Thiruvenkadu Temple, also known as Swetharanyeswarar Temple, is a prominent Hindu sanctuary located in the village of Thiruvenkadu, nestled within Tamil Nadu’s Nagapattinam district, India. This revered temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is widely recognized for its profound connection with the Navagrahas, the nine celestial bodies that play a pivotal role in Hindu astrology. There is a separate Sannidhi for Bhudhan (mercury).

Image Attribution: @jgshodophile from Instagram

Architecture of Thiruvenkadu temple:

Upon entering the temple complex, visitors are greeted by an impressive and towering gopuram, a beautifully adorned gateway tower. Within the temple precincts, one can explore multiple prakarams, enclosed areas featuring pillared corridors.

The central deity revered in this temple is Lord Swetharanyeswarar, a divine incarnation of Lord Shiva. Furthermore, the temple complex houses a variety of mandapams, specially designed halls used for the conduction of rituals, ceremonies, and performances. These mandapams are known for their intricately carved pillars and ceilings, showcasing exceptional craftsmanship.

Within the temple complex, there are two sacred ponds known as the Surya Pushkarini (associated with the sun) and Chandra Pushkarini (associated with the moon). These ponds are considered holy, and pilgrims often take ritual baths in them to cleanse themselves spiritually.

Deities of Thiruvenkadu Temple:

The presiding deity of the temple, Lord Swetharanyeswarar, is a form of Lord Shiva. He is revered as the principal deity and is represented as a swayambhu lingam, which means a self-manifested lingam.

The consort of Lord Swetharanyeswarar is Goddess Brahmavidya Nayaki. She is worshipped alongside Lord Shiva and is considered the divine feminine energy.

Thiruvenkadu Temple is particularly known for its association with the Navagrahas, the nine planetary deities. Each planet has its dedicated shrine within the temple.

Religious Significance:

Thiruvenkadu is particularly associated with the planet Mercury (Budhan), and the temple is often referred to as the “Budhan Sthalam.” Devotees who believe they are affected by the ill-effects of Mercury in their horoscopes visit the temple to seek remedies and blessings.

Many people visit the temple to seek relief from astrological issues, as it is believed that offering prayers to the Navagrahas can help alleviate planetary afflictions and bring about positive changes in one’s life. It is destination for those seeking spiritual solace and remedies for astrological problems.

Thiruvenkadu Temple Rituals and Festivals:

The temple celebrates various festivals, including Maha Shivaratri, Thai Poosam, and Panguni Uthiram,Natarajar Abhishekam in Uthram Star, Navratri, among others. These festivals are marked by special pujas, processions, and cultural events, attracting devotees and tourists alike.

Thiruvenkadu Temple Timings:

The visiting hours of the temple are as follows:

Morning Hours: 6:00 am – 12:00 pm

Evening Hours: 4:00 pm – 9:00 pm

How to reach Thiruvenkadu Temple:

By Train: The nearest railway station to Thiruvenkadu is Mayiladuthurai Junction. You can take a train from Chennai or other major cities to Mayiladuthurai. From Mayiladuthurai, you can hire a taxi or use local transportation to reach Thiruvenkadu, which is about 40 kilometers away.

By Air: The nearest airport is Tiruchirapalli International Airport (Trichy Airport). From there, you can hire a taxi or take a connecting flight or train to reach Trichy and then proceed by road to Thiruvenkadu.

By Road: The temple is situated about 28 km from Mayiladudurai (Mayavaram) in the direction of Sirkazhi, and it’s also approximately 10 km from Sirkazhi itself.

Vaitheeswaran Koil: A Spiritual Retreat in Mayiladuthurai

Vaitheeswaran Temple, also recognized as Vaitheeswaran Kovil, stands as a celebrated Hindu temple nestled in the town of Vaitheeswaran Koil, situated within the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. This sacred shrine is consecrated to Lord Shiva and is notably linked with his divine persona as the ultimate healer, Vaidyanathar, or Vaitheeswaran, signifying “the Supreme Healer.” Thingalur Chandran Temple has gained renown for its affiliation with Angarakan, also known as Mars, one of the Navagrahas in Hindu astrology. Devotees believe that offering worship to Angarakan in this temple can help alleviate the negative influences of Mars in one’s astrological chart. Image Attribution: @vaitheeswaran_temple from instagram

Architecture of Vaitheeswaran Temple:

The temple complex is adorned with towering gopurams at its entrances. These intricate, pyramid-shaped towers are typically covered in colorful sculptures and carvings depicting various deities and mythological stories. The gopurams serve as a visual gateway to the divine realm. The main mandapam, known as the Ardha Mandapam, leads to the sanctum sanctorum and features beautifully carved pillars and ceilings.The heart of the temple is the central shrine dedicated to Lord Vaidyanathar, the divine healer. The temple complex also houses a sacred tank known as the Siddhamirtham. Pilgrims believe that taking a holy dip in this tank can cleanse one’s sins and bring about physical and spiritual healing.

Deities of Vaitheeswaran Temple:

The presiding deity of Thingalur Chandran Temple is Lord Vaidyanathar, an aspect of Lord Shiva. He is venerated as the ultimate healer who has the power to cure various physical and mental ailments. Devotees come to seek his blessings for health and well-being. Thaiyal Nayaki Amman, the spouse of Lord Vaidyanathar, receives reverence at Thingalur Chandran Temple. She is regarded as a manifestation of divine feminine energy and is closely linked with qualities of fertility and nurturing.

Religious Significance:

The temple is closely associated with the Navagrahas, the nine celestial bodies in Hindu astrology. Worshipping these planetary deities at Vaideeswaran Temple is believed to mitigate the adverse effects of planetary positions in one’s horoscope. This has profound religious significance for those seeking astrological remedies.

Vaitheeswaran Temple Rituals and Festivals:

The temple celebrates various festivals with great religious fervor. Maha Shivaratri, Thai Poosam, and Aadi Perukku are some of the important festivals that draw large crowds. Special rituals and ceremonies are conducted during these occasions, adding to the religious significance of the temple.

Nadi Astrology or Nadi Josiyam:

Vaitheeswaran Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva as Vaidyanathar (the Lord of Healing), is known for its connection to Nadi Astrology. It is believed that the temple houses a collection of Nadi leaves that contain astrological information related to individuals. Devotees and visitors come to Vaitheeswaran Temple to consult Nadi Astrologers who specialize in reading these palm leaves. To initiate the process, individuals are required to provide their thumbprints, which are used to search for the specific Nadi leaf that contains their astrological information.

Vaitheeswaran Temple Timings:

Vaitheeswaran Kovil is open daily from 6 AM to 1 PM and from 4 PM to 9 PM. However, please be aware that the temple’s opening and closing hours are subject to change during special pujas and festive occasions.

How to reach Vaitheeswaran Temple:

By Road: Vaitheeswarankoil is situated 13 kilometers (8.1 miles) from Mayavaram and 90 kilometers (56 miles) from Thanjavur along the Thanjavur – Chidambaram highway. The temple is conveniently positioned on the State Highway connecting Sirkali to Mayiladuthurai, with regular bus services provided by the Tamil Nadu government for easy access. By Train: The closest railway station to Vaitheeswaran Koil is Mayiladuthurai Junction, which is well-connected to Chennai and other major cities. After arriving at Mayiladuthurai, you can choose to either hire a taxi or utilize local transportation to reach Vaitheeswaran Temple, situated approximately 30 kilometers away. By Air: If you prefer air travel, the neaṁ rest major airport is Trichy International Airport. Upon landing at Trichy, you have the option to either hire a taxi or take a  ṁconnecting flight or train to reach Trichy and subsequently continue your journey by road to Vaitheeswaran Koil.

Suryanar Kovil, also known as Suryanar Temple, situated near the town of Kumbakonam in the Thanjavur district of Tamil Nadu. It is a renowned Hindu temple dedicated to the Sun god, Surya. It is one of the Navagraha temples located in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. This temple holds great significance for devotees who seek the blessings and relief from astrological afflictions associated with the Sun in their horoscopes.

Image Attribution: @selva.antriya from instagram

Architecture of Suryanar Temple :

The temple boasts a typical South Indian temple architecture, characterized by its intricate carvings, tall gopurams (towering gateways), and a large central sanctum dedicated to the Sun god. The temple’s premises are adorned with beautifully sculpted pillars and religious motifs, which reflect the artistic and architectural prowess of the Chola dynasty. The Cholas were great patrons of art, architecture, and Hinduism, and they contributed significantly to the construction and development of temples in the region.

Religious Significance:

Suryanar Kovil’s history is intertwined with the importance of the Sun god, Lord Surya, in Hindu mythology and astrology. Worship of the Sun has been a crucial aspect of Hinduism, and the temple was established to offer devotees a sacred place to pay homage to Lord Surya and seek relief from astrological afflictions associated with the Sun.

Deities of Suryanar Temple :

Lord Surya : The primary deity of Suryanar Kovil is Lord Surya, the Sun god. Lord Surya is depicted riding a chariot driven by seven horses, symbolizing the seven days of the week. The main idol is a magnificent depiction of the Sun god with rays emanating from his body.

Usha Devi: Usha Devi is the goddess of dawn and is often associated with the Sun god, Surya. She is considered a divine entity who heralds the arrival of the Sun each day.

Pratyusha Devi: Pratyusha Devi is the goddess of dusk, representing the twilight hours when the Sun sets. Like Usha Devi, she is closely linked with the Sun god’s cycle.

Kala Bhairava: Kala Bhairava is a fierce form of Lord Shiva and is often regarded as a protector of the temple. His presence is believed to guard the temple premises and ensure its sanctity.

Chandikeswarar: Chandikeswarar is a divine attendant of Lord Shiva, and his presence is common in Shiva temples. He is considered the guardian or sentinel of the temple.

These deities play a vital role in the temple’s daily rituals and festivities. Devotees pay homage to these deities as part of their worship and seek their blessings along with Lord Surya. The presence of these auxiliary deities adds depth and richness to the spiritual experience at Suryanar Kovil, allowing devotees to connect with various aspects of the divine within the same sacred space.

Rituals and Festivals Celebrated at Suryanar Kovil:

The popular temple festivals are Amavasai (new moon day), Kiruthigai, pournami (full moon day) and Sathurthi.

Suryanar Temple Timings:

The temple extends a year-round welcome to visitors, operating with morning hours from 6:00 am to 11:00 am and evening hours from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm. Furthermore, it conducts six daily special pujas, commencing as early as 5:30 am and concluding as late as 10:00 pm, providing numerous opportunities for spiritual worship and devotion.

How to reach Suryanar Temple:

Address: Thirumangalakudi P.O, Thanjavur D.T, Thiruvidaimaruthur, Tamil Nadu.

By Air: The nearest major airport is Tiruchirapalli International Airport (TRZ), commonly known as Trichy Airport, which is situated approximately 95 kilometers (about 59 miles) from Suryanar Kovil. From the airport, transportation options include hiring a taxi or using public transit to reach the temple.

By Train: Kumbakonam Railway Station, well-connected to various cities and towns in Tamil Nadu, is the primary train station for reaching Suryanar Kovil. The temple is approximately 15 kilometers away from Kumbakonam. Visitors can hire a taxi or utilize local transportation to reach their destination.

By Road:

• For those starting their journey in Kumbakonam, the nearest major town and a central hub for Navagraha temple visitors, Suryanar Kovil is approximately 15 kilometers away. Travelers have the option to hire a taxi, take an auto-rickshaw, or use local buses to reach the temple.
• If you are traveling from Chennai, the state capital, you can choose to drive or take a bus to Kumbakonam. The distance between Chennai and Kumbakonam is roughly 280 kilometers (approximately 174 miles), and the journey typically takes around 5 to 6 hours by road.
• Another nearby city is Thanjavur, and Suryanar Kovil is located at a distance of about 40 kilometers (approximately 25 miles) from Thanjavur. Travelers can take a taxi or bus from Thanjavur to reach the temple.

Nestled in the village of Thingalur within Tamil Nadu’s Thanjavur district, Thingalur Chandran Temple or Kailasanathar Temple is a hallowed Hindu shrine dedicated to Chandra, the Moon God. As one of Tamil Nadu’s Navagraha temples, it stands as a rare and historically significant place of worship devoted to the Moon God.

Image Attribution : @ashwin_abhinav from instagram

Architecture of Thingalur Chandran Temple:

The temple is typically adorned with a five-tiered raja gopuram (entrance tower). Gopurams are a distinctive feature of South Indian temples, and they are intricately carved with depictions of various deities and mythological stories.

The temple complex includes several mandapams, or pillared halls, where devotees can gather for prayers and rituals. These halls are often exquisitely decorated with detailed carvings on the pillars and ceilings.

Yagasala is a sacred place within the temple complex where certain rituals and ceremonies are performed. It’s often marked by a specific architectural layout and features.In the temple courtyard, you may find a Dwajasthambam, a tall flagstaff, usually made of wood and adorned with colorful flags and religious symbols.The temple often features a surrounding granite wall that serves both as a protective boundary and as a canvas for more carvings and inscriptions.

Deities of Thingalur Chandran Temple:

At the heart of Kailasanathar Temple is the primary deity, Lord Shiva, venerated as Kailasanathar, with his divine consort, Periyanayaki. Furthermore, the temple features separate sanctums for the remaining eight planetary deities.

Within its sacred confines, the presiding deity is Lord Chandran, the Moon god of Hindu mythology. Lord Chandran is portrayed with a white complexion, clutching a club in one hand and a lotus in the other. The Moon, a celestial body of great significance, is linked to emotions, fertility, and mental equilibrium.

Religious Significance:

Thingalur Kailasanathar Temple temple is believed to be an important place for worship, particularly for those who seek relief from the malefic influences of a debilitated or afflicted Moon in their astrological charts. Devotees come here to perform special pujas and rituals to gain the blessings of Lord Chandran and balance the emotional and psychological aspects of their lives.

Thingalur Chandran Temple Rituals and Festivals:

Daily pujas and rituals are performed at the temple. Special pujas dedicated to Lord Chandran are conducted on Mondays, which are considered the most auspicious day to seek his blessings. The temple also comes to life during festivals and important lunar events.

Thingalur Chandran Temple Timings:

The temple’s regular visiting hours are from 6:00 AM to 11:00 AM and from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM. On important festivals or special occasions, the temple may extend its hours and experience increased crowds, so it’s advisable to plan your visit accordingly.

How to reach Thingalur:

By Train: The nearest railway station to Thingalur is Kumbakonam Railway Station. You can take a train to Kumbakonam and then hire a taxi or use public transportation to reach Thingalur, which is approximately 35 kilometers away from Kumbakonam.

By Air: The nearest major airport is Trichy International Airport. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a connecting flight or train to Kumbakonam and proceed by road to Thingalur.

By Road: The temple is located at a distance of 45 km away from kumbakonam. This is the best place to visit for those, who have their private vehicle. The temple is located 1.5 km away from the state highway. The only way to travel here is from SH 22 by taking an auto from there. It is a little bumpy ride from SH22 towards the temple.

The Velliangiri Hills, famously known as the “Seven Hills” of the Western Ghats, is a mesmerizing mountain range situated in the Coimbatore district of Tamil Nadu. This scenic destination offers a unique blend of natural beauty, spiritual significance, and trekking adventures.

Trekking Routes and Distance:

There are several trekking routes in the Velliangiri Hills, each varying in terms of difficulty and duration. The most well-known trek is to the Velliangiri Andavar Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is located at an elevation of approximately 1,110 meters above sea level. The trek can be categorized into different sections:

Isha Yoga Center to Poondi Temple: The trek usually starts at the Isha Yoga Center, which is located at the foothills. From there, trekkers head to the Poondi Temple, covering a distance of about 3 kilometers.

Poondi Temple to Velliangiri Andavar Temple: The second leg of the trek is from the Poondi Temple to the Velliangiri Andavar Temple. This is a more challenging section, covering around 8 kilometers. Trekkers pass through dense forests, rocky terrain, and steep inclines.

Velliangiri Andavar Temple to Siva Temple: After visiting the Velliangiri Andavar Temple, some trekkers opt to continue to the Siva Temple, which is situated at a higher altitude. This extended trek offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Duration to reach Velliangiri Hills:

The duration of the trek depends on the route and the trekker’s pace. The complete trek from the Isha Yoga Center to the Velliangiri Andavar Temple and back can take anywhere from 7 to 10 hours, including rest stops and time spent at the temples.

Difficulty level to climb Velliangiri Hills :

Trekking in the Velliangiri Hills presents a moderately challenging adventure, especially when ascending towards the Velliangiri Andavar Temple. The terrain often features steep and uneven paths, and trekkers must be ready to face changing weather conditions, which may include rain. It is strongly recommended that trekkers are in good physical shape and equipped with appropriate trekking gear for a safe and enjoyable experience.

Scenic Grandeur of Velliangiri:

The Velliangiri Hills are renowned for their majestic natural beauty. The trek provides awe-inspiring vistas of dense forests, distinctive rock formations, and the serene ambiance of the Western Ghats. Many trekkers discover solace amidst this pristine landscape, embracing the hills’ tranquil serenity.

Spiritual Significance:

The Velliangiri Hills hold a special place in the hearts of many, transcending their role as a mere trekking destination. The Velliangiri Andavar Temple serves as a revered pilgrimage site, drawing devout visitors seeking the blessings of Lord Shiva. The spiritual aura that envelops the hills bestows an added dimension of meaning to the trek.

Velliangiri Hills Guided Treks:

It’s advisable for first-time trekkers to consider guided treks. Many local organizations and tour operators offer guided treks with experienced guides who are familiar with the terrain, making the trek safer and more informative.

Velliangiri Hills Trekking Visiting Hours:

The Velliangiri Hills in Tamil Nadu, India, do not have a specific opening or closing time since they are a natural destination and not a facility or attraction with fixed operating hours. However, trekking and visiting the Velliangiri Hills are typically allowed throughout the year, but it’s essential to consider the weather conditions, especially during the monsoon season when heavy rains can make trekking difficult or unsafe.

Additionally, some treks may require permission or coordination with local authorities or organizations like the Isha Yoga Center if you plan to start your trek from there. It’s advisable to check with local authorities or the Isha Yoga Center for the most up-to-date information regarding access to the Velliangiri Hills before planning your trip.

Epilogue:

Trekking in the Velliangiri Hills is an adventure that combines natural beauty, physical activity, and spiritual significance. It provides trekkers with an opportunity to connect with nature, find inner peace, and appreciate the stunning landscapes of the Western Ghats.

Check out our essential trekking gear checklist for a safe adventure.

In the heart of the culturally rich and spiritually vibrant  Sivaganga state of Tamil Nadu, the Sri Swarna Kaleeswarar Temple in Kalayar Kovil stands as a testament to the region’s deep-rooted traditions and architectural grandeur. This ancient temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, has not only been a center of religious significance but also an architectural masterpiece that attracts devotees and history enthusiasts from far and wide.

History of Kalayar Kovil:

Once Sundarar left Thiruchuzhi Thirumeninatha near Virudhunagar and went to Kalayar Kovil. As soon as he reached the town limits he realized that the entire road leading to the temple was lined with Shiva Lingams. He hesitated to put his feet in it. He sang very regretfully that he could not see Lord Siva.

Then, in his benevolence, Lord Shiva took compassion on his devoted friend, Sundarar. He dispatched his divine bull to the location where Sundarar stood and gently compelled him to retrace his steps. As Sundarar followed the path, he discerned that the places where the bull’s hooves had touched the ground were devoid of lingams.

Upon hearing Asari’s guidance that he could visit these sacred footprints by walking, Sundarar joyfully followed the path and experienced the divine darshan.This sacred site is renowned as the Kalaiyar Temple, owing to its association with a divine bull.

Architecture of Kalaiyar Temple:

• The temple encompasses approximately 4 acres of land and features a towering 157-foot-high Rajagopuram with nine stories.
• Additionally, there is another five-story tower facing east, characterized by two distinct towers.
• Notably, the smaller tower was commissioned by Sundarapandiyan I, while the grander Rajagopuram was constructed under the patronage of the Marudu brothers.

Kalaiyar Kovil Festivals:

Vaikasi Visakam, observed in May-June, Thaipoosam, celebrated in January-February, and Aadi Pooram, dedicated to Swarnavalli Amman, are integral components of the temple’s rich cultural heritage. These festivals draw devotees from distant places, adding to the vibrant tapestry of the temple’s traditions.

Opening and Closing time of the temple:

The temple will be open from 06:00 AM to 12 PM and from 04:00 PM to 09:00 PM.

How to reach Kalaiyar Kovil:

By Road : The district is well connected by road which makes easier to access by private buses, cars or public transportation.
By Train : The nearest railway station to Kalaiyarkovil is the Sivaganga Railway Station. It is well-connected to major cities and towns in Tamil Nadu. From Sivaganga, you can hire a taxi or use local transportation to reach Kalaiyarkovil, which is approximately 10 kilometers away.
By Air : The nearest major airport to Kalaiyarkovil is Madurai Airport, which is approximately 70 kilometers away. From Madurai Airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Kalaiyarkovil.

Image Attribution : Ssriram mt from Wikimedia

The Arulmigu Kondathu Kaliamman Temple, situated in Pariyur near Gobichettipalayam within TamilNadu’s Erode district, is a sacred Hindu shrine. This temple venerates Goddess Kali, believed to be the guardian deity of the region, and boasts a history spanning over 1500 years.

Pariyur Kondathu Kaliamman Temple Architecture:

This temple is renowned for its Dravidian-style architecture and intricate pillar carvings. Its prominent feature is the five-story main Gopuram located at the southern corner. The outer mandapam, encircling the inner sanctum, is constructed from black marble. The goddess Kali faces north, donning a fiery crown. She is depicted triumphing over a demon beneath her feet, with Rudra believed to reside on her head.

Festival at Pariyur Kondathu Kaliamman temple:

The renowned ‘Firewalking Ceremony,’ featuring a 40-foot-long Kundam, draws thousands of devotees annually during the month of January. Furthermore, the temple observes various other festivals, including the Car Festival, Navratri, Pongal, Tamil New Year (Chithirai Kani), and Adi Perukku.

Puja and Pariyur kondathu kaliamman temple timings:

The temple is open from 6 am to 1 pm and from 4 pm to 8 pm.
Abhishekam is performed for the Goddess at 6.15 am, 11.15 am and 5 pm,. There are 6 pujas held at 7 am, 9 am, 10.30 am, 12 pm, 5 pm and 7 pm.

How to reach Pariyur kondathu kaliamman temple:

• The temple is located in Pariyur, well-connected by road. You can easily reach Pariyur by taking a bus or hiring a taxi from nearby towns such as Gobichettipalayam or Erode.
• Gobichettipalayam Railway Station is the nearest railway station. From there, you can conveniently reach the temple by taxi or auto-rickshaw.
• The closest airport is Coimbatore International Airport. Upon arrival at the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the temple.

The Vedagiriswarar Temple, a revered Hindu sanctuary dedicated to Lord Shiva, stands majestically in Tirukalukundram, also known as Thirukazhukundram, Tamil Nadu, India. This sacred abode rests atop a lofty hill, earning it the moniker “Kazhugu Koil” or the “Eagle Temple.” 

Vedagiriswarar Temple Complex:

The temple complex is a harmonious blend of two distinct structures, one nestled at the foothill and the other gracing the crest of the hill. The hill’s summit is adorned with the divine presence of Lord Shiva, known as Vedagiriswarar, while the temple at the base pays homage to his consort, Parvati, who is revered as Thiripurasundari Amman.

Evolution Of Thirukazhukundram:

The name “Thirukazhukundram” derives from Tamil words, where “thiru” signifies reverence, “kazhugu” represents vulture or eagle, and “kundram” denotes a mount. In ancient times, it was known as “Thirukazhugukundram,” a name that eventually evolved into “Thirukazhukundram.” This town also bears the title “Pakshi-theertham,” which translates to “Bird Holy Lake” because of a pair of birds (most likely Egyptian vultures) that are believed to have visited the site for centuries.

Architecture of Vedagiriswarar Temple:

The Vedagiriswarar Temple has a special style of building that’s called Dravidian. It’s very impressive and attracts both people who come to pray and people who are used to climbing mountains.
The temple at the bottom of the hill has four very tall gateways, which remind us of how beautiful the Annamalaiyar Temple is. There are also many old writings on the walls inside the temple that tell us about its history and importance in our culture.

Lakshadeepam Festival:

• This remarkable event occurs once every six years and is a grand celebration featuring an extraordinary lighting ceremony.
• The festival serves as the culmination of the 56-day Murajapam festival held at the Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple.
  During Lakshadeepam, thousands of oil lamps illuminate the temple surroundings, casting a spellbinding and enchanting spectacle.
• Devotees from distant places make pilgrimages to the temple to witness this awe-inspiring event and seek divine blessings.

Vedagiriswarar Temple Timings:

The Vedagiriswarar Temple welcomes visitors during the following hours:

• Morning: 9:00 AM to 12:30 PM
• Evening: 4:30 PM to 7:15 PM

How to reach Vedagiriswarar temple:

• The nearest railway station is Chengalpattu Railway Station, which is approximately 12 kilometers away from the temple and then travel to Tirukazhukundram by bus.
• The nearest Airport is Chennai International Airport, which is 53.3 Kilometers away and then we can easily access the temple by taking a taxi or other available transportation options.
• The temple can be reached by using the local transportation- Bus, car etc.

The Bannari Amman Temple, nestled near Sathyamangalam in Tamil Nadu’s Erode district, stands as a venerable shrine dedicated to Goddess Mariamman. This sacred place of worship venerates Goddess Mariamman as the deity of rain, often regarded as an incarnation of Goddess Parvathi.

History of Bannari Amman Temple:

The villagers of this area typically take their goats and cows to the nearby forest for grazing. Every morning, they drive the cows to graze, and in the evening, they return them to the stalls. The cows are milked twice a day, in the morning and evening, and the milk is given to the owner of each cow.The cowherd discovered that when a cow went to milk from a bar, it didn’t have a place to milk and couldn’t feed her calf.

The following day, he continued to follow the cow. Every day, He witnessed the cow pouring milk spontaneously at a specific location under a banyan tree surrounded by ganja grass. On seeing this event, the next day he told the details to the local villagers and the elders of the village and called them all and continued to follow the cow and showed the cow milking at a certain place (cow).

Everyone was mesmerized seeing this kind of event.While all the people were cleaning the place, they saw a mound surrounded by Kanang grass and near it Swayambulinga Thiruvuru under a banyan tree. Then they started praying the Thiruvuru as Bannari Amman.

Bannari Amman Temple Festivals:

Throughout the year, the temple hosts a multitude of festivals, with one of the most prominent being the Panguni Kundam festival, celebrated in March-April. This vibrant celebration draws lakhs of devotees from various directions. Notably, female devotees partake in the Thiruvilakku pooja on the last Friday of every Tamil month.

Bannari Amman Temple Timings:

Bannari Amman Temple is open from 06:00 AM to 12 :00 AM and 04:00 PM to 09:00 PM.

How to reach Bannari Amman Temple :

• Traveling by Air: For those considering air travel, the closest airport to Bannari Amman Temple is Coimbatore International Airport, situated at a distance of approximately 66.5 km.
• Traveling by Rail: If you prefer train travel, the closest railway station is Mettupalayam Railway Station, situated approximately 45.8 km from Bannari Amman Temple.
• Traveling by Road: Bannari boasts excellent road connectivity to various major cities, ensuring convenient access to the temple through direct bus services.

Bannari Amman Temple Official Website:

The official website of bannari amman temple is https://bannarimariamman.hrce.tn.gov.in/.

Narthamalai, a small town located 25 km from Trichy on the Trichy – Pudukottai highway in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu, is a place of both historical significance and natural beauty. The town is renowned for the Vijayalaya Choleeswaram temple, an ancient temple constructed in the 9th century. This hidden gem is home to ancient rock-cut temples, lush landscapes, and a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Tamil Nadu.

Temples within Narthamalai cave complex – Vijayalaya Choleeswaram Temple:

• Vijayalaya Choleeswaram Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva is one of the oldest stone temples in South India which showcases the Dravida style of architecture and rock-cut architecture.
• On the way here there is a headless lion. Also there is a Kudaivara temple cut for Lord Shiva at a depth of about 15 feet. Inside this sunai there is a beautiful lingam carved in a cave in the temple of Jirahareshwarar
• In the central hall of Narthamalai, there are six impressive and meticulously carved depictions of Lord Vishnu. A life-sized portrait of Lord Vishnu within the hall is bound to astonish visitors with the extraordinary skill, painstaking effort, and the considerable time invested in its creation.
• The Sattanathar Temple, the Thayumanaswamy Temple, and the Adinathar Temple are the other temples within the Narthamalai complex.

Architecture of Narthamalai Cave Temples:

• Rock-cut temples : These temples are carved out of natural rock formations, which allows for a harmonious blend of architecture with the surrounding environment.
• Intricate Carvings: The carvings depicted various deities, mythological stories, and celestial beings is a testament to the artistic prowess of the craftsmen of that era.
• Pillared Halls: The Pillared halls with beautiful carved columns were used for various religious ceremonies and gatherings.
• Frescoes: Some of the temples also have remnants of ancient frescoes on their walls and ceilings.
• inner sanctums: Inside the temples, visitors can explore the inner sanctums, which were once the focal points of religious activities. These sanctums often house the main deity of the temple and are considered sacred spaces.
• Gopurams (Entrance Towers):While the rock-cut temples do not have towering gopurams like traditional South Indian temples, they do feature modest entrance towers that are adorned with decorative elements, including sculptures and ornamental designs.

Natural Beauty of Narthamalai:

Narthamalai, surrounded by lush greenery and gentle hills, is an ideal spot for nature lovers and trekkers. Hiking up the hills gives you beautiful views of the nearby countryside and a sense of peace and quiet, which is very different from the busy cities nearby.

How to reach Narthamalai:

Narthamalai is accessible from various nearby towns and cities. The closest major city is Trichy, which has an airport and railway station. From Trichy, it’s approximately a two-hour drive to Narthamalai. Buses and taxis are readily available for the journey.