Located in the town of Vedaranyam in Nagapattinam district is the Vedaranyeswarar Temple. The temple is an ancient one dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Vedaranyeswarar Temple is one of the temples built by Aditya Chola along the banks of river Kaveri. The temple is administered and maintained by Tamil Nadu Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Department.
Vedaranyeswarar Temple – Legend
According to the legend associated with the temple, the Vedas worshipped Lord Shiva in this place and so the name Vedaranyam was given to it.
Another legend states that Lord Rama (the seventh avatar of Lord Vishnu) is believed to have visited Vedaranyam to absolve himself from his sins.
History of Vedaranyeswarar Temple
The inscriptions found in the Vedaranteswarar Temple furnishes with a glimpse into the history of the temple and the city of Vedaranyam. The inscriptions date from the reign of Chola kings at different periods of time indicating various grants to the temple.
Reference to Literature
Vedaranyeswarar Temple is classified as Paadal Petra Sthalam and has reference in the 7th century canonical work, the Tevaram written by the Nayanars.
Architecture of Vedaranyeswarar Temple
Vedaranyam Temple has a five-tiered Rajagopuram (temple tower) and three Prakarams (precincts/outer part of the sanctorum). The chief deity of the temple is Vedaranyeswarar in the form of Lingam made of granite. The hall leading to the sanctum houses the granite images of Lord Ganesha, Lord Murugan, Nandi and Navagraha. The first precincts or walls around the sanctum have the shrines of Dakshinamurthy, Goddess Durga and Saint Chandikeswarar.
Vedaranyeswarar Temple is one of the temples that depict the dance styles regarded as Saptha Vidangam or seven dance moves. The temple falls under the category of Bhuvanivividangar Temple, known for Hamsapthanathaanam dance pose (meaning dancing with the gait of a swan).
Temple Timings in Vedaranyeswarar Temple
The temple remains open from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM and from 5:00 PM to 8:30 PM.
Pooja Timings of Vedaranyeswarar Temple
| Pooja | Timings |
|---|---|
| Usha kalam | 5:30 AM |
| Kalasanthi | 8:00 AM |
| Uchikalam | 10:00 AM |
| Sayaratchai | 5:00 PM |
| Irandan Kalam | 7:00 PM |
| Arthajamam | 8:00 PM |
Temple Festivals
- Rituals undertaken on a daily basis on a weekly basis are Somavaram (Monday rituals) and Sukravaram (Friday rituals).
- Fortnightly rituals observed include Pradosham.
- Monthly festivals observed are Amavasai (new moon day), Kiruthigai (third of the 27 nakshatrams as per Hindu astrology), Pournami (full moon day) and Sathurthi (fourth day of a lunar month).
- Festivals celebrated during the full moon days of Tamil months Aadi (July-August) and Thai (January-February) attracts a large number of devotees.
How to reach Vedaranyeswarar Temple
Vedaranyam is located at a distance of 68 kilometres from Nagapattinam, 80 kilometres from Thanjavur and around 317 kilometres from Chennai. Frequent buses connect Vedaranyam to Thanjavur and Nagapattinam. Employing a four wheeler is an ideal way to reach Vedaranyam. The place is connected by rail from Thanjavur, Nagapattinam and Velankanni.
Trichy is the nearest airport (around 135 kilometres away).
Epilogue
Vedaranyeswarar Temple is a spiritual and divine place one cannot miss to visit in Vedaranyam. The temple’s amazing history and architecture draws numerous pilgrims throughout the year.
Sikkal Singaravelan Temple is a traditional and popular Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Murugan. The temple is located in the village of Sikkal in Nagapattinam.
The temple is believed to have been built by Muchukunda Cholan, associated with the Tiruvarur legend. Singaravelan Temple is found in the premises of Sikkal Navaneetheswarar Temple which is the main temple. One very unique feature of the temple is that it houses the shrines of Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva.
Legend behind the Sikkal Singaravelan Temple
A myth associated with the temple states that Kamadhenu, the Goddess with a cow’s trunk lived in this place which was once a jasmine forest. When once Kamadhenu got cursed by Lord Shiva for eating meat, she managed to get rid of the sin by taking a bath in the holy water of the temple. She later offered her milk and the pond came to be known as Parkulam (meaning the milk pond).
The Parkulam of the temple is where Sage Vashistha is believed to have performed a pooja by making a Lingam with the butter from the Parkumal. When he tried moving the Lingam after completion of his pooja, it never moved and got stuck to the place. This is the reason the sage regarded the place as sikkal (getting stuck).
It is also believed that Lord Murugan had got his divine weapon (Vel) from his mother Parvathi at Sikkal. He used this weapon to kill the demon Surapadman.
Deities in the Temple
The presiding deity is Lord Shiva manifested as Navaneetheswarar and Goddess is worshipped in the form of Velnedunganni. Lord Murugan is worshipped here as Singaravelavar. The other deities found in the temple
complex are that of Ganapathi, Mahalakshmi, Nataraja, 63 Nyanmars, Bhairava, Surya and Chandra.
The seven tiered Rajagopuram adorning the entrance to the temple is 80 feet high.
Temple Timings – Sikkal Singaravelan Temple
The temple is open for worship from 5:30 AM to 12:30 PM and from 4:30 PM to 9:00 PM in the evening.
Pooja Timings – Sikkal Singaravelan Temple
| Pooja | Timings |
|---|---|
| Usha kalam | 5:30 AM |
| Kalasanthi | 9:00 AM |
| Uchikalam | 12:30 PM |
| Sayaratchai | 4:30 PM |
| Irandan Kalam | 8:00 PM |
| Arthajamam | 9:00 PM |
Festivals of Sikkal Singaravelan Temple
The most important festival observed by the temple is Soora Samharam- killing of the demon Soorapadman during the Tamil month of Aipasi (October-November). Brahmottsavam is celebrated with religious pomp for Lord Shiva during the Tamil month of Chittirai (April-May).
How to reach Sikkal Singaravelan Temple
Sikkal is situated about 5 kilometres from Nagapattinam and 18 kilomteres in the east from Tiruvarur. The nearest railway station is located at Sikkal less than a kilometre away from the temple. The nearest airport is at Chennai (300 kilometres away).
Other popular places to visit in Nagapattinam district:
Nagapattinam district in Tamil Nadu is renowned for its cultural and spiritual significance, alongside stunning coastal attractions. Velankanni Church, known as the “Lourdes of the East,” attracts pilgrims worldwide for its serene ambiance and miracles. Nagore Dargah, a revered Islamic shrine, reflects harmony and history. Explore Kodikkarai Wildlife Sanctuary (Point Calimere), a haven for migratory birds, wild horses, and scenic landscapes. The Soundararajaperumal Temple in Thirunagari showcases exquisite Dravidian architecture. Beach lovers can relax at Nagapattinam Beach, offering tranquil views of the Bay of Bengal. History buffs will enjoy the Dutch Fort at Tranquebar, a blend of colonial charm and local heritage. With its unique mix of spirituality, nature, and history, Nagapattinam is a must-visit destination.
- Shri Kayahorana Swami Neelayathatchi Amman Temple
- Soundararaja Perumal Temple
- Vedaranyeswarar Temple
- Ettukudi Murugan Temple
- Nagore Dargah
- Velankanni Church
Noted one among the 108 Divya Desams dedicated to Lord Vishnu, is the beautiful Soundararaja Perumal Temple located in Nagapattinam. Lord Vishnu is worshipped in the temple as Soundararaja Perumal and his consort Lakshmi as Soundaravalli. The temple is administered and maintained by the Hindu Religious and Endowment Board of the Government of Tamil Nadu.
About Soundararaja Perumal Temple
The temple is constructed in the Dravidian style of architecture. The temple has been praised in the Divya Prabhandha, a collection of Tamil verses composed by the Alwar saints.
The temple is believed to have been built by the Medieval Cholas of the late 8th century AD. Later contributions were made to the temple by the Thanjavur Nayaks.
The beautiful temple tower is five-tiered and is enclosed within a granite wall. The other deities in the temple are Goddess Gajalakshmi, Lord Narasimha, guardian deities Lord Sumba and Lord Nigumba.
It is stated that during the four yugas (in accordance with the Hindu Philosophy), various divine legends have performed severe penance at this place to attain the vision of Lord Vishnu. And it is believed that Soundararaja Perumal has appeared to Dhruva (a prince in Tretha Yuga), Sage Markendeya (during Kritha Yuga), King Saleesa Chola (during Kali Yuga) and also to Goddess Bhooma Devi.
Temple Timings – Soundararaja Perumal Temple
The temple remains open from 7:30 AM to 12:00 PM and from 5:30 PM to 9:00 PM.
Pooja Timings – Soundararaja Perumal Temple
| Pooja | Timings |
|---|---|
| Usha kalam | 7:00 AM |
| Kalasanthi | 8:00 AM |
| Uchikalam | 12:00 Noon |
| Sayaratchai | 6:00 PM |
| Irandan Kalam | 7:00 PM |
| Arthajamam | 10:00 PM |
Soundararaja Perumal Temple Festivals
The festivals observed in the temple are:
- Chittirai Utsavam – during the Tamil month of Chitirai (April to May)
- Nammazhwar Utsavam – during the Tamil month of Aani (June to July)
- Navaratri – during the Tamil month of Purattasi (September to October)
- Vaikunta Ekadasi – during the Tamil month of Margazhi (December to January)
- Vijayadasami – during the Tamil month of Purattasi (September to October)
- Uthirayanapunyakalam – during the Tamil month of Thai (January to February)
- Panguni Peruvizha – during the Tamil month of Panguni (March to April)
How to reach Soundararaja Perumal Temple
The temple is located about 3 kilometres south of Nagapattinam new bus stand. Nagapattinam is well connected to all major cities that include Chennai, Madurai, Tiruchirapalli and Thanjavur. Nagapattinam Railway station is located very close to the temple. Trichy Airport is the nearest terminal (around 145 kilometres away).
Shri Kayarohana Swami Temple is situated in the town of Nagapattinam. It is one of the prominent Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, worshipped as Kayarohana. His consort Goddess Parvathi is worshipped here in the form of Neelayathakshi.
Significance of the Temple
- The temple was built in the 6th century AD by the Lakolisa cult (one of the oldest sects of Shaivism) which has its origin in Gujarat. The only other temple built by this cult in Tamil Nadu is at Kanchipuram.
- The temple houses the idol of Thyagaraja, a renowned composer of Carnatic music. The uniqueness of this idol is that it is made of lapis lazuli (a deep blue metamorphic rock). · The temple is one of the 275 Paadal Petra Sthalams.
- The temple has been rebuilt by the Pallavas and Cholas.
- Kayarohana Swamy Temple is one of the temples that depicts the dance styles regarded as Saptha Vidangam or seven dance moves. The temple falls under the category of Adhividangar Temple, known for Vilathithaanam dance pose (meaning dancing like waves of sea).
- The temple is a Shakti Peetam and has been greatly praised by the revered saints Sambandar, Appar and Sundarar in their Thevaram
hymns.
Shri Kayahorana Swami Neelayathatchi Amman Temple Timings
The temple is open from 6:00 AM to 12:30 PM and from 5:00 PM to 9:30 PM.
Temple Festivals – Shri Kayahorana Swami Neelayathatchi Amman Temple
The various festivals observed by the temple are:
- Vaikasi Wedding Festival in the Tamil month of Vaikasi (May-June)
- Aadi Pooram in the Tamil month of Aadi (July-August)
- Shivarathri in the Tamil month of Masi (February-March)
- Annabhishekam in the Tamil month of Aipasi (October-November)
- Tiru Karthigai in the month of November-December
How to reach Shri Kayahorana Swami Neelayathatchi Amman Temple
Nagapattinam old bus stand is very close to the temple, at less than a kilometer away. Nagapattinam Railway Junction is the nearest station at a distance of 1 kilometre from the temple. Trichy Airport is the nearest terminal (147 kilometres). Chennai International Airport is around 297 kilometres away from the temple.
Nagapattinam is well connected by road and railways with all major cities in South India
Kuchanur Suyambu Sri Saneeswarar Temple in Theni
Located on the banks of River Surabhi, in the district of Theni is Sri Saneeshwarar Temple. The temple is located in Kuchanoor and is dedicated to Saturn God or Lord Shani.
Lord Saneeswarar is in self-manifested (Svayambhu) form Saturday is considered to be an auspicious day to offer prayers to Lord Saneeshwarar.
Kuchanur Suyambu Sri Saneeswarar Temple Timings
The temple is open from Sunday to Friday from 7:00 AM to 1:00 PM and 4:30 PM to 8:00 PM.
On Saturdays, the temple is open from 6:00 AM to 3:00 PM and 4:30 PM to 9:00 PM.
Pooja Timings – Kuchanur Suyambu Sri Saneeswarar Temple
The Pooja details from Sunday to Friday are as below:
| Name of the Pooja | Timing |
|---|---|
| Ushakala Pooja | 5:30 AM to 6:30 AM |
| Kalasandhi | 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM |
| Uchikalam | 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM |
| Saaya Rakshai | 5:30 PM to 6:30 PM |
| Irandam Kaala Pooja | 8:00 PM |
| Artha Jama Pooja | 8:30 PM |
The Pooja details for Saturday are as below:
Kuchanur Suyambu Sri Saneeswarar Temple Festivals
The festivals observed in the temple are:
- Aadi Festival (July to August)
- Sani (Saturn) Transit Day that occurs every two and a half year
How to reach Kuchanur Suyambu Sri Saneeswarar Temple
Kuchanur Sri Saneeswarar Temple is located 20 kilometres south of Theni. The nearest bus stand to the temple is at Kuchanur, 67 metres away from the temple. Theni Railway Station, around 21 kilometres away is the nearest railway station. Madurai International Airport is the nearest Airport, around 135 kilometres away.
Veerapandi Gowmariamman Temple
Veerapandi Gowmariamman Temple is located in the district of Theni, at a distance of around 80 kilometres from Madurai. The temple was built by the Pandya king Veera Pandi during his reign in the 14th century. The temple is around 200 years old. The Goddess in the temple is Swayambhu i.e the shrine is self-manifested.
Legend
According to the legend associated with the temple, it is said that in the ancient days the Ruler of this region was affected with an eye disease. He underwent all kinds of treatments, but he couldn’t recover. Finally, by following the suggestion from a sage, he started worshipping Gowmariamman and Kanneswaramudaiyar. And miraculously, his eyes were cured. He later built a temple dedicated to these two Gods.
Temple Timings – Veerapandi Gowmariamman Temple
The temple is open to devotees on all days from 5:00 AM to 12:00 PM and from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
Veerapandi Gowri Mariamman Temple Festivals
Chithirai Gowmariamman festival is a yearly festival celebrated in the Tamil month of Chitirai (April-May). This festival is celebrated for 8 days and is a divine sight to behold. Special poojas to the Goddess are performed during the months of Vaikasi Visagam (May-June), Vinayaka Chaturthi (August-September), Deepavali (October-November), Karthigai Deepam (November-December), Margazhi Danur Pooja (December-January), Panguni Uthiram (March-April).
Devotees carrying fire pots in their palms (called Agni Chatti) and preparing dough lamp (called Maavizhakku) are the famous rituals at the temple.
How to reach Veerapandi Gowmariamman Temple
Regular buses are available from Madurai. Madurai Railway Station is the nearest station to the temple. The nearest airport is also at Madurai.
Vellore Ratnagiri Balamurugan Temple
Listed as one of the ancient temples in Tamil Nadu, dedicated to Lord Murugan, is the Ratnagiri Balamurugan Temple in Thirumanikundram, Vellore.
The chief deity of the temple Lord Murugan has self-manifested in two forms- one with his consorts Valli and Deva Sena (Lord Thirukolam) and the other in the form of the Guru (Lord Gurukolam). The temple was built in the 14th century. Balamurugan Adimaigal developed this hilltop temple.
The temple tower or Gopuram is five-storeyed and was built in the year 1975. Separate shrines dedicated to Lord Ganesha, Lord Shani and Navagraha are also found in the temple.
Aadi Kritika (July-August) and Thai Krithika (January-February) are the important festivals observed in the temple.
The temple is open on all days from 6:00 AM to 1:00 PM and from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Temple timings are subject to changes on special days.
One can avail direct bus from Vellore to Ratnagiri Temple. The nearest railway station is at Vellore at a distance of 15 kilometers from the temple and the nearest airport is at Chennai (115 kilometers away).
Located inside the Vellore Fort is a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, by name Jalakandeswarar Temple. The temple belongs to the Vijayanagar period. It is owned and maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) while the administration was taken over by the Government of Tamil Nadu.
Image Attribution : Soham Banarjee
History of Jalakandeswarar Temple
As per the legend associated with the temple, there once was a giant ant-hill at the place where the temple stands now. The ant-hill is said to have been surrounded by stagnant water. Chinni Bommi Nayaka, a Vijayanagar chieftain and the then controller of the fort had a dream where Lord Shiva asked him to build a temple at that location. He, therefore, demolished the ant-hill and built a temple in 1550 AD. The temple was named Jalakandeswarar referring to Lord Shiva who resides in water. The temple also has the shrine of Sri Akhilandeshwari Amman, consort of Lord Jalakandeswarar.
The temple was mutilated during the capture of the Fort and Muslim invasion, following which, worship in the temple was stopped and it was used as an arsenal for nearly 400 years. The main deity was later moved to Jalakanda Vinayakar Temple for its safety.
The ASI took charge over the maintenance of the fort in the year 1921, after which the temple was still not used for worship. However, in the year 1981, the deity was removed from the Jalakanda Vinayakar Temple and secretly smuggled inside the fort. The deity was the cautiously re-installed and worship was re-instated.
The Temple Architecture
The temple is a supreme example of Vijayanagar architecture. The architectural marvels of the temple can be traced in the exquisitely carved temple tower and the stone pillars, impressive monoliths and sculptures and a Mandapam with beautifully carved stone pillars. The temple is surrounded by water.
Lord Jalakandeswarar in Lingam form is the chief deity. Nandi statue is seen in front of the main sanctum. The outer wall of the Amman sanctum houses the shrines of Lord Vinayaka, Goddesses Maheswari, Vaishnavi, Varahi, Lakshmi and Saraswathi.
Jalakandeswarar Temple Timings
The temple is open on all days from 6:30 AM to 1:00 PM and 5:00 PM to 8:30 PM.
Jalakandeswarar Temple Festivals
The following festivals are celebrated in the temple: Chitra Pournami – 10 day festival (April-May). Surasamharam – in the month of Aipasi (October-November). Aadi Pooram – 10-day festival (July-August). Vinayaka Chathurthi – in the month of Avani (August-September). Navarathri – in the month of Purattasi (September-October)
How to reach Jalakandeswarar Temple
Jalakandeswarar Temple is located inside the Vellore Fort. Vellore Fort is located at a distance of 138 kilometres from Chennai. Katpadi Junction in Vellore (around 7.5 kilometres north of the fort) is the nearest railway station.
Vellore is well connected by road and rail with all the major cities in South India. The nearest international airport is at Chennai, 128 kilometres east of Vellore.
Sripuram Golden Temple or Vellore Golden Temple
Sri Lakshmi Narayani Golden Temple
Golden Temple is located inside the Sripuram spiritual park. The temple is situated at the foot of a small range of hills at Malaikodi village, about 8 kilometres from Vellore.
The temple has been constructed by the Vellore-based charitable trust, Sri Narayana Peedam, headed by its spiritual leader Sri Sakthi Amma who is also known as Narayani Amma. The chief deity at the temple is Sri Lakshmi Narayani, the consort of Lord Vishnu and goddess of wealth.
Image Attribute : Dsudhakar555
The Temple Design
Complex – The temple finds its place on an area of 100 acres of land and is beautifully adorned with 1,500 kg of pure gold. The complex has been intricately designed by specialized artisans and the temple art has significance from the Vedas. The temple houses man-made sculptures and ornately decorated pillars and roof.
Star path – The temple is situated in the middle of a star-shaped path extending over 1.8 kilometres. Various spiritual messages are displayed for devotees to read as they walk along the ‘star path’ to reach the temple.
Landscape – The landscape at Sripuram, created and managed using organic manure, provides a serene ambience and beautiful experience.
Sahasra Deepam – Located on the eastern side of the star path & the temple entrance is the Deepa Mandapam. This mandapam is enclosed in a vast structure encompassed by huge wall statues of Goddess Durga, Goddess Saraswathi and Goddess Lakshmi. The Sahasra Deepam (1008 lamps) is designed as a towering structure made of bronze. The structure has 9 layers and is 18 feet high.
Temple Timings
The temple is open for devotees from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM everyday. However the below timings can be noted:
- Abhishekam – 4:00 AM to 8:00 AM
- Aarthi Seva – 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM
How to reach Sripuram Golden Temple
The temple is located at a distance of 145 kilometres from Chennai, 120 kilometres from Tirupati, 160 kilometres from Puducherry and 200 kilometres from Bengaluru.
The nearest railway station is at Vellore, about 12 kilometres from Sripuram. Frequent buses run from Vellore city to Golden Temple at Sripuram. Vellore is well connected by road with major cities including Bangalore, Chennai and Tirupati.
Chennai International Airport (148 kilometres away) and Bangalore International Airport (201 kilometres away) are the nearest airports.
Kancheepuram Ekambareswarar Temple
One of the most popular tourist attractions in the ‘City of Temples’, Kancheepuram is Ekambareswarar Temple. The temple is one of the Pancha Bhootha Sthalangal of Lord Shiva who is worshipped as Prithvi Lingam, symbolizing earth – one of the five primordial elements. His consort Parvati is worshipped as Gowridevi Amman.
The temple is maintained and administered by the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Department of the Govt. of Tamil Nadu.
Image Atrribute : Hiroki Ogawa
The Temple – Legend
It is believed that Parvati worshipped Lord Shiva in the form of a Lingam made out of sand, under a mango tree. Legend has it that, the nearby Vegavati River overflowed and threatened to immerse the Lingam. Parvati embraced the Lingam and Lord Shiva, touched by the gesture appeared before Parvati and married her.
Kancheepuram Ekambareswarar Temple Architecture
The temple covers an area of 23 acres. The temple houses Nilathingal Thundam Perumal Temple, one of the 108 Divyadesams dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The temple also houses the intricately carved 1000-pillared hall, a 192 feet high Gopuram, five spacious corridors and a huge outer stonewall. Around 1,008 Shivalingams adorn the inner walls of the temple.
The temple tree is a mango tree that is believed to be 3500 years old and an embodiment of the four Vedas. It is said to yield four different types of mangoes.
Reference to the Literature
The presiding deity of Lord Shiva is revered in the 7th century Tamil Saiva coronical work, the Tevaram, written by Tamil saint poets the Nayanars and has been classified as Paadal Petra Sthalam.
Temple Timings in Ekambareswarar Temple
The temple is open on all days from 6:30 AM to 12:30 PM and 4:00 PM to 8:30 PM.
Pooja Timings in Ekambareswarar Temple
| Pooja Details | Pooja Details |
|---|---|
| Usha kalam | 5:30 AM |
| Kalasanthi | 8:00 AM |
| Uchikalam | 10:00 AM |
| Sayaratchai | 6:00 PM |
| Irandam Kalam | 8:00 PM |
| Arthajamam | 10:00 PM |
Temple Festivals of Ekambareswarar Temple
The prominent festivals celebrated by the temple are:
- Panguni Brahmotsavam – 10 day festival in the Tamil month of Panguni (March-April)
- Adi Krithikai (July–August)
- Avani Moolam (August-September)
- Navarathri (September-October)
- Karthikai Deepam (November-December)
- Thai Poosam (January-February)
- Chitra Pournami (April-May)
- Vaikashi Vishakam (May-June)
- Fortnightly rituals like Pradosham
- Amavasya (New Moon day) and Pournami (full moon day)
How to reach Ekambareswarar Temple
The temple is located at a distance of 2 kilometres from Kancheepuram bus stand. One can either take an auto or walk to the temple from the bus stand. Kancheepuram Railway Station is located at less than a kilometer from the temple. The temple is about 80 kilometres from Chennai and frequent buses are available from Chennai to Kancheepuram. The nearest international airport is also at Chennai.
