Overview and Location of Kasi Viswanathar Temple

Kasi Viswananthar Temple is located in Thenkasi in Tirunelveli District. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva worshipped as Kasi Viswanathar and his consort Goddess Parvathi as Ulagamman. The temple, also known as Dakshina Kasi, comes under the administration of the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Department of the Government of Tamil Nadu.

Legend and History of Kasi Viswanathar Temple

The temple is believed to have been built by Pandyan ruler Parakkirama Pandian during the 13th century. The temple is constructed in the Dravidian architectural style with later additions made by Madurai Nayaks.

According to legend, King Parakkirama Pandyan desired to worship Kasi Viswanathar and was about to start his journey to Kasi, when Lord Shiva appeared in his dream and instructed him to follow an army of ants and built the temple where the anthill ended.

The Temple Architecture of Kasi Viswanathar Temple

The sanctum sanctorum houses Kasi Viswanathar in Lingam form. Lord Shiva Lingam graces the temple as a Swayambumurthi i.e in self-manifested form.
The idols of Lord Ganesha and Lord Murugan are located on either side of the hall leading to the sanctum. In the precinct around the main shrines are smaller shrines of Dakshinamurthy, Arumugar, Durga, Navagrahas and Nataraja.

The gopuram or temple tower of the temple is seven-tiered and 180 feet tall. The impressive tower was built in the year 1990. The deities in the temple are enshrined in concentric granite walls.

Festivals of Kasi Viswanathar Temple

Maasi Magam Festival during the Tamil month of Maasi (February-March) is the most prominent festival celebrated in the temple. Tirukalyaman festival, Moola festival, Navrathri, Karthikai festival, Thiruvathirai, Thaipoosam, Sivarathri, Panguni Uthiram are the other festivals observed in the temple.

Temple Timings in Kasi Viswanathar Temple

• Morning Hours – 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM
• Evening Hours – 4:00 PM to 8:30 PM

The temple is open for full day during new moon days (Amavasya)

Pooja Timings in Kasi Viswanathar Temple

Kalasanthi	8:30 AM
Uchikalam	11:30 AM
Sayarakshai	5:30 PM
Aravanai Pooja	between 8:00 PM to 9:00 PM

How to reach Kasi Viswanathar Temple

The temple is about 1.5 kilometers away from Tenkasi bus stand. Tenkasi at a distance of about 55 kilometers from Tirunelveli, is the nearest railway station. Thenkasi is well connected to all major cities across South India. Madurai Airport (about 156 kilometres away) and Thiruvananthapuram International Airport (about 124 kilometres away) are the nearest airports

Overview & Location of Vettuvan Koil

The Vettuvan Koil is located in a rocky hill by name Kalugumalai in Tuticorin District. It is a rock cut temple where Lord Shiva is the chief deity.

As per the inscriptions found in the temple, it was excavated in the 8th century by Pandyan Maran Chadaiyan Varaguna I. The temple is administered and maintained as a protected monument by the Department of Archaeology of the Government of Tamil Nadu.

Image Attribution : MohanRaj

Legend & History of Vettuvan Temple

The temple is believed to have been built in 8th and 9th century. The name Vettuvan Kovil has relevance to two meanings in Tamil language, one of which means ‘Heaven of sculptors’ and the other means ‘the temple of slayer’

According to legend, a duel between a father and son sculptors resulted in the son finishing the Murugan Temple at the foothills while the father’s work was incomplete. The enraged father killed the son in his angst and hence the shrine remained unfinished.

The Temple Architecture of Vettuvan Kovil

The temple area has been formed by excavating about 7.5 metre of the mountain and the temple is sculpted in the middle from a single piece of rock. The temple entrance is locked using grill gates and the sanctum sanctorum houses the main deity Lord Shiva and Lord Ganesha. The lotus shaped top of the temple houses beautiful sculptures of Lord Vishnu (on the western side), Brahma and Uma Maheswar (on the northern side) and Dakshinamoorthy (on the southern side). The temple is also adorned by an astounding number of Bhootaganas (attendants of Lord Shiva) sculpted in different styles.

The temple structure resembles the Kailasnath temple in Ellora, the temples of Pallavas in Mamallapuram and the temples of Pattadakal in Bijapur, Karnataka.

How to reach Vettuvan Kovil

The entrance to the temple is free. Kalugumalai is about 20 kilometers from Kovilpatti town on the way to Sankarankovil. There are frequent buses from Kovilpatti which is well connected with Madurai and Tirunelveli.

Epilogue

The intricately sculpted figures of gods and goddess and the grandeur of this unfinished temple makes it an ideal place for history buffs interested in sculptures, ancient caves and excavations. The temple stands as evidence of the artistic brilliance of the prehistoric period.

Kanthimathi Nellaiappar Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is located on the northern banks of River Thamirabarani in Tirunelveli District. Lord Shiva is worshipped in Lingam form as Nellaiappar and his consort Parvati as Sri Kanthimathi Ambal.

The temple comes under the administration of the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Department of the Govt. of Tamil Nadu.

History of Kanthimathi Nellaiappar Temple

• The temple sanctums were constructed by Nindraseer Nedumaran who ruled in the 7th century CE and the two gopurams were built by Pandyas (ancient Tamil dynasty of South India).
• The Later Pandyas built the Mani Mandapam and the musical pillars in the 7th century.
• The Sangili Mandapam or Chain Mandapam that links the temples of Nellaiappar and Kanthimathi Ambal was built by Thiru Vadamalaiyappa Pillaiyan in the year 1647.
• Onto the western side of the Chain Mandapam is the Flower Garden that was set up by Thiruvengadakrishna Mudaliar in the year 1756.
• The Nandi Mandapam is said to have been built by Sivanthiappa Nayak in the year 1654.

Kanthimathi Nellaiappar Temple Structure

The temple is believed to have been originally built by Pandyas in ancient Dravidian architectural style. The present structure was subsequently added by Cholas, Pallavas, Cheras and Nayaks.

The temple complex covers an area of fourteen and half acres of land. Apart from the prominent deities Swamy Nellaiappar and his consort Sri Kanthimathi Ambal, the temple has a number of other shrines.

Kanthimathi Nellaiappar Temple Festivals

The prominent festivals of the temple are the Brahmmotsavam during the Tamil month of Aani (June-July), Navarathri Festival and Thirukalyanam in the Tamil month of Aippasi (October-November) and Arudra Darsanam in the Tamil month of Margazhi (November-December).

Reference to the Literature

The temple is classified as ‘Paadal Petra Sthalam’ and revered in Tevaram, the 7th century Tamil Saiva canonical work written by the saint poets Nayanmars. The song ‘Sri Kanthimathi’ on the Goddess of the temple was composed by Muthuswami Dhikshitar.

Kanthimathi Nellaiappar Temple – Temple Timings

Morning Hours: 5:00 AM to 12:30 PM and Evening Hours: 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM.

Kanthimathi Nellaiappar Temple – Pooja Timings

The Nellaiappar Temple Pooja timings are as follows:

Name of the Pooja	Pooja Timings
Thiruvananthai Pooja	6:30 AM
Vilapooja	7:30 AM
Sirukala Sandhi Pooja	8:30 AM
Kala Sandhi Pooja	9:30 AM
Uchikalam Pooja	12:00 PM
Sayaratchai Pooja	6:00 PM
Ardhajama Pooja	8:30 PM

The Ambal Temple Pooja timings are as follows:

Name of the Pooja	Pooja Timings
Thiruvananthai Pooja	6:30 AM
Vilapooja	7:00 AM
Sirukala Sandhi Pooja	8:00 AM
Kala Sandhi Pooja	9:00 AM
Uchikalam Pooja	12:30 PM
Sayaratchai Pooja	5:00 PM
Ardhajama Pooja	8:15 PM
Palliyarai Pooja	9:00 PM

How to reach Kanthimathi Nellaiappar Temple

Road – Tirunelveli is well connected to all major cities in the state through State Road Transport Corporation.

Rail – The nearest railway station is Tirunelveli Railway Station (4 kilometres away). It is well connected to cities like Mumbai, Bilaspur, Coimbatore, Guruvayur and Howrah.

Air – The nearest airports are at Thoothukudi (42 kilometres away), Madurai (153 kilometres away) and Thiruvananthapuram ( 151 kilometres away)

Major Tourist Attractions in Tirunelveli District

• Manjolai Hills
• KMTR Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve
• Papanasanathar Temple, Papanasam
• Papanasam Dam
• Bird Sanctuary, Koonthankulam in Nanguneri Taluk
• Manimuthar Falls and Dam
• Kalugumalai Vettuvan Kovil

Kanyakumari Amman Temple or Bhagavathy Amman Temple, located in Kanyakumari is considered to be one of the 108 Shakthi Peethas and is revered as one of the most sacred temples in the world. The temple is believed to have been consecrated by sage Parasurama (an incarnation of Lord Vishnu). The temple is located at the confluence of Arabian Sea, Indian Ocean and Bay of Bengal in the southernmost tip of India.

The temple, dating back to more than 3000 years, has both religious and historical significance.

The Temple Structure

The 3000 year old temple, once a part of Travancore Kingdom is constructed in Kerala architectural style. The main entrance to the temple is through the northern gate. The eastern gate is opened only on special occasions. The temple houses many other shrines that include Lord Surya, Lord Ganesha and Lord Ayyappa.

The Presiding Deity

Devi Kanya Kumari Amman is the presiding deity of the temple. She is goddess Parvati in the form of the virgin Goddess. The alluring idol of the deity is made of blue stone and there are many stories attached to her lustrous nose ring.

It is believed that Goddess Kanyakumari bestows peace of mind and a divine experience to her worshippers.

History of the Temple

The temple of Kanyakumari Amman has been mentioned in the ancient Hindu epics Ramayana, Mahabharata and Yujurveda.

There are many legendary stories that relate to the story of Devi Kanya Kumari.

According to one of the legends, the temple is said to have formed where Goddess Sati’s back spine fell when Lord Shiva carried her corpse throughout Aryavatha (parts of land as described in Vedic period) in sorrow.

Another legend states that Goddess Parvati or Sati had incarnated as Goddess Kanyakumari to demolish the demon Banasura.

Temple Festivals

• Chithirai Pournami Festival – Full Moon day in the month of May
• Navarathri Festival – A nine day festival in the months of September-October
• Vaisakha Festival – A ten day festival in the Tamil month of Vaikasi (May-June)
• Kalabham Festival – Tamil month of Aadi (July-August)

Temple Timings

The temple is open on all days from 4:30 AM to 12:30 PM and from 4:00 PM to 8:30 PM.

The Pooja Details is as below:

Pooja Name	Pooja Timing
Opening Time	4:30 AM
Abhishekam	5:00 AM
Deeparathanai	6:00 AM
Abhishekam	10:00 AM
Deeparathanai	11:30 AM
Closing Time	12:30 AM
Evening Opening Time	4:00 PM
Sayaratchai Deeparathanai	6:30 PM
Sribali	8:15 PM
Yeganda Deeparathanai	8:25 PM
Closing Time	8:30 PM

How to reach

The temple located at a distance of 1 kilometre from Kanyakumari Bus Stop and 21 kilometres from Nagercoil is well connected by road. Kanyakumari Railway Station (1 kilometre away) and Nagercoil Railway Station (about 18 kilometre away) are the nearest rail heads. Thiruvananthapuram International Airport (about 102 kilometres away) is the nearest airport to Kanyakumari.

Thittai is located at a distance of about 10 kilometres from Tanjavur on the Tanjavur-Melattur-Kumbakonam route. The Vashishteswarar Temple or Thittai Guru Temple is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 15th Shiva Sthalam located on the Southern Bank of River Cauvery in Thenkarai. The main deity of the temple is Lord Shiva as Sri Vashishteswarar.

Lord Shiva is Swayambumurthi (self-manifested form) in this temple. The temple is also famous as Guru (Jupiter) Parihara Sthalam (a place for absolution of one’s sins through Guru Pooja).

Historical Significance of the Temple

The temple is believed to have been built by the Chola King Kulothunganin in the 12th century AD. Later in the year 1922, the entire temple was reconstructed using granite by Sri Ramaswamy Chettiar of Chettinadu Nagarathar family.

There are many legends associated with this temple. It is believed that, when the whole universe was submerged at the time of great deluge (pralayam), this place stood atop resembling a sand dune(Thittai in Tamil) and hence the name Thenkudi Thittai. Another legend associated with the temple is that this is the place Guru (teacher of the Devas) appeared and forgave Lord Indra when he had disrespected him.

There is also a story that Sage Vashishtar had his hermitage here and performed penance after placing a lingam. And hence Lord Shiva is revered as Sri Vashishteswarar.

Deities in the Temple

The main deity (Moolavar) is Lord Shiva as Sri Vashishteswarar and Goddess (Thayaar) is Parvathy as Loganayaki. Other deities found in the temple are Sidhi Vinayagar, Murugan with his four consorts, four Shiva Lingams placed at four corners, Gajalakshmi, Mahalingam with Ambal, Navagraham and Bairavar.

The precincts of the temple houses shrines of Narthana Ganapathi, Dakshinamurthy, Lingothbavar, Brahma and Goddess Durga. A separate shrine and Vimanam (tower) for Guru Bhagavan is also found.

Unique Features of Vashishteswarar Temple

• This temple has the uniqueness of Guru Bhagavan in standing posture with four hands.
• Another prominent feature of the temple is that a drop of water falls on the main deity from the roof, every 24 minutes (1 Nazhigai in Tamil). It is stated that there is no source of water on the temple tower, however the two precious stones by name ‘Suryakaanthakkal’ and ‘Chandrakaanthakkal’ placed at strategic points above the tower that absorbs moisture from atmosphere and converts it into droplets is the reason for this wondrous phenomenon.
• The ceiling in the hall that is in front of Goddess Loganayaki’s shrine has stone carvings of 12 zodiac signs. Apart from being an architectural wonder, there is a belief that one’s desires are fulfilled by praying to the Goddess by standing under one’s zodiac sign.
• The pillars of the temple shows artistically carved granite sculptures including those of the Nalvars, Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvathy seated on a bull mount, Lord Murugan and Lord Vinayagar.
• The four lingams installed at the four corners of the temple gives it the name ‘Pancha Linga Kshetram’
• The glory of the temple has been sung by Saint Tirugnana Sambandar in his hymns.
• Lord Suryan (Sun God) is believed to offer his prayers to Lord Shiva by directing his rays on the Lingam twice in a year – 15th,16th & 17th of the Tamil month of Avani (August-September) and on 25th,26th &27th of the Tamil month Panguni (March-April).
• The temple has the significance of being fully constructed using granite.
• The temple pond Chakra Theertham is at the entrance of the temple.

Temple Timings of Vashishteswarar Temple

Morning 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM and Evening 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM

Festivals observed in the Temple

• Chitra Pournami – in the Tamil month of Chithirai (April-May)
• Vinayakar Chaturthi – in the Tamil month of Aavani (August-September)
• Annabishekam – in the Tamil month of Aippasi (October–November)
• Thiru Karthikai – in the Tamil month of Karthikai (November-December)
• Thiruvadhirai – in the Tamil month of Markazhi (December-January)
• Maha Shivrathri – in the Tamil month of Masi (Febuary-March)
• The annual Brahmotsavam and the festival commemorating Vasishtar’s marriage with Arundhathi – in the Tamil month of Vaikasi (May-June).
• Guru transition day
• Surya Pooja is performed when sun rays fall on the main deity.
• Pradosham once every fortnight.

How to reach Thittai Vashishteswarar Temple

Regular buses ply from Kumbakonam (around 33 kilometres away) and Tanjavur (around 10 kilometres away). Tanjavur is the nearest railway station and Trichy International Airport (72 kilometres away) is the nearest airport.

Swamimalai Swaminathaswamy Temple

Lord Murugan has six holy abodes (Arupadaiveedu) in Tamil Nadu. Swamimalai Sri Swaminathaswami Temple, located on a hilltop in Swamimalai, is one of them. The temple is located at a distance of 8 kilometres from Kumbakonam, on the banks of a tributary of River Cauvery. The temple is maintained and administered by the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Department of the Govt. of Tamil Nadu.

Image Attribution : Shankaran Murugan

Historical Significance of the Temple

As per Hindu legend, Lord Murugan got angry with Brahma (the God of creation) when the latter had disrespected him at the time of visiting Mt. Kailash (abode of Lord Shiva). Lord Murugan intercepted Brahmma and demanded to know the meaning of the Pranava mantra ‘Ohm’. On Brahma not able to answer the question, Lord Murugan pounced on him, hit him hard on his forehead, imprisoned him and took up the role of the creator.

On request of the Devas (celestial deities), Lord Shiva comes to Murugan and asks to release Brahma, to which Lord Murugan refuses. Lord Shiva asks Murugan to explain the meaning Ohm, this is the place where the father became a student of the son and hence the name Swamimalai meaning ‘The Teacher of Shiva’. Therefore, according to Hindu belief, Swamimalai is the holy place where Lord Murugan preached the ‘Pranava Mantra’ to his own father.

Architecture of Swaminathaswamy temple

The Swamimalai temple is built on a ‘Kattu Malai’ meaning an artificial hill. The temple has three gopurams (towers) and three prakarams (precincts/outer part of the sanctum) – first one at the basement, second at midway on the way to the hillock and third on the hillock around the sanctum. There are 60 beautifully laid steps that lead to the temple and the steps are said to represent 60 Tamil calendar years.

The shrine of Lord Shiva as Sundareswarar and mother Parvathi as Meenakshi is located downhill.

The first precinct has a shrine of Vinayagar just outside the precinct and images of Dakshinamurthy, Durga, Chandikeswarar and the festival image of Swaminathaswamy.

The second precinct, also the largest one of the temple, houses the chariot and a marriage hall.

The sanctum houses the granite image of Swaminathaswamy which is 6 feet tall. The deity is adorned with golden armours, crowns and a diamond lance. Unlike other Murugan temples where a peacock is placed axial to the deity, this temple has an elephant.

Reference to the Literature

Swamimalai Temple has been praised by poet Nakkeerar in the hymns of Arunagiriar’s Tirupugazh and in Tirumugattrupadai

Swaminathaswamy Temple Timings

Morning 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM and Evening 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM.

Devotees are served Annadhanam every day. Rooms and cottages are available for devotees at nominal rates.

Pooja Timings

Pooja Name	Timings
Usha kalam	6:00 AM
Kalasanthi	9:00 AM
Uchikalam	12:00 Noon
Sayaratchai	5:30 PM
Irandan Kalam	8:00 PM
Arthajamam	10:00 PM

Worship practices in the temple include tonsuring, Abhishekam (ablution of deity) with milk, sandal, ash and panchamirtham.

Festivals observed in the Temple

The major festivals observed in the temple are:

• Kirutikai Festival – in the Tamil month of Adi (July-August)
• Car Festival – in the month of April
• Visakam Festival – in the month of May
• Navarathri – during the Tamil month if Purattasi (September –October)
• Kanda Shashti – in the month of October
• Tiru Karthikai – in the month of November/December
• Thaipusam – in the month of January
• Pankuni Uttiram – in the month of March

How to reach Swaminathaswamy temple

Regular buses and private cabs can be availed to reach Kumbakonam. Kumbakonam is well connected with all major cities in Tamil Nadu. Kumbakonam is the nearest railway head (8.5 kilometres away) and Trichy International Airport is the nearest Airport (85 kilometres away).

The Alangudi Guru Sthalam or Apatsahayeswarar Temple is located in the village of Alangudi in Tiruvarur District of Tamil Nadu. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva who is worshipped as Apatsahayeswarar (Moolavar) and represented by the Lingam. Goddess Parvathi (Thayaar) is worshipped as Elavarkuzhali. The historical name of the temple is Tiru Irum Poolai. The place is famous for being the Holy Sthala and is surrounded by three holy rivers – Cauvery, Kolidam and Vennaru. The temple is one of the nine Navagraha Temples for planet Jupiter (Guru).

The temple is maintained and administered by the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Department of the Govt. of Tamil Nadu.

Image Attribution : Shankaran Murugan

Historical Significance of the Temple

Lord Shiva, to protect the world, is said to have gulped the toxic poison of the celestial snake “Vasuki”. And hence, Lord Shiva is affectionately called “Abathsayeswarar” meaning “the rescuer who consumed the poison and protected the earth. The Lord of this temple is Swayambhu (self manifested form). The temple is also abode of Guru Brihaspathi or the planet Jupiter.

Though belonging to the ancient times, there are no proper historical documents that could trace the date of temple’s origin but it is stated that the temple was built by Amuthokar, minister of King Masukantha Chakravarti and devotee of Lord Shiva.

Reference to the Literature

The temple has been admired by Tirugnana Sambandar, in the 7th century Tamil Saiva sacred works, the Tevaram. The temple is revered as Paadal Petre Sthalam, one of the 275 temples that finds a place in Saiva canon.

Architecture of Alangudi Temple

The temple exhibits the distinct architecture of the Chola period. The Alangudi temple covers two acres of area and has two gopurams – the five-tiered Rajagopuram facing the main deity and the other gopuram facing North. The temple is surrounded by two Prakarams (outer part around the sanctum).

Deities of the Temple

The Alangudi Guru temple houses shrines of many Gods apart from the main deities Lord Shiva and his consort Parvati in the form of Elavarkuzhali. The temple is renowned for worship of Lord Guru in the form of Sri Dakshinamurthy, also known by the name Brihaspathi.

The other deities include Daksha (father of Mother Parvati with goat head), Sukravara Ambika, Kalangamal Katha Vinayaka, Lord Murugan, Lakshmi, Kaasi Viswanathar, Visalakshi, Sage Agasthya, Nalvars (Gnanasambandar, Tinuvanukkarasar, Sundarar and Manickavasagar), the authors of Thevaram and Tirunavukkarasar hymns (Suriyeasar, Somesar, Gurumaswarar, Somanathar, Sabtharishinathar, Vishnunathar, Brahmmesar).

Alangudi Guru Temple Pooja Timings

The temple is open from 6:00 AM to 11:00 AM and 4:00 PM to 8:30 PM

The temple offers Annadhanam (mid-day meals for 100 devotees).

The temple rituals performed during the day are:

Kalasanthi	6:00 AM
Irandam kalam	9:00 AM
Uchikalam	12:00 PM
Sayarakshai	6:00 PM
Irandan Kalam	7:30 PM
Arthajamam	9:00 PM

Alangudi Guru Temple Festivals

The major festivals celebrated in the temple are:

• Pancha Paruva Utsavam
• Gurupeyarchi
• 1008 Conch Abhisekha Festival
• Chitra Pournami Brahmotsavam (10 days festival)
• Guru Bhagavan car festival
• Thursdays in the Tamil month of Masi (February-March)

How to reach Alangudi Guru Temple

Alangudi is 40 kilometres from Tiruvarur on the Mannargudi route. Frequent buses are available from Tiruvarur and Kumbakonam. Kumbakonam is the nearest railway station (14 kilometres). Nearest airport is at Trichy (93 kilometres).
One can avail lodging facilities at Kumbakonam.

Epilogue

Alangudi Guru Temple is one of the most visited temples in the district of Tanjavur. It is a holy place that reminds us of our values based on the philosophy of Matha (Mother in the form of Goddess), Pitha (Father in the form of Lord Shiva) and Guru (Teacher in the form of Guru Dakshinamurthy).

The city of Gangai Konda Cholapuram is situated at 70 kilometres from Tanjore. It was built in the early 11th century by King Rajendra Chola, the son and successor of King Rajaraja Chola. The city has a prominent place in the history of India as the capital of Chola dynasty for about 250 years. The foundation stone of the Gangai Kinda Cholapuram temple was laid in 1020 AD, to represent the essence of Lord Shiva. This temple is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site ‘Great Living Chola Temples’.

History of Gangaikonda Cholapuram Temple

The name Gangai Konda Cholapuram means “The town of the Chola who captured Ganges” marking the victorious march of Rajendra Chola to the Ganges. It epitomizes the accomplishments of the King. The temple is built equivalent to the magnum opus of Brihadeeswara Temple of Tanjavur.

Significance of the temple

The Gangai Konda Cholapuram temple has the biggest Shiva Lingam in South India. The temple is the abode of the 4 metre high lingam of Lord Shiva in phallic form. The unique idol of the Lord in the form of ardhanareesshwar (half masculine, half feminine) reflects the duality that exists in divine energy. The temple is adorned with beautiful sculptures of ‘Suryapita’ and ‘Navagrahas’.

Architecture of Gangaikonda Cholapuram Temple

The architectural excellence found in the Gangai Konda Cholapuram Temple is second to none. The 182 feet tall tower (Vimana) is the second biggest after Thanjavur Big Temple. The temple’s incredible sculptures and carvings, rich and intricate artistry makes it a famous historical spot.

Deities of the Temple

• The temple has the biggest Lingam (13.5 feet high). The Lingam manifestation in a dual form is different from the shrines of other Shiva temples.
• The entrance way to the presiding deity is adorned by a magnificent image of Goddess Saraswathi.
• The statue of Nandi (the vehicle of Lord Shiva) is bigger in size than that of Tanjavur. The Nandi is made of line stone.
• The other notable masterpieces that embellish the sanctum are the cosmic image of Lord Shiva, emblematic representation of the Sun God, the sculpted version of Goddess Parvati and the dancing form of Lord Ganesha.
• A rare stone by name Chandrakanta has been installed under the main shrine which possesses the characteristic of making the sanctum sanctorum warm in winter and cool in summer.

Temple Timings – Gangaikonda Cholapuram Temple

• 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM
• 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM

Pooja Timings – Gangaikonda Cholapuram Temple

Morning Pooja/Kala Sandhi	9:00 AM
Mid Noon Pooja/Utchi kalam	12:00 Noon
Evening Pooja/Sayaratchai	6:00 PM
Night Pooja/Artha Jamam	8:00 PM

Temple Festivals – Gangaikonda Cholapuram Temple

The major festivals observed in the temple are:

• Maha Shivrathri in February-March
• Aipasi Poornima full moon day in October-November
• Panguni Utsav in March-April
• Margazhi Tiruvadhirai in December-January

How to reach Gangai Konda Cholapuram?

Gangai Konda Cholapuram lies on NH 227 from Chidambaram to Trichy and is well connected to all major cities by road. The place is at a distance of 42 kilometres from Chidambaram and 40 kilometres from Mayiladuthurai. Nearest rail head is at Kumbakonam (34 kilometres). Nearest airport is at Trichy (135 kilometres away), Chennai International Airport is at a distance of 245 kilomteres.

Brihadeeswarar Temple – An Architectural Marvel

Brihadeeswarar Temple in Tanjore (Thanjavur), Tamil Nadu is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is a part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the “Great Living Chola Temples”. Also known as the Big Temple, it has one of the most beautiful architectural grandeur of the Chola era.
The revered Brihadeeswarar temple is located in Thanjavur, about 350 kilometres southwest of Chennai. It is very near (around 1 kilometre) from the Old bus stand in Thanjavur.

History of the Temple

The Brihadeeswarar Temple also called the Rajarajesvaram or Peruvudaiyar Koyil was built by King Raja Raja Chola I in the 11th century. Tanjavur was an important city to the ancient Cholas, who converted it into a major temple city from a collection of villages. The Brihadeeswara Temple was built in the centre of the city. Its glorious Dravidian architecture and Indian workmanship has made it unique over the years. The temple which was named Rajarajesvaram after it was edified by Raja Raja Chola I in the year 1010 AD, was later on renamed as Brihadeeswara temple following the invasion of Tanjore by The Marathas and Nayakas.

The name Brihadeeswara is derived from two Sanskrit words namely “Brihat” meaning “lofty or big” and “Ishvara” meaning “Lord , Shiva”, giving it the name “The big Lord Shiva temple” or “The all pervasive Lord”.

Architectural Excellence of Brihadeeswarar Temple

A masterpiece in architecture, the Brihadeeswara temple though adopting the architectural elements of South India, was much ahead of its time. And though none of the massive palaces that were built during the reign of the Cholas exist now, the fact that Brihadeeswara Temple has stood the testimony of time for more than a thousand years proves the superior architectural accomplishment of the Chola dynasty and the patron’s incomparable devotion for Lord Shiva. One of the most prominent features of the temple is that it is so designed that the Vimana/Shikara does not cast a shadow at noon. It is also the first complete granite temple in the world built with intricately carved designs.

The temple is a marvel made out in granite, the granite in its massive size is believed to be brought from far off places since it has been observed that no granite quarry is available around the temple.

Structures in and around the Temple

The temple complex is a rectangle one and is built on a higher platform of a man-made mound. It is surrounded by a moat (channel filled with water) on two sides and the Grand Anaicut river on the other side.

There are two entrances to the temple. It can be entered into through a five-story gopuram or through a smaller free-standing gopuram that takes you directly to the main complex. The main gateways or gopurams are on the east side. The first gopuram Keralantakan Tiruvasal was built by and bears the surname of King Rajaraja. The inner courtyard gopuram, about 100 metres ahead is called the Rajarajan Tiruvasal. This gopuram leads to a vast courtyard.

The great tower and the main temple monuments are in the middle of the courtyard. Around the main temple, are a number of sub-shrines that are mostly aligned axially. The large pillared Pradakshina veranda (circumambulation path) is built around the courtyard.

The temple built on a space of 240 metres by 122 metres is divided into five main sections:

1. Sri Vimana – The Vimana or temple tower of Brihadeeswara temple is one of the tallest in the world with an elevation of 66 metres. It is unbelievable to see an octagonal-shaped cap stone weighing about 81 tonnes placed on top of the Vimana. The Vimana is referred to as the Dakshina Meru (Meru mountain of the South), owing to its imposing massiveness.
2. Nandi Mandapam – At the entrance of the temple is a figurine of Nandi (the consecrated bull, the divine vehicle of Lord Shiva) which is monolithic measuring approximately 13 feet high and 16 feet long. The idol of Nandi, belonging to Nayaka period, has been remarkably carved from a single rock and it faces the main shrine in the sanctum sanctorum. The Nandi Mandapa is filled with pillars with ornate sculptures.
3. Mukhamandapam – Mukhamandam or the main community hall is aligned between the Nandi Mandapam and the sanctum. The entrance of the Mukhamandapam has two dwarapalakas (guards). This hall is believed to have been used by musicians and dancers performing in service of Lord Shiva.
4. Mahamandapam – The Mahamandapam or the great gathering hall has six pillars on each side filled with artwork. This mandapam also is bordered by two giant stone dwarapalakas. The Mahamandapam is linked to the Mukhamandapam by stairs.
5. Ardhamandapam – Ardhamandapam is the building structure that connects the Mahamandapam with the sanctum.

Garba Griha (Sanctum Sanctorum)

The innermost chamber (knows as ‘Periya Kovil’) is at the center of the courtyard. It hosts the chief deity of the temple, Lord Shiva in the form of a huge stone Linga. The Linga is 29 ft high and is one of the largest monolithic sculptures in India.

Other Deities & Sculptures

Other deities of the temple called the Koshtha Moorthigal, are found in the outer wall. These deities include Dakshinamurthy, Surya, Chandra, Agni, Yam, Nirrti, Varuna, Vayu, Kuber, Isana and Ashta Dikpaalakas. In addition to the main deities, each side has dwarapalakas and various sculptures. The ground floor sanctum walls are adorned by the following sculptures:

• East Wall – Lingodbhava, Pashupata Murti and two Dwarapalakas along side the pathway from Ardhamandapam.
• South Wall – Ganesha, Vishnu with his consorts Sridevi and Bhudevi, Lakshmi, Vishnu-Anugraha murti, Bhikshatana, Virabhadra, Dakshinamurti, Kalantaka, Nataraja and the two Dwarapalakas.
• West Wall – Harihara, Lingodbhava, Chandrashekhara without Prabhavali, Chandrashekara with Prabhavali and the two Dwarapalakas.
• North Wall – Ardhanarishvara, Gangadhara without Parvathi, Pashupata Murti, Shiva-Alingana Murti, Saraswati, Mahishasuramardini, Bhairava and the two Dwarapalakas.

On the second floor is depicted, Lord Shiva’s Tripurantaka form (Lord Shiva with four arms-an axe and deer on the upper pair and bow and arrow on the lower pair of the arms) in different postures. Above these floors is the towering Vimana and single granite block.

Brihadeeswarar Temple Attractions

• The walls of the complex are decked with beautiful paintings belonging to the Chola and Nayak period.
• The main temple is entirely built of granite. More than 130,000 tons of granite is said to have been used to build it.
• The temple is said to have inscriptions (in Tamil and Grantha scripts) divulging information about the features of the temple and its construction. The north wall of enclosure includes inscriptions detailing about the people employed and supported by the temple. The inscriptions also state the daily rituals to be conducted, details of offerings and decorations to be made, jewels used in the period, methods of worship on important occasions and other information regarding the administration of the temple.
• The walls and architectural surroundings is said to be adorned with carvings and colourful paintings depicting the rich history of art, culture, mythology and science of the era.
• The temple is more than 1000 years old and finds its place in many of the contemporary works of the period like Muvar Ula and Kalingathuparani.
• The temple has been declared as a heritage monument by the Government of India and administered by the Archaeological Survey of India as a protected monument.
• The temple holds its annual dance festivals for over 10 days around the Mahashivarathri in February.

Temple Timings of Brihadeeswarar Temple

It’s very common to see devotees throng the temple in queues as early as 5:00 AM. Sundays are extremely crowded. Timing are as follows

• 5:30 AM to 12:00 PM and
• 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM

Brihadeeswarar Temple Pooja Timings

Morning Pooja/Kala Sandhi	8:30 AM
Mid Noon Pooja/Utchi Kalam	12:00 Noon
Evening Pooja/Sayaratchai	5:30 PM
Night Pooja/Artha Jamam	8:30 PM

Brihadeeswarar Temple Festivals

The major festivals observed in the temple are:

• Chitirai Brahotsavam, 18 days festival during the Tamil month of Chitirai (April-May)
• Shivarathri, in the Tamil month of Maasi (February)
• Navarathri, 9 days festival during the Tamil month of Purattasi (September-October)
• Aaruthra Darshanam, in the Tamil month of Marghali (December-January)
• Pradosham, once in every fortnight
• Girivalam, every full moon day (Pournami)
• Special Pooja during the days of Thiruvadhirai, Aadi pooram and Karthigai
• Sathabisha star day every month, which is said to be the birth star of King Rajaraja

Accommodation

Thanjavur is known to be one of the most popular religious and cultural hub in Tamil Nadu. The place offers accommodation facilities that suits every budget and preferences.

How to reach Brihadeeswarar Temple

Thanjavur can be easily accessible by road from nearby cities. Frequent government and private buses take you to Thanjavur throughout the day. Thanjavur is the nearest rail head and Tiruchirapalli Airport (65 kilometres) is the nearest airport.

Epilogue

Being a very popular tourist location, the temple is swarmed by tourists throughout the year. Uncover the grandeur of this temple along with the various legends associated with it. The place is a virtual treat for lovers of photography to soak in the divinity preferably in the morning and evening. A perfect blend of religious atmosphere and sheer architectural splendor, Brihadeeswara temple is indeed a sight to behold.

Sangameswarar Temple located in Bhavani, in the Erode District of Tamil Nadu is a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple also famously called Thirunana and Thirukooduthurai is at a distance of 16 kilometers from Erode. The Moolavar (main deity) is Sangameswarar and Thayaar (Goddess) here is Vedha Nayagi.

History & Legend of the Temple

Bhavani Sangameswarar Temple is an ancient temple built by the first Pallava King, Mahendra Verman. According to legend, during the British Rule, William Karo who worked as a collector for Coimbatore District visited Bhavani. One night, when he was asleep, he was woken up and got out of the Bungalow he was staying in, by a small girl. Once he was out, the Bungalow is said to have collapsed.

After the priest of the temple informed him that it was Bhavani Vedanaayaki Amman who had saved him, he became an ardent devotee of the Goddess. The three holes that he had made in the temple walls in order to pray to the Goddess are still present. Another legend associated with the place is that Kubera, the Lord of Wealth, is said to have been advised by Lord Shiva himself that he would find a Shivalingam under the Illandai tree.

Prominent Features of the Temple

About the place

The place Bhavani is a well-known Parihara Sthalam (a place for absolution of one’s sins) in Tamil Nadu. The Sangameswarar Temple is a holy one located at the Sangamam (confluence) of three rivers – Kaveri, Bhavani and the mystic Amutha(flowing underground) and hence the place is popularly called the Dakshina Triveni Sangamam (Triveni Sangamam in the South). The place also has the name Kooduthurai again indicating the confluence of three rivers.

Prominence of the temple

The temple is one of the 276 Devara Padal Petra Shiva Sthalam, the third Sthalam in Kongu Nadu and Lord Shiva shrine in the temple is a Swayambumurthi i.e it is self-manifested.

A place in literature

The Nayanmars Thevaram pathigam is composed by Sambandar. He had composed 10 poems in this temple in the praise of the Lord which comes under 2nd Thirumurai.

Architecture of Sangameswarar Temple

The temple has a unique architecture with beautiful stone carvings. Constructed on a 4-acre plot, the temple has a 5-tier Gopuram (tower) on the northern side.

Deities in the temple

The presiding deity is Lord Shiva as Sangameswarar along with his consort Vedanayagi. At the entrance is the shrines of Kottai Vinayagar (Lord Ganesha) to the left and Kottai Anjaneyar (Lord Hanuman) on to the right. The main tower encompasses the shrines of Raja Ganapathi and Lord Muthukumaraswamy (Lord Murugan). The corridors are adorned by the shrines of Lord Vinayakar, Lord Murugan and his consorts, Goddess Gajalakshmi, 63 Nayanmars, Jurahareshwarar (in dancing posture), “Pancha Bhootha” Lingams, Kasi Viswanathar, Goddess Visalakshi, Amirthalingam, and Jeshtadevi.
Separate shrines are found for Lord Adhikesava Perumal, Goddess Soundaranayaki and Yoga Narasimhar.

Temple Timings – Sangameswarar Temple

The temple timings are as follow: 5:00 AM to 1:00 PM and 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM

Pooja Timings & Details

The pooja timings is as mentioned below:

Name of the Pooja	Timing
Thiruppallielichi	5:00 AM
Kalasandhi	8:00 AM
Uchikalam	12:00 PM
Idaikalam	4:00 PM
Saaya Rakshai	5:15 PM
Pillairai (Artha Jama Pooja)	8:30 PM

Sangameswarar Temple Festivals

Some of the major festivals observed in the temple that attracts huge number of devotees are

• The famous Car festival(Ther) conducted for 13 long days during the Tamil month of Chithirai (April-May)
• The day celebrated as “Aadiperukku” falling on the 18th day of the Tamil month of Aadi (July–August).
• Pradosham Pooja, Amavasyas (new moon days), Shiva Rathri and Vaikunta Ekadasi are also observed quite ritualistically.

How to reach Sangameswarar Temple

Bhavani, located at 15 kilometres from Erode, 30 kilometres from Gobichettipalayam, 56 kilometres from Salem, is well connected to all major cities. Erode is the nearest Railway hub and Coimbatore International Airport at a distance of around 96 kilometres is the nearest Airport.

Accommodation

Good number of lodges and cottages at affordable rates are available at Bhavani.