Temples In Cauvery Vadakarai

Visited on: 31^st August, 2018.

Location 

Mela Kadambur is situated at a distance of about 32 kms from Chidambaram on Chidambaram to Kattumannar Koil route (via Eyyalur). It is about 6 kms From Kattumannar Koil and 5 kms from both Thekkiruppa and Omampuliyur. 

Other Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams near this pilgrimage site are - Thiru Omampuliyur, Thiru Kanattumullur (Kanattampuliyur), Thiru Naaraiyur, Thiru Erukkathampuliyur (Rajendrapatinam) and Thiru Kudalaiyatrur.

Another Shiva temple in Kezhak Kadambur, very close to this place is named “Kadambur Ilamkoil” or “Rudrapathi koil” which is a “Vaippu Sthalam”. This temple is a protected monument under the control of Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) owing to many beautiful sculptures adorning this temple.

General Information

• This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 34^th Shiva Sthalam on the northern bank of the river Cauvery in Chozha Nadu (Vadakarai).
• Lord Shiva in this temple is a Swayambumurthi (self-manifested).
• The vimanam (roof tower) of sanctum sanctorum has been beautifully sculpted completely in granite, resembling a magnificent chariot.
• This east facing temple has two corridors and main tower (Rajagopuram) has 3-tiers.
• Though Nandhi and Balipeetam are present, there is no flag post (“Kodimaram”) present.

History of the Temple

This ancient village is named Kadambur and temple as Karakkoil.

The village is named after temple’s Sthala Viruksham - Kadamba tree. Also, Kadambar ruled this region thus, the name.

It is believed that current stone chariot form of temple was built by the Chola King Kulothungan-I in the year 1113 AD, prior to which, it was a brick structure. The Chettiyars of Devakottai renovated this temple in later years.

Tamil literary sources describe nine categories of temple structures dedicated to Lord Shiva. They are – “Perung koyil”, “Karak koyil”, “Gnazhar koyil”, “Kokudik koyil”, “Ilam koyil”, “Manik koyil”, “Alak koyil”, “Madak koyil” and “Thoongani koyil”.

Amongst them, this temple is a Karakkoil type where the Sanctum Sanctorum (“Garbagraham”) is in chariot like structure pulled by horses with an enchanting appearance. Karakkoil in Sanskrit is Vijayam – meaning victory.

This temple is under the administrative control of Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Department of Government of Tamil Nadu (HR&CE).

Visited on: 24^th August, 2018.

Location

Anbil Alandurai (Keezh Anbil) is located at a distance of about 30 kms from Trichy and 8 kms away from Lalgudi on the Trichy to Lalgudi route.

Other Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams near this place are –

Thirumanthurai, Thirukkanur, Mela Thirukkattuppalli, Thiruppatrurai, Perumpuliyur, Thiru Mazhapadi, Thiru Pazhuvoor, Thiruvaiyaru, Thiru Neithanam, Kandiyur, Thiru Chotruthurai, Thiru Vedhikudi, Thiruppoonthuruthi, Thiruvaalampozhil, Thiruvanaikkaval, Trichy Malaikkottai, Karkudi, Mukkeecharam, Erumbiyur and Nedungalam.

General Information

• This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 57^th Shiva Sthalam on the northern bank of the river Cauvery in Chozha Nadu (Vadakarai). 
• Lord Shiva in this temple is a Swayambumurthi (self-manifested). 
• This east facing temple has two corridors and its main tower (Rajagopuram) has 5-tiers.
• The last consecration ceremony (Maha Kumbabishekam) took place on 09.06.2004.

History of the Temple

Anbilanthurai is a combination of the name of this village “Anbil” and the name of this temple “Alanthurai”.

This place is located on the northern bank of the river Coleroon (Kollidam), a tributary of the river Cauvery.

There are some stone inscriptions in the temple which date back to the periods of Cholas and the Hoysalas.

It is believed that this temple was originally a Maada Kovil (a temple built on a raised platform). It was later rebuilt by the Chola King Parantakan-I without the elevated platform.

This temple is under the administrative control of the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Department of Government of Tamil Nadu (HR&CE).

Visited on: 30^th June, 2018.

Location

Vada Kurangaduthurai is situated at a distance of about 22 kms from Kumbakonam on the Kumbakonam to Thiruvaiyaru route. It is less than a kilometre from Aduthurai Perumal Koil en route Ganapathy Agraharam. From Thiruvaiyaru, this place is about 11 kms away.

Other Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalam near this place are –

Thiruppazhanam, Thiruvaiyaru, Thiru Neithanam, Perumpuliyur, Thiru Mazhapadi, Thirukkandiyur, Thiru Chotruthurai, Thiruvedhikudi, Thiruvirkudi, Thiru Nallur and Thiru Palaithurai. 

General Information

• This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 49^th Shiva Sthalam on the Northern bank of the river Cauvery in Chozha Nadu (Vadakarai).
• Lord Shiva in this temple is a Swayambumurthi (self-manifested). 
• This east facing temple has two corridors and its main tower (Rajagopuram) has 5-tiers.
• This temple has no flag post (Dwajasthambam).

History of the Temple

This ancient temple is believed to have been built about 1300 years ago.

There are some stone inscriptions here which date back to the periods of Chola Kings - Koppara Kesari Varman, Pandian Thalaikonda Koppara Kesari Varman, Raja Rajan-I, Rajendran-I, Kulothungan-III and Pandiya King Vikrama Pandiya Devan.

There are two places by the name of “Kurangaduthurai”. At these two places, Lord Shiva is believed to have been worshiped by two monkeys (“kurangu” in Tamil) from Ramayana – Sugreev and Vaali.

This place is called as “Vada Kurangaduthurai” as it is located on the northern side of the river Cauvery and Vaali is believed to have worshiped Lord Shiva here. The other Kurangaduthurai is called “Then Kurangaduthurai” since it is located on the southern side of the river Cauvery and Sukreevan is believed to have worshiped the Lord Shiva there.

This place (Vada Kurangaduthurai) is now also known as Aaduthurai Perumal Koil.

This temple is one of the 88 temples controlled by Tanjore Palace Devasthanam and it is also under the purview of the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Department of Government of Tamil Nadu (HR&CE).

Visited on: June 30, 2018.

Location 

Thiruppazhanam is situated at a distance of about 4 kms from Thiruvaiyaru on the Thiruvaiyaru to Kumbakonam route. From Kumbakonam it is about 30 kms away.

It is about 2 kms away from the famous Thingalur Lord Chandran temple.

Other Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalam near this place are – 

Vada Kurangaduthurai, Thiruvaiyaru, Thirukkandiyur, Thiru Chotruthurai, Thiruvedhikudi, Thiruppunthuruthi, Thiru Alampozhil, Thiru Neithanam, Thiru Nallur and Thiru Palaithurai. 

General Information

• This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 50^th Shiva Sthalam on the northern bank of the river Cauvery in Chozha Nadu (Vadakarai).
• Lord Shiva in this temple is a Swayambumurthi (self-manifested).
• This is one of the Saptha Sthana temples of Thiruvaiyaru.
• This east facing temple has two corridors and its main tower (Rajagopuram) has 5-tiers.
• There is no flag post (Dwajasthambam) here.
• The last consecration ceremony (Maha Kumbabishekam) took place on 08.09.2005.

History of the Temple

The historical names of this place are Thiruppazhanam, Kathalivanam, Kausikasramam, Prayanapuri and Pazhanappathi.

“Pazhanam” means fertile land. True to its name, this place is surrounded by many such fertile fields.

There are about 28 stone inscriptions in this temple which date back to the periods of many Chola kings like Aditha Cholan-I, Paranthakan-I, Kulothungan-III, Rajarajan and Rajakesari Varman. 

It is believed that this temple was constructed by Chola kings Aditha Cholan-I and Paranthaka Cholan-I.

This temple is one of the 88 temples controlled by the Tanjore Palace Devasthanam.

This temple is also under the purview of the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Department of Government of Tamil Nadu (HR&CE).

Visited on: June 30, 2018.

Location 

Thiru Neithanam is situated at a distance of about 2 kms from Thiruvaiyaru. It is located at a distance of about 37 kms from Kumbakonam and 15 kms from Tanjore.

Other Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalam near this place are – Thiruvaiyaru, Thirukkandiyur, Thiru Chotruthurai, Thiruvedhikudi, Thiruppazhanam and Thiruvirkudi. 

General Information

• This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 52^nd Shiva Sthalam on the northern bank of the river Cauvery in Chozha Nadu (Vadakarai).
• Lord Shiva in this temple is a Swayambumurthi (self-manifested).
• This is one of the “Saptha Sthana” temples of Thiruvaiyaru.
• This east facing temple has two corridors and its main tower (Rajagopuram) has 5-tiers.
• The last consecration ceremony (Maha Kumbabishekam) took place on 09.04.2001. 

History of the Temple

The historical names of this place are Thiru Neithanam and Thillai Sthanam.

There are 51 stone inscriptions in this temple which date back to the periods of five Chola kings including Paranthakan-I. In these stone inscriptions this place is referred to as “Rajaraja Valanattu Bainganaattu Thiru Neithanam” and the lord of this temple is praised as Sri Neithanamudaiyar. Most of these inscriptions are related to the endowments and donations made to this temple.

This temple is under the administrative control of the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Department of Government of Tamil Nadu (HR&CE).

Visited on: 19^th October, 2017 and 30^th March, 2018.

Location

Thiru Naaraiyur is situated at a distance of about 8 kms from Kattumannar Koil on the Kattumannar Koil to Chidambaram route, near Kumaratchi. It is about 18 kms from Chidambaram.

Other Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalam near this place are – Omampuliyur, Thirukkadampur, Kanattampuliyur, Erukkathampuliyur (Rajendrapatinam) and Thiru Kudalaiyatrur.

General Information 

• This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 33^rd Shiva Sthalam on the northern bank of the river Cauvery in Chozha Nadu (Vadakarai). 
• Lord Shiva in this temple is a Swayambumurthi (self-manifested).
• This east facing temple has a single corridor and its main tower (Raja Gopuram) has 3-tiers.

• Lord Polla Pillaiyar (Vinayakar) in this temple is a Swayambu murthy and is very popular.

• This is the birth place of Nambiyandar Nambi, who along with King Rajaraja Chola recovered the Saiva Thirumurais from the Chidambaram Shiva temple.

• The last consecration ceremony (Kumbabishekam) took place on 06.09.2009.

History of the Temple

The most significant aspect of this temple is the Vinayakar – also called “Polla Pillaiyar”.  Polla Pillaiyar means that this idol is not chiselled but has appeared on its own as “Swayambu”. He is very popular and regarded as the most powerful deity here.

This temple is under the administrative control of the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Department of Government of Tamil Nadu (HR&CE). 

Visited on: 30^th March, 2018.

Location 

Omampuliyur is situated at a distance of about 31 kms from Chidambaram on the Chidambaram to Kattumannarkoil route. From Kattumannar koil, this place is about 8 kms away and from Kaanattam Puliur it is about 6 kms away.

Other Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalam near this place are – Thiru Naaraiyur (15 kms), Thirukkadampur, Kanattampuliyur (6 kms), Thiruvazhkoli Puthur, Thiru Pazhamanni Padikkarai (Iluppaipattu), Erukkathampuliyur (Rajendrapatinam) and Thiru Kudalaiyatrur.

General Information

• This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 31^st Shiva Sthalam on the northern bank of the river Cauvery in Chozha Nadu (Vadakarai).
• Lord Shiva in this temple is a Swayambumurthi (self-manifested).
• This is a famous Guru Parihara Sthalam.
• This is a Parihara Sthalam for Revathi Nakshathiram (star).
• In place of the main tower, there is a beautiful arch with sculptures of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvathy.
• This east facing temple has a single corridor and its second main tower has 3-tiers.
• There is no flag post (dwajasthambam) here.
• The last consecration ceremony (Maha Kumbabishekam) took place in the year 2011 and prior to that on 25.06.1992. 

History of the Temple

This ancient temple is situated on the northern bank of the river Kollidam. There are six stone inscriptions in this temple which date back to the periods of Chola King Kulothungan-III and Pallava King Kopperunsinga Devar.

This temple is under the administrative control of the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Department of Government of Tamil Nadu (HR&CE).

Visited on: 25^th March, 2018.

Location

Thiruviyalur (Thiruvisanallur) is situated at a distance of about 8 kms from Kumbakonam on the Kumbakonam to Poombuhar route (Via Veppathur).

Other Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams near this place are – Thirunthudevankudi (about one kilometre away from this temple), Thirunageswaram, Kumbakonam (3 temples – Kudamukku, Kharonam and Keezhkkottam), Thiruvidaimaruthur, Aduthurai, Thiruneelakkudi and Thiruvavaduthurai.

General Information

• This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 43^rd Shiva Sthalam on the northern bank of the river Cauvery in Chozha Nadu (Vadakarai).
• Lord Shiva in this temple is a Swayambumurthi (self-manifested).
• There are 4 Bairavar idols placed in a row and is known as Chathurkala Bairavars.
• This east facing temple has two corridors and its main tower (Rajagopuram) has 5-tiers.
• This is the birth place of the renowned scholar Saint Sridhara Venkatesa Iyyavaal.

History of the Temple

According to legend, in ancient times, this region was a forest densely covered with Vilwa trees and hence the lord here is praised as Sri Vilvaranyeswarar.

There are 94 stone inscriptions in this temple which date back to the periods of Cholas (14 kings – from Paranthakan-I to Kulothungan-III), Pandyas (king Varakuna Pandian) and the Vijayanagara kingdom (king Krishnadevarayar).

This temple is one of the 88 temples controlled by Tanjore Palace Devasthanam.

This temple is also under the purview of the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Department of Government of Tamil Nadu (HR&CE).

Visited on: 30^th March, 2018.

Location 

Kanattumullur is situated at a distance of about 22 kms from Chidambaram on the Chidambaram – Kattumannarkoil - Omampuliyur route. It is very close to Muttam village. From Omampuliyur, this place is about 5 kms.

Other Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams near this place are - Thiru Omampuliyur (3 kms), Thiru Kadampur, Thiru Naaraiyur, Erukkathampuliyur (Rajendrapatinam) and Thiru Kudalaiyatrur.

General Information

• This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 32^nd Shiva Sthalam on the northern bank of the river Cauvery in Chozha Nadu (Vadakarai).
• Lord Shiva in this temple is a Swayambumurthi (self-manifested).
• This east facing temple has two corridors and its main tower (Rajagopuram) has 3-tiers.
• The last consecration ceremony (Maha Kumbabishekam) took place on 05.04.2012 and prior to that on 20.08.2000.

History of the Temple

This ancient temple is located on the northern bank of the river Kollidam.

The historical names of this place are Mathookavanam, Athishta Miruthika Kshetram and Thiru Kanattu Mullur.

There are some stone inscriptions in this temple which date back to the periods of Chola kings Vikrama, Rajendra and Rajendra-III.

Visited on: 24^th March, 2018.

Location

Anniyur (Ponnur) is located at a distance of about 9 kms from Mayiladuthurai. From Mayiladuthurai, travel to Mappadukai (5 kms) on the Kallanai-Mayiladuthurai -Poompuhar route and then take the diversion road to Ponnur (4 kms). Anniyur is on the bus route ffrom Mayiladuthurai to Manalmedu (via Kaali).

Other Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams near this place are –

Vaitheeswaran Koil, Kurumanakkudi, Thiruppunkur, Thiru Karuppariyalur, Thiru Kurakkukka, Thiru Vazhkoliputhur, Thiru Kurukkai, Needur, Thirumanancheri, Thiru Velvikudi, Thiru Ethirkolpadi, Mayiladuthurai, Thiru Nintriyur, Thiru Nani Palli and Thiru Kadaimudi.

General Information

• This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 22^nd Shiva Sthalam on the northern bank of the river Cauvery in Chozha Nadu (Vadakarai).
• Lord Shiva in this temple is a Swayambumurthi (self-manifested).
• This east facing temple’s main tower is not tiered. In place of the Gopuram, there is a beautiful sculpture depicting Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvathy.
• This temple has a single corridor and there is no flag post (dwajasthambam) here.

History of the Temple

The historical names of this place are Vigusaranyam, Bhaskara Kshetram and Anniyur. However, now this village is called as Ponnur.

As per “Akanaanuru”, a text from the Sangam period, a local king called Anni lived here. This place might have been named after him.

This temple is under the administrative control of the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Department of Government of Tamil Nadu (HR&CE). 

Visited on: 23^rd July, 2016 and 17^th November, 2016.

Location 

Kurumanakkudi is situated at a distance of about 6 kms to the south-east of Vaitheeswaran Koil. From Vaitheeswaran Koil travel towards Mayiladuthurai for about 3 kms to reach village Pakasalai and from there take the diversion road and proceed further for about 2 kms to reach this temple.

Other Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams near this place are –

Vaitheeswaran Koil, Thiruppunkur, Thiru Karuppariyalur, Thiru Korukkai, Thiru Kurakkukka, Thiru Vazhkoliputhur, Needur, Anniyur, Mayiladuthurai, Thiru Nintriyur, Thiru Nani Palli and Thiru Kadaimudi

General Information

• This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 17^th Shiva Sthalam on the northern bank of the river Cauvery in Chozha Nadu (Vadakarai).
• Lord Shiva in this temple is a Swayambumurthi (self-manifested).
• This east facing temple has two corridors. It does not have a main tower (Rajagopuram) but in its place there is a beautiful arch. 
• The last consecration ceremony (Maha Kumbabishekam) took place on 09.02.2004.

History of the Temple

This ancient temple is believed to be more than 2000 years old.

One of the stone inscriptions here, which dates back to the period of Chola King Rajarajan, refers to this place as “Kuru Vaniyakkudi”.

This temple is under the administrative control of the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Department of Government of Tamil Nadu (HR&CE). 

Visited on: 24^th July 2016, 10^th February, 2017 and 24^th March, 2018. 

Location

Thiru Kurukkai is located at a distance of about 12 kms from Mayiladuthurai. From Mayiladuthurai, travel to Villiyanallur (8 kms) on the Mayiladuthurai to Manalmedu route and then take diversion road to Uchidamangalam (1 km). From Uchidamangalam, proceed further for about 3 kms to reach Kurukkai. 

Other Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams near this place are –

Vaitheeswaran Koil, Kurumanakkudi, Thiruppunkur, Thiru Karuppariyalur, Thiru Kurakkukka, Thiru Vazhkoliputhur, Needur, Anniyur (Ponnur), Mayiladuthurai, Thiru Nintriyur, Thiru Nani Palli and Thiru Kadaimudi.

General Information

• This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 26^th Shiva Sthalam on the northern bank of the river Cauvery in Chozha Nadu (Vadakarai).
• Lord Shiva in this temple is a Swayambumurthi (self-manifested).
• This is one of the Atta Veeratta Sthalams.
• This west facing temple has two corridors and it has a 5-tiered main tower (Rajagopuram).
• The last consecration ceremony (Kumbabishekam) took place on 29.04.1959.

History of the Temple

The historical names of this place are Yogeesapuram, Kaamathakanapuram and Kampakaapuram.

The stone inscriptions in this temple date back to the periods of Chola and Vijayanagara kingdoms.

This temple is under the administrative control of Dharumapuram Adheenam.

Atta Veeratta Sthalams

In Hindu mythology, there are eight special places where it is believed that Lord Shiva vanquished various demons and exhibited acts of bravery. These places are Veeratta Sthalams. In Tamil, this is referred to as “Atta Veerattanam” (“Atta” means eight and “Veeram” means bravery). Thiru Kurukkai is the seventh Veeratta Sthalam where Lord Shiva was believed to have been burnt Manmathan and later blessed.

The other seven Veeratta Sthalams are –

• Thirukkandiyur where one of Lord Brahma’s five heads was plucked;
• Thirukkovilur where the demon Andhakasuran was vanquished;
• Thiruvathigai where the lord is believed to have done the “Thiripura Samharam”.
• Keezha Parasalur where Dakshan’s yagna was stopped and he was killed;
• Thiruvirkudi where the demon Jalandharasuran was killed;
• Thiru Vazhuvur where the elephant Gajasuran was vanquished;
• Thirukkadaiyur where Lord Yama was believed to have been kicked and punished to save Markandeya.

Visited on: 10^th February, 2017 and 24^th March, 2018. 

Location

Thiru Needur is situated at a distance of about 4 kms north of Mayiladuthurai on the Mayiladuthurai to Manalmedu route. Needur has a railway station which is about one kilometre away from this temple.

Other Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams near this place are –

Mayiladuthurai, Anniyur, Thiru Nintriyur, Thiru Nani Palli, Thiru Kadaimudi, Vaitheeswaran Koil, Kurumanakkudi, Thiruppunkur, Thiru Karuppariyalur, Thiru Kurukkai, Thiru Kurakkukka and Thiru Vazhkoliputhur.

General Information

• This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 21^st Shiva Sthalam on the northern bank of the river Cauvery in Chozha Nadu (Vadakarai).
• Lord Shiva in this temple is a Swayambumurthi (self-manifested).
• This east facing temple has two corridors and it does not have a main tower.
• At the entrance there is an arch with beautiful sculptures of Lord Shiva, with Goddess Parvathy, on his bull mount along with sculptures of Vinayakar and Murugan.
• The last consecration ceremony (Maha Kumbabishekam) took place on 05.04.2007 and prior to that on 04.07.1985 and 30.06.1947.
• This is the birth place of Saint Munaiyaduvar, one of the 63 Nayanmars.

History of the Temple

Needur in Tamil means eternal place. According to Hindu mythology, at the end of every “Yuga”, there is a huge flood (deluge) that leads to the destruction of all living beings in the earth. This is called the “Pralayam”. It is believed that this place was not destroyed even at the end of the “Pralayam”. Hence it gets this name.

The historical names of this place are Magizhavanam, Vagularanyam and Magizharanyam.

There are some stone inscriptions in this temple which date back to the periods of Chola Kings Kulothungan-I, Rajathirajan-II and Rajarajan-III.

This temple is under the administrative control of the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Department of Government of Tamil Nadu (HR&CE).

Visited on: 11^th February, 2017.

Location

Thiru Kadaimudi is situated at a distance of about 18 kms from Mayliaduthurai on the Mayiladuthurai to Poompuhar route. Take the diversion road from Sathiram bus stand and proceed further for about 2 kms to reach this temple. Kadaimudi is located at a distance of about 2 kms from Sembanar Koil.

Other Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams near this temple are –

Thirunintriyur, Thiru Nani Palli, Thiruppallavaneecharam (Poompuhar), Thiruchaikkadu, Thiruvenkadu, Kezhai Thirukkattuppalli, Thirukkalikkamur (Annappan Pettai), Pariyal Veerattam, Thiruchempon Palli, Thiru Valampuram, Thalaichangadu, Aakkur, Thirukkadaiyur and Thirukkadaiyur Mayanam.

General Information

• This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 18^th Shiva Sthalam on the northern bank of the river Cauvery in Chozha Nadu (Vadakarai).
• Lord Shiva in this temple is a Swayambumurthi (self-manifested).
• River Cauveri changes its direction from north to west here.
• This west facing temple has a single corridor and it has no main tower (Rajagopuram). In its place, there is a beautiful arch.
• There is no flag post (Dwajasthambam) here. 
• The last consecration ceremony (Maha Kumbabishekam) took place on 15.09.2000.

History of the Temple

The Sthala Vruksham of this temple is Kiluvai tree, hence this place gets the name Kiluvai Oor. This was later changed to Keezhayur / Keezhur. Since this place was made up of seven hamlets earlier, it is also called Ezhur (“Ezhu” means seven in Tamil).

This is the place where river Cauvery finally merges with the Bay of Bengal. Hence it is also called “Kadai Mudi” (“Kadai” means end in Tamil).

There are stone inscriptions in this temple dating back to the periods of Vikrama Chola, Parantaka Chola-I and Pallava king Nandivarman-III. Lord Shiva here is referred in these inscriptions as Sri Thiruchadaimudi Udaiya Mahadevar.

This temple is under the administrative control of the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Department of Government of Tamil Nadu (HR&CE).

Visited on: November 2, 2017.

Location

Thiruvaikavur is situated at a distance of about 15 kms from Kumbakonam on the Kumbakonam to Thiruvaiyaru route (via Puliancheri). Take the diversion road from Puliancheri and proceed for about 9 kms to reach this temple. It is 12 kms away from Papanasam and 10 kms away from Swamimalai.

Other Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams near this place are –

Thiruvisayamangai (Govandha Puthur), Thiruppurambiam, Innambur, Kottaiyur, Patteeswaram, Sakthimutram, Pazhayarai Vadathali, Thiruvalanchuzhi and Kumbakonam (3 temples – Kudamukku, Keezhkkottam and Karonam).

General Information

• This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 48^th Shiva Sthalam on the northern bank of the river Cauvery in Chozha Nadu (Vadakarai).
• Lord Shiva in this temple is a Swayambumurthi (self-manifested).
• There is no flag post (“Dwajasthambam”) here.
• This east facing temple’s main tower is not tiered. In place of the Gopuram, there are beautiful sculptures depicting Lord Shiva, Goddess Parvathy, Vinayakar, Murugan, Brahma and Mahavishnu.
• This east facing temple has three corridors. 
• The last consecration ceremony (Maha Kumbabishekam) took place on 11.06.2003.

History of the Temple

This ancient temple is located on the southern bank of the river Kollidam and towards the north of the river Manniyaru.

The historical names of this place are Vilva Vanam and Bhoomi Puram.

As per the stone inscriptions present here, Chola King Kulothungan-I rebuilt this temple using granite in 11^th century AD.

This temple is under the administrative control of the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Department of Government of Tamil Nadu (HR&CE). 

Visited on: 29^th September, 2016 and 23^rd May, 2017

Location

Keezhai Thirukkattupalli is situated at a distance of about 2 kms from Thiruvenkadu. It is near Alli Vilagam village on the Sirkazhi to Tharangkambadi route. From Sirkazhi, this place is at a distance of about 10 kms. 

Other Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams near this temple are –

Thiruvenkadu, Thiruppallavaneecharam (Poompuhar), Thiruchaikkadu, Thiru Valampuram, Thirukkalikkamur (Annappan Pettai), Pariyal Veerattam, Thiruchempon Palli, Thiru Nani Palli, Thiru Nintriyur, Thiru Kadaimudi (Keezhur), Thalaichangadu, Aakkur, Thirukkadaiyur and Thirukkadaiyur Mayanam.

General Information

• This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 12^th Shiva Sthalam on the northern bank of the river Cauvery in Chozha Nadu (Vadakarai).
• Lord Shiva in this temple is a Swayambumurthi (self-manifested).
• This west facing temple has a single corridor. It does not have a main tower (Rajagopuram) but in its place there is a small and beautiful arch.
• The last consecration ceremony (Maha Kumbabishekam) took place on 24.01.2007.

History of the Temple

This temple is under the administrative control of the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Department of Government of Tamil Nadu (HR&CE).

Visited on: March 17, 2016 and November 2, 2017.

Location

Thiruppurambiyam is situated at a distance of about 10 kms from Kumbakonam on the Kumbakonam to Thiruvaiyaru route (via Puliancheri). Take the diversion road from Puliancheri and proceed for about 6 kms to reach this temple.

Other Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams near this place are –

Innambur, Kottaiyur, Thiruvisayamangai (Govandha Puthur) and Thiruvaikavur, Patteeswaram, Sakthimutram, Pazhayarai Vadathali, Thiruvalanchuzhi and Kumbakonam (3 temples – Kudamukku, Keezhkkottam and Karonam).

General Information

• This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 46^th Shiva Sthalam on the northern bank of the river Cauvery in Chozha Nadu (Vadakarai).
• Lord Shiva in this temple is a Swayambumurthi (self-manifested).
• The 64^th “Thiruvilaiyadal” of Lord Shiva took place here.
• This is one of the 24 important temples for Lord Dakshinamoorthy.
• This is one of the 44 Paadal petra sthalams where the “Moovar” (the three saints - Saint Thirugnanasambanthar, Saint Thirunavukarasar (Appar) and Saint Sundaramurthy (Sundarar) had rendered their Pathigams.
• This east facing temple has two corridors and its main tower Rajagopuram has 5-tiers.
• The last consecration ceremony (Maha Kumbabishekam) took place on 18.03.2016.

History of the Temple

The temple is situated on the northern bank of the river Manniyaru and is surrounded by three rivers - Manniyaru, Kollidam and the Cauvery.

There are 11 stone inscriptions in this temple dating back to the periods from the first Chola king Rajakesari Varman to king Kulothungan. Also, there is another set of 62 stone inscriptions which belong to the periods of later Chola kings including Paranthagan-I, Kandarathithan, Adithan, Rajarajan, Vikraman, Rajarajan-III and Rajendran-III. Another stone inscription present there bears a mention of the Vijayanagara king Virupatchirayan.

Once this temple was under the control of the Pandya kingdom and king Varaguna Pandyan built this temple in brick. Later, the Chola king Adhithya Chola-I converted it into a granite temple.

The historical names of this place are Thirupurambiam, Kalyanamaanagar and Punnaahavanam.

Some of the idols in the koshtam and the corridor are badly broken. It is believed that this was done a long time ago by people from other religious backgrounds.

This temple is under the administrative control of Thirugnanasambantha Swamigal Adheenam, Madurai.

Visited on: 2^nd November, 2017.

Location 

Innambur is located at a distance of about 9 kms from Kumbakonam on the Kumbakonam to Thiruvaiyaru route. Travel for about 6 kms to reach Puliancheri and then take the diversion road to Innambur and proceed further for about 3 kms to reach this temple.

Other Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams near this place are –

Kottaiyur, Thiruppurambiam, Thiruvisayamangai (Govindaputhur), Thiruvaikavur, Patteeswaram, Sakthimutram, Pazhayarai Vadathali, Thiruvalanchuzhi and Kumbakonam (3 temples – Kudamukku, Keezhkkottam and Karonam).

General Information

• This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 45^th Shiva Sthalam on the northern bank of the river Cauvery in Chozha Nadu (Vadakarai).
• Lord Shiva in this temple is a Swayambumurthi (self-manifested).
• This east facing temple has two corridors and its main tower (Rajagopuram) has 5-tiers.
• There is no flag post (“dwajasthambam”) here.
• The vimanam (roof tower) of the sanctum sanctorum has been constructed according to the Gaja Brishtam style of architecture. This is a very big vimanam.
• The last consecration ceremony (Maha Kumbabishekam) took place on 16.09.2013 and prior to that on 21.06.2000.

History of the Temple

This ancient temple is located on the banks of Kollidam river.

There are two stone inscriptions in this temple which date back to the periods of Chola king Rajakesari Varman and Vijayanagara king Veera Kampanna Udayar.

This temple is under the administrative control of the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Department of Government of Tamil Nadu (HR&CE). 

Visited on: 24^th July, 2016 and 10^th February, 2017.

Location

Thalaignayiru (Thiru Karuppariyalur) is situated at a distance of about 9 kms from Vaitheeswarankoil on the Vaitheeswarankoil to Manalmedu route. The temple is about one kilometre away from the main road. From Mayiladuthurai, it is about 12 kms.

Other Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalam near this place are – Vaitheeswaran Koil, Thirukkannar Koil, Thiruppunkur, Thiruvazhkoliputhur, Thiru Nintriyur, Thiru Kurakkuka, Thiru Kurukkai, Mayiladuthurai, Thiru Needur and Thiru Anniyur.

General Information

• This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 27^th Shiva Sthalam on the northern bank of the river Cauvery in Chozha Nadu (Vadakarai).
• Lord Shiva in this temple is a Swayambumurthi (self-manifested).
• This east facing temple has two corridors and its main tower (Rajagopuram) has 3-tiers.
• The last consecration ceremony (Maha Kumbabishekam) took place on 22.03.1953.

History of the Temple

The historical names of this place are Yuthigavanam, Thiru Karuppariyalur, Melaikkazhi, Kanmanasa Puram, Adhithyapuri, Thalaignayiru, Kokudikkoil and Kallar kottai.

There are 12 stone inscriptions in this temple which date back to the periods of Chola kings Kulothungan-III, Konerikondan and Thiribuvana Chakravarthy Rajarajan and Vijayanagara king Pratapakrishna Devarayar.

This temple is under the administrative control of Dharumapuram Adheenam.

However, this temple is presently in a very bad state. The main tower as well as the towers in the sanctum are in ruins and are covered with a lot of weeds and plants. Even the compound walls and shrines are in a dilapidated condition.

Visited on: November 2, 2017.

Location 

Kottaiyur is situated at a distance of about 4 kms from Kumbakonam on the Kumbakonam to Swamimalai route.

Other Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams near this place are –

Kumbakonam (Kudamukku, Kudanthai Karonam and Kudanthai Keezhkkottam), Innambur, Thiruppurambiam, Thiruvisayamangai and Thiruvaikavur.

General Information

• This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 44^th Shiva Sthalam on the northern bank of the river Cauvery in Chozha Nadu (Vadakarai).
• Lord Shiva in this temple is a Swayambumurthi (self-manifested).
• This east facing temple has two corridors and its main tower (Rajagopuram) has 5-tiers.
• The last consecration ceremony (Maha Kumbabishekam) took place on 26.10.2015 and prior to that on 09.02.1992.

History of the Temple

The historical names of this place are Koteecharam, Vilvaaranyam and Herandapuram.

There are five stone inscriptions in this temple which date back to the periods of Chola kings Rarathirajan and Kulothungan-III. This temple is believed to have been built by Chola and Pallava kings.

This temple is under the administrative control of the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Department of Government of Tamil Nadu (HR&CE).

This is one of the Saptastanam temples associated with Sri Adhi Kumbeswarar temple, Kumbakonam. Other temples are Kalayanallur, Thiru Valanchuzhi, Darasuram, Swamimalai, Kumbakonam and Melaikkaveri. 

12 famous Shiva temples participate in the renowned “Mahaamaham” festival during which “Theerthavaari” happens in the Mahaamaha tank. This festival is celebrated once in 12 years in Kumbakonam. These 12 Shiva temples are:

1. Kasi Viswanathar Temple, Kumbakonam
2. Aadhi Kumbeswarar Temple, Kumbakonam
3. Someswarar Temple, Kumbakonam
4. Nageswarar (Vilvavaneswarar) Temple, Kumbakonam
5. Kalahasteeswarar Temple, Kumbakonam
6. Gauthameswarar (Upaveethanathar) Temple, Kumbakonam
7. Koteeswarar Temple, Kottaiyur
8. Amirthakalasanathar Temple, Kalayanallur
9. Bhanapureeswarar Temple, Kumbakonam
10. Abhimukeswarar Temple, Kumbakonam
11. Aathikambatta Visvanathar Temple, Kumbakonam and
12. Ekambareswarar Temple, Kumbakonam.

Simultaneously, 5 Vaishnava temples from Kumbakonam also participate in this festival. However, instead of their Theerthavaari in Mahaamaha tank, the Theerthavaari happens in the river Kaveri. These Vaishnava temples are:

1. Sri Saarangapani temple
2. Sri Chakrapaani temple
3. Sri Ramaswami temple
4. Sri Rajagopalaswami temple and
5. Sri Aadhivaraha Perumal temple. 

Visited on: 11^th January, 2017. I have also had the honour of working as a priest in this temple for many years.

Location

Thirunthudhevankudi is situated at a distance of about 10 kms from Kumbakonam on the Kumbakonam to Mayiladuthurai route. Take the diversion road from Thiruvisanallur and travel for about 2 kms to reach this temple. Nearest railway station is Thiruvidaimaruthur which is about 6 kms away from this place.

Other Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams near this place are - Thiruvisanallur, Thiruvidaimaruthur, Thirunageswaram, Then Kurangaduthurai (Aduthurai) and Thiruneelakkudi.

General Information

• This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 42^nd Shiva Sthalam on the northern bank of the river Cauvery in Chozha Nadu (Vadakarai).
• Lord Shiva in this temple is a Swayambumurthi (self-manifested).
• This is a famous “Parihara Sthalam” for those who born in Kadaka Raasi.
• This east facing temple has two corridors and its main tower (Rajagopuram) does not have any tiers.
• In place of the Gopuram, there is a beautiful sculpture depicting Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvathy.
• The last consecration ceremony (Maha Kumbabishekam) took place on 06.07.2003.

History of the Temple 

This temple is surrounded by a moat called Thirumaruvum Poigai in the midst of lush green fields. This moat is in the form of a semicircle (“Akazhi” in Tamil) around the temple.

Nowadays, there is no village or residence near this temple and is totally surrounded by agricultural lands. In his hymn, Saint Thirugnanasambanthar referred to this village as "Thenum vandum isaipadum devankudi” meaning that this village is alive with the hum of bees and insects.

In ancient times, this place is considered to be a medicinal hub with lots of medicinal plants.

The historical names of this place are Karkateswaram, Thirundhudevan Kudi and Thiru Nandankoil.

There are few stone inscriptions in this temple which date back to the periods of Chola Kings Kulothunga-I, Vikraman, Rajathirajan-II, Rajarajan and Queen Sembian Maadevi.

This temple is under the administrative control of the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Department of Government of Tamil Nadu (HR&CE).

Visited on: 28^th September, 2016 and 6^th November, 2016.

Location

Thirunintriyur is situated at a distance of about 9 kms from Mayiladuthurai on the Mayiladuthurai to Chidambaram route (via Vaitheeswarankoil). This temple is about one kilometre away from the main road.

Other Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalam near this place are – Vaitheeswaran Koil, Thirukkannar Koil, Thiruppunkur, Thiruvazhkoliputhur, Thiru Karuppariyalur, Thiru Kurakkuka, Thiru Kurukkai, Mayiladuthurai, Thiru Needur and Thiru Anniyur.

General Information

• This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 19^th Shiva Sthalam on the northern bank of the river Cauvery in Chozha Nadu (Vadakarai).
• Lord Shiva in this temple is a Swayambumurthi (self-manifested). 
• This is a parihara sthalam for “Brahmahathi Dosham”.
• This is one of the 44 Paadal petra sthalams where the “Moovar” (the three saints - Saint Thirugnanasambanthar, Saint Thirunavukarasar (Appar) and Saint Sundaramurthy (Sundarar) had rendered their Pathigams.
• This temple is counted as one of the Maadak Koils built by King Kochengat Cholan.
• This east facing temple has two corridors and its main tower (Rajagopuram) has 3-tiers.
• There is no flag post (Dwajasthambam) here.

History of the Temple

There is only one stone inscription in this temple which dates back to the period of the Chola king “Thirubhuvana Chakravarthy” Rajaraja Devan.

Now this temple is under the administrative control of Dharumapuram Adheenam.

However, the temple is in a very bad state. The main tower as well as the towers in the sanctum are in ruins and are covered with a lot of weeds and plants. Even the compound walls and shrines are in a dilapidated condition.

Visited on: 2^nd June, 2016 and 23^rd May, 2017.

Location

Thiruvenkadu is situated at a distance of about 23 kms from Mayiladuthurai on the Mayiladuthurai to Tharangambadi route (Via Mangaimadam). From Sirkazhi, this place is at a distance of about 13 kms on the Sirkazhi to Poompuhar route.

Other Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams near this temple are – Thiruppallavaneecharam (Poompuhar), Chayavanam, Kezhai Thirukkattuppalli, Thirukkalikkamur (Annappan Pettai), Pariyal Veerattam, Thiruchempon Palli, Nani Palli, Valampuram, Thalaichangadu, Aakkur, Thirukkadaiyur and Thirukkadaiyur Mayanam.

General Information

• This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 11^th Shiva Sthalam on the northern bank of the river Cauvery in Chozha Nadu (Vadakarai).
• Lord Shiva in this temple is a Swayambumurthi (self-manifested).
• This is one of the famous Navagraha “parihara sthalam” – Lord Budhan (Mercury) is represented here.
• This is one of the 51 Shakthi Peetams – Goddess Parvathy is praised here as “Pranava Shakthi”.
• This temple is one of the 6 Shiva Sthalams on the banks of river Cauvery that are considered to be equal in significance with Kasi (Banaras). The others being (1) Thiruvaiyaru, (2) Mayiladuthurai, (3) Chayaavanam, (4) Thiruvidaimaruthur, and (5) Thiruvanchiyam.
• This is one of the 44 Paadal petra sthalams where the “Moovar” (the three saints - Saint Thirugnanasambanthar, Saint Thirunavukarasar (Appar) and Saint Sundaramurthy (Sundarar) had rendered their Pathigams.
• This temple has five corridors and its main tower (Rajagopuram) has 5-tiers.
• The last consecration ceremony (Kumbabishekam) took place on 11.04.2016 and prior to that on 11.07.2007, 13.07.1986 and 26.03.1961.

History of the Temple

This temple is mentioned in Valmiki Ramayan and Silapathikaram. This underscores the antiquity of this temple.

The name of this place in Sanskrit is “Swetharanyam” (“Sweth” means white and “Aranyam” means forest). In Tamil, this can be translated as “Venmai” meaning “white” and “Kaadu” meaning forest.Hence this place is called “Thiru Venkaadu”. The lord here is known as “Sri Swetharanyeswarar”. Lord Shiva here is also praised as Thiruvenkaadar, Thiruvenkaattu Devar, Thiruvenkaadaiyar and Thiruvenkaattu Peruman.

There are stone inscriptions available here which relate to the period of Chola Kings Adhithiyan, Rajarajan, Rajendran, kulothungan, Vikrama Cholan and Rajathirajan. Some stone inscriptions relate to Pandiya kings Kulasekara Pandiyan, Vikrama Pandiyan, Sundara Pandiyan and Parakirama Pandian. There are also some stone inscriptions dating back to the Vijayanagar dynasty.

This temple’s campus covers an area of almost 12 acres. The rivers, Kaveri and Manikarnigai, flow near this holy shrine. It is believed that taking dip in the river Manikarnigai is equivalent to taking dips in the 64 bath ghats in Kasi.

Visited on: November 3, 2017.

Location

Annappan Pettai is situated at a distance of about 14 kms from Sirkazhi on the Sirkazhi to Thiruvenkadu route (via Mangaimadam). From Mangaimadam, take the diversion road to Thirunakari and reach Konaiyampattinam and then proceed to this temple.

Other Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams near this place are – Sirkazhi, Thirukkolakka, Mauiladuthurai, Vilanagar, Thiruppallavaneecharam (Poompuhar), Chayavanam, Thiruvenkadu, Kezhai Thirukkattuppalli, Sembanar Koil, Nani Palli, Valampuram (Mela Perumpallam), Thalaichangadu, Aakkur, Thirukkadaiyur and Thirukkadaiyur Mayanam.

General Information

• This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 8^th Shiva Sthalam on the northern bank of the river Cauvery in Chozha Nadu (Vadakarai).
• Lord Shiva in this temple is a Swayambumurthi (self-manifested).
• This east facing temple has no main tower (Rajagopuram) but it has a beautiful arch at the entrance.

• There is no Flag post (Kodimaram) here.

• The last consecration ceremony (Maha Kumbabishekam) took place on 09.02.2017.
  
  

History of the Temple

This ancient temple is located on the southern banks of the river Uppanaru. This temple is also very close to the Bay of Bengal, near Poompuhar.

In ancient times, this place was densely covered with Vilva trees. Hence this place gets the name “Vilvaranyam” and the lord here is praised as Sri Vilva Vana Nathar.

Lord Shiva of this temple is believed to be the lord who removes hardships (“kali” in Tamil). Hence this place gets the name Kalikkamur.

The historical names of this place are Vilvaranyam and Thirukkalikkamur. However, now this place is known as Annappan Pettai.

This temple is under the administrative control of the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Department of Government of Tamil Nadu (HR&CE).

Visited on: July 24, 2016 and November 25, 2017.

Location

Thiruvazhkoliputhur is located at a distance of about 14 kms from Vaitheeswaran Koil on the Vaitheeswaran Koil to Thiruppananthal route. Thiruvalapputhur is situated after Ilanthoppu village. Atter Ilanthoppu, take the diversion road to reach this temple.

Other Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams near this place are – Vaitheeswaran Koil, Thirukkannar Koil, Thirunintriyur, Thiruppunkur, Thiru Karuppariyalur, Thiru Needur, Thiru Pazhamannippadikkarai, Thiru Kurakkuka, Thiru Kurukkai, Mayiladuthurai and Thiru Anniyur.

General Information

• This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 29^th Shiva Sthalam on the northern bank of the river Cauvery in Chozha Nadu (Vadakarai).
• Lord Shiva in this temple is a Swayambumurthi (self-manifested).
• This temple is famous for Goddess Ashtapuja Durgai.
• This east facing temple has no main tower (Rajagopuram) but it has a beautiful arch at the entrance.
• There is no Flag post (Kodimaram) here.
• The last consecration ceremony (Kumbabishekam) took place on 08.09.2005 and prior to that on 01.09.1985.

History of the Temple

The historical name of this place is Thiruvazhkoliputhur. However, it is now changed to Thiruvalapputhur.

This temple is under the administrative control of the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Department of Government of Tamil Nadu (HR&CE).

Visited on: July 24, 2016 and November 25, 2017.

Location

Iluppaipattu is located at a distance of about 14 kms from Vaitheeswarankoil on the Vaitheeswarankoil to Thiruppananthal route. On this route, from Manalmedu take the diversion road to Pappakudi. This place is very near to the Government Arts College, Manalmedu.

Other Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalam near this place are – Pandanallur, Vaitheeswaran Koil, Thirukkannar Koil, Thirunintriyur, Thiruppunkur, Thiru Karuppariyalur, Thiru Vazhkoliputhur, Thiru Kurakkukka, Thiru Kurukkai, Mayiladuthurai, Thiru Needur and Thiru Anniyur.

General Information

• This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 30^th Shiva Sthalam on the northern bank of the river Cauvery in Chozha Nadu (Vadakarai). 
• Lord Shiva in this temple is a Swayambumurthi (self-manifested). 
• This east facing temple has two corridors and its main tower (Rajagopuram) has 3-tiers.
• The last consecration ceremony (Maha Kumbabishekam) took place on 30.08.2009.

History of the Temple

In ancient times, this region is believed to have been densely covered with Iluppai trees. This temple’s “sthala viruksham” is also the Iluppai tree. Hence, this place gets the name Iluppaipattu. This temple is situated on the southern banks of the river Manniyaru, also known as Subramanya river. Hence this place is also known as “Pazha Manni Padikkarai” (“pazha” meaning ancient, “Manni” relates to the river and “Padikkari” meaning river bank in Tamil).

There are a few stone inscriptions here which date back to the periods of Chola King Rajaraja and some kings from the Vijaya Nagara dynasty.

The historical names of this place are Madhookavanam and Pazhamanni Padikkarai. 

This temple is under the administrative control of the Thiruvavaduthurai Aadheenam.

Visited on: July 24, 2016 and November 25, 2017.

Location

Thiruppananthal is situated at a distance of about 18 kms from Kumbakonam on the Kumbakonam to Anaikkarai road (Chennai highway). From Aduthurai, it is about 10 kms.

Other Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalam near this place are –Thiruvaippadi, Thiru Seinganur, Panthanallur, Aduthurai, Thiruneelakkudi and Thirumangalakkudi.

General Information

• This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 39^th Shiva Sthalam on the northern bank of the river Cauvery in Chozha Nadu (Vadakarai).
• Lord Shiva in this temple is a Swayambumurthi (self-manifested). 
• This west facing temple has 4 corridors (2 inner and 2 outer) and it has a 7-tiered main tower (Rajagopuram). 
• The last consecration ceremony (Kumbabishekam) took place on 06.07.2003.

History of the Temple

Of the 276 Paadal Petra Shivasthalams, six temples have Palm trees (Panai) as their Sthala Viruksham. These are Panaiyur, Panankattur, Puravaar Panankattur, Cheyyar, Thirumazhapadi and Thiruppanandal.

Since Lord Shiva is believed to have emerged from under the temple’s sthala viruksham, this place gets the name Thiru Pananthal. (“Panai” means palm tree in Tamil).

There are certain stone inscriptions which date back to the periods of Chola Kings Kulothungan-I, Rajarajan-II and few others. The stone inscriptions in this temple mentioned its name as Thala Vanam and Thadagai Echaram. The lord’s name is mentioned as “Sri Thadagecharathu Mahadevar”. This temple was built in stone by a local king called Nakkandharan. The stone inscription also mentions Kungiliyakkalaya Nayanar’s wife’s name as Neelayi.

Thala Vanam is derived at from the words “Thala” meaning palm tree and “Vanam” meaning forest in Sanskrit.

Kasi mutt (Thiruppanandal Aadheenam) established by Sri Kumara Gurubara Swamigal is located in this town.

This temple is under the administrative control of the Dharumapuram Aadheenam.

Visited on: July 24, 2016 and November 25, 2017.

Location 

Panthanallur is located at a distance of about 20 kms from Mayiladuthurai on the Mayiladuthurai to Thiruppananthal route. This place is 8 kms north-east of Thiruppananthal. Thiruppananthal to Kumbakonam is about 18 kms.

Other Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalam near this place are –Thiruvaippadi, Thiru Seinganur and Thiruppananthal. 

General Information

• This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 35^th Shiva Sthalam on the northern bank of the river Cauvery in Chozha Nadu (Vadakarai).
• Lord Shiva in this temple is a Swayambumurthi (self-manifested).
• This east facing temple has two corridors and its main tower (Rajagopuram) has 5-tiers.
• The last consecration ceremony (Maha Kumbabishekam) took place on 06.07.2003.

History of the Temple

There are stone inscriptions here which date back to the periods of Chola kings Rajarajan-I, Vikraman, Rajathirajan-II, Kulothungan-III and Rajarajan-III. Also, there are a few stone inscriptions from the Vijayanagara dynasty.

This temple was originally renovated by a king of Kambeeli and thereafter by the Chola kings.

The historical names of this place are Aavoor, Kontraivanam, Bhanupuram, Vishnupuram, Indrapuri, Vaali Nagar, and Thenkayilai.

This temple is under the administrative control of the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Department of Government of Tamil Nadu (HR&CE).

Visited on: July 24, 2016 and November 25, 2017.

Location

Seinganur is situated at a distance of about 2 kms from Thiruppananthal. This sthalam is situated on the Kumbakonam to Anaikkarai road and is about 2 kms before Thiruppanandal. From Kumbakonam it is about 18 kms and from Aduthurai, it is about 13 kms.

Other Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalam near this place are –Thiruvaippadi, Thiruppananthal and Panthanallur.

General Information

• This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 41^st Shiva Sthalam on the northern bank of the river Cauvery in Chozha Nadu (Vadakarai).
• Lord Shiva in this temple is a Swayambumurthi (self-manifested).
• This is the birth place of Chandikeswarar, one of the 63 revered Nayanmars.
• This temple is counted as one of the Maadak Koils built by King Kochengat Cholan.
• This east facing temple has no main tower (Rajagopuram) but it has a beautiful arch at the entrance. The temple has 2 corridors, one is at the top around the sanctum and the other at the base level.
• There is no flag post (dwajasthambam) here but only idols of Nandhi and Balipetam can be seen.
• The last consecration ceremony (Kumbabishekam) took place on 12.09.2014 and prior to that on 11.02.2000.

History of the Temple

This ancient temple is situated on the southern banks of the river Manniyaru.

The historical names of this place are Sathyagiri, Kumara Puram, Asumathakavanam and Chandeswara Puram.

This temple is under the administrative control of the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Department of Government of Tamil Nadu (HR&CE).

Visited on: 24^th July, 2016 and 4^th September, 2017.

Location

Thirukurakkukka (Thirukkurakkaval) is situated at a distance of about 8 kms to the west of Sirkazhi and near Thalaignayiru.

From Vaitheeswarankoil, it is about 12 kms on the Vaitheeswaran Koil to Thiruppananthal route via Ilanthoppu. Take the diversion road from Ilanthoppu village and proceed further about 3 kms to reach this temple.

Other Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalam near this place are – Sirkazhi, Vaitheeswaran Koil, Thirukkannar Koil, Thirunintriyur, Thiruvazhkoliputhur, Thiru Karuppariyalur (Thalaignayiru), Thiruppunkur, Thiru Kurukkai, Mayiladuthurai, Thiru Needur and Thiru Anniyur.

General Information

• This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 28^th Shiva Sthalam on the northern bank of the river Cauvery in Chozha Nadu (Vadakarai). 
• Lord Shiva in this temple is a Swayambumurthi (self-manifested).
• This temple is popularly known as “Siva Bhakta Anjaneyar” temple.
• This east facing temple has no main tower (Rajagopuram) but it has a beautiful arch at the entrance. 
• There is no flag post (dwajasthambam) here. The temple has a single corridor.
• The last consecration ceremony (Maha Kumbabishekam) took place on 04.09.2017.

History of the Temple

This ancient temple is situated on the banks of the river “Pazhavaru”.

Another significance of this place is that this is one of the five sthalams whose name ends with “Ka”. (“Ka” means “a beautiful garden” in Tamil). They are – Thiruvanikka, Thirukkodikka, Thirukkolakka, Thiru Nellikka and Thiru Kurakkukka.

It is believed that the temple was once surrounded by beautiful gardens. As Anjaneyar (also known as Hanuman) worshiped the lord here, this place gets the name Thiru Kurankukka which later changed to Thiru Kurakkukka.

Visited on: September 30, 2017.

Location

Thiruvaippadi is situated at a distance of about 2 kms from Thiruppanandal. This sthalam is situated on the Kumbakonam to Anaikkarai road and is about 2 kms before Thiruppanandal. From Kumbakonam it is about 18 kms.

Other Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams near this temple are – Thiruppanandhal, Seinganur and Panthanallur.

General Information 

• This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 40^th Shiva Sthalam on the northern bank of the river Cauvery in Chozha Nadu (Vadakarai). 
• Lord Shiva in this temple is a Swayambumurthi (self-manifested).
• This is the place where Chandikeswarar, one of the 63 revered Nayanmars, attained salvation.
• This east facing temple has two corridors. Although it has no main tower (Rajagopuram), it has a beautiful arch at the entrance.
• There is no flag post here but only idols of Nandhi and Balipetam can be seen.
• The last consecration ceremony (Kumbabishekam) took place on 12.12.2010 and prior to that on 22.08.2004.

History of the Temple

This ancient temple is situated on the southern banks of the river Manniyaru.

There are certain stone inscriptions available here which date back to the periods of Chola Kings Rajarajan-II and Kulothungan-III; Pandiya King Sundara Pandian; Pallava King Kopperunchingan; and Vijayanagara Kings Ariyappa Udayar and Mallikarjuna Mahadevar.

The historical names of this place are Veerakkan and Thiru Aaippadi.

This temple is under the administrative control of the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Department of Government of Tamil Nadu (HR&CE).

Visited on: 4^th June, 2016 and 29^th October, 2017. 

Location

Thiruppunkur is situated at a distance of about 4 kms from Vaitheeswaran Koil on the Vaitheeswaran Koil to Manalmedu route. From Mayiladuthurai it is about 17 kms and from Chidambaram it is about 29 kms.

Other Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalam near this place are – Vaitheeswaran Koil, Thirukkannar Koil, Thirunintriyur, Thiruvazhkoliputhur, Thiru Karuppariyalur, Thiru Kurakkuka, Thiru Kurukkai, Mayiladuthurai, Thiru Needur and Thiru Anniyur.

General Information

• This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 20^th Shiva Sthalam on the northern bank of the river Cauvery in Chozha Nadu (Vadakarai). 
• Lord Shiva in this temple is a Swayambumurthi (self-manifested).
• This is one of the 44 Paadal petra sthalams where the “Moovar” (the three saints - Saint Thirugnanasambanthar, Saint Thirunavukarasar (Appar) and Saint Sundaramurthy (Sundarar) had rendered their Pathigams.
• The Nandhi in this temple is huge and is placed a little distance away from its regular position to give a good view of the lord to Nanthanar, one of the 63 Nayanmars, from outside the temple.
• This east facing temple has three corridors and its main tower (Rajagopuram) has 5-tiers.
• The last consecration ceremony (Maha Kumbabishekam) took place on 03.05.1974.

History of the Temple

According to legend, in ancient times, this region was a forest densely covered with Punga trees. Hence this place gets the name Thiruppungur.

There are 5 stone inscriptions available here which date back to the period of Pallava Kings Sakalabhuvana and Kopperunsinga Devar. As per these inscriptions, this temple was renovated by these two kings.

The historical name of this place is “Karinchaaranyam” and the lord is praised as “Sri Sivalokamudaya Nayanar”. 

Visited on: 29^th September, 2016 and 23^rd May, 2017.

Location

Thiruppallavaneecharam is located at a distance of about 22 kms from Mayiladuthurai on the Mayiladuthurai to Poompuhar route. This temple is located just after the Kannaki Arch but before entering Poompuhar town.

Other Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams near this temple are – Chayavanam, Thiruvenkadu, Kezhai Thirukkattuppalli, Thirukkalikkamur (Annappan Pettai), Pariyal Veerattam, Thiruchempon Palli, Nani Palli, Valampuram, Thalaichangadu, Aakkur, Thirukkadaiyur and Thirukkadaiyur Mayanam.

General Information

• This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 10^th Shiva Sthalam on the northern bank of the river Cauvery in Chozha Nadu (Vadakarai).
• Lord Shiva in this temple is a Swayambumurthi (self-manifested).
• Poompuhar is the place of confluence of the river Cauveri with the Bay of Bengal.
• Both Chayavanam and Pallavaneecharam temples are situated in Poompuhar.
• This is the birth place of Saint Pattinathar.
• This east facing temple has two corridors and its main tower (Rajagopuram) has 5-tiers. There is no flag post (Kodimaram) here.
• The last consecration ceremony (Maha Kumbabishekam) took place on 17.03.2008 and prior to that on 05.04.1995 and 20.08.1958.

History of the Temple

The temple faces the Bay of Bengal. River Kaveri enters the sea very near to this temple, hence the place around it is called “Kaveri Puhum Pattinam”. This has later been changed to Kaveripoompattinam. It is also called Poompuhar. Another ancient name of this place was “Puhar Nagaram”. Puhar in Tamil means the estuary of the river.

In the Chayavanam temple’s inscriptions dating to the period of Vikrama Cholan, this place is referred to as “Rajathiraja valanaattu Nangoor Naattu Kaveripoompattinam”. Kings like Sembiyan, Musukundan, Manuneethi Cholan and Karikala Cholan had used Poompuhar as their port capital and have added to its glory.

It is believed that a Pallava king built this temple and worshiped Lord Shiva here. Hence this place also gets the name “Pallavaneecharam” and the lord is praised as “Sri Pallavaneswarar”.

After the Chola period, a major part of the Poompuhar town was submerged in the Bay of Bengal. A few small villages still remain and bear silent witness to the cruelty of times. Chayavanam (Thiruchaikkadu), Pallavaneecharam, Melapperumpallam, Keelaperumpallam and Kezyayur are some of the important villages of the ancient city Poompuhar that still exist today.

Visited on: 29^th September, 2016 and 23^rd May, 2017.

Location

Thiruchaikkadu is situated at a distance of about 20 kms from Mayiladuthurai on the Mayiladuthurai to Poompuhar route. From Sirkazhi, it is about 17 kms.

Other Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams near this temple are – Thiruppallavaneecharam (Poompuhar), Thiruvenkadu, Kezhai Thirukkattuppalli, Thirukkalikkamur (Annappan Pettai), Pariyal Veerattam, Thiruchempon Palli, Nani Palli, Valampuram, Thalaichangadu, Aakkur, Thirukkadaiyur and Thirukkadaiyur Mayanam.

General Information

• This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 9^th Shiva Sthalam on the northern bank of the river Cauvery in Chozha Nadu (Vadakarai).
• Lord Shiva in this temple is a Swayambumurthi (self-manifested). 
• This is one of the 6 Shiva Sthalams on the banks of the river Cauvery that are considered to be equal in significance to Kasi (Banaras). The others being (1) Thiruvaiyaru, (2) Mayiladuthurai, (3) Thiruvenkadu, (4) Thiruvidaimaruthur, and (5) Thiruvanchiyam.
• This is the birth place of Eyarpagai Nayanar, one of 63 Nayanmars. It is believed that Eyarpagai Nayanar and his wife attained salvation here.
• This temple is counted as one of the seventy Maadak Koils built by King Kochengat Cholan.
• Both Chayavanam and Pallavaneecharam temples are situated in Poompuhar.
• This east facing temple has 2 corridors and its main tower (Rajagopuram) has 3-tiers. There is no flag post here.
• There are two beautiful entrance arches – one on the eastern side and the other on the southern side.
• The last consecration ceremony (Maha Kumbabishekam) took place on 24.05.2010 and prior to that on 19.08.1956.

History of the Temple

Poompuhaar was the capital of the Chola kingdom.

According to legend, in ancient times, this region was a forest densely covered with “Chai” plants (“Korai” in Tamil). Hence thisplace gets the name “Chayavanam” (“Vanam” means forest in Tamil). Other historical names of this place are Chaikadu and Melayur.

There are 13 stone inscriptions available here – 10 are from the period of the Chola kingdom (Vikraman, Rajarajan, Kulothungan-III and Rajendran) and the rest of the 3 are from the time of Pandiya kingdom (Sundara Pandiyan). In one of the inscriptions, this place’s name is mentioned as “Rajathiraja valanaattu Nangoor Naattu Kaveripoompattinaththu Thiruchaikkadu”.

Visited on: 2^nd September, 2016

Location 

Thirukkodikkaval is located at a distance of about 19 kms from Kumbakonam on the Kumbakonam to Mayiladuthurai route (Via Kathiramangalam) and 17 kms from Mayiladuthurai.

It is about 5 kms from Suryanarkoil (famous Navagraha Sthalam for Lord Suryan).

Other Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams near this temple are – Kuthalam, Therezhunthur, Thirukkozhambam, Thiruvaduthurai, Thiruvelvikudi, Ethirkolpadi, Thirumanancheri, Thirumangalakkudi and Kanchanur.

General Information

• This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 37^th Shiva Sthalam on the northern bank of the river Cauvery in Chozha Nadu (Vadakarai).
• Lord Shiva in this temple is a Swayambumurthi (self-manifested).
• This east facing temple has two corridors and its main tower (Rajagopuram) has 5-tiers.
• The last consecration ceremony (Kumbabishekam) took place on 17.02.2014 and prior to that on 05.09.2001.

History of the Temple

There about 50 stone inscriptions in this temple. According to the inscriptions, this ancient temple was built about 1,300 years ago. These inscriptions relate to various kingdoms – the early Pallavas and the later Pallavas, Pandiya King Maran Sadayan and Chola Kings Rajarajan-I, Kulothungan-I and Kulothungan-III.

In 970 AD, this temple was reconstructed using stones during the reign of King Uthama Chola by his mother, Queen Sembiyan Madevi (wife of Chola King Gandaradithyan).

The Sthala Viruksham of this temple is Perambu plants. In Sanskrit, it is called “Vedhra Viruksham”, hence the lord here is praised as “Sri Vedhravaneswarar” (“vanam” means forest and “Eswarar” means the lord in Tamil).

This is one of the five sthalams whose name ends with “Ka”. (“Ka” means “a beautiful garden” in Tamil). They are – Thiruvanikka, Thirukkodikka, Thirukkolakka, Thiru Nellikka and Thiru Kurakkukka.

It is believed that the temple was once surrounded by beautiful gardens. Hence this place gets the name “Kotikka” and the lord is praised as “Sri Koteeswarar”.

Visited on: 2^nd September, 2016

Location

Thirumangalakkudi is situated at a distance of about 17 kms from Kumbakonam on the Kumbakonam to Mayiladuthurai route (Via Kathiramangalam).

It is about 2 kms from Aduthurai on the Aduthurai to Thirupananthal route.

It is very near to Suriyanarkoil, a famous Navagraha temple.

Other Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams near this temple are – Kuthalam, Therezhunthur, Thirukkozhambam, Thiruvaduthurai, Thiruvelvikudi, Ethirkolpadi, Thirumanancheri, Thirukkodikkaval and Kanchanur.

General Information

• This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 38^th Shiva Sthalam on the northern bank of the river Cauvery in Chozha Nadu (Vadakarai).
• Lord Shiva in this temple is a Swayambumurthi (self-manifested). The Banam of the Lingam is very big and taller than the Avudayar in this temple.
• This east facing temple has 2 corridors and its main tower (Rajagopuram) has 5-tiers.

History of the Temple

There are six stone inscriptions in this temple which relate to the period of Chola Kings Kulothungan, Rajarajan and Pallava King Kopperunsingan.  This temple was renovated during the 11^th century by Chola King Kulothungan.

Now this temple is under the administrative control of Thiruvavaduthurai Adheenam.

Visited on: 2^nd September, 2016

Location

Kanjanur is located at a distance of about 20 kms from Mayiladuthurai on the Mayiladuthurai to Kallanai route. From Kumbakonam, it is about 19 kms. From Aduthurai (Mayiladuthurai - Kumbakonam route), it is about 4 kms.

Other Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams near this temple are – Aduthurai, Thiruneelakkudi, Kuthalam, Therezhunthur, Thirukkozhambam, Thiruvaduthurai, Thiruvelvikudi, Ethirkolpadi, Thirumanancheri, Thirumangalakkudi and Thirukkodikkaval.

General Information

• This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 36^th Shiva Sthalam on the northern bank of the river Cauvery in Chozha Nadu (Vadakarai).
• Lord Shiva in this temple is a Swayambumurthi (self-manifested).
• Kanjanur is one of the 9 famous Navagraha Sthalams. This is a parihara sthalam for “Sukra dosham”.
• Here Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvathy represent the planet Sukran.
• Kalikkama Nayanar’s (one of the 63 Nayanmars) wedding took place in this place.
• This is the birth place of Manakkanchara Nayanar, one of the 63 Nayanmars. He worshipped Lord Shiva here and obtained salvation.
• This is the birth place of Haradatha Sivachariyar. He was a staunch Shiva devotee who wanted to prove that “Lord Shiva is the supreme deity and the life force behind everything on this earth”.
• This east facing temple’s main tower (Rajagopuram) has 5-tiers and it has 3 corridors.
• The last consecration ceremony (Maha Kumbabishekam) took place on 31.08.2006.

History of the Temple

There are certain stone inscriptions available in this temple which relate to the period of Chola Kings Vikraman, Rajakesari, Kulothungan, Veera Rajendran and the Vijayanagara King Krishnaraya Maharayar.

The historical names of this place are Palasavanam, Parasarapuram, Brahmapuri, Agnipuram, Kamsapuram and Mukthi Kshethram.

This temple is under the administrative control of Madurai Thirugnanasambantha Swamigal Aadheenam.

Visited on: 11^th February, 2017.

Location 

Thirumanancheri is situated at a distance of about 17 kms from Mayiladuthurai on the Mayiladuthurai to Kumbakonam (via Kuthalam) route. From Kuthalam take the diversion road to Panthanallur. After crossing the village Anjar Varthalai, ask for Thirumanancheri. (Mayiladuthurai to Kuthalam is 11 kms and Kuthalam to Thirumanancheri is 6 kms). This temple is located at a distance of about 26 Kms from Kumbakonam.

Other Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams near this temple are – Kuthalam, Therezhunthur, Thiruvaduthurai, Thirukkozhambam, Thiruvelvikudi, Ethirkolpadi, Thirumangalakkudi, Thirukkodikkaval and Kanchanur.

General Information

• This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 25^th Shiva Sthalam on the northern bank of river Cauvery in Chozha Nadu (Vadakarai).
• Lord Shiva in this temple is a Swayambumurthi (self-manifested).
• This is a “parihara sthalam” for doshas related to marriage.
• This east facing temple’s main tower (Rajagopuram) has 5-tiers and it has 2 corridors.
•  The last consecration ceremony (Kumbabishekam) took place on 22.01.1970.

History of the Temple

There are 28 stone inscriptions available in this temple which relate to the period of Chola dynasty. The temple was renovated by Queen Sembian Mahadevi, wife of Chola King Kandaradithan.

Visited on: 11^th February, 2017.

Location

Thiruvelvikudi is situated at a distance of about 14 kms from Mayiladuthurai on the Mayiladuthurai to Kumbakonam route (via Kuthalam). From Kuthalam, Thiruvelvikudi is about 3 kms and is near village Anjaru Varthalai. (Mayiladuthurai to Kuthalam is about 11 kms). From Kumbakonam, Thiruvelvikudi is on the Kumbakonam to Poombukar route.

Other Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams near this temple are – Kuthalam, Therezhunthur, Thirukkozhambam, Thiruvaduthurai, Ethirkolpadi, Thirumanancheri, Thirumangalakkudi, Thirukkodikkaval and Kanchanur.

General Information

• This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 23^rd Shiva Sthalam on the northern bank of the river Cauvery in Chozha Nadu (Vadakarai).
• Lord Shiva in this temple is a Swayambumurthi (self-manifested). 
• This is a “parihara sthalam” for doshas related to marriage.
• This east facing temple has a 3-tiered main tower (Rajagopuram) and it has 2 corridors.

History of the Temple

There are certain stone inscriptions in this temple which relate to the periods of the Chola Queen Sembian Madevi and King Paranthaka Cholan-I. King Paranthaka Cholan renovated this temple by building it with stone.

Visited on: 11^th February, 2017.

Location

Ethirkolpadi is situated at a distance of about 17 kms from Mayiladuthurai on the Mayiladuthurai to Kumbakonam (via Kuthalam) route. From Kuthalam take the diversion road to Panthanallur route. After crossing the village Anchar Varthalai ask for Melak Koil. Ethirkolpati temple is locally known as Melak Koil. (Mayiladuthurai to Kuthalam is 11 kms and Kuthalam to Ethirkolpadi is 6 kms).

Other Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams near this temple are – Kuthalam, Therezhunthur, Thirukkozhambam, Thiruvaduthurai, Thiruvelvikudi, Thirumanancheri, Thirumangalakkudi, Thirukkodikkaval and Kanchanur.

General Information

• This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 24^th Shiva Sthalam on the northern bank of the river Cauvery in Chozha Nadu (Vadakarai). 
• Lord Shiva in this temple is a Swayambumurthi (self-manifested).
• This west facing temple has a 3-tiered main tower (Rajagopuram) and it has 2 corridors.
• The last consecration ceremony (Kumbabishekam) took place on 03.02.2016 and prior to that on 22.08.2004.

History of the Temple

As per the stone inscriptions available here, this ancient temple is believed to have been built during the period of the Chola King Kulothungan.

The historical name of the lord is “Thiru Ethirkolpadi Udaiyar”, that of the goddess is “Perungarunai Pirattiyar” and that of this village is Ethirkolpadi.

Visited on: 4^th July, 2017

Location

Thiruppaigneeli is situated at a distance of about 20 kms from Trichy.

From Trichy, first reach Mannachanallur (11kms) and then proceed to Thiruppaigneeli (8 kms). Nearest railway station is Pitchandar Koil.

Other Devara Paadal Petra Shiv Sthalams near this place are – Thiruchirappalli (Tiruchy Malaikkottai), Thiruvanaikkaval, Thiruvasi, Anbilanthurai, Thirumanthurai, Thiruppatrurai, Mukkeecharam (Uraiyur), Thirupparaithurai, and Thiruverumbur.

General Information

• This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 61^st Shiva Sthalam on the northern bank of the river Cauvery in Chozha Nadu (Vadakarai). 
• Lord Shiva in this temple is a Swayambumurthi (self-manifested).
• This is one of the 44 Paadal Petra Sthalams where the “Moovar” (the three saints - Saint Thirugnanasambanthar, Saint Thirunavukarasar (Appar) and Saint Sundaramurthy (Sundarar) had rendered their Pathigams.
• Thiruppainjeeli is referred to as “South Kailash”.
• The uniqueness of this temple is that there is a shrine for Lord Yama (Lord of death).
• This is one of the “Saptha Sthana” temples of Thiruvanaikkaval.
• This is one of the famous “parikara sthalams” for conducting poojas to remove obstacles from marriage proposals and to seek child boon.
• This east facing temple’s main tower (Rajagopuram) is incomplete and its second tower has 3 tiers. This temple has four corridors.
• The last consecration ceremony (Mahakumbabishekam) took place on 02.02.2017 and prior to that on 06.02.2003.

History of the Temple

This ancient temple is situated on the northern bank of the river Kollidam. This temple complex is spread over sprawling 12 acres of land. 

The temple’s main tower is believed to have been built by King Konerinmai Kondaan and it is only constructed up to the first tier.

Visited on: January 10, 2016 and December 2, 2016.

Location

Thiruvanaikkaval is a part of Trichy (also known as Thiruchirappalli) and is situated at a distance of about 8 kms from the Trichy bus stand. It is 3 kms away from Srirangam and is between the Kollidam and Cauvery rivers.

Other Devara Paadal Petra Sthalam near this place are – Thiruvasi, Thiruchirappalli (Tiruchy Malaikkottai), Anbilanthurai, Thirumanthurai, Thiruppatrurai, Thiruppainjeeli, Thirupparaithurai, Mukkeecharam (Uraiyur) and Thiruverumbur.

General Information

• This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 60^th Shiva Sthalam on the northern bank of the river Cauvery in Chozha Nadu (Vadakarai).
• Lord Shiva in this temple is a Swayambumurthi (self-manifested).
• In this temple, Lord Jambukeswarar is facing west and Goddess Akilandeswari is facing the east.
• This is one of the “Pancha Bootha Sthalams” and it represents Water (Appu).
• This is also one of the Sakthi Peetams.
• This is the first of the 70 Madakkovils built by King Kochengat Cholan.
• All the three saints (Moovar) have rendered hymns on Lord Shiva of this temple. 
• The east facing main tower (Rajagopuram) has 13-tiers and the west facing Rajagopuram has 7-tiers. This temple has 7 main towers and 5 corridors.

History of the Temple

This is an ancient, sprawling and magnificent temple which highlights the architectural splendour of the past. The temple complex is a whopping 18 acres of land. In ancient times, this place was densely populated with white Naaval trees.

The temple was built about 2,500 years ago by the Emperor Kochengat Chola. 

It is believed that an elephant and a spider have worshiped the lord here and obtained salvation. The name of this temple is derived from this legend. “Thiru” is a respectful prefix, “Anai” means elephant and “koil” means temple in Tamil. Now it is known as “Thiruvanaikkaval”.

Visited on: January 10, 2016 and December 2, 2016

Location

Thiruvasi is located at a distance of about 13 kms from Trichy on the Trichy-Salem route via Ayyanpalayam. Nearest railway station is Uttamarkoil which is 5 kms away from this place.

Other Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams near this place are – Thiruvanaikkaval, Thiruchirappalli (Tiruchy Malaikkottai), Anbilanthurai, Thirumanthurai, Thiruppatrurai, Thiruppainjeeli, Mukkeecharam (Uraiyur) and Thiruverumbur.

General Information

• This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 62^nd Shiva Sthalam on the northern bank of the river Cauvery in Chozha Nadu (Vadakarai).
• Lord Shiva in this temple is a Swayambumurthi (self-manifested).
• Saint Sambanthar sang a hymn and cured a girl from Muyalagan disease. 
• Lord Shiva gave a purse containing gold to Saint Sundarar here.
• This east facing temple has a 5-tiered main tower (Rajagopuram) and it has two corridors. 
• The last consecration ceremony (Kumbabishekam) took place on 14.06.2017.

History of the Temple

It is believed that this temple is 1500 years old and was built and renovated by Kings of the Hoysala, Chola and Pandiya dynasties. This temple is situated on the northern bank of the river Kollidam (Coleroon).

The historical name of this place is “Pachil Kutrathu Achiramam” which has been changed to Pachilachiramam. 

As per the stone inscriptions, during the Chola and Pandiya period, the places on the northern bank of the river Kollidam was called “Parchil Kutram”. The village around it was called Thiruvachiramam. This was later changed to Thiruvasi. 

Also, in ancient times this place was densely populated with Vanni trees. For this reason, this place is also known as Sameevanam and the lord here is praised as Sri Sameevaneswarar.

As Lord Brahma is believed to have worshiped the lord here, the lord is also known as “Sri Brahmapureswarar”. 

Visited on: 2^nd June, 2016

Location

Sirkazhi is situated at a distance of about 20 kms from Mayiladuthurai and 19 kms from Chidambaram. It is on the Chidambaram to Kumbakonam route.

Sirkazhi has a railway station and this temple is about 2 kms away from the station.

Other Devara Paadal Petra Sthalams near this place are – Thirukkolakka, Thirumullaivasal, Thiruvenkadu, Chayavanam, Poompukar, Mahendrapalli, Thirukkurukavur and Achalpuram.

General Information

• This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 14^th Shiva Sthalam on the northern bank of the river Cauvery in Chozha Nadu (Vadakarai).
• Lord Shiva in this temple is a Swayambumurthi (self-manifested).
• This is the 11^th Shakti Peetas – Goddess Parvathy graces this temple as Mahalakshmi.
• This is the birth place of the renowned saint Thirugnanasambanthar - the first of the four Samaya Kuravars (Nalvar).
• This is a Moovar Paadal Petra Sthalam. 
• This is also the birth place of saint Gananatha Nayanar, one of the 63 Nayanmars.

History of the Temple

This ancient temple is more than 1500 years old.

There are 12 historical names for this place – Brahmapuram, Venupuram, Pukali, Venguru, Thonipuram, Poontharaai, Sirapuram, Puravam, Shanbai, Seekazhi, Kochaivayam and Kazhumalam.

This is the birth place of saint Thirugnanasambanthar. There is a separate temple for him in Sirkazhi.

The name Sirkazhi is derived from Goddess Kali, as she is believed to have worshiped the lord here (“Sree” is a respectful prefix and “Kali” refers to the goddess).

This is one of the 27 temples that are under the administration of the Dharumapuram Aadheenam.

Visited on: 12^th March, 2017

Location

Achalpuram is situated at a distance of about 5 kms from Kollidam. Kollidam is on the Chidambaram to Mayiladuthurai route. There is a railway station in Kollidam on the Chidambaram to Mayiladuthurai line.

Other Devara Paadal Petra Sthalams near this place are – Sirkazhi, Thirukkolakka, Thirumullaivasal, Mahendrapalli, Thirukkurukavur, Thiruvenkadu, Chayavanam and Poompukar.

General Information

• This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 5^th Shiva Sthalam on the northern bank of the river Cauvery in Chozha Nadu (Vadakarai).
• Lord Shiva in this temple is a Swayambumurthi (self-manifested).
• This east facing temple has two corridors and its main tower (Rajagopuram) has 5-tiers.
• It is said that Saint Thirugnanasambanthar attained salvation (mukthi) here during his wedding along with the entire gathering. Hence, this is the only temple where Thirugnanasambanthar can be seen with his wife.
• Thirugnanasambanthar sang his last Pathigam here. 
• The last consecration ceremony took place on 24.06.2010 and prior to that on 29.04.1964.

History of the Temple

The historical name of this place is “Nallur Perumanam” – Nallur is the village where Saint Gnanasambanthar’s bride hails from. “Perumanam” or “periya thirumanam” means a “big wedding” in Tamil. Other historical names of this place are Shivalogam, Thirunallur, Mukthipuram and Thirumanavai. Now it is known as Achalpuram.

This is one of the 27 temples that are under the administration of the Dharumapuram Aadheenam.

Visited on: 12^th March,2017

Location

Thirumullaivasal is situated at a distance of about 12 kms from Sirkazhi. Sirkazhi is on the Chidambaram to Mayiladuthurai route.

Other Devara Paadal Petra Sthalams near this place are – Sirkazhi, Thirukkolakka, Thiruvenkadu, Chayavanam, Poompukar, Mahendrapalli, Thirukkurukavur and Achalpuram.

General Information

• This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 7^th Shiva Sthalam on the northern bank of the river Cauvery in Chozha Nadu (Vadakarai).
• Lord Shiva in this temple is a Swayambumurthi (self-manifested) and the lingam is quite tall.
• This east facing temple has no main tower (Rajagopuram) but it has an arch at the entrance.
• The last Consecration ceremony (Maha Kumbabishekam) of this temple took place on 07.09.1989.

History of the Temple

This temple is situated near the coast of Bay of Bengal and the sea shore is just half a kilometre away from this temple. The temple is believed to have been built about 1,300 years ago by the Chola King Killivalavan.

There are two places with the same name of “Thirumullaivayil”. One is located near Sirkazhi and the other near Chennai. Both of these places are home to very ancient temples. Thirumullaivayil near Seerkazhi is called “Then Thirumullaivasal” and the one near Chennai is called “Vada Thirumullaivoyal” (“Then” meaning south and “Vada” meaning north in Tamil).

“Thirumullaivoyal” or “Thirumullaivasal” gets its name from the belief that Lord Shiva emerged from a Jasmine bush in both these places. “Thiru” is a respectful prefix, “Mullai” means Jasmine and “Vassal” means place in Tamil.

Now this temple is under the control and administration of the Dharumapuram Adheenam.

Visited on: 12^th March, 2017.

Location

Thirukkurukavur is located at a distance of about 6 kms from Sirkazhi. Sirkazhi is on the Chidambaram to Mayiladuthurai route.

It is very near to Thirumullaivasal temple. Other Devara Paadal Petra Sthalams near this place are – Sirkazhi, Thirukkolakka, Achalpuram, Mahendrapalli, Thirumullaivasal, Thiruvenkadu, Chayavanam and Poompukar.

General Information

• This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 13^th Shiva Sthalam on the northern bank of the river Cauvery in Chozha Nadu (Vadakarai). 
• Lord Shiva in this temple is a Swayambumurthi (self-manifested).
• This east facing temple has a single corridor. Although it has no main tower (Rajagopuram) or dwajasthambam (Flag post), there is a beautiful arch at the entrance.
• The water in this temple’s well is believed to turn white on the new moon day in the Tamil month of Thai.
• The last consecration ceremony (Kumbabishekam) took place on 18.06.1986.

History of the Temple

The historical name of this village is Kurukavur and that of the temple is Velladai. Now the village is known as Thirukkadaavur.

The stone inscriptions available in this temple are from the periods of Kings Rajendra Cholan, Kulottunga Cholan-I, Vikrama Cholan, Parakesari Varman and Rajathirajan. The temple was rebuilt in stone in the 10th century during the period of King Uttama Cholan.

Visited on: 23^rd July, 2016 and 5^th November, 2016.

Note: Presently this temple is under renovation and the expected date for Consecration ceremony (Kumbabishekam) is 5^th July, 2017. 

Location

Thirukkolakka is situated on the outskirts of Sirkazhi and is about 1.5 kms away from the Sirkazhi bus stand. It is about 4 kms away from Sirkazhi railway station.

Sirkazhi is on the Chidambaram to Mayiladuthurai route.

Other Devara Paadal Petra Sthalams near this place are – Sirkazhi, Thirumullaivasal, Thiruvenkadu, Chayavanam, Poompukar, Mahendrapalli, Thirukkurukavur and Achalpuram.

General Information

• This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 15^th Shiva Sthalam on the northern bank of the river Cauvery in Chozha Nadu (Vadakarai).
• Lord Shiva in this temple is a Swayambumurthi (self-manifested).
• This east facing temple has no main tower (Rajagopuram) or dwajasthambam (flag post). But there is an arch at the entrance. 
• Saint Thirugnanasambanthar received golden plates (“thalam”) from Lord Shiva here.

History of the Temple

The historical name of this temple is Thirukkolakka. However, it is now known as Thiru Thalam Udayar Koil.

Visited on: 12^th March, 2017

Location

Mahendrapalli  is situated at a distance of about 12 kms from Kollidam. Kollidam is on the Chidambaram to Mayiladuthurai route. There is a railway station in Kollidam.

Other Devara Paadal Petra Sthalams near this place are – Achalpuram, Sirkazhi, Thirukkolakka, Thirukkurukavur, Thiruvenkadu, Chayavanam and Poompukar. 

General Information

• This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 6^th Shiva Sthalam on the northern bank of river Cauvery in Chozha Nadu (Vadakarai).
• Lord Shiva in this temple is a Swayambumurthi (self-manifested).
• This east facing temple’s main tower (Rajagopuram) has 3-tiers and it has a single corridor.
• The last consecration ceremony took place on 22.01.1999.

History of the Temple

This is a small sea shore temple and it was renovated recently. The temple is on the southern banks of river Kollidam. This river merges with the sea about 2 kms away from this temple.

The historical name of this place is Mayendirapalli but now it is known as Mahendrapalli. Another name of this place is “Koyiladippalayam”. 

Visited on: 11^th March, 2017

Location

Thirukkazhippalai is situated at a distance of about 4 kms from Chidambaram and it is very close to Thirunelvoyil (Sivapuri) temple.

Other Devara Paadal Petra Sthalams near this place are – Chidambaram, Thiruvetkalam and Thirunelvayil (Sivapuri).

General Information

• This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 4^th Shiva Sthalam on the northern bank of the river Cauvery in Chozha Nadu (Vadakarai).
• Lord Shiva in this temple is a Swayambumurthi (self-manifested).
• This is the Moovar Paadal Petra Sthalam.
• This temple has a 3-tiered main tower (Rajagopuram) and it has a single corridor. There is no flag post (dwajasthambam) here.
• The last consecration ceremony (Kumbabishekam) took place on 10.07.2003. 

History of the Temple

It is believed that this is a reconstructed / relocated temple. The original temple was about 12 kms away from this place and was called Kaaraimedu. It was on the banks of the Kollidam river. The old temple was totally destroyed due to floods. A devotee by the name of Palaniappa Mudaliar built a new temple in Sivapuri and relocated all the idols.

Visited on: 11^th March, 2017

Location

Thirunelvayil is located at a distance of about 5 kms from Chidambaram. The temple is 2 kms away from Annamalai University. From the university, take the Kavarapattu road and then take the Perampattu road. The temple is on this road itself.

 Other Devara Paadal Petra Sthalams near this place are – Chidambaram, Thiruvetkalam and Thirukkazhippalai.

General Information

• This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 3^rd Shiva Sthalam on the northern bank of the river Cauvery in Chozha Nadu (Vadakarai).
• Lord Shiva in this temple is a Swayambumurthi (self-manifested).
• This east facing temple has a single corridor and it has a 5-tiered main tower (Rajagopuram).
• The last consecration ceremony (Kumbabishekam) took place on 11.09.2008. Before that, the ceremonies were held on 01.09.1982, 16.06.1957 and 24.05.1928.

History of the Temple

The historical name of this place is Thirunelvoyil.  “Thiru” a respectful prefix, “nel voyil” means “sprawling paddy fields at the entrance of the village”. However, now this place is called “Shiva Puri”.

Visited on: 11^th March, 2017

Location

Thiruvetkalam is located at a distance of about 4 kms from Chidambaram and it is near the Annamalai University campus.

Other Devara Paadal Petra Sthalams near this place are – Chidambaram, Thirunelvoyil (Sivapuri) and Thirukkazhippalai.

General Information

• This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 2^nd Shiva Sthalam on the northern bank of the river Cauvery in Chozha Nadu (Vadakarai).
• Lord Shiva in this temple is a Swayambumurthi (self-manifested).
• This east facing temple has a 3-tiered main tower (Rajagopuram) and it has two corridors.
• The last consecration ceremony (Maha Kumbabishekam) took place on 02.07.2006. 

History of the Temple

In ancient times, this place was densely populated with bamboo trees. It is believed that this temple is more than 2000 years old and it was built by Pallava kings. At a later date, it was renovated by the Nattukkottai Chettiars. The historical name of this place is Moonkilvanam.