Monday 30 April 2012

Velliangiri Andavar Temple / வெள்ளியங்கிரி ஆண்டவர் கோயில் / “THEN KAILAYAM” - Velliangiri Hills, Poondi, Sri Patteeswarar Temple, Perur and Sri Subramania Swamy Temple, Maruthamalai, Coimbatore, Coimbatore District, Tamil Nadu.

30 December 2012 
MY  VELLIANGIRI YATRA ( THEN KAILAYAM )28-04-2012 - DAY 1
After June 2011 Velliangiri Yatra, we want to do it again in  day time to enjoy the  beauty of  Velliangiri. So we planned the yathra on 28th April 2012, a week before Chitra pournami. Checked the availability of seats/ berths during Feb 2012, for Saturday and Sunday night   travel Trains. 

Since the night trains are full, decided to go through Coimbatore intercity express, which starts at 14.30 Hrs from Chennai central.  Booked   for Mr Vau and Mr Muthu  Arunachalam. In the mean time after seeing my previous post Mr Alex from Chennai ( Actually from Kumbakonam ) wished to join with us. Last minute Mr Muthu Arunachalam opted out and Mr Alex joined with us from Chennai and his Friend (from Kumbakonam ) joined from Coimbatore.

Stayed at our SPIC ABC Guest house and Started our Yathra on 28th April morning, after darshan of Shiva  at base temple. We could not purchase the bamboo sticks due to non availability at that time. To our surprise there was a heavy rush and checking was conducted for  plastic bags, match boxes by the forest officials. Provisions were made to drop the plastic bottles by the temple / forest authorities.

( Velliangiri Andavar Tempe at base of the hill ) 
 
 ( Velliangiri base temple )
( Navagrahas ) 

At the half of the first hill we could not manage to climb with out stick. So we have managed to make the sticks from the bamboo plants. ( How do we made our sticks is a different story ). After taking rest at Vellai Pillayar ie the end of the first hill, started climb through bamboo forest in the second hill. It will be  difficult to pass through this forest alone, due to sound of the insects. The steps in the first three hills are not uniform and step stones were missing in many places. After climbing 236 rock cut steps, called Vazhukku Parai and reached the third hill. High growth of grass found on both sides of the third hill.

The fourth and fifth hills are not so difficult with  small ups and down with out any steps. There are small shops with some eatables,   set up only for the season. The temperature was so pleasant and it was awesome sight to see the beauty of the  western  ghats. It was a wonderful sight to watch the clouds are moving through the hills, below us. Slowly climbed to the 6th hill top and  we could see the seventh hill and below Siruvani dam. It was an another wonderful sight to watch  the clouds / mist passes on the seventh hill,  which disappear and appear after the cloud passes.

 ( Clouds passing through hills and valley )

 ( Clouds passing through hills and valley )

 ( Clouds passing through hills and valley )

After crossing the Aandi sunai started climbing the seventh hill which took  us an hour with steep path, which also has no steps.  It took us almost 6 hours to reach the top of the seventh hill from base temple. During our journey we had spent  some time to take photographs  and rest. All our pain vanished on worshiping of  Lord Shiva. Stayed there for an hour and practiced meditation and recited Thiruvasakam.
     

 ( Sri Vinayagar sannadhi at the entrance  )

( Moolavar natural cave )

Started climbing down and aimed to complete within four hour. When we reached 2nd hill it was very dark and our speed slowed down due to failure of light. Moon light was not visible much due to trees and clouds. Since Mr Vasu’s torch light was not working, with one torch light found difficult to climb down. Due to mismatching  of the speed my  thigh and cough muscles started pain. Climb down took us 5 hours  to reach the base temple  Thanking Lord Shiva  for given us strength and courage to climb up and down reached Guest house around  23 .00 Hrs and  had a good sleep.

My sincere thanks to Mr R Vasu, Mr Alex and Mr Madhanagopal, who co-operated with me to make this yathra a memorable and enjoyable.

Velliangiri Yatra Experience 2011 : CLICK HERE
Velliangiri Yatra Experience 2013 : CLICK HERE
Velliangiri Yatra Experience 2015 : CLICK HERE
Velliangiri Yatra Experience 2016 : CLICK HERE
Velliangiri Yatra Experience 2017 : CLICK HERE
Velliangiri Yatra Experience 2018 : CLICK HERE
Velliangiri Yatra Experience 2019 : CLICK HERE

 ( Vasu Self and Alex )

 ( Vasu self and Madhan )

 (Alex and self )

( Alex, madhan and Vasu ) 

29-04-2012. - DAY -2
Left the guest house and  reached, Perur Shiva temple. The temple is very old and found many Tamil inscriptions dating back to 10th to 12th century.  Gana  bhairavar has a separate sannathi without dog.  The Sabha Mandapam ( Kanaka Sabai ) has beautiful   statues chiseled on the pillars. They are Lord Shiva in Urdhva thandavam, Kaali ( Thiru Alangadu ), Sri Arumuga Perumal and Ganapathi, Veerabhadra are to be watched very carefully. Minute details are finely chiseled.

Boarded the minibus to Maruthamalai from Perur. I went to this temple when I was studying at Coimbatore about 40 years before. Things has changed a lot. Went to the hill top through Taxi and after darshan returned through steps. Rajagopuram is under construction. Since the day happens to be Sunday, there are lot of devotees thronged the hill shrine. We could not spent much time at the temple due to want of time to catch the Train. Returned to Chennai around 23.00 hours through Kovai express with a wonderful experience.

LOCATION OF THE TEMPLE : CLICK HERE

PERUR SRI PATTEESWARAR TEMPLE

( Moolavar vimanam )

( Rajagopuram )

( A Shiva temple near Perur Shiva Temple with Rishabam in place of Rajagopuram )

MARUDHAMALAI SRI MURUGAN TEMPLE

LOCATION OF THE TEMPLE : CLICK HERE
( Moolavar vimanam )


 --- OM SHIVAYA NAMA ---

Tuesday 10 April 2012

Sri Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple, Srisailam, Andhra Pradesh, India.

 9, April 2012
I had been to Srisailam on 5th and 6th of November 2011.(CLICK HERE ) After hearing my experience, my friends ( M/s Swaminathan, Srinivasamoorthy & Muthu  Arunachalam ) also wanted to make a trip to Srisailam. This is my second trip to Srisailam on 7th and 8th April 2012. We had planned in advance and booked the train tickets up to Ongole. From there we have decided to go by bus. The yathra went as per the schedule. Except Andhra Pradesh heat, I don’t find any difficulty. Post yathra trip worsened my health due to food and the hot climate. Otherwise it was an wonderful journey and experience. After landing SriSailam around 11.30 Hrs,  left our bags at Pathaleswara Guest House ( Room rent Rs 800, which can be booked at Ganga sadan near Temple ) and went to Pathala Ganga for bath ( Srisailam Dam ). Down and up climbed by steps and our two friends came by rope car. After meals at the guest house restaurant, had taken a rest for 2 hours. Went for Deepa aarti darshan around 17.30 Hrs and had good darshan of Lord Shiva Sri Mallikarjunaswamy.
 
East side 5 tier Rajagopuram 

After darshan came out of the temple around 19.00 Hrs and decided to go for the local temples visit. Went to Sakshi Ganapati temple, Sikaram ( Darshan of main temple through the horns of Nandhi ), Kataheswaram and Amman temple. Returned to room and taken rest up to 04.30 Hrs and assembled at Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple for abhishekam ( Rs 1000 each ). Around 7.00 Hrs allowed us to perform the abhishekam, which is a wonderful experience for me to touch and do the abhishekam. With great and wonderful  darshan, of Sri Mallikarjuna Swamy left for local temples visit once again. This time we had been to Sankara Mutt ( Very near to the main temple ), Paladhara & Panchadhara ( It is believed that Aadhi Sankarar had composed the Soundarya lahari and Sivantha Lakari at this place ), Rudraksha mandapam, Mallamma Kanneeru. Since the time was up to come back to Chennai, we cut shot our visit. Vacated the room and  we started our return journey to Chennai around 11.30 Hrs, bus up to Ongole. Boarded the train around 20.00 Hrs at Ongole and reached Chennai early Monday morning 04.00 Hrs.

It is observed that the construction of the temple and Rajagopurams are mixture of South and north Indian architecture. The Rajagopuram is of South Indian ( Tamil Nadu ) type. But the mollavar vimanam is of North Indian style. Instead of kalasam we could notice a Trishul. There are two Dwajasthambas in front and back of main shrine, this is for contain the power of lord within the shrine ( understand from the devotees ).

My dream of making this yathra once again on a day time has came to true. During this yathra, I had taken no of Photographs through my Mobile X 10 mini, are uploaded in this post.

HOW TO REACH 
On the train route from Chennai to Kolkata, get down at Ongole and from there bus facility is available 
From major cities of Andhra Pradesh buses are available to SriSailam.

CONTACT DETAILS :
Temple web site http://srisailamonline.com/

LOCATION OF THE TEMPLE :CLICK HERE

DETAILS OF MY FIRST VISIT TO SRISAILAM : CLICK HERE

( Srisailam Dam )

 Dwarapalakas at the entrance of temple street)
  Dwarapalakas at the entrance of temple street)


From the Compound wall sculpture  we could able  to relate the story of Thiruvanaikaval Temple, where Elephant and spider ( In the latter birth he born as Chozha King, Chengat Chozhan and built may maada Temples where  elephant cannot enter in to the moolavar sanctum. ) worshiped Lord Shiva. 

May be relate to Srikalahasti also where Elephant and snake worshiped Lord Shiva 


Gandaberunda,  Hoysala's symbol. This is not a man nor a bird
 ( West side rajagopuram )



( Muthu Arunachalam, Swamynathan, Srinivasamoorthy & Guide)
( Muthu Arunachalam, Self, Srinivasa murthy and the guide ) 
( Stucco Natarajar )
 ( Veena Dakshinamurthy with Sanatha Munivars which is rare )
 ( Somaskandar )
 --- OM SHIVAYA NAMA ---

Tuesday 3 April 2012

Sri Sundara Mahalingeswarar and Santhana Mahalingeswarar Temple, Sathuragiri, Madurai District, Tamil Nadu.

 02, April 2012
I and my four friends went Sathuragiri..  By train we went to Srivilliputhur and from there we  hired a Taxi up to foot hills of Sathuragiri. From there we started claiming around 08.00 hrs and returned back around 18.30 Hrs. This happened an year ago and the photos taken through my mobile are uploaded in this post.

( Santahana mahalingam temple )
( Sundara mahalingam sannadhi )
( Sundara mahalingam sannadhi arch )
( Sundara mahalingam sannadhi arch another view )

( Pambatti siddhar cave shrine - A thrilling experience to this cave )
                                                                ( Palavadi karuppu )
( Thavasi paarai long view  )
( The way we crossed )
 ( Vazhukkuparai - Steps are cut on the rock  )
( The way we crossed )
 --- OM SHIVAYA NAMA --- 

Monday 2 April 2012

Kandeeswarar Temple / Sri Brahmasirakanteeswarar Temple Thirukandiyur, Sri Pushpavana Nathar Temple, Thirupoonthuruthi, Sri Athmanatheswarar/ Vadamoolanathar Temple Thiruvalampozhil, Thirukkanoor Semmeninathar Temple / Sri Karumbeswarar Temple Thirukkanur, Sri Vaidynanathaswami Temple Thirumazhapadi, Sro Bhaskareswarar Temple /Parithiappar Temple, Parithiniyamam, Perumpuliyur Vyagrapureeswarar Temple Perumpuliyur, , Thillaisthanam Neyyadiappar Temple Neithanam - PAADAL PETRA SHIVA STHALANGAL IN AND AROUND THANJAVUR AND THIRUVAYARU – IN CHOZHA NADU

02, April 2012
On 31st March and 1st April 2012  made short trip to Thanjavur and had a darshn of  Lord Shiva in 8 temples of both Kaveri Vadakarai and Thenkarai, in Chozha Nadu. This time it was a  wonderful journey with full of thrill and excitation. As usual I had prepared the schedule, Map and details of the temples and phone numbers. Two days in advance booked a room at Hotel Karthik for  Saturday. From Koyambedu got a bus to Thanjavur and reached at about 5.00 Hrs.

31-03-2012 - SATURDAY
After taking rest for an hour went to THIRUKANDIYUR  ( Kandiyur ). The gurukal opened the temple at about 09.00 Hrs. After darshan got a city bus to THIRUPOONTHURUTHI, which is about 3 KM from Kandiyur.  The temple was kept open The watchman and the servant maid helped me for Lord Shiva’s darshan and Appar madam. My next darshan temple was THIRUVALAM POZHIL, which is about 1 KM from Thirupoonthuruthi. Since there was no bus at that time walked to the temple, there also I could not find the Gurukal, but the temple was kept open for Lord Pushbavaneswarar’s darshan. Next my plan was to go to THIRUKKANUR, for which, I had already confirmed with the Gurukal about my arrival at Thirukattupalli. He advised me to reach Thirukattupalli before 11.00 Hrs. The temple is in a remote place, about 5 KM distance from Thirukattupalli and no proper transport is available. Initially thought of going through bicycle, but finally Gurukal gave his TVS XL. Went along with Gurukal’s  son. There is no houses near the temple and  there are heaps of sand around the temple. The temple is kept neat and clean. One kala pooja is conducted  by the gurukal with devotion and had the dharshan around 13.00 Hrs. 

My next  destination was THIRUMAZHAPADI. When I inquired at Thiruvaiyaru temple, 2 days before starting of this yathra, they told me that Lord Ayyarappan will go to Thirumazhapadi on 31-03-2012 for conducting Nandhiyam Peruman’s marriage. Utilizing this opportunity, decided to be present during the function. From Thirukattupalli returned back to Thiruvaiyaru  and reached Thirumazhapadi through Thirumanur around 15.30 Hrs. Had a good darshan of  Shri Vaidyanathaswamy. When I was in the temple there was a heavy wind with  rain, but it stopped before  the marriage function. There was a very heavy rush to see the marriage function and this conducted during Tamil Month Panguni, Punarpoosam nakshatra every year. It is believed that Young girls and boys who attend this function and pray to Nandhiam Peruman, will get married soon.  The complete Thirumazhapadi and the nearby villagers celebrated this festival, since the bride groom  is the native of Thirumazhapadi ( The story is given in the details of Thirumazhapadi ). The marriage function was over by 21.00 Hrs and reached Tanjore around 23.00 Hrs, with a great difficulty of getting bus. I was  very happy to be present during the marriage function and it was an wonderful experience.
  
01-04-2012 – SUNDAY.
I planned to reach Chennai before 21.00 Hrs, so I limited my  Yathra to 3 temples.  First I  went to PARUTHIYAPPAR KOIL  which is  on the way to Pattukkottai from Thanjavur. Got down at Mela Ulur. There is a limited bus service to this temple village. The temple is about 3 KM from Mela Ulur temple’s arch. Luckily I got a Town bus ( Route 64) from the Temple’s entrance arch. Since the temple is a Pithru Dosha Parikara sthalam, I could find some devotees in this temple. I had a good darshan of Sri Baskareswarar. The temple was preparing  for the annual chariot festival on Panguni uthiram day. After a good darshan reached Thiruvaiyaru and proceeded to PERUMPULIYUR, which is about 3 KM  from Thillaisthanam on Thirukattupalli route. Since there was no bus service during that  time, decided to walk up to the temple. When I was halfway, a motorcyclist gave me a lift up to the Temple. The temple was found locked and Gurukal’s madam was kind enough to open the doors and  explained about the features of the temple.

Returned back to THILLAISTHANAM went to Neiadiappar Temple. During return journey also a motorcyclist gave me lift to reach to Thillaisthanam. When I reached the temple, it was locked, but the main gate and grill gates were kept open. I had a darshan of Sri Neiadiappar through grilled gate and doors, around 11.00 Hrs. Since I could not reach Keezhapalur another paadal petra Shiva sthalam ( 1/2 hour journey from Thiruvaiyaru on Ariyalur route ) before closing time of 11.30, returned to Chennai through Ariyalur, Perambalur Ulundurpet, Villupuram. 

The details of the temple and the Photos taken are up loaded in this post.

129 / 12. KANDEESWARAR TEMPLE / BRAHMASIRAKANTEESWARAR TEMPLE. KANDIYUR - THIRUKANDIYUR


Now the place is called as Kandiyur. This is the 129th Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalam and 12th sthalam on the south of River Kaveri in Chozha Nadu. Thirugnanasambandar and Appar has sung hymns in praise of Lord Shiva of this temple. 
  
Moolavar : Sri Brahmasirakanteeswarar, Sri Veerateswarar,  
               Sri Brahmanathar, Sri Aathivilvanathar
Consort   : Sri Mangalambigai

Some of the important features of this temple are...
This temple is facing west with 5 tier Rajagopuram. Dwajasthambam, Balipeedam and Nandhi are after the Rajagopuram. A stucco entrance arch is in front of sanctum sanctorum. The sanctum sanctorum consists of sanctum, antarala and artha mandapam. Moolavar is of Swayambhu and the sanctum is without Dwarabalakars. In Koshtam Raja ganapathy, Dakshinamurthy, Brahma and Durgai. Mandapam are of Vavval nethi type.

Ambal sannadhi is on the left side of moolavar. Separate sannadhis for Brahma & Saraswathy, Durgai. 5 lingams and Sri Mangalambigai shrines are on the outer prakaram built at a  latter stage.

This is the one of the eight Veeratta Sthalam and fifth in saptha sthana sthalam. Lord Shiva chopped (கொய்தது ) the fifth head of Brahma with his thirisoolam திரி சூலம் ). 

Lord Shiva showed the prathosam for the Muni Sadha. The temple is at lower level than the road. 

Tamil inscriptions found at the base of the sanctum.

CONTACT DETAILS :
Land line numbers are : +91 4362  261 100, and +91 4362 262 222

HOW TO REACH :  
There are lot of buses available from Thanjavur and Thiruvaiyaru.
The temple is on the Main road, 3 Km from Thiruvaiyaru.  

LOCATION OF THE TEMPLE : CLICK HERE

                                                          ( West side Rajagopuram )
( Rishaba Mandapam )
( Stucco images at the entrance  gopuram )
( Moolavar vimanam )


128 / 11. PUSHPAVANA NATHAR TEMPLE, THIRUPPOONTHURUTHI 


Now the place is called as Melapoonthuruthi. This is the 128th Devaram paadal Petra Shiva Sthalam and 11th Sthalam on the north of river Kaveri in Chozha Nadu. Thirunavukkarasu has sung hymns in praise of Lord Shiva of this temple. Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalam  in Chozha Naadu.
  
Moolavar    : Sri Pushpavana Nathar, Sri Aathipuranar, Sri Poyieliyar.
Consort      : Sri Soundra Nayagi, Sri Azhakalamarthanayagi

Some of the important features of this temple are....
The temple is facing east with a 5 tier Rajagopuram. Nandi and balipedam are in between first 5 tier Rajagopuram and sanctum sanctorum entrance mini Rajagopuram. Nandhi and Palipedam are not straight to the moolavar. Paintings of Thirunavukkarasar's life is on the prakaram walls. 

To get Lord shiva’s darshan for Thirugnanasambandar,  Nandhi Bhagavan moved to left side. When Thirugnanasambandar came to this place Thirunavukkarasar was carried through pearl palanquin/ muthu sivigai.

Thirunavukkarasar swamikal  had done thirupani in this temple and built a madam. ( Koil servant opened the madam for Thirunavukkarasar Swamikal’s darshan. ). Thirugnanasambandar not entered in this temple, since Appar had done thirupani. Appar moortham is  in sitting posture. Dakshinamurthy is veena Dakshinamurthy.

Lord Shiva asked Ganga to come from the well for Kasiba Munivar. Bhoomagal worshiped the lord, hence this place is called as Poonthuruthi.

A little elevated place between two rivers is also called as Thuruthi. Moorthys of Thirunavukkarasar, Sundarar with his two wives Paravai Nachiyar and Sangiliyar, Saptamatrikas  are in the prakaram. All Navagraghas are facing Suryan. Painting of Thirunavukkarasu’s biography on the walls of outer prakaram. Separate sannadhi for Durgambigai, Kasi Viswanathar. Shiva Lingams of associated temples in the outer prakarm and it is believed that to worship the Shiva Lingams here equivalent  to worshiping Shiva Lingams without going there.

Sri Pushpavaneswarar              - Thiruppoonthuruthi
Sri Kiruthapureeswarar            - Thiruneithanam
Sri Panchanatheeswarar           - Thiruvaiyaru
Sri Aapath Sahayeswarar          - Thirupazhanam
Sri Othavana Eeswarar             - Thiruchortruthurai
Sri Vedhapuri Eeswarar            - Thiruvedhikkudi
Sri Brahma Sira Kandeswarar   - Thirukandiyur

CONTACT DETAILS :
Mobile number +91 94865 76529.

HOW TO REACH : 
Buses are available from Kandiyur (Kandiyur is  3 KM from Thiruvaiyaru)
3 KM from Kandiyur on the way to Thirukattupalli. The place is called as Mela Poonthuruthi.

LOCATION OF THE TEMPLE :CLICK HERE



( Paintings on the south side wall )
( Paintings on the south side wall )
( Rishabam and balipeedam are - left side moved for the darshan to Thiruganasambandar )
                                                                ( Rajagopuram )

127/10.  ATHMANATHESWARAR TEMPLE, THIRUVALAMPOZHIL


Now this place is called as Thiruvalampozhil. This is the 127th Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalam and 10th Sthalam on the South side of river Kaveri in Chozha Nadu. Thirunavukkarasar has sung hymns in praise of Lord Shiva of this temple.  

Moolavar    : Sri Vadamoolanathar, Sri Aathmanatheswarar
Consort      : Sri Ganambigai

Some of the important features of this temple are.....
The temple is facing west  with a 4 tier Vimana on the main road. Palipedam and Nandhi are in-front of sanctum.  The sanctum sanctorum consists of sanctum, antarala and Artha mandapam. In sanctum moolavar is swayambhu. A vesara vimana is over the sanctum. In koshtam Vinayagar, Dakshinamurthy, Brahma and Durgai. Ambal is in a separate temple like sannadhi with a vesara vimana. Ambal sannadhi is facing south.

In Prakaram sannadhi for Pancha lingams, Kasi Viswanathar and Kasi Visalakshi.

CONTACT DETAILS:
Land line number is +91 4365 - 284 573.

HOW TO REACH :
The temple is on the main road and 4 Km from Kandiyur.
1 KM from Thirupoonthuruthi, one of the Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalam.

LOCATION OF THE TEMPLE :CLICK HERE

                               ( Rajagopuram view from back )
                                                                  ( Moolavar Vimanam )
( Chandikeswarar sannadhi with stucco images on top )
( Ambal sannadhi Vimanam )

110 /56. SRI KARUMBESWARAR TEMPLE / TIRUKKAANOOR SEMMENINATHAR TEMPLE, THIRUKKANUR


This place is now called as Manal Medu. This is the 110th Devaram Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalam and 56th  Sthalam on the North side of river Kaveri in Chozha nadu. Moovar has sung hymns in praise of Lord Shiva of this temple.
  
Moolavar    : Sri Karumbeswarar, Sri Semmeninathar
Consort      : Sri Sivaloka Nayaki

Some of the important features of this temple are.....
The temple is facing east with a two tier Vimana.  A solar and lunar eclipses reliefs are shown in the form of Sun, moon and Snake on the ceiling of Rajagopuram. Balipeedam and Nandhi are in front of the sanctum. The sanctum sanctorum consists of sanctum, antarala and artha mandapam. In sanctum Moolavar is swayambhu. In koshtam Pitchadanar, Kalabhairavar, Dakshinamurthy, Brahma and Durgai. A vesara vimana is over the sanctum.  Moorthis of Naagar, Vishnu, Dharmasastha, Naalvar, Chandran and Suriyan are in the Artha mandapam.  In prakaram sannadhi for Sri Valli Devasena sametha Subramaniar, Vinayagar and Chandikeswarar.

Ambal is in a separate temple  facing south with a vesara Vimana. There is no murthis in the koshtam. Iraivan appeared as fire in this temple for Ambika’s dhabas. Hence Lord Shiva is called as Semmeninathar.

Once the temple was completely covered with sand and a sugar cane was grown on the top of the sand heap. The temple was discovered after removing the heap of sand and hence the Iraivan is called as Karumbeswarar.

Karikal Chozhan hid in this place with his mother. Latter Elephant garlanded him  and lead him to Uraiyur.

To remove the sin caused due to killing of Karthaveryarsunan by Parasuraman and worshiped this temple Lord Shiva.

Inscriptions are found ( completely painted not visible much ) back side wall of moolavar sannadhi.

The Gurukal is maintaining the temple in a very good condition.

CONTACT DETAILS : 
Before going to this temple it is necessary to go along with Gurukkal, who has the key. Thirukkattupalli ( Market area ) Murugan Temple Gurukkal temple is  looking after this Thirukkanur Shiva Temple also ( Residence is very near Murugan temple ). Phone number : 04362 320067 and mobile: 9345009344.

HOW TO REACH : 
The temple is about 5 KM from Thirukattupalli. There is no proper transport  to reach this temple.  Nearest village is Vishnampettai. 
From Thirukattupalli one can reach the temple through rented cycle. From Thirukattupalli, hire an auto to go to the temple.

LOCATION OF THE TEMPLE : CLICK HERE

                                                           ( Ambal temple entrance )
( Rajagopuram view with Rishaba mandapam )

( Moolavar vimanam )
( Small Rajagopuram at the entrance )
( Lunar eclipse)

108 / 54. SRI VAIDYANATHASWAMI TEMPLE, THIRUMAZHAPADI


This is the 108th Devara paadal Petra shiva Sthalam and 54th sthalam on the north side of river Kaveri in Chozha Nadu. Moovar has sung hymns in praise of Lord Shiva of this temple.

Moolavar    : Sri Vaidyanathaswami, Sri Vajrathamba Nathar
Consort      : Sri Azhagammai, Sri Sundrambigai, Sri Balambigai

Some of the important features of the temple are......
The temple is facing east with a 4 tier Vimana. Balipeedam and Nandhi are after the Rajagopuram. The sanctum sanctorum consists of sanctum, antarala and Ardha mandapam. The Stucco  Dwarapalakas are huge in size.

In koshtam there are two Dakshinamurthy and two Rishabas and two Ambal sannadhis. Somaskandar is made up of single stone looks very beautiful. Front of this there are two Vinayagars of one is in standing and other in sitting posture.

In the prakaram sannadhi for Vishnu & Saraswathy, Sundarar & Paravai Nachiyar, Mahavishnu & Mahalakshmi, Jureswarar, Gajashamkaramoorthy, Sabthakanniagai. There is no Navagraha sannathi.

Ambal Balambigai is in a separate temple like sannadhi with sanctum and artha mandapam. Two tier mandapam along the outer walls with Nattukattai nagarathar thirupani.

Lord appeared in Sundarar’s dream and called him to this temple. Purusha Miruga Rishi  brought the lingam from Sathyalogm and could not able to remove after worshiping, hence  called as “Vairathoonoo” -'வைரதூனோ '.

Rajaraja Chozhan  period inscriptions are on the moolavar out side walls.  Land donated to this temple is found in the Eengoimalai ( near Trichy ) temple kalvettu. The inscriptions speaks about Pallava, Chozha and Hoysala kings contributions.

Once in a year in Tamil month Panguni ( Punarpusam ) Nandhiyam Peruman’s marriage is celebrated in this temple in front of Sri Aiyarappar from Thiruvaiyaru.

CONTACT DETAILS:
Land line and mobile numbers are : +91 4329 292 890, and +91 97862 05278.

HOW TO REACH :
Bus facility is available from Trichy and Thanjavur.
Bus facility also available from Thirumanur, which is 6 KM from Thiruvaiyaru on Ariyalur road.

LOCATION OF THE TEMPLE : CLICK HERE

                                                                   ( Moolavar vimanam )
                                                               ( Moolavar vimanam )
                                                      ( Second level rajagopuram )
                                                                ( Chariot Sculptures )
                                                               ( Chariot Sculptures )
                                                              ( Chariot Sculptures )
                      ( Sri Nandhiyam Peruman's Marriage utsavam )
                   ( Sri Nandhiyam Peruman's Marriage utsavam )
To watch Nandiamperuman's Marriage Video:  CLICK HERE

218/ 101 – SRI BHASKARESWARAR TEMPLE / PARITHIAPPAR TEMPLE, PARITHINIYAMAM


Now the place is called as Paruthiyappar Koil. This temple is the 218th Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalam and 101st Sthalam on the south of river Kaveri in Chozha Nadu. Thirugnanasambandar has sung hymns in praise of Lord Shiva of this temple.  

Moolavar    : Sri Bhaskareswarar, Sri Parithiappar
          ( Parithi is the other name of Suriyan who worshiped Lord Shiva).
Consort     : Sri Mangala Nayagi, Sri Mangalaambigai.

Some of the important features of the temple are......
The temple is facing east with a 5 Tier Rajagopuram. Thuja Vinayagar, Dwajasthambam, balipeedam and Rishabam are immediately after the Rajagopuram. The sanctum sanctorum consists of sanctum, antarala and artha mandapam. A vesara Vimana is  over the sanctum. In koshtam Vinayagar, Dakshinamurthy, Mahavishnu, Brahma and Durgai. In addition to this Gaja Samhara Moorthy and two more statues. Suryan's idol is installed in front of Moolavar. Ambal is in a separate sannadhi facing east.

In the inner prakaram sannadhi for Vinayagar, Gajalakshmi, Sri Valli Deivanai Sametha Subramaniyar and Chandikeswarar. In the outer prakaram. In outer prakaram Sannadhi for Vinayagar, Sri Valli Devasena Subramaniar, Kalabhairavar, Suryan and Chandran. The positions of Sri Suryan and Sri Chandran are inter changed  ( Left Suryan & Chandran on the left ).

It is believed that the Lord Shiva was worshiped by Suryan. Even today 3 days of sunlight falls on moolavar during Tamil month Panguni. 

The devotees throng the temple   for the Pithru dosham nivarthi. 

CONTACT DETAILS :
The Land line number is +91 437 256 910

HOW TO REACH :
The Village Mela Ulur is very near to Paruthiyappar Koil and is on the Thanjavur to Pattukottai / Orathanadu main road.
The Paruthiyappar temple is 3 KM from Mela Ulur.
Town bus route no 64 is available from  Mela Ulur.

LOCATION OF THE TEMPLE : CLICK HERE


                                            ( Moolavar Vimanam with Vinayagar sannadhi )
( Moolavar vimanam with Dakshinamurthy  mandapam )
( Rajagopuram 5 tier  view )
 ( Chariot Sculptures )
   

107/ 53. PERUMPULIYUR VYAGRAPUREESWARAR TEMPLE, 
- PERUMPULIYUR


This temple is the 107th Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalam and 53rd Sthalam on the north side of river Kaveri in Chozha Nadu. Thirugnanasambandar has sung hymns in praise of Lord Shiva of this temple.  

Moolavar    : Sri Viyagrapureeswarar, Sri Puliyur Nathar
Consort      : Sri Soundara nayagi, Sri Azhagammai.

Some of the important features of this temple are.....
This temple is facing east with a three tier Rajagopuram. balipeedam and Rishabam are in front of the Rajagopuram. The sanctum sanctorum consists of sanctum, antarala and ardha mandapam. Sanctum is raised from the ground level. The sanctum adhistanam is Padmabandha adhishtanam  with Jagathi, Padma, Kumudam Yazhivari. A ekatha Vesara Vimana with mahanasi is on the sanctum. In Koshtam Vinayagar, Dakshinamurthy, Arthanareeswarar, Brahma and Durgai.  In Navagrahas all are facing Suryan.

Ambal is in a separate temple like sannadhi with sanctum and a muka mandapam facing east. In the outer prakaram sannadhi for Vinayagar and Sri Valli Devasena Subramaniar.

This is also one of the 5 temples in which Viyagrapatha Munivar worshiped Lord shiva, Hence this place is called as Perum Puliyur. 

CONTACT DETAILS: :
Mobile numbers are +91 94434 47826, and +91 94427 29856.

HOW TO REACH : 
Town bus is available from Thiruvaiyaru up to Thillaisthanam ( 2 KM ) a Paadal Petra Shiva sthalam on Thiruvaiyaru to Thirukattupalli main road.
3 KM from Thillaisthanam on north side.

LOCATION OF THE TEMPLE : CLICK HERE

                                               ( Moolavar vimanam on a Padma peedam )

( Ambal temple vimanam )
( 3 tier Rajagopuram with Rishabam and balipeedam )


106 / 52. THILLAISTHANAM NEIYYADIAPPAR TEMPLE, NEITHANAM / THILLAISTHANAM


The place is now called as Thillaisthanam.This is the 106th Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalam and 52nd sthalam on the south side of river Kaveri in Chozha Nadu. Thirunavukkarasu Swamigal and Thirugnanasambandar has sung hymns in praise of Lord Shiva of this temple.   

Moolavar    : Sri Neiyyadiappar, Sri Kiruthapureeswarar
Consort      : Sri Balambigai, Sri Ilamangaiammai.

Some of the important features of this temple are......
The temple is facing east with Two 5 Tier Rajagopuram. Dwajasthambam, balipeedam and Rishabam are in front of Sanctum sanctorum. The Nandhi and balipeedam are in a mandapa constructed in recent years. A mini single level rajagopuram is the entrance for the sanctum sanctorum. The sanctum sanctorum consists of sanctum, antarala and artha mandapam. A Vesara Vimana is on the sanctum. In koshtam Dakshinamurthy ( in standing posture ), Lingothbavar, Brahma, Durgai.

Ambal is in a separate temple on the left of second level 5 tier Rajagopuram. The temple  is with sanctum, muka mandapam. A vesara Vimana is on the sanctum.  Sundarar attracted by the beauty of the Ambal and in his hymn  called her as “eanthila Mangai “.

Kamadhenu poured milk on the Shiva lingam and worshiped. The milk turned to Nei (Ghee ) due to Sun’s heat and rain, hence Shiva is called as Neiyyadiappar and the place is called as Neithanam.  It is believed that Saraswati and Gauthama rishi worshiped lord Shiva of this temple.

Inscriptions are found around the sanctum wall. The inscriptions mainly speaks about donations made  to the temple  for  Naivedyam and lighting of perpetual lamps.

CONTACT DETAILS :
Land line number is + 91 4362 260 553

HOW TO REACH : 
Town buses are available from Thiruvaiyaru.
2 KM from Thiruvaiyaru.
The temple is on the main road.

LOCATION OF THE TEMPLE : CLICK HERE

( Ambal sannadhi  Vimanam )
( Inside view of Rajagopuram )
( Moolavar mandapam entrance gopuram )

( Rajagopuram )
 --- OM SHIVAYA NAMA ---