Thindal Sri Velayudha Swamy Temple in Erode

Thindal Murugan Temple also called Arulmigu Velayutha Swamy Thirukovil in Erode, is one of the very famous places of worship in Tamil Nadu. The primary deity in this temple is Lord Murugan. The temple is situated on the small hill rock called the Thindal Malai, 8 kilometres from Erode bus stand on the Perundurai road.

History of Thindalmalai Murugan Temple

Thindal is one of the 24 countries in ancient Kongunadu. Kongunadu ruled then by Chera Kings, had been divided for ruling convenience in the past. The Thindal Murugan Temple is built in Dravidian architecture. Of the 108 temples of Lord Murugan praised in the celebrated Tirupugazh hymns of Sage Arunagiriar, Thindalmalai Murugan Temple is one.

According to the history of the temple, the place Poondurai in Erode was affected by drought. Elaborate prayers were offered by the farmers to Idumban to get them the grace of Lord Murugan. Following this, out came rains and the place became fertile again. The traditional ritual of seeking Idumban’s grace for fertility still continues.

Unique Features of Thindalmalai Murugan Temple

• The temple houses a golden temple chariot car which is used to carry out ceremonial processions holding images of Gods.
• The temple premises has two parts – the places above the rock is called Maelthindal or Thindalmedu and the eastern side of the hill rock is called the keel thindal.
• The temple conducts a number of pujas (offering to the God) for various purposes including marriage, progeny etc.
• Panguni Uthiran is the major festival that is celebrated in the temple every year. Thousands of pilgrims come from across the southern parts of India in order to attend the festival.
• The Deepa Sthamba (lamp post) adds a special attraction to the temple with its Kongu region type of design. The pillar is adorned by various religious sculptures
• A beautiful arch at the outset of national highway welcomes the devotees to the temple. The arch is bedecked with artistic paintings of many Gods.

Other deities and locations found in the temple are as follows:

• Arasamarathu Vinayagar – As tradition goes, Lord Ganesha is the first deity in the temple premises. This temple was constructed 40 years and deity here is named as Arasamarathu Vinayagar. The temple finds its place below a peepal tree (Arasamaram in Tamil) and is surrounded with Snake God (Naagar in Tamil).
• Siddhi Vinayagar – The Siddhi Vinayagar shrine is surrounded by two Snake Gods or Naagars. At this place devotees can find the idol of Velayudhaswamy in the front Mandap.
  From here onwards start the steps climbing that leads to the main shrine. The hill rock consists of 150 steps in all with a height of 60 metres.
• Idumban Sannadhi – Few steps from the entrance is the Idumban Sannadhi. This deity is also known by the names Idumbakkumaran and Idunbasan.
• Sri Velayuthaswamy Shrine – Above the hill rock is where Sri Velayuthar shrine is located. To the left of main deity is the Uchava Moorthy statue where Lord Murugan is with Valli and Deivanai.
• The Thannasi cave is located on the north western side of the temple. On the event of Karthikai festival, special poojas are performed in Thannasi Siddhar Cave.
• Reaching the Sanctum Sanctorum, devotees feel the divinity of Lord Murugan holding his ‘Vel’ (weapon) and seek his blessings.
• Theertha Sunai, a sweet spring is found on the north east side of the hill. The water of this holy spring is used for abhishekam of Lord Murugan and for the devotees to quench their thirst.

Festivals in Thindalmalai Murugan Temple

Kandha Shasti, Thirukarthigai, Thai Poosam and Panguni Uthiram are the major festivals which are attended by pilgrims. Chitra Pournami, Vaikasi Festival, Aadi Perukku, Aadi Karthigai, Kandha Shasti, Markazhi Pooja are some of the other noted festivals observed in the temple.

Temple Timings – Thindalmalai Murugan Temple

Pujas are performed thrice a day in the temple. The timings of which are as follows:

• Morning – 7:00 AM
• Noon – 12:00 PM
• Evening – 6:00 PM

The temple is open from 6:30 AM to 12:30 PM and 4:00 PM to 8:30 PM and from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM on all festival days. Annadhanam is provided at 12.30 pm to devotees every day. The Golden Chariot procession or ‘Thangaratham Ulla’ is conducted everyday at 7:00 PM. The price for conducting the procession is Rs. 1500.

How to reach Thindalmalai Murugan Temple

The temple is located at a distance of 8 kilometres from Erode junction. It is easily accessible by road from Erode and Trichy. Nearest bus terminal is at Thindal and nearest railway station is Erode Junction. Coimbatore International Airport is the nearest airport.

Sathuragiri Hills

Sathuragiri hills are around 15 km from Watrap or Vathirayiruppu village near Srivilliputhur. Sathuragiri Shiva Temple surrounded by mountains is referred to as the abode of Lord Shiva and the innumerable saints who are still believed to religiously worship Lord Shiva in Sathuragiri Hills. The name “Sathuragiri” is supposed to be derived from the Sanskrit term “Chattur” meaning four and “Giri” meaning hills, and so it is “the place where all four Vedas meet and become one”. Some also believe that since the hills are square (Chathuram) in shape, hence the name Sathuragiri.

History of Sathuragiri Hills:

History has it that one day Lord Shiva came to the temple disguised as a devotee and struck a conversation with the priest. When the priest informed Lord Shiva about how the temple was a very old one and belonged to its landlord, Lord Shiva conveniently claimed that the temple and surrounding land belonged to him. In order to prove his point, Lord Shiva asked the priest to take all the land that he needs. To this, the priest replies, after having thought for a moment, “let a conch be blown and the area covered by its sound shall become a part of the temple”. And thus, as far as the sound of the conch reached, became the temple property. The hill has three main temples – Sri Sundara Mahalinga Swamy Temple, Sri Santhana Mahalinga Swamy Temple, and Anadavalli Amma Temple.

Sathuragiri Trekking Journey:

Sathuragiri Trekking is one of popular trekking in Tamilnadu. The journey uphill is for about 8 kms. The trail to the temple starts at Thanipaarai (base of the hill). Hereafter devotees are offered Annadhanam at Ashrams and we could get essentials like a torch, water bottles, biscuits, etc.

First Quarter of Sathuragiri Trekking Journey:

Around half hour walk and you reach Kudhiraiootru. Going further, the route through Vazhakkuparai is slippery and leads to Sangali Parai. Enroute one could find small water streams flowing.

Second Quarter of Sathuragiri Trekking Journey:

Path following Sangali Parai leads to Korakkar or Goraknath Cave. You then make way through rocks and water to reach the Irattai Lingam cave.

Third Quarter of Sathuragiri Trekking Journey:

The trek that follows leads to Vanadurgai Temple – the protecting deity of the forests and to Pilavadi Karuppasamy Temple – the guard of the hills.

Divine Darshan:

An uphill walk further for about 15 minutes will bring us to Sundara Mahalingam Temple and his disciple Sundara Moorthy Swamy Temple. The Sundara Mahalingam is said to be Anidai Lingam i.e. A Lingam worshipped by the Siddhas. Behind Sundara Mahalingam temple is Anandavalli Amma temple who is formless. She’s said to take form only during Navarathri. An upward trek again for about 15 minutes brings us to The Santhana Mahalingam Temple.

Around 4 kms away from Santhana Mahalingam Temple is the Periya Mahalingam, which, as the name suggests is a huge Lingam. Other deities you could offer prayers to enroute are – Oonjal Karuppan Temple, Vellai Ganapathi, Nadu Kattu Ganapathi, Naga Kanni Kaavu and Lord Ganesha at Thavasi Cave.

Essentials for Sathuragiri Trekking:

It is advisable to carry water, torch, and blankets for stay at base camp. Elders prefer to use sticks while trekking. Annadanam is provided to pilgrims by Ashrams on the way, it is advisable to avoid carrying food items as it attracts monkeys. It is preferable to wear flexible and normal clothing suitable for trekking. Dolis (Human carriers) are available for the elderly and physically disabled. The ideal time to start the trek would be before 8:00 AM and to return to the base after darshan by 6:00 PM.

Sathuragiri Temple Visiting Time:

Temple is open only for 6 days a month – 3 days during New Moon (Amavasya) and 3 days during Full Moon (Pournami). It is also open during Aadi and Thai Amavasya and devotees usually throng the temple during this time. Timing is between 6:00 AM and 4:00 PM which again depends on the weather conditions.

Sathuragiri Routes and Distance:

Thaaniparai is about 80 Kms from Madurai, 28 Kms from Srivilliputhur. Srivilliputhur is the nearest railway station.
Pilgrims coming from Chennai have to go to Madurai – Srivilliputhur – Watrap – Thanipaarai.
Pilgrims traveling from South have to go to Nagercoil – Tirunelveli – Rajapalayam – Srivilliputhur – Watrap – Thanipaarai

Epilogue:

Visit to Sathuragiri Shiva Temple is a blend of adventure and spiritual exploration. An apt place for seeking the blessings of Lord Shiva and to get a breath of fresh air.

Ensure a safe and enjoyable trek with our comprehensive trekking gear checklist.

Places to visit in Srivilliputhur or Virudhunagar district:

Srivilliputhur and Virudhunagar District, nestled in Tamil Nadu, offer a mix of cultural heritage and natural beauty. The Srivilliputhur Andal Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must-visit for its towering gopuram and rich history. Nature lovers will enjoy the Srivilliputhur Grizzled Squirrel Wildlife Sanctuary, home to unique flora and fauna. Explore the Shenbagathoppu Hills for lush greenery and scenic trekking trails. Ayyanar Falls, tucked in the Western Ghats, provides a tranquil retreat. The Rajapalayam town nearby is famous for its breed of dogs and weaving traditions. Don’t miss the bustling markets of Virudhunagar town, known for spices and vibrant culture. History enthusiasts can visit the Virudhunagar Kamarajar Memorial House. With its blend of spirituality, history, and nature, this district promises an enriching travel experience.

• Srivilliputhur Andal Renga Mannar Temple
• Grizzled Squirrel Wildlife Sanctuary
• Shenbaga Thoppu Meenvetti Parai Waterfalls
• Pilavakkal Dam, Virudhunagar

Shirdi Sai Baba temple in Chennai is among the most visited and respected places of worship In Tamil Nadu as well as India. The resident deity of the temple, Sai Baba of Shirdi, was an esteemed saint of the 18th century and the stories of his origin and teachings are mostly born out of folklore. However, Sai Baba later became the center of a cult called All India Sai Samaj, and the temple acts as the headquarters for the community.

The Samaj was found in the 1940s by Narasimha Swamiji, and the same person founded the temple as well in 1952. The temple now has followers and devotees in hundreds of thousands. Every year, a large number of people pay their tributes to the mysterious saint – even celebrities and public figures are a part of his following.

Sai Baba is recognized as one of those spiritual reformers who does not have ties to any particular god of any religion but is a figure of worship himself. So, there are no religious restrictions imposed upon those who visit the temple. In fact, this temple has fixed days and hours for reading Islamic text Quran and the book of Christianity, the Holy Bible – something that you will not find in any other spiritual establishment. Another unique feature of the Sai Baba Temple is that it still has a part of the flame that was lit by Sai Baba in Shirdi to mark his contribution to society.

Every Sunday, devotees pay tribute to Sai Baba and his work by worshipping the flame with Agni Puja. The temple offers a peaceful retreat for anyone, whether or not they are followers of the saint. The premises welcome people of any faith with open arms. Anyone who takes an interest in listening to holy texts or spiritual songs can spend some time here in the calm and serene environment.

Mahalingapuram Sree Ayyappa Temple perhaps one of the cleanest and best temple complex where you have Sri Guruvayoorappan and Lord Ganapathy along with all the other deities closely resembling the actual panchaloha idol of Lord Ayyappa at Sabarimala. This temple gets lots of devotees especially during the pilgrimage season who do the rituals before proceeding on a pilgrimage to Sabarimala temple. It has been a pleasant temple where one can find peace. It is a lovely place for spirituality.

Temple is very clean and well maintained. Pooja Chanda melam makes our mind so relaxed, feels very close to the lord. This temple is situated near to Kodampakkam bridge and Nungambakkam highway, have very easy access from the road. The architecture of the building is similar to Kerala traditional temple and follows the same rituals spreads positive energy all over. It is one of the must-visit and truly a divine place in Chennai.

Ashtalakshmi Temple located near Besant Nagar beach is dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi and her 8 forms. Ashtalakshmi is considered as the giver of wealth, success, knowledge, prosperity, courage and food. The shrine was built on the wishes of Sri Chandrashekarendra Saraswati Swamigal and sanctification of temple happened in 1976.

The complex was constructed in a manner to represent the shape of one of the most sacred symbols for Hindus, the Om. The complex is said to be inspired by the Sundararaja Perumal Temple in Uthiramerur and was built according to the “Ashtanga Vimana (eight parts)” style. In the temple, visitors can see the eight forms of Goddess Lakshmi installed in different sanctums at four levels.

The shrine dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Vishnu is on the second level. This is the first and the main shrine the devotees are lead to from the entrance. They then take the stairs that lead to the third level of the sanctum and has the shrines of Gajalakshmi, Santhanalakshmi, Vidyalakshmi, Vijayalakshmi.

The fourth level consists of a shrine maintained only for Dhanalakshmi. Outside the main shrine, there are shrines of Dhaanya Lakshmi, Aadi Lakshmi, and Dhairya Lakshmi all on the first level. Every floor also consists of avatars of Lord Vishnu in various postures – standing, sitting and resting. In addition to this, a standing idol of Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi can be spotted on the first floor.

The temple also consists of a 5.5-foot gold-plated Kalasam on top of the sanctum sanctorum which holds the idol of Mahavishnu and Mahalakshmi as the supreme deity of the temple along with 32 other newly installed Kalasam.

A large number of devotees can be seen here during Hindu festivals like Navratri, Gokulashtami, Deepavali, and Pongal. Moreover, the Pooja that is held in the evening is worth watching. Apart from locals, you can also witness tourists flocking in from different parts of the world to enjoy the mesmerizing beauty of the temple.

Image Attribution : @Minion Clicks from Instagram

Kalikambal Temple, in the heart of Chennai. It is located in Thambu Chetty Street, is one of the oldest and most religious temple. There is one more entrance from Armenian Street. It is devoted to the Shaivite Gods – (Kamateshvarar) Shiva and his consort Kamakshi (Kalikambal) in her benign avatar.

Originally the Kalikambal temple was situated inside the Fort St. George. During the course of time, it has moved to its present venue in George Town. It is also said that the fierce form of Kali was which was worshipped earlier has been replaced with a serene form subsequently. Faith in worship itself brings miracles! But the temple itself is steeped in History.

The great Maratha warrior Chatrapati Shivaji Rao (17th century) along with his trusted Minister was here to worship Kali. The Tamil Poet Bharathi (20th century) has sung many songs in praise of this Goddess. He was a frequent visitor according to the writings on the temple walls.

The temple has also seen patronage from peoples of various strata of society. Today its patronage has swollen to great numbers. This is one of the few temples where God and Goddess are placed back to back. It is pretty rare as per temple architecture.

Kalikamba Temple can be reached easily by the MRTS (get down at Beach Station and walk across First Line Beach ). It is also easily accessible from Parry’s Corner bus stand. The parking of private vehicles will be a problem. But one can park a few streets away and walk it up or use a cycle rickshaw to commute the short distance to the temple. A visit to Chennai must include a visit to this temple.

One can also have a darshan of Lord Ganapathy, Murugan with Valli Deivanai Veerabhadra Swamy and Maha Kali. It is a belief that your prayers will be answered soonest upon your darshan of Kalikambal. It is pretty crowded always, especially on Tuesdays and Fridays.

Kalikambal Temple Timings: Morning 6.00 a.m. to 1.00 p.m. Evening 3.00 p.m. to 8.00 p.m.

One can experience the real Hinduism culture here. A very powerful temple with great vibrations.

Madhya Kailash is an important landmark in Chennai in Adyar. This is located at the junction of Tidel park road and the Sardar Patel road. The main deity of the temple is Lord Ganesha. It is also called Nadukkayilai.

This temple is famous for Adhyantha Prabhu, which is a part of God Ganapathy and God Anjaneya. The right side is Ganesh and the left Hanuman. The idol was crafted after a vision of such a form was seen by one of the temple officials. Other sanctums are Lord Suryanarayana, Shiva, Anjaneya, Swarna Bhairavar and few more.

In the afternoons, the priest offers rice to Lord Vishnu, made into a ball taken to God Surya shrine and offered to the crows. Another popular feature of this temple is, on Vinayaka Chathurthi day, sun falls on the deity showing an auspicious note, where the 8 bells, SA RI GA MA PA DA NI SA are played.

In Maharashtrian style, one can light the camphor to this deity himself, giving a great sense of satisfaction. Lord Vinayaka himself takes on the onus of propitiating the ancestors. In the earlier days, this place was famous for performing poojas for new vehicles.

The temple open timings are 6:00 AM – 12:00 PM and 4:30 PM – 9:00 PM. This is a small but elegant temple. It is possibly around 30 years old.

With so much of traffic and noise in the junction, it is surprising that there is no noise inside the temple. It always gives thought to Revisit again. This temple has enough parking space near the entrance. There are Pooja items shops nearby. It is a calm place to evoke one’s inner self a lot. A lovely temple, floated on the prime city of Chennai, a must-visit temple too.

Image Attribute : Sankar Pandian

Andal Renga Mannar Temple located in Srivilliputhur, Virudhunagar Dist., is one of the 108 Divya Kshetrams or holy abodes of Lord Sri Vishnu.

History & Legend of Andal Temple

The temple’s history dates back to the rule of Pandia Dynasty and is dedicated to Lord Vishnu worshipped as Vatapatrasayi (Lord resting on a banyan tree leaf) and his consort Lakshmi as Andal. The temple also marks its divinity as the birthplace of Periyalwar and his adopted child Andal – an ardent devotee of Lord Vishnu.

Srivilliputhur Andal Temple Architecture

The temple houses a huge complex with ancient sculptures and drawings. It has two divisions – the first part constructed by King Villi is known as Vadabadra Sayana Temple. The second part constructed by different Kings of Pandia is known as Andal Sannadhi. The Rajagopuram (temple tower) rises to an awe-inspiring 192 feet high. The inscriptions of the great poet Kamban praising the temple is found in the tower.

The temple tower proudly adorns the symbol of the Government of Tamil Nadu

The temple of Srivilliputhur has given Tamil literature Tiruppavai – a collection of 30 poems composed by Andal and Tirupallandu composed by Periyalvar. These Vedic hymns are recited even today in the temple and hence visitors of the temple are assured of a soul-enriching experience. The temple is a must visit place for devotion and serenity and also for its architectural grandeur.

Famous Festivals in Srivilliputhur Andal Temple:

The Srivilliputhur Andal Temple celebrates vibrant festivals like Andal Thirukalyanam (divine wedding in Jan-Feb), Vaikunta Ekadasi (heavenly gate opening in Dec-Jan), Adi Pooram (Andal’s birth in July-Aug), Purattasi Saturdays (special Vishnu worship in Sep-Oct), Panguni Uthiram (divine marriage in Mar-Apr), and Margazhi Festival (Thiruppavai recitals in Dec-Jan). These events feature grand processions, temple decorations, devotional hymns, and the famous Srivilliputhur Palkova, offering a glimpse into Tamil Nadu’s rich spiritual and cultural heritage.

How to reach Srivilliputhur Andal Temple?

Must-Try Srivilliputhur Palkova

Srivilliputhur is famous for a sweet treat called Palkova. It’s made by slowly cooking milk and sugar together until it becomes thick and creamy. This process creates a rich, milky flavor that’s unique to this region. People love Palkova because it’s simple, natural, and delicious. You can find it in shops all around Srivilliputhur, and it’s a popular gift for visitors to take home.

Srivilliputhur Andal Temple Timings:

The Srivilliputhur Andal Temple timings are as follows:
Morning hours: 6.30 A.M to 1 P.M
Evening hours: 4 P.M to 9 P.M

Srivilliputhur Andal Temple Pooja Details:

The Pooja timings as below enlisted are different for each shrine.

Andal Temple Pooja Details:

Pooja Time	Pooja Name
6.30 A.M	Viswa Roopam
8.30 A.M	Kala Sanathi
12 NOON	Uchikkalam
1.00 P.M	Nadai Sarthal
4.00 P.M	Nadai Thirappu
6.00 P.M	Saya Ratchai
8.00 P.M	Atthalam
9.00 P.M	Arvanai

Vadapatrasayanar Temple Pooja Details:

Pooja Time	Pooja Name
7.00 A.M	Viswa Roopam
8.00 A.M	Kala Sanathi

Azhvar Sannathi Pooja Details:

Pooja Time	Pooja Name
8.00 A.M	Kala Santhi
9.30 A.M	Thirumanjanam
12.30 P.M	Nadai Sarthal
4.30 P.M	Nadai Thirappu
5.30 P.M	Saya Ratchai
8.00 P.M	Atthalam
8.30 P.M	Aravanai

Srinivasa Perumal Temple Pooja Details:

Pooja Time	Pooja Name
7.00 A.M	Nadai Thirappu
12 P.M	UchikKalam
6.30 P.M	Saya Ratchai
7.00 P.M	Nadai Sarthal

For more details about the temple, please check the below Official Website of Andal Andal Renga Mannar Temple at Srivilliputhur.

Nearby Tourist attractions in Srivilliputhur:

• Sathuragiri Hills Shiva Temple
• Grizzled Squirrel Wildlife Sanctuary
• Shenbaga Thoppu Meenvetti Parai Waterfalls
• Pilavakkal Dam, Virudhunagar

It is the only Parsi fire temple in Tamil Nadu and the surrounding region, including Puducherry and Kerala. The temple is 104 years old.

It is one of the 177 odd fire temples in the world, of which some 150 are in India. The flame in the temple burns continuously since the temple was built.

The actual fire in the temple is inside a sanctum sanctorum where only the Parsi priest is allowed to enter. The fire at the temple has never been extinguished. Priests tend to fire five times a day during prayers.

It’s a must-visit the place to exclaim about Parsis tradition and sacred activities.

ISKCON Temple Salem is housed at Salem and has been moved to a new place that is three acres big. It is near and just half a kilometer away from Periyar University and Government Engineering College.

It is run by a set of Bhramacharis under the guidance of H.H. Bhakti Vikasa Swami Maharaj. This temple has its own set of devotees who feel the place is divine keep visiting the temple.

The idols are made out of Marble and are universal at every ISKCON temple. The festivals that are celebrated here are Guru Poornima, Krishna Janmastami, Radhastami, Govardhana Puja, Narasimha Chaturthi etc.

If you find divinity in the Marble idols and want a change from the usual stone idols, this is the place you should visit.