully chiseled. Sandeswarar sannadhi dome is supported by the pillars hold by lion to watch carefully.  All the Five Gopuras / Vimanas can be seen at a particular place near the Rajagopuram. 

Rishaba mandapam was built at latter state. The mandapa pillars has the sculptures of Manickavasagar, Thirugnanasambandar,  Appar and the Ve. Veera. Nagappa Chettiar who had done thirupani to this temple.
  
LEGENDS 
Lord Shiva taught the lesson to the munivars who lived in the Paraai tree forest with out giving due respect to Lord.  The Lord came in the form of Pitchadanar ( The statue is available along with Urchavar idols ) and the wives of munivars followed  Pichadanar. Without knowing the Lord is the Pichadanar, Munivars sent deer, Tiger, elephant, Snake against Pichadanar which came from the Yagam/homam. Lord used all. Then the Munivars  realised that the Pitchadanar is the Lord and surrendered to him. Lord Shiva gave darshan under the Paraai Tree. ( Sthala Vruksham ). Hence this place is called as Paraaithurai.

HOW TO REACH
All the town buses to Kulithalai from Chatram bus stand passes through this temple and temple is on the main road.
The outstation buses from Karur, Salem etc., are also passes through this temple.
19 Km from Trichy on Karur road.

CONTACT DETAILS
The mobile number is +91  99408 43571

LOCATION OF THE TEMPLE :CLICK HERE

                                      
( Temple entrance arch )
( 100 pillar Mandapam, now used for the primary school )
( Moolavar vimanam )
( Sthala viruksham - Parai maram )
 ( Rajagopuram after sun set )


19th Feb 2012 DARSHAN & ROUTE.
Trichy Chatram Bus-stand – Thiruppainjeeli, via Nochiyam & Manachanallur ( 7Km ), then  to Thirupachilachiramam (Thiruvasi)  via Nichiam by Town bus and then back to Chatram bus stand. From Chatram bus-stand to Mukkeechuram ( Uraiyur ).

115/61. SRI GNEELIVANESWARAR TEMPLE, SRI NEELAKANDESWARAR TEMPLE, THIRUPPAINJEELI 


Now the place is called as Thiruppainjeeli. This temple is the 115th Thevara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalam and 61st sthalam on the north side of river Kaveri of Chozha Nadu. Sundarar and Appar has sung hymns in praise of Lord Shiva of this temple. 

( Ambal temple vimanam )

Moolavar    : Sri Neelakandeswarar, Sri Gneelivneswarar, 
                   Sri Kathali Vasanthar,  Sri Aaranya Vidankan
Consort      : Sri Vishalakshi Ambal
Sthala Vruksham : Injeeli Tree ( Kathali Plantain Tree )

Some of the important features of this temple are....
The temple is facing east with 3 tier Rajagopuram  and mottai Gopuram. The Rajagopuram was not fully constructed. Dwajasthambam, balipeedam and Rishabam are after the Rajagopuram. 

In prakaram sannadhis for Ambal, Vanathayee Amman, Kailasanathar, Saptamatrikas, Gajalakshmi, Sri Valli Devasena Sri Arumuga Perumal, Sri Senthamaraikannan, Sri Dakshayani Ambika Sametha Imruthayanjar,  Yemathamaraja Sannadhi and Sorudaya Eswar.  The Yama Dharmaraja Sannadhi is 9 steps below the ground level.


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

There is no Navagrahas, instead there are 9 holes ( “குழி -Kuzhi” on floor stone) in front of Rishabam,  is considered as Navagrahas and people used to light lamps in the holes

LEGENDS
The Sashti Aptha Poorthi celebration are also conducted in this temple. Those who lost positions  will get back the same if they do parikara in the Yama Dharmaraja sannadhi, Since he got back his power  after worshiping Lord Shiva of this temple, which he lost at Thirukkadaiyur.

This is one of the parihara sthalam to remove obstacles for the marriage. In formal marriage rituals are conducted treating sthala vruksham injeeli Plantain Tree ( Kal Vazhai) as life partner.

The temple tree's fruit should not be consumed by the human beings, instead it should be offered only to Lord Shiva. If Consumed it will create lot of problems in the body.

HOW TO REACH  : 
Town bus route No: 27  from Trichy, Chatram bus stand passes through this temple
7 Km from Manachanallur.

CONTACT DETAILS :
The land line number is +91 431 223 0257

LOCATION OF THE TEMPLE :CLICK HERE

( Sthala viruksham )
( Rajagopuram )
( 4 Pillar mandapam )
( Un finished Rajagopuram )
Entrance arch  

116/62. SRI MATRURAI VARADEESWARAR TEMPLE,  
THIRUVASI - THIRUPACHILACHIRAMAM 


Now this place is called as thiruvasi. This temple is the 116th Devaram Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalam and 62nd sthalam on the north side of river Kaveri of Chozha Nadu. Appar has sung hymns in praise of Lord Shiva of this temple.
 
( Moolavar vimanam with Dhakshinamoorthy sannadhi )

Moolavar    : Sri Matrurai Nathar, Sri Sameevaneswarar ( Vanni Trees),                        Sri Bimmapureeswarar.
Consort      : Sri Balambigai, Sri Bala Soundary.
Sthala Vruksham : Vanni Tree.

Some of the important features of this temple are...
The temple is facing east with two 5 tier Rajagopuras. Balipeedam, Dwajasthambam and Rishabam are immediately after the Rajagopuram. In koshtam Vinayagar, Dakshinamurthy, Arthanareeswarar, Brahma and Durgai. Arthanareeswarar is in place of Lingothbavar. Ambal sannathi is at the left side entrance.
 
In prakaram Sannadhis for Ambal, Selva Vinayakar, Sahasra Linga, Navagrahas, Chandikeswarar, Sabtha Mathakkal, Bairavar, Moola vinayagar  and Gajalakshmi. In the Saba Mandapam Sri Nataraja is dancing on snake instead of Muyalagan, hence called as “Sarba Nadanamurthy“. ( Muyalagan – is  a decease called stomach pain,  valippu ).

ARCHITECTURE
The temple consists of sanctum sanctorum, antarala, ardha mandapam and a mukka mandapam. A 2 tier vesara Vimana is over the sanctum. 

LEGENDS
Sundarar is in singing posture with thalam in his hands, kept along with urchava moorhams. In this temple Sundarar got gold from Lord Shiva and complained of inferior quality, hence Iraivan is called as Martrurainathar.

HOW TO REACH 
From Trichy Town bus route Nos 60 & 40 are passing through this village. From bus stop one has to walk to the temple on the dusty road.
Thiruvasi is on the enroute  to Musiri on the north river side.
5 Km from Thiruvanaikaval.

CONTACT DETAILS 
Mobile number is +91 94436 92138.

LOCATION OF THE TEMPLE : CLICK HERE



( Rajagopuram )

122/5. SRI PANCHAVARNESWARAR TEMPLE,  MUKKEECHURAM / URAIYUR / WORAIYUR 


Now the place is called as uraiyur, part of trichy. This is the 122nd Thevaram Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalam and  5th Sthalam on the south side of river Cauvery of Chozha Nadu. Thirugnanasambandar has sung hymns in praise of Lord Shiva of this temple. 
 
Second level 3 tier Rajagopuram )

Moolavar    : Sri Panchavarneswarar
Consort      : Sri Gandhimathi
Sthala vruksham : Vilvam.

Some of the important features of this temple are...
This temple is located in the Uraiyur market area  and Uraiyur is part of Trichy  City. Temple facing east with a mandapam at the entrance. A Three tier Rajagopuram is at the entrance of sanctum sanctorum. Rishabam mandapam and balipeedam are before the Rajagopuram. In addition to this, Rishaba mandapam with Dwajasthambam are after Rajagopuram. In sanctum Moolavar is swayambhu and very small in size. In koshtam Vinayagar, Dakshinamurthy, Mahavishnu in place of Lingothbavar, Brahma and Durgai.

Ambal is standing posture in the in side mandapam facing south. It is believed that Shiva Lingam changes its colour depending on the time ie, morning, noon, evening, night etc,. The temple is little big with inner and outer prakaram.

Lot of sculptures on the Mandapa stone pillars. All are worth to see. Of which, Elephant of Chozha King was defeated by a Cock in a fight relief ( Uraiyur also called as கோழியூர் ) and 5 ladies forms a horse, etc, are excellent. The temple structure / pillars are beautifully chiseled.

HOW TO REACH 
Town buses are available from both Central Bus-stand and Chatram Bus-stand, since it is part of Trichy City.

CONTACT DETAILS 
Land line and mobile numbers are  : +91 431 276 8546 and +91  94439 19091.

LOCATION OF THE TEMPLE :CLICK HERE

 ( 5 Ladies forms a horse chiseled on the pillar back side of moolavar )
Rishaba mandapam
--- OM SHIVAYA NAMA ---