69 Famous Temples To Visit In Mayiladuthurai

Visited on: 12^th June, 2018.

Location

Thiru Pugalur is situated at a distance of about 7 kms to the west of Sannanallur. Sannanallur is on the Thiruvarur to Peralm route.

It is about 33 kms away from Mayiladuthurai, 20 kms away from Karaikkal, 20 kms away from Thiruvarur and 10 kms away from Nannilam.

Other Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams near this place are –

Thiru Pukalur Vardhamaneecharam, Ramanadeecharam, Thirumarugal, Thiru Sathamangai, Nannilam, Thiru Kondeecharam, Thiru Panaiyur, Thiru Payatrur and Thiru Chenkattangudi. 

General Information

• This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 75^th Shiva Sthalam on the Southern bank of the river Cauveri in Chozha Nadu (Thenkarai).
• Lord Shiva in this temple is a Swayambumurthi (self-manifested).
• Saint Thirunavukkarasar attained salvation (“Mukthi”) and sang his last pathigam here.
• 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 is the birthplace of Saint Muruga Nayanar, one of the 63 Nayanmars.
• This east facing temple has 2 corridors and its main tower (Rajagopuram) has 5-tiers.
• Visiting this temple is considered auspicious for those born under the influence of “Sadhayam” nakshatram (star).
• This temple is famous for performing “Vastu” pooja.
• The last consecration ceremony (Maha Kumbabishekam) took place on 27.03.2003.

History of the Temple

There are two Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams in the same complex - Thirupukalur and Thiru Pukalur Vardhamaneecharam.

The historical names of this place are Punnagavanam, Saranyapuram and Rakthaaranyam.

There are 67 stone inscriptions in this temple which date back to the periods of various Chola kings like Raja Rajan, Rajendran, Kulothungan-I and Kulothungan-III. It is believed that this temple was originally built by Raja Raja Cholan-1.

This temple is under the administrative control of (Thiruppugalur) Velakurichi Adheenam and HR&CE.

Visited on: 12^th June, 2018.

Location

Thiru Pukalur is situated at a distance of about 7 kms west of Sannanallur junction on the Thiruvarur to Peralm route. 

It is about 33 kms away from Mayiladuthurai, 20 kms away from Karaikkal, 20 kms away from Thiruvarur and 10 kms away from Nannilam.

Other Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams near this place are –

Thiru Pukalur, Thirumarugal, Nannilam, Thiru Kondeecharam, Thiru Panaiyur, Ramanadeecharam, Thiru Payatrur and Thiru Chenkattangudi. 

General Information

• This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 76^th Shiva Sthalam on the Southern bank of the river Cauveri in Chozha Nadu (Thenkarai).
• Lord Shiva in this temple is a Swayambumurthi (self-manifested).
• Saint Thirunavukkarasar (Appar) attained salvation (“Mukthi”) and sang his last pathigam here.
• 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 is the birthplace of Saint Muruga Nayanar, one of the 63 Nayanmars.
• This temple has two corridors and its main tower (Rajagopuram) has 5-tiers.
• Visiting this temple is considered auspicious for those born under the influence of “Sadhayam” nakshatram (star).
• The last consecration ceremony (Maha Kumbabishekam) took place on 27.03.2003. 

History of the Temple

It is interesting to note that this temple (Thiru Pukalur Vardhamanecharam) is situated inside Thiru Pukalur temple’s complex. Thiru Pukalur itself is another Devara Paadal Petra Sthalam where the main deity is Lord Agneeswarar.

This temple’s main deity is Sri Vardhamaneswarar’s and the lord’s shrine is located adjacent to the sanctum of Lord Agneeswarar.

The historical names of this place are Punnagavanam, Saranyapuram and Rakthaaranyam.

The Moovars (three saints) have rendered a total of 9 pathigams here. Out of this, 8 are about Thiru Pukalur and the remaining one is about this temple. The pathigam about this temple was rendered by Saint Thirugnanasambanthar.

It is believed that when the demons were terrorising the devas and the sages, they sought asylum in this place. Hence, this place gets the name “Pukalur” (“pukal” means asylum and “oor” means village in Tamil).

This temple is under the administrative control of (Thiruppugalur) Velakurichi Adheenam and HR&CE.

Visited on: 22^nd September, 2018.

Location

Thiruppanaiyur is located at a distance of about 12 kms from Thiruvarur on the Thiruvarur to Mayiladuthurai (via Andippanthal- Sannanallur-Peralam) route. Take the diversion road from this temple’s arch after Sannanallur and proceed further for about 1.5 kms to reach this temple.
From Andipanthal, cross the Putharu railway crossing and travel further for about 3 kms to reach Panayur.

Other Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams near this place are –

Nannilam, Thiru Kondeecharam, Thiru Marugal, Thiru Virkudi, Thiru Chengattangudi, Thiruppayatrur, Ramanatheecharam, Sree Vanchiyam, Thiru Pukalur, Thiru Pukalur Varthamaneecharam and Thiru Chathamangai.

General Information

• This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 73^rd Shiva Sthalam on the Southern bank of the river Cauvery in Chozha Nadu (Thenkarai).
• Lord Shiva in this temple is a Swayambumurthi (self-manifested).
• This east facing temple’s main tower is not tiered. In fact, the tower itself is very small. In place of the Gopuram, there is a beautiful sculpture depicting Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvathy. 
• This temple has two corridors and it does not have a flag post “Dwajasthambam”.
• The great Chola King Karikalan lived in this place in his childhood.
• The last consecration ceremony (Maha Kumbabishekam) took place on 26.08.1973.

History of the Temple

The historical name of this place is Thalavanam and the temple is known as Thalavaneswaram (“Thalam” means palm tree).

Of the 276 Paadal Petra Shivasthalams, very few temples have Palm tree (Panai) as their Sthala Viruksham. This temple is one of them. The other temples having this sthala viruksham are - Thiru Panaiyur, Thiru Vanparthan Panankattur, Thiru Puravaar Panankattur, Thiru Cheyyar, Thiru Mazhapadi, Thiru Valampuram and Thiruppanandal.

According to history, the great Chola King Karikalan grew up in this temple and lived here for around 10 years so that he could be shielded from his enemies.  Karikalan was born after his father King Ilamchetchenni was killed by his enemies. After his father’s death, Karikalan and his mother were sent to this temple by his maternal uncle, Irumbidar Thalaiyar who was a Sangam era poet. Irumbidar Thalaiyar did so to ensure that the boy could be raised in peace.

At this temple, Karikalan’s mother prayed to the lord asking him to protect them from their enemies. It is believed that Lord Vinayakar here started protecting them. When Karikalan attained the age of 13, with his uncle’s help, he fought and regained his kingdom. It is believed that when the Chola ministers sent a state elephant to look for the prince, the elephant found Karikalan and garlanded him.

At the entrance of this temple, there is an idol of Vinayakar called “Thunai Iruntha Vinayagar” (“thunai” means escort, “iruntha” means side by in Tamil).

There are about 14 stone inscriptions in this temple which date back to the periods of Chola king Kulothungan-I, Sundara Pandiyan, Parakirama Pandiyan, Rajathi Rajan-I and Rajarajan II.

In these inscriptions, the lord is mentioned as Panaiyadiyappan and Panangattiraivan. It is also mentioned that this temple was built in granite in the early 11^th century. The village around this temple is referred to as Rajendra Cholap Panaiyur.

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 June 2018.

Location

Karuveli is located at a distance of about 22 kms from Kumbakonam on the Kumbakonam to Poonthottam route (Via Koonthalur). It is about one kilometre away from Koonthalur; 10 kms from Poonthottam and 11 kms from Nachiyar koil.

Other Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams near this place are –

Thiru Nallam (Konerirajapuram), Vanniyur, Thiruvizhimizhalai, Sree Vanchiyam, Thiru Narayur Siddheecharam, Thirumiyachur, Thirumiyachur Ilamkoil, Thilathaipathy, Thiruppampuram, Serukudi, Thiru Kottaram, Ambal Maakalam and Ambar Perunthirukkoil.

General Information

• This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 63^rd Shiva Sthalam on the Southern bank of the river Cauvery in Chozha Nadu (Thenkarai).
• Lord Shiva in this temple is a Swayambumurthi (self-manifested). 
• This east facing temple has a beautiful arch at the entrance and its main tower (Rajagopuram) has 3-tiers.
• This temple has a single corridor and it does not have a flag post “Dwajasthambam”.
•  The last consecration ceremony (Maha Kumbabishekam) took place on 30.06.2017 and prior to that on 14.07.2008.

History of the Temple

This ancient temple is situated on the northern banks of the river Arisilaru, a tributary of the river Cauvery. This village’s name is Karuvili and the temple is known as Kottitai. However, now this place is called Karuveli.

The historical names of this place are Karuvili Kottitai and Sarguneswarapuram.

There are certain stone inscriptions in this temple which date back to the periods of Chola king Rajathirajan-II and Rajendra Chola. This temple was built and renovated by the Chola kings.

In the stone inscriptions, this temple is referred to as “Uyyakkondan Valanattu Vennattu Kulothunga Chola Nallurakiya Karuvili Kottitai”. 

This temple is presently managed by Sri Sarguneswara Swami Temple Management Committee. 

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

Visited on: 11^th June, 2018.

Location

Nannilam is situated at a distance of about 30 kms from Kumbakonam on the Kumbakonam to Nagore route. It can also be reached from Mayiladuthurai (30 kms) and Thiruvarur (17 kms) on the Mayiladuthurai to Thiruvarur route. Nearest railway station is Nannilam which is 5 kms away from this temple.

Other Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams near this place are –

Thiru Kondeecharam, Srivanchiyam, Thiru Panaiyur, Thiru Pukalur, Thiru Pukalur Vardhamaneecharam, Ramanadeecharam, Thirumarugal, Thiru Payatrur and Thiru Chenkattangudi. 

General Information

• This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 71^st Shiva Sthalam on the Southern bank of the river Cauveri in Chozha Nadu (Thenkarai).
• Lord Shiva in this temple is a Swayambumurthi (self-manifested). 
• This temple is counted as one of the Maadak Koils built by Chola King Kochenganan.
• 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.
• The last consecration ceremony (Maha Kumbabishekam) took place on 14.09.2008 and prior to that on 15.09.1996.

History of the Temple

The historical names of this place are Sundaravani, Madhuvanam, Devaranyam, Sundaravanam and Bruhathpuram.

This place is surrounded by fertile agricultural land; hence it gets the name Nannilam (“Nalla” means good and “nilam” means land in Tamil).

This ancient temple is located on the southern bank of the river Mudikondan. This place is referred as Nannilam and the temple is known as “Perungkoil” (big temple).

As per stone inscriptions in this temple, the temple was built in the 9^th century by Chola King Kochenganan.

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 June, 2018.

Location

Vanniyur (Anniyur) is situated at a distance of about 28 kms from Mayiladuthurai on the Mayiladuthurai to Thiruvarur route. Frist travel to Poonthottam (20 kms) and then travel about 8 kms to Vanniyur (via Thiruveezhimizhalai).

From Kumbakonam also, it is about 28 kms on the Kumbakonam to Karaikkal route (Via S. Pudur-20 kms). From S.Pudur, take diversion route and travel for about 5 kms to reach this temple.

Other Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams near this temple are – Thiruvizhimizhalai, Karuvili Kottitai (Karuveli), Thirumiyachur, Thirumiyachur Ilamkoil, Thilathaipathy, Thiruppampuram, Serukudi, Thiru Kottaram, Ambal Maakalam and Ambar Perunthirukkoil.

General Information

• This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 62^nd Shiva Sthalam on the Southern bank of the river Cauveri in Chozha Nadu (Thenkarai).
• Lord Shiva in this temple is a Swayambumurthi (self-manifested).
• This east facing temple has a single corridor and its main tower (Rajagopuram) has 2-tiers.
• This temple has no flag post “Dwajasthambam”.
• The last consecration ceremony (Maha Kumbabishekam) took place on 21.08.2002.

History of the Temple

This ancient temple is situated on the northern banks of the river Arisilaru, a tributary of river Cauvery.

The historical name of this place is Vanniyur but now it is known as Anniyur.

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 June, 2018.

Location

Thiru Kondeecharam is situated at a distance of about 3 kms from Nannilam, en route Sanna Nallur (take the diversion road near the village Thoothukudi).

Nannilam is situated at a distance of about 30 kms from Kumbakonam on the Kumbakonam to Nagore route. It can also be reached from Mayiladuthurai (30 kms) on the Mayiladuthurai to Thiruthuraipoondi route (Via Nannilam).

From Thiruvarur, this place is about 17 kms on the Thiruvarur to Mayiladuthurai route (Via Nannilam).

Nearest Railway station is Nannilam which is about 3 kms away from this place.

Other Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams near this place are –

Thirumarugal, Nannilam, Thiru Kondeecharam, Thiru Panaiyur, Thiru Pukalur, Thiru Pukalur Vardhamaneecharam, Ramanadeecharam, Thiru Payatrur and Thiru Chenkattangudi. 

General Information

• This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 72^nd Shiva Sthalam on the Southern bank of the river Cauveri in Chozha Nadu (Thenkarai).
• Lord Shiva in this temple is a Swayambumurthi (self-manifested). 
• This east facing temple’s main tower does not have any tiers. In place of the Gopuram, there are beautiful sculptures depicting Lord Shiva, Vinayakar, Murugan and Goddess Parvathy.
• This temple has a beautiful arch at the entrance. 
• This temple has a single corridor and it does not have a flag post (“Dwajasthambam”).
• The last consecration ceremony (Maha Kumbabishekam) took place on 10.09.2006.

History of the Temple

This ancient temple is located on the southern bank of the river Mudikondan.

According to legend, in ancient times, this region was densely covered with Vilwa trees. Hence, this place gets the name Vilvaranyam.

The historical names of this place are Vilvaranyam and Thirukkondeecharam. However, now this place is known as Thirukkandeeswaram.

There is a stone inscription in this temple which dates back to the period of Vijayanagara King Veera Krishnadevarayar.

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

Visited on: 15^th September, 2018.

Location

Thiruppayatrur is situated at a distance of about 11 kms from Thiruvarur on the Mayiladuthurai to Thiruvarur route. Take the diversion road from Kangalanchery -Nagore road. Reach Melapputhanur and then take the Thiru Marugal road to reach this temple. This temple is 5 kms away from Thiru Marugal.

Other Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams near this place are –

Thiru Virkudi, Thiru Chengattangudi, Thiru Marugal, Ramanatheecharam, Thiru Pukalur, Thiru Pukalur Varthamaneecharam and Thiru Chathamangai. 

General Information

• This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 78^th Shiva Sthalam on the Southern bank of the river Cauveri in Chozha Nadu (Thenkarai).
• Lord Shiva in this temple is a Swayambumurthi (self-manifested). 
• This east facing temple has a single corridor and its main tower does not have any tiers. In place of the Gopuram, there are beautiful sculptures depicting the “panchamoorthy” (Lord Shiva, Goddess Parvathy, Vinayakar Murugan and Ankarakan).
• This temple has no flag post (“Dwajasthambam”).
• The last consecration ceremony (Maha Kumbabishekam) took place on 06.06.2011 and prior to that on 20.08.1975.

History of the Temple

The historical name of this place is Thiruppayatrur but it is now known as Thiruppayathankudi.

There are some stone inscriptions in this temple which date back to the period of Chola King Rajarajan-II.

One of the stone inscriptions here narrates the story of a man named Panchanathavaanan. He was suffering from some eye diseases and he prayed to the lord for a cure. He was cured of his ailments. His family then donated some land 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: 1^st April, 2018

Location

Thiru Vanchiyam (Sri Vanchiyam) is located at a distance of about 30 kms from Kumbakonam on the Kumbakonam - Natchiarkovil - Nannilam route. From Nannilam, it is about 6 kms and from Thiruvarur, it is about 17 kms.

Other Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams near this place are – Nannilam, Thiru Kondeecharam, Thiruveezhimizhalai, Serukudi, Thalaiyalangadu and Thiru Peruvelur.

General Information

• This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 70^th Shiva Sthalam on the Southern bank of the river Cauvery in Chozha Nadu (Thenkarai).
• Lord Shiva in this temple is a Swayambumurthi (self-manifested). 
• This temple is famous for Lord Yama’s shrine. 
• Devotees worship the lord here and seek his blessings for a long and prosperous life.
• This temple is famous as a Rahu-Ketu parihara Sthalam. 
• This place is called as the “Mount Kailash on earth” (“Bhoologa Kailash”). 
• This is one of a few Paadal petra sthalams where the “Nalvar” (the four saints - Saint Thirugnanasambanthar, Saint Thirunavukarasar (Appar), Saint Sundaramurthy (Sundarar) and Saint Manickavasagar had rendered their Pathigams. 
• This east facing temple has 3 corridors and its main tower (Rajagopuram) has 5-tiers.
• The last consecration ceremony (Maha Kumbabishekam) took place on 10.04.1989.

History of the Temple

This is one of the six Shivasthalams on the banks of the river Cauvery which are considered to be very sacred and are equivalent to Kasi (Banaras). These are Thiruvengadu, Thiruvaiyaru, Chaayavanam, Mayiladuthurai, Thiruvidaimarudur and Thiruvanchiam (this temple).

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 on the earth. This is called the “Pralayam”. It is believed that this place was not destroyed even at the end of the “Pralayam”.

It is believed that in each of the four Yugas the idol of Lord Shiva takes a different form. It is considered to be made out of gemstone (Rathinam) in Kretha Yuga, gold in Thretha Yuga, silver in Dvapara Yuga and granite in Kali Yuga.

There are 27 stone inscriptions in this temple which date back to the periods of the later Cholas, Pandiyas and Nayakkars. This temple was originally built by Chola King Rajarajan.

The historical names of this place are Vanchiyapathi, Santhanavanam, Thiruvaraiyur, Bhukailasam and Gandhaaranyam.

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

Location

General Information

• This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 83^rd Shiva Sthalam in Chozha Nadu on Southern bank of the river Cauvery (Thenkarai).
• Lord Shiva in this temple is a Swayambumurthi (self-manifested).
• This temple is very famous for its Murugan, who is praised as “Sikkal Singaravelar”.
• “Soorasamharam” is an important festival celebrated in this temple.
• There is a Maragatha lingam here.
• This is one of the Shakti Peedams.
• This temple is counted as one of the Maadak Koils built by King Kochengat Cholan.
• This east facing temple has three corridors and its main tower (Rajagopuram) has 7-tiers.

History of the Temple

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: 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: February 11, 2017.

Location

Thiru Nanipalli (Punjai) is situated at a distance of about 5 kms from Sembonar Koil on the Mayiladuthurai to Thirukadaiyur route. From Mayiladuthurai it is about 13 kms.

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

General Information

• This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 43^rd Shiva Sthalam on the Southern bank of the river Cauveri in Chozha Nadu (Thenkarai).
• 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.
• This is the birth place of Bhagavathi Ammaiyar, mother of Saint Thirugnanasambanthar.
• This east facing temple has a single corridor and its main tower does not have any tiers. In place of the Gopuram, there are beautiful sculptures depicting the “Panchamurthy” (Lord Shiva, Goddess Parvathy, Vinayakar, Murugan and Chandikeswarar). 
• The last consecration ceremony (Maha Kumbabishekam) took place on 14.09.1970.

History of the Temple

This temple is believed to have been built by Chola King Paranthagan-I. There are 18 stone inscriptions in this temple, out of which 17 are related to the Chola periods (kings Kulothungan, Rajarajan, Rajendran and Vikraman) and one is from Vijayanagara (Krishna Devarayar) period.

This place’s name “Nani Palli” might have been derived from the name of the person Nanni, who had originally built this temple. (‘Palli” means temple in Tamil).

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: December 16, 2017.

Location

Thirunallam (Konerirajapuram) is situated at a distance of about 14 kms from Kumbakonam on the Kumbakonam to Karaikkal route. After crossing Thiruneelakkudi and S.Pudur, take the diversion road to Vadamattam and proceed further for about 4 kms to reach this temple.

Other Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams near this place are - Vaikal Madakkoil, Thiru Kozhambiam, Thiruneelakkudi, Thenkurangadu Thurai (Aduthurai), Thiruvidaimaruthur and Thiruvavaduthurai.

General Information

• This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 34^th Shiva Sthalam on the Southern bank of the river Cauveri in Chozha Nadu (Thenkarai).
• Lord Shiva in this temple is a Swayambumurthi (self-manifested).
• This temple is very popular for the unique Swayambu metal Natarajar - the biggest in the world.
• This west facing temple has two corridors and its main tower does not have any tiers. In place of the Gopuram, there is a beautiful sculpture depicting Lord Shiva, Goddess Parvathy, Vinayakar and Murugan. 
• The last consecration ceremony (Maha Kumbabishekam) was held on 29.05.2015 and prior to that on 04.02.2001.

History of the Temple

The historical name of this place is Thiru Nallam. It is believed that this place got submerged and later excavated. Queen Sembian Mahadevi, wife of Chola King Kandarathithan (Grandmother of king Raja Raja Chola), replaced the old brick temple with granite and enlarged it.

There are some stone inscriptions in this temple which date back to the periods of Chola King Kandarathithan, his wife Sembian Mahadevi and their son Uthama Chola. Some of the inscriptions also bear mention of kings Rajarajan, Rajendran, Rajathirajan-I, Rajendran-II, Kulothungan I and III and Rajarajan-III. From these inscriptions it is evident that this temple was maintained by Chola kings for almost two and a half centuries.

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

Location

Thiru Valampuram is situated at a distance of about 12 kms from Sembanarkoil and 6 kms from Poompuhaar. It is situated near Kadaimudi on the bus route of Mayiladuthurai to Poompuhar. It is about 2 kms from Keezhaperumpallam (one of the famous Navagraha temples).

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

General Information

• This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 44^th Shiva Sthalam on the Southern bank of the river Cauveri in Chozha Nadu (Thenkarai).
• 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.
• This east facing temple has two corridors and it has no main tower.
• There is no flag post (Dwajasthambam) here.
• This temple is counted as one of the Maadak Koils built by King Kochengat Cholan.
• The last consecration ceremony (Maha Kumbabishekam) took place on 10.02.2008 and prior to that on 08.06.1966.

History of the Temple

As per the Sthala Puranam, this ancient temple is believed to be more than 2000 years old and it was originally constructed by King Abhisithu of Dravida kingdom. The king worshiped the lord here and was blessed with a child.

Also, the nearby place Kaveripoompattinam (Poompuhar) is very famous as it is surrounded by seven forests (“Vanam”) and seven temples. They are –

Thala vanam (this place) is considered as the Ganapathy sthalam,

Chaya vanam is considered to be Lord Shiva’s abode,

Pallava vanam is considered to be Goddess Parvathy sthalam,

Vellai vanam (Thiruvengadu) is considered as the Natarajar sthalam,

Mathanga vanam (Thiru Nangoor) is considered as the Murugan sthalam and

Mullai vanam (Thirumullaivoil) and Punga vanam (Perunthottam) constitute the Bairavar sthalam and Chandikeswarar sthalam respectively.

The historical names of this place are Thalavanam, Munkil Thoppu, Sangamath Thenthurai, Sangenthi, Vaanor Nagari (Vaanagari), Maal Ma Kudi (Mamakudi), Lakshmi Narayanapuram, Perumpallam and Thiruvalampuram.

Of the 276 Paadal Petra Shivasthalams, very few temples have Palm tree (Panai) as their Sthala Viruksham. This temple is one of them. Some of the others are Panaiyur, Panankattur, Puravaar Panankattur, Cheyyar, Thirumazhapadi and Thiruppanandal.

There are six stone inscriptions in this temple which date back to the periods of Chola kings Vikraman, Rajathirajan-II and Kulothungan-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 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: December 16, 2017.

Location

Vaikal is situated at a distance of about 12 kms from Kumbakonam on the Kumbakonam to Karaikkal route. After crossing Thiruneelakkudi, S.Pudur and Pazhiyanchiya Nallur, take the diversion road and proceed further for about 2 kms to reach Vaikal.

Vaikal is about 4 kms from Thiruneelakkudi as well as Konerirajapuram (Nallam).

Other Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams near this place are - Thirunallam (Konerirajapuram), Thiru Kozhambiam, Thiruneelakkudi, Thenkurangadu Thurai (Aduthurai), Thiruvidaimaruthur and Thiruvavaduthurai. 

General Information

• This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 33^rd Shiva Sthalam on the Southern bank of the river Cauveri in Chozha Nadu (Thenkarai). 
• Lord Shiva in this temple is a Swayambumurthi (self-manifested).
• This temple is counted as one of the Maadak Koils built by King Kochengat Cholan.
• This east facing temple has a single corridor and its main tower does not have any tiers.

History of the Temple

Vaikal is situated on the southern bank of the river Nattaru. This ancient temple is believed to have been constructed by the Cholas.

Once this place was a forest full of Shenbaga trees.Hence this place gets the name Shenbagaranyam and the lord is praised as Sri Shenbagaranyeswarar.

This place’s name “Vaikal” is derived from Vai-kuru-kal meaning a small hill in Tamil.

The historical names of this place are Shenbagaranyam, Mummoorthy Sthalam and Nithyavasapuram.

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

Visited on: November 3, 2017.

Location

Keezhap Parasalur is situated at a distance of about 11 kms from Mayiladuthurai on the Mayiladuthurai to Sembanar Koil route. Take diversion road to Nalladai from Sembanar Koil and proceed further for about 3 kms to reach this temple.

Other Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams near this place are –

Mauiladuthurai, Vilanagar, Thiruppallavaneecharam (Poompuhar), Chayavanam, Thiruvenkadu, Kezhai Thirukkattuppalli, Semabar Koil, Thirukkalikkamur (Annappan Pettai), 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 41^st Shiva Sthalam on the Southern bank of the river Cauvery in Chozha Nadu (Thenkarai).
• Lord Shiva in this temple is a Swayambumurthi (self-manifested). 
• This is one of the “Atta (eight) Veeratta Sthalam” and this temple is the fourth one.
• This west facing temple has two corridors and its main tower (Rajagopuram) has 5-tiers.
• The last consecration ceremony (Maha Kumbabishekam) took place in the year 2011.

History of the Temple

There are three stone inscriptions in this temple which date back to the period of King Sundara Pandiyan.

This ancient temple is under the administrative control of Dharumapuram Adheenam.

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 “Ashta Veerattanam” (“Ashta” means eight and “Veeram” means bravery). Keezha Parasalur is the 4^th Veerattanam where Dakshan’s yagna was stopped and he was killed. The other seven Veeratta Sthalams are –

1. Thirukkandiyur where one of Lord Brahma’s five heads was plucked;
2. Thirukkovilur where the demon Andhakasuran was vanquished;
3. Thiruvathigai where the lord is believed to have done the “Thiripura Samharam”.
4. Keezha Parasalur where Dakshan’s yagna was stopped and he was killed;
5. Thiruvirkudi where the demon Jalandharasuran was killed;
6. Thiru Vazhuvur where the elephant Gajasuran was vanquished;
7. Thiru Korukkai where Manmathan was burnt and later blessed.
8. Thirukkadaiyur where Lord Yama was believed to have been kicked and punished to save Sage Markandeya.

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: December 16, 2017.

Location

Thirukkozhambiam is situated at a distance of about 20 kms from Kumbakonam on the Kumbakonam to Karaikkal route. On this route, take a diversion road from S.Pudur and proceed for about 2 kms to reach this temple. Nearest railway station is Narasinganpettai on the Chennai to Kumbakonam railway line, which is about 4 kms away.

Other Devara Paadal Petra Sthalam near this place are - Thirunallam (Konerirajapuram), Vaikal Madakkoil, Thiruneelakkudi, Thenkurangadu Thurai (Aduthurai), Thiruvidaimaruthur and Thiruvavaduthurai.

General Information

• This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 35^th Shiva Sthalam on the Southern bank of the river Cauveri in Chozha Nadu (Thenkarai).
• 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. However, the inner tower has 3-tiers.
• There is no flag post (Dwajasthambam) in this temple.
• This temple has two corridors.
• The last consecration ceremony (Kumbabishekam) took place on 22.03.2000.

History of the Temple

This ancient temple is believed to have been constructed by queen Chembian Maadevi, wife of the Chola King Kandarathithan.

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: September 4, 2017.

Location

Thirunallaru is located at a distance of about 4 kms from Karaikkal. From Mayiladuthurai, Thirunallaru is about 34 kms. The nearest railway station is Karaikkal.

Other Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalam near this place are – Dharumapuram, Thiruvettakkudi, Thiruthelichery, Thirukkadaiyur and Thirukkadaiyur Mayanam.

General Information

• This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 52^nd Shiva Sthalam on the Southern bank of the river Cauveri in Chozha Nadu (Thenkarai). 
• Lord Shiva in this temple is a Swayambumurthi (self-manifested).
• This is one of the “Saptha (seven) Vidanga Sthalams”.
• This is one of the Shakti Peetam – known as “Braneswari Peetam”.
• This is one of the Navagraha sthalams and it is the most popular temple for Lord Saneeswaran.
• 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 3 corridors and its main tower (Rajagopuram) has 7-tiers.
• The last consecration ceremony (Kumbabishekam) took place on 24.03.2006.

History of the Temple

This ancient temple is believed to have been constructed by Chola kings.

The historical names of this place are Aadhipuri, Naleswaram and Nalavidangar.

This temple is under the administrative control of Dharumapuram Aadheenam as well as 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: July 8, 2017

Location

Thirukadaiyur is situated at a distance of about 22 kms from Mayiladuthurai on the Mayiladuthurai to Karaikkal route.

Other Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalam near this place are – Thirukkadaiyur Mayanam, Thirunallaru, Dharumapuram, Thiruvettakkudi and Thiruthelichery.

General Information

• This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 47^th Shiva Sthalam on the Southern bank of the river Cauveri in Chozha Nadu (Thenkarai).
• Lord Shiva in this temple is a Swayambumurthi (self-manifested). 
• This is one of the Atta Veeratta Sthalams.
• This is one of the Sakthi peetams.
• 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 is the birth place of Kaari Nayanar and Kungiliakalaya Nayanar (both find a place among the 63 celebrated Saivite Nayanmars). Both of them attained salvation here.
• This is the birth place of Abhirami Bhattar who composed the famous “Abhirami Andhathi”.
• This temple is very famous for celebrating 60^th and 80^th birth anniversaries.
• This west facing temple has 5 corridors and it has a 7-tiered main tower (Rajagopuram).
• The last consecration ceremony (Kumbabishekam) took place on 26.03.1997.

History of the Temple

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). Thirukkadaiyur is the eighth Veeratta Sthalam where Lord Yama was believed to have been kicked and punished to save Markandeya. 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;
• Thiru Korukkai where Manmathan was burnt and later blessed.

There are 54 stone inscriptions available in this temple which date back to the periods of Chola and Pandiya Kingdoms and the Vijayanagar emperors Krishnadevarayar and Viruppanna Udayar,  

The historical names of this place are Vilva Vanam, Pinchila Vanam and Kadavur. 

This temple is under the administrative control of Dharumapuram Aadheenam.

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: 29^th September, 2016

Location

Kudanthai Keezhkkottam, now popularly known as Sri Nageswaraswamy temple is situated in the heart of Kumbakonam town. It is on the Chidambaram to Tanjure via Mayiladuthurai route. It is about 35 kms from Mayiladuthurai. Kumbakonam has a railway station and this temple is about 2 kms away from the station.

Other Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams near this place are – Kudanthai Kudamukku (Sri Adhi Kumbeswarar Koil), Kudanthai Karonam (Sri Someswarar Koil), Thiruvalanchuzhi and Thirunageswaram.

General Information

• This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 27^th Shiva Sthalam on the Southern bank of the river Cauveri in Chozha Nadu (Thenkarai).
• Lord Shiva in this temple is a Swayambumurthi (self-manifested).
• This is one of the famous Parihara Sthalams for planet Rahu.
• This east facing temple has 2 corridors and its main tower (Rajagopuram) has 5 tiers.
• The last consecration ceremony (Maha Kumbabishekam) took place on 07.02.2003 and prior to that in the year 1988.

History of the Temple

Kumbakonam, popularly known as the “Temple city”, is located on the banks of the river Cauveri. Cauvery and Arasalaru rivers flow in such a manner that they look like garlands adorning this place. 

This ancient temple was constructed by King Aditya Chola-I during the 9^th century. The temple’s design and architecture highlight the great workmanship and skill of the Chola period. Also, the orientation is structured in such a way that it allows sunlight inside the sanctum sanctorum only for three days during the Tamil month of Chithirai (April/May).

The historical names of this place are Vilva Vanam, Surya Kottam and Keezha Kottam. As this temple is on the eastern side of Kumbakonam, the temple is known as Kudanthai Keezha Kottam (“Keezh thisai means eastern side and kottam means temple).

Visited on: 29^th September, 2016

Location

Kudanthai Kudamukku, now popularly known as Sri Kumbeswaraswamy temple, is situated in the heart of Kumbakonam town. It is on the Chidambaram to Tanjure via Mayiladuthurai route. It is about 35 kms from Mayiladuthurai. Kumbakonam has a railway station and this temple is about 2 kms away from the station.

Other Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams near this place are – Kudanthai Karonam, Kudanthai Keezhkottam, Thiruvalanchuzhi and Thirunageswaram.

General Information

• This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 26^th Shiva Sthalam on the Southern bank of the river Cauveri in Chozha Nadu (Thenkarai).
• Lord Shiva in this temple is a Swayambumurthi (self-manifested).
• This temple is one of the Shakti Peetas where Goddess Mangalambigai is known as Manthira Peeteswari. Lord Shiva gave away half of his strength to Goddess Parvathy and married her.
• This is the first of the 51 Shakti Peetas.
• Moorka Nayanar (Narchuthar), one of the 63 Nayanmars, is believed to have offered foods to devotees before attaining salvation here.T
• his east facing temple has three corridors and its main tower (Rajagopuram) has 9-tiers and is at a height of 128 feet. 
• The last consecration ceremony (Maha Kumbabishekam) took place on 12.12.1999.

History of the Temple

Kumbakonam is situated on the banks of the river Cauvery. Cauvery and Arasalaru rivers flow in such a manner that they look like garlands adorning this place.

This temple has been in existence since the Chola times (7th century) and has been widely expanded by the Nayaks during the 15-17th century.

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

The Saptastanam temples associated with this temple are Kalayanallur, Thiru Valanchuzhi, Darasuram, Swamimalai, Kottiayur, Kumbakonam and Melaikkaveri.

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: 12^th March, 2017 and 23^rd May, 2017.

Location

Aakkur is situated at a distance of about 17 kms from Mayiladuthurai on the Mayiladuthurai to Tharangambadi route. The temple is behind the Aakkur bus stand.  It is about 5 kms from Semponar Koil.

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

General Information

• This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 46^th Shiva Sthalam on the Southern bank of the river Cauveri in Chozha Nadu (Thenkarai).
• Lord Shiva in this temple is a Swayambumurthi (self-manifested).
• This is the birth place of Sirappuli Nayanar, one of the revered 63 Nayanmars.
• This temple is counted as one of the 70 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 (“Dhwajasthambam”) in this temple.
• The last consecration ceremony (Maha Kumbabishekam) took place on 10.05.2010 and prior to that on 06.04.2001 and 15.09.1960.

History of the Temple

There are six stone inscriptions in this temple dating back to the periods of Chola kings Rajathirajan and Rajarajan, Pandiya king Kopperunsingan, and Vijayanagara king Veera Krishna Devar.

The historical name of this place is Shankharanyam.

There are two temples called “Maadam” in the Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams. “Maadam” refers to the fact that the temples are situated on top of a man-made hill. These are “Thoonganai Maadam” at Pennakadam and the “Thanthontri Maadam” at Aakkur (this temple).

Visited on: 12^th March, 2017 and 23^rd May, 2017.

Location

Thalaichangadu is situated at a distance of about 18 kms from Mayiladuthurai on the Mayiladuthurai to Poompuhar (Via Aakkur) route. From Aakkur, it is about 5 kms.

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

General Information

• This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 45^th Shiva Sthalam on the Southern bank of the river Cauveri in Chozha Nadu (Thenkarai). 
• Lord Shiva in this temple is a Swayambumurthi (self-manifested). 
• This temple is counted as one of the Maadak Koils built by King Kochengat Cholan.
• This east facing temple has two corridors and it has no main tower.
•  The last consecration ceremony (Kumbabishekam) took place on 26.05.2010 and prior to that on 27.01.2003.

History of the Temple

This ancient temple is close to Poompuhar. This place is famous as the birth place of “Madala Marayavan”, a character from Silapathikaram, one of the Sangam epics.

The historical names of this place are Sanguvanam, Sankaaranyam, Thalaisai and Thalaichanganam.

There are 10 stone inscriptions available in this temple. All of them date back to the Chola dynasty. There are special mentions of King Uthama Chola and his mother Queen Sembian Maadevi. In one of the inscriptions, this place is referred to as “Rajaraja Valanattu Nangoor Nattu Thalaichangadu” and “Thalaiyudayavar Koil Pathu”.

Visited on: 12^th March, 2017 and 23^rd May, 2017.

Location

Thiruchemponpalli is situated at a distance of about 10 kms from Mayiladuthurai on the Mayiladuthurai to Porayar route.

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

General Information

• This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 42^nd Shiva Sthalam on the Southern bank of the river Cauveri in Chozha Nadu (Thenkarai). 
• Lord Shiva in this temple is a Swayambumurthi (self-manifested).
• 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 a single corridor and it has no flag post.
• The last consecration ceremony (Kumbabishekam) took place in the year 2007. 

History of the Temple

There are six stone inscriptions in this temple dating back to the periods of Chola Kings Kulothungan, Rajathirajan and King Saraboji of Tanjure.

The historical names of this place are Lakshmi Puri, Indirapuri and Skandapuri.

There are few reasons why this place gets the name Sembanarkoil.

One is that Chola kings built and renovated this temple hence it gets the name “Sembian Palli” (“Sembian” is another name for Cholas and “Palli” means village).

Another reason is that the roof of Lord Shiva’s sanctum tower was earlier believed to have been made using many gold (“Sempon” in Tamil) sheets.

Another reason is that the Swayambu lingam of this temple once sparkled like gold. For this reason, the lord is also praised as “Sri Semponpalliyar”.

Usually, the village around the temple does not have a separate name and is referred to by the name of the temple itself. Following this norm, the village here is called Sembanar Koil. 

Visited on: 29^th September, 2016

Location

Thiruvavaduthurai is situated at a distance of about 20 kms from Mayiladuthurai. It is on the Mayiladuthurai – Kuthalam - Kumbakonam route. There is a small diversion road on the left side from Thiruvaalangadu leading to this temple. It is about one kilometre away from the main road. A beautiful arch can be seen at the entrance of the diversion road.

Nearest railway station is Narasinganpettai (3 kms) on the Mayiladuthurai to Kumbakonam railway line.

Other Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams near this place are - Therizhanthur, Thirukkozhambam, Kuthalam, Thirumanancheri, Velvikkudi, Ethirkolpadi, Thiruvidaimaruthur and Mayiladuthurai.

General Information

• This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 36^th Shiva Sthalam on the Southern bank of the river Cauveri in Chozha Nadu (Thenkarai). 
• 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.
• Saint Thirumoolar, one of the 63 Nayanmars and one of the 18 Siddhars, lived in this place.
• Thirumaaligai Thevar, a staunch Shiva devotee and one of the 63 celebrated Nayanmars lived in this place.
• This east facing temple has 3 corridors and its main tower (Rajagopuram) has 5-tiers.
• The tower (Vimanam) above the sanctum sanctorium is of the “Dwaidala” style of architecture.
• This temple’s Nandhi is one of the biggest Nandhis in Tamil Nadu.

History of the Temple

The historical names of this place are Nandhinagar, Navakoti Siddharpuram, Arasavanam, Bothivanam, Gokazhi, Thuraisai and Gomuktinagar.

Thiruvavaduthurai is the place where the Thiruvavaduthurai Adheenam is situated. This is one of the oldest Shiva Mutts and it manages a number of charitable endowments. It has many Shiva temples under its administrative control. It is to be noted that Mutts like Thiruvavaduthurai Adheenam are the reason why many Shiva temples in the southern region are still cared for and have regular poojas.

The stone inscriptions available in this temple are from the periods of the Chola Kings Paranthakan-I to Rajarajadevan. Other inscriptions dating to the period of Kings Mara Varman and Vikrama Pandiyan can also be seen.

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

Thiruvazhundur is situated at a distance of about 12 kms from Mayiladuthurai. From Mayiladuthurai proceed towards Kumbakonam via Kuthalam. After Kuthalam, Komal road can be reached. From there take the diversion road towards Komal, then proceed for about 4 kms to reach Therazhunthur.

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

General Information

• This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 38^th Shiva Sthalam on the Southern bank of the river Cauveri in Chozha Nadu (Thenkarai).
• Lord Shiva in this temple is a Swayambumurthi (self-manifested). 
• This temple is counted as one of the seventy Maadak Koils built by King Kochengat Cholan.
• This west facing temple has two 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-III and Rajarajan.

According to legend, in ancient times, this region was densely covered with Sandalwood trees. Hence the historical name of this place is “Santhanaranyam” (“Santhanam” means sandalwood and “Aranyam” means forest in Tamil). 

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:25^th June, 2016 and 10^th April, 2017.

Location

Thirumiyachur is located at a distance of about 20 kms from Mayiladuthurai on the Mayiladuthurai to Thiruvarur route. From Mauiladuthurai first travel to Peralam (17 kms) and then to Thirumiyachur (3 kms). Nearest railway station is Peralam which is 2 kms away from this temple.

Other Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams near this temple are – Thirumiyachur Ilamkoil (inside this temple itself), Thilathaipathy, Thiru Anniyur, Thiruppampuram, Serukudi, Thiruvizhimizhalai, Thiru Kottaram, Ambal Maakalam and Ambar Perunthirukkoil.

General Information

• This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 56 Shiva Sthalam on the Southern bank of the river Cauveri in Chozha Nadu (Thenkarai).
• Lord Shiva in this temple is a Swayambumurthi (self-manifested).
• This is considered to be the first (“Aadhi”) Shakti Pedam and the goddess here is referred as “Aadhi Parashakti”.
• This is the place where “Lalitha Sahasranamam” originated and was first introduced to the world.
• This temple is counted as one of the seventy Maadak Koils built by King Kochengat Cholan.
• The vimanam (roof tower) of the sanctum sanctorum has been constructed according to the Gaja Brishtam style of architecture.
• This east facing temple has a 5-tiered main tower (Rajagopuram) and it has two corridors.
• The last consecration ceremony (Kumbabishekam) took place on 08.02.2015 and prior to that on 03.11.2000.

History of the Temple

This temple is believed to have been originally built by King Kochengat Cholan.

It was later renovated by King Rajendra Chola and Sembian Maadevi.

There are seven stone inscriptions available in this temple which relate to the periods of Chola and Pandiya kingdoms.

This temple is under the administrative control of the Thiruppukalur Velakurichi Aadheenam.

Visited on: 25^th June, 2016 and 10^th April, 2017.

Location

Thirumiyachur Ilamkoil is a part of the Thirumiyachur temple and is situated inside that temple itself.

Thirumiyachur is located at a distance of about 20 kms from Mayiladuthurai on the Mayiladuthurai to Thiruvarur route. From Mauiladuthurai first travel to Peralam (17 kms) and then to Thirumiyachur (3 kms). Nearest railway station is Peralam which is 2 kms away from this temple.

Other Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams near this temple are – Thirumiyachur, Thilathaipathy, Thiru Anniyur, Thiruppampuram, Serukudi, Thiruveezhimizhalai, Thiru Kottaram, Ambal Maakalam and Ambar Perunthirukkoil.

General Information

• This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 57 Shiva Sthalam on the Southern bank of the river Cauveri in Chozha Nadu (Thenkarai). 
• Lord Shiva in this temple is a Swayambumurthi (self-manifested).

History of the Temple

This “Ilam Koil” (temple within a temple) is situated right within the Thirumiyachur temple.

The shrines of the main deities of the Ilamkoil – Sri Sakalabhuvaneswarar and Goddess Minnum Megalaiyaal are situated in the northern corridor of the main temple.

It is believed that this ancient temple was renovated by King Rajendra Chola and Queen Sembian Maadevi.

There are seven stone inscriptions available in this temple which relate to the periods of Chola and Pandiya kingdoms.

This temple is under the administrative control of the Thiruppukalur Velakurichi Aadheenam.

Visited on: 12^th August, 2017.

Location

Thiruveezhimizhalai is situated at a distance of about 27 kms from Mayiladuthurai on the Mayiladuthurai to Thiruvarur route. Frist travel to Poonthottam (20 kms) and then to Thiruveezhimizhalai (7 kms). From Kumbakonam also this place is about 26 kms.

Other Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams near this temple are – Thirumiyachur, Thirumiyachur Ilamkoil, Thilathaipathy, Thiru Anniyur, Thiruppampuram, Serukudi, Thiru Kottaram, Ambal Maakalam and Ambar Perunthirukkoil.

General Information

• This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 61 Shiva Sthalam on the Southern bank of the river Cauveri in Chozha Nadu (Thenkarai). 
• Lord Shiva in this temple is a Swayambumurthi (self-manifested). 
• This is a famous “Parihara Sthalam” to remove obstacles from marriage proposals.
• 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 (Kumbabishekam) took place on 11.09.2013 and prior to that on 20.01.2000.

History of the Temple

This ancient temple is situated on the northern banks of the river Arisilaru.

According to legend, in ancient times, this region was a forest densely covered with jackfruit, sandalwood, Shenbakam and Vila trees. This forest was called the “Veezhi” forest.

This ancient temple is believed to be more than 2000 years old. There are 68 stone inscriptions available in this temple which relate to the periods starting from the Chola King Kulothungan-I.

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

Visited on: 12^th August, 2017.

Location

Thiruneelakkudi (Thennalakkudi) is situated at a distance of about 15 kms from Kumbakonam on the Kumbakonam to Karaikkal route. From Aduthurai, this temple is about 3 kms on the Aduthurai to Thiruvarur route.

Nearest railway station is Aduthurai which is about 4 kms away from this temple.

Other Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams near this place are – Aaduthurai, Thiruvavaduthurai, Thirukkozhambam, Therizhanthur, Kuthalam, Thirumanancheri, Velvikkudi, Ethirkolpadi, Thiruvidaimaruthur and Mayiladuthurai.

General Information

• This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 32 Shiva Sthalam on the Southern bank of river Cauveri in Chozha Nadu (Thenkarai). 
• Lord Shiva in this temple is a Swayambumurthi (self-manifested). 
• There are two separate shrines for Goddess Parvathy here.
• This east facing temple has a single tier main tower (Rajagopuram) and it has two corridors.
• The last consecration (Kumbabishekam) ceremony took place on 17.03.2006.

History of the Temple

There are 4-5 stone inscriptions available in this temple. According to these inscriptions, this ancient temple is believed to have been built by Chola kings Rajarajan and Vikrama Chola.

When a devotee hears the name Thiruneelakkudi, he is immediately reminded of the “oil abhishekam of the lord”.

This temple’s Sthala Viruksham (Pancha Vilva tree) is very significant, hence this place is known as “Pancha Vilvaaranya kshetram”.  Often five leaves of this Vilva tree can be seen together on a twig which is rare.

This temple is under the administrative control of Thiruvavaduthurai Aadheenam.

Visited on: September 4, 2017

Location

Thirukkottaram is situated near village Velangudi on the Kumbakonam to Karaikkal route (via Nedungadu). From Karaikkal, this place is at a distance of about 12 kms.

In Velangudi, there is a cross road with an entrance arch on the main road which leads to the temple. The temple is one kilometre away from this arch.

Other Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams near this temple are – Thirumiyachur, Thirumiyachur Ilamkoil, Thilathaipathy, Thiru Anniyur, Thiruppampuram, Serukudi, Thiruvizhimizhalai, Ambal Maakalam and Ambar Perunthirukkoil.

General Information

• This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 53^rd Shiva Sthalam on the Southern bank of the river Cauveri in Chozha Nadu (Thenkarai). 
• Lord Shiva in this temple is a Swayambumurthi (self-manifested).
• This east facing temple has a 3-tiered main tower (Rajagopuram) and it has a single corridor.
• The last consecration ceremony (Kumbabishekam) took place in the year 2009. Prior to that it was held in 1987 and 1937.

History of the Temple

This ancient temple is situated on the banks of river Vaanchiyaru. As per the stone inscriptions available here, this temple was built by the Chola King Kulothungan and the lord’s name is mentioned as “Rajendra Chozheeswaramudaiya Mahadevar”.

This temple is now under the administrative control of the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HRCE) Board of Tamil Nadu Government. However, the temple is not being maintained properly and is in a bad state. It is sad to see that the main tower as well as the towers in the sanctum are covered with a lot of weeds and plants. Even the grounds in the corridors are full of shrubs.

Visited on: 12^th August, 2017

Location

Sethalapathy is situated at a distance of about 25 kms from Mayiladuthurai on the Mayiladuthurai to Thiruvarur route. First travel to Poonthottam (20 kms) and then to Sethalapathy (5 kms). Nearest railway station is Poonthottam which is about 3 kms away from this temple.

Other Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams near this temple are – Thirumiyachur, Thirumiyachur Ilamkoil, Thiru Anniyur, Thiruppampuram, Serukudi, Thiruveezhimizhalai, Thiru Kottaram, Ambal Maakalam and Ambar Perunthirukkoil.

Another notable temple near this place is the temple for Goddess Saraswathy in Koothanur.

General Information

• This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 58 Shiva Sthalam on the Southern bank of the river Cauveri in Chozha Nadu (Thenkarai). 
• Lord Shiva in this temple is a Swayambumurthi (self-manifested). 
• This is a famous “parihara sthalam” for conducting ancestral rites similar to that performed it in Rameswaram.
• This east facing temple’s main tower (Rajagopuram) has 3 tiers. However, the back side of the tower is flat (without any reliefs). The temple has a single corridor.
• The sanctum’s tower is called “Dhuvithala Vimanam”.
• The last consecration (Kumbabishekam) ceremony took place on 08.07.2012 and prior to that on 25.08.1999.

History of the Temple

The temple is situated on the southern banks of the river Arisilaru which is flowing in the north to south direction. Rivers flowing in such direction are called “Uthiravahini”.

The historical names of this place are Thilathai Pathi and Thilatharpanapuri. However, now it is known as Sethalapathy. The historical name of the temple is Madhimutham.

Visited on: 12^th August, 2017.

Location

Auduthurai is located at a distance of about 3 kms from Thiruvidaimarudhur and 13 kms from Kumbakonam on the Kumbakonam to Mayiladuthurai route. From Mayiladuthurai it is about 20 kms. Auduthurai has a railway station and the temple is one kilometre away from it.

Other Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams near this place are – Thiruneelakkudi, Thiruvavaduthurai, Thirukkozhambam, Therizhanthur, Kuthalam, Thirumanancheri, Velvikkudi, Ethirkolpadi, Thiruvidaimaruthur and Mayiladuthurai.

General Information

• This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 31 Shiva Sthalam on the Southern bank of the river Cauveri in Chozha Nadu (Thenkarai). 
• 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 (Kumbabishekam) took place on 21.04.2000 and prior to that on 28.04.1955.

History of the Temple

This ancient temple is located on the southern banks of the river Cauveri.

There are 15 stone inscriptions available in this temple out of which 13 are related to the period of Chola dynasty and 2 are from the period of Pandya dynasty.  

This temple was renovated and built using granite by queen Chembian Maadevi, the wife of Chola king Kantarathithyan.

The historical names of this place are Thiraimur Nadu, Boobalakulavalli and Thirukkurangaduthurai.

Visited on: July 8, 2017

Location 

Thirukadaiyur Mayanam is situated at a distance of about 2 kms from Thirukadaiyur.

Thirukadaiyur is situated at a distance of about 22 kms from Mayiladuthurai on the Mayiladuthurai to Karaikkal route. 

Other Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalam near this place are – Thirukadaiyur, Thirunallaru, Dharumapuram, Thiruvettakkudi and Thiruthelichery. 

General Information

• This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 48^th Shiva Sthalam on the Southern bank of the river Cauveri in Chozha Nadu (Thenkarai). 
• 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) have rendered their Pathigams.
• This temple is one of the 55 west facing Shivasthalams in Tamil Nadu.
• There is no main tower (Rajagopuram) in this temple. However, there is a 3-tiered second tower. This temple has two corridors.
• The last consecration ceremony (Kumbabishekam) took place on 10.09.2014. 

History of the Temple

As per Hindu mythology, Lord Shiva destroyed and created Lord Brahma five times at five different places. Each such incident took place at an interval of “one karbam”. One karbam consists of hundreds of thousands of years. These 5 places are known as “Mayaanam” (“Mayaanam” means burial ground in Tamil). They are - Kasi Mayaanam, Kachchi Mayaanam (Kanchipuram), Thirukkadavur Mayaanam, Kazhi Mayaanam (Sirkazhi) and Veezhi Naalur Mayaanam.  Since this place is very near to Thirukkadavur, this Mayaanam gets the name “Thirukkadavur Mayaanam”.

The historical names of this place are Brahmapuri, Vilvaranyam, Siva Vedapuyri and Thirumeignanam.

Visited on: 8^th July, 2017

Location

Thiruvettakkudi is situated at a distance of about 9 kms from Karaikkal. On the Karaikkal to Tharangampadi route, there is a village called Varichikkudi at a distance of about 7 kms. From this village, take a diversion road and proceed further for about 2 kms to reach Thiruvettakkudi. A beautiful arch can be seen at the entrance of the diversion road.

Other Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalam near this place are – Thirunallaru, Dharumapuram, Thiruthelichery, Thirukkadaiyur and Thirukkadaiyur Mayanam. 

General Information

• This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 49^th Shiva Sthalam on the Southern bank of the river Cauveri in Chozha Nadu (Thenkarai). 
• Lord Shiva in this temple is a Swayambumurthi (self-manifested).
• This east facing temple has a 5-tiers main tower (Rajagopuram) and it has a single corridor.
• The last consecration ceremony (Kumbabishekam) took place on 28.05.1999.

History of the Temple

As Lord Shiva came to this place in the guise of a hunter, this place is called Thiruvettakkudi (“Thiru” is a respectful prefix, “Vedan” means hunter and “Kudi” means village in Tamil).  This place is also known as “Ambikapuram” because Goddess Parvathy is believed to have been born in this place in a fisherman’s family (“Ambikai” means goddess and “puram” means village in Tamil).

The historical names of this place are Punnagavanam, Devakodipuram and Ambikapuram but now it is known as Thiruvettakkudi.

Visited on: July 8, 2017

Location 

Thiru Thelicherry is located in Karaikkal on the Bharathiyar Road. It is right at the entrance to the Karikkal town while coming from the Poraiyar route. There is a railway station in Karaikkal.

Other Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalam near this place are – Thirunallaru, Dharumapuram, Thiruvettakkudi, Thirukkadaiyur and Thirukkadaiyur Mayanam.

General Information

• This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 50^th Shiva Sthalam on the Southern bank of the river Cauveri in Chozha Nadu (Thenkarai). 
• Lord Shiva in this temple is a Swayambumurthi (self-manifested).
• This west facing temple’s main tower (Rajagopuram) has 5-tiers and it has 2 corridors.
• Karaikkal is the birth place of saint Karaikkal Ammaiyar, one of the 63 revered Nayanmars.
• The last consecration (Kumbabishekam) took place on 07.06.2004 and prior to that on 09.05.1971.

History of the Temple

Karaikkal is one of the oldest port cities and business centres of South India. Now Karaikkal is a part of Puducherry. 

It is believed that Lord Shiva here has seen the pasage of four “Yugas”. As per the sthala purana, this place was known as Brahma Vanam in Kretha Yugam, Sameevanam in Thretha Yugam, Ananda Vanam in Dwapara Yugam and Mukthi Vanam in the present Kaliyugam.

The historical names of this place are – Mukthi Sthalam, Sivathalam, Suriyathalam, Guhathalam and Gaurithalam.

Visited on: 8^th February, 2017 and 8^th July, 2017.

Location

Dharumapuram is situated at a distance of about 3 kms from Thirunallaru on the Thirunallaru to Karaikkal route. From Karaikkal also this temple is about 3 kms only. The nearest railway station is Karaikkal.

Other Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalam near this place are – Thirunallaru, Thiruvettakkudi, Thiruthelichery, Thirukkadaiyur and Thirukkadaiyur Mayanam.

General Information

• This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 51^st Shiva Sthalam on the Southern bank of the river Cauveri in Chozha Nadu (Thenkarai). 
• Lord Shiva in this temple is a Swayambumurthi (self-manifested).
• This east facing temple has a 5-tiered main tower (Rajagopuram) and it has two corridors.
• The last consecration ceremony (Maha Kumbabishekam) took place on 09.02.2017 and prior to that on 20.04.1969. 
• This is the birth place of Saint Thiru Neelakanda Yazhpanar’s mother. Yazhpanar is one of the 63 Nayanmars.

History of the Temple

This is one of the 27 temples that comes under the administrative control of Dharumapuram Aadheenam.

Visited on: 25^th June, 2016 and 10^th April, 2017.

Location

Ambar Makalam (Koil Thirumalam) is situated at a distance of about 6 kms from Peralam on the Peralam to Karaikkal route. Peralam is on the Mayiladuthurai to Thiruvarur route. It is about 18 kms from Mayiladuthurai and from Thiruvarur it is about 24 kms. From Karaikkal, Ambar Makalam is about 18 kms.

Nearest railway station is Poonthottam which is about 3 kms away.

This temple is one kilometer away from the Ambar (Ambal) Perunthirukkoil.

Other Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams near this place are –

Thiruppampuram, Sirukudi, Thiruvizhimazhalai, Ambar Perunthirukkoil, Thirumeyechur, Thirumeyechur Ilangkoil and Thirunallar.

General Information

• This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 55^th Shiva Sthalam on the Southern bank of the river Cauveri in Chozha Nadu (Thenkarai). 
• Lord Shiva in this temple is a Swayambumurthi (self-manifested).
• This is the birth place of Saint Somayaji Mara Nayanar, one of the 63 Nayanmars. His “Soma Yagna” is very popular here.
• This east facing temple has 2 corridors and it has a 5-tiered main tower (Rajagopuram).
• This temple is counted as one of the seventy Maadak Koils built by King Kochengat Cholan. 
• The last Consecration ceremony (Kumbabishekam) took place on 24.04.2011, prior to that on18.05.1998 and 12.09.1960.

History of the Temple

This ancient temple is situated on the northern banks of the river Arasalaru. As per the stone inscriptions available in this temple, the temple was first built in the 12^th Century AD by King Kulothunga Cholan-I and later extended by King Vikrama Cholan.

The historical names of this place are Marapuri and Indirapuri.

Visited on: 10^th December, 2016 and 10^th April, 2017.

Location

Thiruppampuram is situated at a distance of about 3 kms from Karkathi. Karkathi is 28 kms away from Kumbakonam on the Kumbakonam to Karaikkal road. 

From Peralam, Thiruppampuram is about 9 kms. Peralam is about 15 kms from Mayiladuthurai on the Mayiladuthurai to Thiruvarur route.

Other Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams near this place are –

Thiru Sirukudi, Thiruvizhimizhalai, Ambal Maahaalam, Ambar Perunthirukkoil, Thirumeyechur and Thirumeyechur Ilangkoil.

General Information

• This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 59^th Shiva Sthalam in Chozha Nadu on Southern bank of the river Cauveri (Thenkarai).
• Lord Shiva in this temple is a Swayambumurthi (self-manifested).
• This is a very popular parihara sthalam for “Raghu-Kethu” dosham. It is also popularly known as “South Kalahasthi”.
• This east facing temple has 2 corridors and it has a 3-tiered main tower (Rajagopuram).
• The last Consecration ceremony (Kumbabishekam) took place on 10.04.2017 and prior to that on 11.09.2002.

History of the Temple

This place’s name “Thiru Pampuram” is derived from “Pampu” + “Puam” – “Pampu” means snake and “Puram” means place in Tamil. “Thiru” is a respectful prefix.

There are 28 stone inscriptions available in this temple which are from the periods of Kings Kulothunga Cholan-III, Rajaraja Cholan, Rajendra Cholan, Thiribhuvana Veera Devan, Sundara Pandiyan and Saraboji Maharaja.

The historical names of this place are Pampura Nannagar, Sheshapuri, Uragapuram and Pampuram.

Visited on: 11^th February, 2017.

Location

Kuthalam is situated at a distance of about 12 kms from Mayiladuthurai on the Mayiladuthurai to Kumbakonam route. It is about 24 kms from Kumbakonam. There is a railway station in Kuthalam and this temple is about 2 kms away from it.

Other Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams near this place are - Therizhanthur, Thiruvaduthurai, Thiruvidaimaruthur, Thirumanancheri, Thiru Velvikkudi, Thiru Ethirkolpadi and Mayiladuthurai.

General Information

• This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 37^th Shiva Sthalam on the Southern bank of the river Cauveri in Chozha Nadu (Thenkarai).
• Lord Shiva in this temple is a Swayambumurthi (self-manifested).
• This is a Moovar Paadal Petra Sthalam.
• This west facing temple’s main tower (Rajagopuram) has 5-tiers and it has 2 corridors. Goddess Parvathy’s main tower has 3-tiers and a single corridor. 
• Last consecration ceremony (Kumbabishekam) took place on 01.02.1960.

History of the Temple

The historical name of this place is Uththala Vanam which has been changed over a period of time to Kuththalam.

In the scriptures found in this temple, this place has also been referred to as Choleeswaram and Thiruthurutthi. In the Devaram hymns, this place is mentioned as “Thuruthi” which means an island in Tamil. It is believed that in the ancient times this place was an island in the river Cauvery.
This is one of the 27 temples which comes under the administrative control of the Dharumapuram Aadheenam.

Visited on: 28^th September, 2016 and 17^th November, 2016.

Location

Vilanagar is situated at a distance of about 6 kms from Mayiladuthurai on the Mayiladuthurai to Sembanar Koil route. Vilanagar is also known as Arupathy.

Other Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams near this place are –

Mayiladuthurai, Needur, Anniyur, Thiruppariyalur Veerattanam, Sembanar koil, Thiru Nintriyur, Vaitheeswaran Koil, Thiruppunkur, Thirukkannar Koil, Sirkazhi, Thirukkolakka, Therazhunthur and Kuththalam.

General Information

• This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 40^th Shiva Sthalam on the Southern bank of the river Cauveri in Chozha Nadu (Thenkarai).
• Lord Shiva in this temple is a Swayambumurthi (self-manifested).
• This east facing temple has a 5-tiered main tower (Rajagopuram) and it has 2 corridors.
• The last consecration ceremony (Kumbabishekam) took place on 02.02.1959.

History of the Temple

According to legend, in ancient times, this region was densely covered by “Vizhal plants” (a type of grass). Because of this, this place is named Vizhal Nagar which has later been changed to Vila Nagar. The lord of this temple is also praised as “Sri Vizharkattu Nathar”.

This is one of the 27 temples which falls under the administrative control of Dharumapuram Aadheenam. 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: 1^st September, 2016 and 10^th December, 2016

Location

Thiru Sirukudi is situated at a distance of about 5 kms from Karkathi. Karkathi is 28 kms away from Kumbakonam on the Kumbakonam to Karaikkal road.

From Peralam, Sirugudi is about 9 kms. Peralam is on the Mayiladuthurai to Thiruvarur route.

This temple is hardly a kilometre away from Thiruppampuram temple.

Other Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams near this place are –

Thiruppampuram, Thiruvizhimazhalai, Vanniyur, Ambal Maahalam, Ambar Perunthirukkoil, Thirumeyechur and Thirumeyechur Ilangkoil.

General Information

• This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 60^th Shiva Sthalam in Chozha Nadu on Southern bank of the river Cauveri (Thenkarai).
• Lord Shiva in this temple is a Daiviga (Dhivya) lingam. 
• This east facing temple’s main tower (Rajagopuram) has 3-tiers and it has a single corridor.
• There is no flag post (Dwajasthambam) in this temple.
• The last consecration ceremony (Kumbabishekam) took place on 22.05.2013.

History of the Temple

The historical name of this place is Sukshamapuri.

It is believed that this is the birth place of Pannan, a landlord and a friend of Chola King Killi Valavan. Pannan is famous for his philanthropic activities. He has been praised in the Sangam age literary works – “Akananuru” and “Purananuru”.