Arakanda Nallore, Athulya Nadeswarar Temple, Vizhupuram.

Arakanda Nallore: Athulya Nadeswarar Temple.



This place Arakanda Nallore is about 2 kms from Thiru koiloore and 35 kms from Vizhupuram. This is one of the Nadu Nadu Devara sthalam. Previously the place was known as Arayani Nallore. The temple is on a hillock near the confluence of Gowthami River and River Penna.












The temple Raja gopuram is of seven tiers.




Sthala Vruksham is Vilvam and teertham is River Penna.








Main Deity is Swayambu Siva Lingam known as Athulya Nadhar / Oppila Maneeswarar facing west under Rudraksha mandapam. His consort known as Soundra Kanakambikai / Azhagiya Ponnamai in standing posture is seen in different sanctum. Goddess is holding Alli Flower in her left hand and Lotus flower in her right hand. The temple is considered to be Gyana Yoga Sakthi Peetam.



Nandi is seen facing slightly towards right side with his ears turned towards the main sanctum, as if, he is ready to hear, what Lord Siva says. Here he is known as Sevimadukkum Nandi Devar.
Adikara Nandi is seen slightly moved towards Left side. When Sambandhar came to this place the doors of temple, were shut by the followers of other religion and worship was totally stopped. Sambandhar sang Hymns about Lord Siva here, and the doors opened immediately and then onwards rituals were started again. Both Nandi and Adikara Nandi seen slightly moved to either sides with their face turned towards left and right side respectively, for Sambandhar to have a clear darshan of Lord Sri Athulya Nadhar.



Other deities seen in the temple are Swayambu Valampuri Vinayakar, Mutthu Kumarar seen with six hands, Vishnu seen with Pryoga Chakkram in his hand with Lakshmi Devi, Kati hastha Durgai, Jeshta Devi, Asithanga Bairavar, Chandeekeswarar, Saptha madhar, Saneeswarar and Navagraham. Saneeswarar in the navagraham sanctum is seen with his right leg placed on his vahanam crow. Biravar is seen without his vahan dog.







Sambandar sanctum







There is a sanctum for Ramana Maharishi in the temple.



Eesanar, Durvasar and Viswamitra Rishi wanted to learn thoroughly about Eswara sakthi. So they approached Hygragreevar who is supposed to be god for Gyanam. Lord Hyagreevar joined with them and approached Lord Murugan for Upadesam. When they went to Lord Murugan he took them to His mother Goddess Parvathy.



Mother Goddess blessed them and asked them to visit Krishnaranyam on Earth where confluence of Penna and Gowthami River happens. To the north bank of this place there is a Hillock with power of Gyana Sakthi. Goddess asked them to meditate in this place about Lord Sivato get good result. Lord Siva was impressed with their penance and appeared before them. Lord gave Upadesam about Veda Agama Nadham. Lord Siva’s Upadesam to them about the Nadham was so clear and precise; they addressed him as Sri Athi Tulya Nadha Eswarar, which over a period changed into Sri Athula Nadeswarar.








There is a sanctum for Annamalayarhere. Sambandharafter worshippingLord Siva here wanted to visit Thiruvanna malai and worship Annamalayaar. But it did not happen so, he thought of Annamalayaar and installed a Siva Lingam and worshipped Him. This sanctum is seen in-between Sri Athulya Nadhar Sanctum and Goddess Soundra Kanakambikai.











As we go around the temple, we see Foot prints of Sambandhar placed on a peetam in a place from where he worshipped Annamaliyaar and sang Hymns on Him.




Sthala Purana says Lord Vishnu worshiped Lord Siva in this pace to get rid of his dosha for destroying Mahabali. Goddess Lakshmi also came in search of Lord Vishnu to this place. Lord Siva appeared before them here.



Once a muni, by name Neelakantar visited Siva kshetrams, to get rid of his curse. On his way to Thiru Annamlai he took bath in River Penna and sat on the hillock. From place he was able to see Thiru Annamalai, so he decided to worship Lord Siva from this place. He started meditating in this place. Lord Siva was pleased with his worship, and appeared before him with his consort Parvathy, and blessed him to get rid of his curse. Neelakanta Muni prayed Lord Siva, to stay back in the place and bless mankind. Lord Siva is in Swyambu Lingam form known as Araiani Nadahar in this place.







Here we see five caves where Pancha Pandava stayed for sometime during their Agnayatha vasam Period




(Swayambu Lingam)[Gyana sakthi][Eeswara Sakthi][ValampuriVinayakar][AdikaraNandi][Ramana Maharishi]

Thiru Vetkalam, Sri Pasupatheeswarar temple. Chidambaram taluk.

Thiru Vetkalam:  Sri Pasupatheeswarar temple.

The temple is about 3kms east of Chidambaram. Now the place is known as Annamalai Nagar.

This is one of the Devara Sthalam of Nadu Nadu Temples.

The main Raja Gopuram of the temple is of three tiers facing east.

  

Main Deity is Swayambu Lingam known as Arulmigu Pasupatheeswarar and his consort known as

Sri Sargunambaal / Nalla Nayaki. There is a mark on Siva Lingam.

Teertham of this temple is Krupa Kataaksha Teertham.

Sthala Vruksham of the Temple is Bamboo.



We see pillars with sculpture related to Sthala puranam of this temple in front of Goddess sanctum.

Arjuna is hiding his weapons.

 

As we go around the prakaram we see Siddhi Vinayakar, Murugan, Lakshmi, Meenakshi, Chokka Nadhar, Nalvar, Navagraham, Natarajar, Sooryan and Chandran.

Nardhana Vinayakar and Anugraha Dakshina Moorthy are seen as koshta Deivam. Here Muyalagan near Dakshina Moorthy is facing towards left side which is different from usual posture.

Lord Indra.

Sthala purana says Arjuna wanted to acquire Pasupathasthram to win the battle against Kauravas. Arjuna got all Asthras (weapons) from his father Indra. Krishna told Arjuna, Pasupathasthram can be acquired from Lord Siva only with permission from Indra...  

Arjuna penancing is seen with his one leg, to be blessed by Lord Siva with Pasupathasthram.

Arjuna penanced in this place which was full of Bamboo. Duruyodhana sent Mookasura in the form of pig to spoil the penance of Arjuna. Lord Siva wanted to test Arjuna so He disguised himself as hunter.

Lord Siva with Parvathy appeared as hunter and killed the pig. Four Vedas followed Him as Dogs. Arjuna also aimed at the pig. Before granting Pasupathastharam, Lord Siva wanted to test the ability of Arjuna.

Lord Siva as a hunter is seen fighting with Arjuna.

The hunter (Lord Siva) and Arjuna claimed themselves for the death of pig. From discussion it went to fight and Arjuna's bow broke. Arjuna in anger hit hunter (Lord Siva). The blow was felt by all the living being on earth. Parvathy got angry by Arjuna's act. Lord Siva told Parvathy her anger is not good and it would affect the whole universe. He asked her to cool down move to side.

Lord Siva lifted Arjuna with his leg and threw him Krupa Kataksham. Once Lord Siva’s Leg touched Arjuna, he was blessed.

Lord Siva and Parvathy appeared in front of him. Lord Siva gave Pasupathasthram to Arjuna.

Thiru Gyana Sambandhar and Thiru Navukkuarasar sang Hymns on Lord Siva. Arunagirinadhar Sang Thirupugazh on Lord Murugan of this temple.

Thiru Maakalanadhar temple, Koil Thiru Maagalam, Thiruvarore.

Koil Thiru Maagalam:



The place Thiru Maagalam is about 4 kms south of Peralam, of Thiruvarore District.



The temple is one of 275 Siva Devara Sthalam. The main Raja gopuram is of five storeys with two prakarams facing east.







Main Deity is Swayambu Lingam known as Arulmigu Maakalanadhar and his consort known as Achamtavirtha Nayaki.



Tertham is Maagla Teertham and Sthala Vruksham is Marudha maram.



We see sanctums of Achamtavirtha Vinayakar, Murugan, Kaali, Thyagesar, Naga kannigai, Nayanmars, Madhanga Muni, Subramanyar, Maha Lakshmi, Durgai and Chandekesar.



Kali worshiped Lord Siva in this place, hence the place is known as Maaglam. “Madhanga muni” worshiped Lord Siva in this place. He was blessed to have “Umadevi”as his daughter. “Somasi Nayanar” performed a yaga here in this place. Lord Siva was pleased and appeared in person to have the havirbagam and blessed him.



Thiru Gyana Sambandhar sang hymns on Lord Siva of this place. Sundarar and Thiru Navukkarasar have made a mention about the place in their hymns.



Stone inscriptions of 1st Kulothungan and Vikrama Cholan period are seen in the temple.

Thiru Chaikadu. Thiruvenkadu.

1. Melayoor / Thiruchaikadu:
   
   
   
   The place is also known as Chayavanam. The place is about 3 kms to Thiruvenkadu, and 15 kms SE, of Seergazhi Town.
   
   
   
   This temple is one of 275 Siva Devara Sthalam.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Main Deity is Swayambu Lingam known as Arul Migu Chayavaneswarar facing east and his consort Sri Kuilinum nunmozhi Ammai, facing South. Cauvery and Iravadam are teertham of the temple.
   
   
   
   Chai means korai in Tamil. The place was full of these type of grass, and hence the name Chayavanam / Chaikadu. This is one among, six places considered equal to Kasi.
   
   
   
   As we go around the temple we see a mandapam, resembling a chariot, with chakkra and horses, to the side of temple, attached to main temple. The Vimanam of the mandapam is Indra Vimanam.
   
   
   
   Inside the sanctum in the maha mandapam we see Lord Murugan with Vel. Archakar of the temple said, the idol of Lord Murugan was found in the sea.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Purana: Indra’s mother worshipped Lord Siva of this place daily. Indra tried to take the Swayambu Lingam to his place Indralokam, by doing so his eye sight started diminishing. Eyarpagai Nayanar was blessed by (Prathyaksham) Lord Siva here.
   
   
   
   
   Indra as Iravadam worshipped Lord Siva, here. Upamanyu muni worshipped Lord Siva. The Iravada teertham is seen in front of the temple. The temple was under renovation.
   
   
   
   Sambandhar and appar sang hymns on Lord Siva of this place.
   
   

[Sambandhar][Eyarpagai Nayanar][Charriot][indra Vimanam]

Thiru Kalikkamoore temple. Thirumullaivoil.

1. Thiru Kalikkamoore / Thennampattinam:
   
   
   
   This temple is one of 275 Siva Devara Sthalam.
   
   
   
   The place is about 3 kms to south of Thirumullaivoil, on the bank of River Uppanaru.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Main deity is Swayambu Lingam known as Kalikameswarar and his consort known as Azhagammai facing east in a separatae sanctum. Teertham is known as Ambuvi.
   
   
   
   Purana says Parasara muni worshipped Lord Siva of this place, and he was blessed.
   Sambandhar sang Hymns on Lord Siva. In his hymns he says by worshipping Lord Siva here one can get rid of their sins, of previous birth, ill health, and can gain wealth.
   
   
   
   There is a separate sanctum for Vilwvaneswarar and his consort Akilandeswari amman.
   
   
   sambandhar sang hymns on Lord Siva of this place.
   
   

[Uppanaar][Sambandhar][Prasara muni]

Bramapureeswarar temple, Seergazhi.

1. Seergazhi, Brahmapureeswarar:
   
   
   
   This is one of 275 Siva Devara sthalam.
   
   
   
   Brahamapuram, Seergazhi, is about 21 kms NE of Mailaduthurai. The temple has Raja gopuram to all four sides with two prakaram.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Main Deity is Swayambu Lingam known as Brahmapureeswarar facing east and his consort Thiru Nila Nayaki Amman, in separate sanctum facing east side.
   
   
   
   Teertham is known as Brahma teertham seen near Ambal sannidhi. Sthala Vruksham is Bamboo.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   The temple is of three different stages. First we enter into Main deity Bramapureeswarar temple. There is Dwajasthambam and nandi in front. As we go around the main sanctum we see Vinayakar, Murugan, 63 Nayanmars, Saptha madhar, Gaja Lakshmi,Devandra Lingam, Bairavar, Sooryan, Kalapureeswarar, Somaskandar, Natarajar, Dakshina Moorthy, Lingothbhavar, Durgai and Navagraham are seen.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   To the side we have to climb few steps to have the darshan of Thoniappar and Chattai Nadhar in their sanctums. They charge to visit the place. In the sanctum of Thoniappar.
   
   
   
   
   Here We see huge sculptures of Lord Siva and Parvathy in the sanctum. At the end of the yugam, everything gets submerged. Lord Siva with Parvthy sail in the Pranava Thoni (Boat) and stayed in this place. Relating to this story, we see a separate sanctum of Thoniappar here in the temple says sthala puraam
   
   
   
   
   As we go around the sanctum of Thoniappar, we see pictures painted about the evolution and how it continues, and finally the end of yugam. Inside Thoniappar sanctum we find few steps to climb to have darshan of Chattai nadhar
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   There is a separate sanctum for Ashta Bairavar, which is considered a Yoga sthanam near the south entrance of the temple tower. The temple is opened only on Ashtami days and Fridays.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   There is a separate sanctum for Sambandhar in this temple. Seergazhi is the birth place of Gyana Sambandhar. He received milk from goddess parvathy and attained Gyanam. His first hymn on Lord Siva was sung by him at the age of three in this place.
   
   
   
   Sundarar and Sambandhar sang hymns on Lord Siva of Seergazhi. Arunagirinadhar sang Thirupugazh on Lord Murugan.
   
   
   
   Few others like Manikkavachakar, Pattinathar, Gananadhar, Nambiandar Nambigal, and Sekizhar, have contributed to hymns on Lord Siva. Arunachala Kavirayar sang sthala puranam of this place.
   
   
   
   The temple is maintained by Thiru kailaya Thiru Dharmapura Adeenam.

[Thoniappar][Chattai Nadhar] [Yugam][Dharmapura Adeenam] [Ashta Bairavar]

Thiru Vallam temple. (Koneriraja Puram) Thiruvavaduthurai.

1. Thiru vallam / Koneri Rajapuram.
   
   
   
   This is one of 275 Siva Devara sthalam.
   
   
   
   The place Thiru vallam is about 6 kms from Thiruvavaduthurai, and 10 Kms to SE of Thiru Vedaimarudhur. The temple has a Raja Gopuram of three storey and two prakarams.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Main Deity is Swayambu Lingam known as Arul Migu Uma Maheswarar / Bhoomi Nadhar and his consort known as Mangala Nayaki Amman.
   
   
   Teertham is known a Mangala teertham and Sakthi Teertham. Sthala vruksham is Poopul tree.
   
   
   
   Importance: There is no Nandi in this temple. Bhoodevi worshipped Lord Siva, of this place, hence the name Bhoomi Nadhar. The place is also known as Bhoomiswaram.
   
   
   
   Natarajar of this place is Swayambu idol. The Natarajar here is famous. They say the nerves are visible in the idol. He is seen in separate sanctum in Maha Mandapam
   
   
   
   Purana says King Pururavas worshipped Lord Siva here in this place. He was blessed by Lord Siva and was relieved of his sufferings, due to Leprosy.
   
   
   Sambandar and Appar have sung hymns on Lord Siva of this place.

This is a small place, and we reached the place at 10 AM. The temple was open and the, gurukkal came to temple for morning pooja when we were about to leave the temple.

At the sight of Gurukkal we were happy, we will be able to see Natarajar sanctum which was locked. The system here is two persons have to operate their keys together.

Gurukkal was ready to do but the other person who was incharge did not show any interest. We waited for ½ hour in the mandapam for him to open the sanctum.

A group of art students entered for their project work in the temple at that time. The person, who was in charge, started running after the group that came and simply refused to open the sanctum. I think it was our bad luck; we had to skip and leave the temple. The whole mood of ours on that day was spoilt. We do plan and start visiting temples, once we happen to skip any temple due to any inconvenience, we do not know when we will be able to visit the place once again.

We only hope by Lord Siva’s grace we will be able to make up with this particular temple Konerirajapuram and have a glimpse of Natarajar.


[Natarajar][LordSiva] [Nandi]

Thiru Pugaloore and Thiru Kannapuram Temple. Nanilam.

1. Thiru Kannapuram Siva temple.
   
   
   
   This is one of 275 Siva Devara Sthalams.
   
   
   
   The place Thiru Ramanatheechram is on the banks of River Mudikondan about 11 kms from Nanilam. The temple has a Raja gopuram and two prakarams.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Main Deity is Swayambu Lingam known as Arulmigu Ramanadeeswarar and his consort
   Karuvar kuzhali ammai.
   
   
   
   
   Sri Rama worshipped Lord Siva of this place, hence the name Ramanadeecharam. Other deities seen in the temple are Vinayakar, Murugan, Gaja Lakshmi, Kala biravar, Nalwar, Sooryan, Dakshina Moorthy, lingothbhavar, and Durgai.
   
   
   Sambandhar sang hymns on Lord Siva of this place.
   
   
   
   
2. Thiru Pugaloore, and Thiru Vardhamaneecharam are considered as two different Devara sthalam of 275 Devara sthalam, seen in the same temple compound.
   
   
   
   The place Punnaga Vanam is about 7 kms to east from Nanilam.
   
   
   
   The temple is big with five storey, Raja gopuram and two prkarams. We see urchava idols of Nayanmars, Agni, Natarajar in the artha mandapam of the temple.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Main Deity of Thiru Pugaloore is Swayambu Lingam known as Agneeswarar and his consort Manonmani Ammai.
   
   
   
   Teertham is known as Agni teertham. Punnai is Sthala vruksham of the temple.
   
   
   
   Main deity of Vardhamaneecharm is Swayambu Lingam known as Sarnya pureeswarar and his consort known as karuthandar Kuzhali.
   
   
   
   Importance: Agni and Baradwaja muni worshipped Lord Siva of this Place. Thiru Navukkarasar attained Mukthy in this place. This is the birth place of one of the nayanar known as Muruga Nayanar.
   
   
   
   
   This was the place where ordinary bricks which Sundarar, kept in the night, turned out to be Gold Bricks.
   
   
   
   
   
   Thiru Gyana Sambandhar, Sundarar, and Thiru Navuakkarasar sang hymns on Lord Siva of this temple.
   
   

[Navukkarasar][Swayambu Lingam] [Sundarar][Golden Bricks]

Thiru chengattankudi temple. Nanilam.

1. Thiru Chengattangkudi:
   
   
   
   Thiruchengattan kudi is one of 275 Siva Devara Sthalam.
   
   
   
   The place is known as Ganapatheecharam, which is on the banks of River Mudikondan.
   
   
   It is about 2 kms distance SW from Thiru kannapuram. The temple has five storeys Rajagopuram.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Main Deity is Swayambu Lingam known as Ganapatheeswarar / Utharpadeeswarar, and
   His consort, known as Thiru Kuzhalammi.
   
   
   
   Teertham is known as sathya pushkarani, which is in front of the temple. Sthala vruksham is Atthi (Fig tree).
   
   
   
   Other deities seen in the temple are, Vathapi Vinayakar, Murugan, Sathya shoda Lingam, Natarajar, Seerala devar, and Sandana Mangai, in different sanctums.
   
   
   
   Purana says Lord Siva came to Siruthonda Nayanar’s house as Biravar. Nayanar greeted him and asked him to have his lunch at their place. Lord agreed and he said he wants the food to be served with the flesh of a small boy cooked as a dish and included in the menu. Siruthondar agreed to do so by the time Lord Siva finishes his day’s routine work.
   
   
   
   
   Seeralan asked his wife to cook the flesh of his son, who is a small and young. When lunch was served for Lord Siva, he asked them for their son. Seeralan had to admit what he has done. Lord Siva was pleased with their devotion and dedication in feeding disciples. Lord Siva asked them to call their son by his name and the boy walked inside the house. They were blessed by Lord Siva.
   
   
   
   
   Vinayakar killed Gayasuran and to get rid of his sin he worshipped Lord Siva here. Vatapi Vinayakar which is seen in the temple is from Vatapi brought by Siruthondar, when he went for war with Chalukya at Vatapi.
   
   
   
   
   Thiru Gyana Sambandhar and Thiru Navukkarasar sang hymns on Lord Siva, and Arunagirinadhar sang Thirupugazh on Lord Murugan of this temple.
   
   

[Gyasuran][Vatapi Vinayakar][Chalukya][siruthonda Nayanar]

Thiru Marugal Temple. Nanilam.

1. Thiru Marugal
   
   
   
   Thiru Marugal is one of 275 Siva Devara Sthalam.
   
   
   
   Thiru Marugal is about 6 kms from Thirupugaloore and 5 kms from Thittacheri on the banks of River Puttharu.
   This is a maddakoil.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   The temple has a big Raja gopuram of five storeys. There is a big Nandi seen on a platform as we enter through the main entrance.
   
   
   
   Vinayakar is known as Vidanteertha Vinayakar. We have to climb few steps to reach Maha mandapam. Here we see paintings relating to the sthala purana. Amman sannidhi is seen in Maha mandapam to a side.
   
   
   
   From there we enter into Artha mandapam where we see huge Dwarabalakar near the entrance to main sanctum on either side.
   
   
   
   Main deity is Swayambu Lingam known as Maanikkavannar and his consort Vanduvar Kuzhali.
   
   
   
   
   Teertham is known as Maanikka teertham / sivagangi, and Sthala vruksham is Plantain. Pushkarani, seen in front of the temple. Marugal means a variety of Plantain.
   
   
   
   Sthala purana: Once a Vaisya named Daman gave word his sister, about giving one of his daughter’s hand by marriage, to her son kumaran. He got 6 of his daughter married to, outsider other than Kumaran. The last daughter was worried and she was not happy with her father’s attitude. She left the house to, marry kumaran her cousin.
   
   
   
   They left the place and wanted to go somewhere, far from the place. During their travel when they reached the place Thiru Marugl, it was dark and they had to spend the night in a safe place. They decided to stay in the temple that night. Due to snake bite, Kumaran lost his life that night and the girl was left alone. She was confused and started crying.
   
   
   
   
   Thiru Gyana Sambandhar was passing through the village and he heard the cry of the girl. He asked her about the girl and learned about the mishappenning. He  pleaded to Lord Siva, and sang hymns on Siva asking for a judgment, for the death that occurred within the compound premises of his temple.
   
   
   
   Lord Siva was pleased and blessed him. He gave life to kumaran. Sambandhar got them married in the temple. We see a separate mandapam in the temple relating to the story.
   
   
   
   Sambandhar sang hymns on Lord Siva and Arunagirinadhar sang Thirupugazh on Lord Murugan.
   
   

[Sambandhar][Swayambu Lingam] [Nandi][Snake bite]

Seeythamangai temple. Nanilam.

1. Seeyathamangai:
   
   
   
   This is one of the 275 Devara sthalams.
   
   
   
   
   The place is about 1 ½ kms from Thiru Marugal, and 3 kms from Tittacheri on the banks of River Mudikondan. The temple is under renovation.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Main deity is Swayambu Lingam known as Ayavantheeswarar facing west and his consort Eru malar kannamai, / Thailambikayar, facing west in separate temple within the same premises.
   
   
   
   There is a small mandapam for nandhi in front of the main sanctum
   As we go around the temple we see beautiful sculpture of Durgai, Dakshina Moorthy, and Kshetrapalakar. A stone idol of Navaneetha Krishnan is seen in the temple. Outer prakaram we see a small sanctum for saneeswarar.
   Brahma teertham is the pushkarani of the temple which is seen in front of the temple
   
   
   
   Purana says Lord Brahma worshipped Lord Siva here, hence the name Ayavanthy.
   
   
   
   This is birth place of Thiru Neelanakka Nayanar, who worshipped Lord Siva here. Once he when he went to worship Lord Siva, here with his wife. At that time a spider fell on Siva Lingam in the sanctum.
   
   
   
   
   Nayanar’s wife tried to remove the spider on the Lingam by blowing air with her mouth. Nayanar was annoyed by her act, and he said what she did was wrong. He left her and stayed back in the temple that night.
   
   
   
   In his dream that night, Lord Siva showed him that all other place, except the place spider fell was wounded.Nayanar realised his mistake and he joined his wife.
   
   
   
   
   Sambandhar sang hymns on Lord Siva of this place.
   
   

[Swayambu Lingam] [Navaneetha Krishnan] [Sambandhar]

Aachalpuram and Thiru Kolakka. Seergazhi.

1. Aachalpuarm / Thiru nallore perumanam:
   
   
   
   This is one of 275 Siva Devera Sthalam.
   
   
   
   The place Aachlpuram is about 15 kms from Seergazhi, on the banks of River Kollidam. Present days the place is known as Peramanallore.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   The temple has a Rajagopuram of five storeys, with two prakarams.
   
   
   Main deity is Swayambu Lingam known as Sivalokaha thayagar, facing east and his consort Thiru Vennitru ammai is facing towards south.
   
   
   
   Mango tree is sthala vruksham and teertham is known as Panchakra Teertham. Other teertham like Brugu, Vasishta, Athri, Jamadagni, and Mrugandu are there for the temple.
   
   
   
   Purana says this is the place Thirugyana Sambandhar along with his disciples, merged with Siva jyothy. Sambandhar was married in this place and hence the name Peramanallore.
   
   
   
   This is Mukthi sthal of Sambandhar with Thiru Neelakanta yazhpanar.
   
   
   
   Sambandhar sang hymns on Lord Siva of this place.
   
   
   
   
2. Thiru kolakka / Thirukazhi seerama vinnagaram:
   
   
   
   The temple is one of 275 Siva Devara Sthalam.
   
   
   
   The temple is in Seergazhi town. it is about a kilometer distance from Brahmapureeswarar Temple on the banks of River Uppanaru. The temple is known as Thiru Thalam udayar temple. It is a small temple with single prakaram.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Main deity is Swayambu Lingam known as Arulmigu Sapthapureeswarar and his consort Oosai koddutha nayaki. Teertham is Soorya teertham.
   
   
   
   Importance is, this is the place where Thiru Gyana sambandhar received golden thalam from Lord Siva hence the name portalam udayar temple. Goddess gave a sound at that time hence, she is known as Oosai koddutha Nayaki.
   
   
   
   
   Kanva muni worshipped Lord Siva of this place.
   
   
   
   Sambandhar and Sundarar sang hymns on Lord Siva of this temple.
   
   

[Mukthy][Siva Jyothi]

Mayendrapalli / Koviladi . Seergazhi.

1. Mayendrapalli / Koviladi:
   
   
   
   This temple is one of 275 Siva Devara sthalam
   
   
   
   The place Mayendrapalli is about 19 kms NW of Seergazhi town. The present name is Koviladi. The temple is a small one with single prakarm on the bank of River Kollidam.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   The place Mayendrapalli is about 19 kms NW of Seergazhi town. The present name is Koviladi. The temple is a small one with single prakarm on the bank of River Kollidam.
   
   
   
   
   Main deity is Swayambu Lingam known as Arulmigu Thirumeni Azhagar and his consort Vadivambikai. Sthala Vruksham is Vilvam. Pushkarani is Indra teertham in front of the temple.
   
   
   
   
   Magendran worshipped Lord Siva of this place, hence the name Myendrapalli for the place. Soorya, Chandra, Brahma and Indran worshipped Lord Siva of this temple and were blessed by Him.
   
   
   
   Sambandhar sang hymns on Lord Siva, and Arunagirinadhar sang Tirupugazh on Lord Murugan of this temple.
   

[Sambandhar][Swayambu Lingam]

Kuttralanadhar temple. Thenkasi.

1. Kuttralam: This is one of 275 Devara sthalam.
   
   
   
   The place is about 6 kms from Thenkasi, and 58 kms from Thirunelveli Town.
   
   
   
   There are five water falls here. After having a shower at these falls we have a temple to visit here which is one of the Siva Devara Sthalams.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Main deity is swayambu Lingam known as Thirukundra Nadhar, Kutrala nadhar, and his consort Kuralvaaymozhi Ammai. To left side Parasakthi in different sanctum and to right side we see Ranganadha Perumal. This is yoga sakthy peetam.
   
   
   
   In this place Nataraja sabha is known as Chittra sabha one of 5 popular sabhy.
   
   
   
   
   Other deities seen in the temple are vallabha Ganapathy, Murugan, Dakshina Moorthy, Saptha Kanniyar, Panchaboodha Lingam, Agastiyar, Ananda koothar and 63 Nayanmars.
   
   
   
   
   Four Vedas together formed as Kurumpala tree and worshipped Lord Siva of this place.
   
   
   
   Purana says at the time of the marriage of Lord Siva with Parvathy, the earth got tilted to one side due to the weight of everyone who gathered to watch the function. Siva asked Agyastiyar to travel down to south (Podigai malai) to balance the earth by virtue of his Tapas. Siva gave word to Agasthiyar that he can watch the function in the temple over there. Agastiyar reached Kutralam and after having bath at falls he reached the temple.
   He was denied the permission to enter inside the temple. The temple was Vishnu temple.
   
   
   
   
   Agastiyar was worried and he reached Illanji and prayed to Lord Murugan who asked him to enter in to the temple as a Vaishnava Brahmin. Once he enters inside he can have the darshan of marriage precedings of Lord Siva.
   Agastiyar did as he was told by Murugan and he was able to enter inside the temple easily.
   
   
   
   To his surprise he saw Vishnu instead of Siva. He was worried and he touched the Vishnu idol on its head, closed his eyes and started praying. The big idol of Vishnu started decresing and turned into Siva Lingam and he was able to look into the marriage procedings of Lord Siva. There is a mark of Agastiya muni’s fingers on the Siva Lingam in this place.
   
   
   
   
   Sambandhar, Navakkuarasar and Manikkavachakar sang hymns on Lord Siva of this place.
   
   

Anbil, Thirumanthurai Temple. Lalgudi, Trichy.

1. Anbil:
   
   
   This is one of 275 Siva Devara Sthalam.
   
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   The place is about 8 kms from Lalgudi.
   
   
   Main Deity is Sathyavageeswarar and his consort known as Soundranayaki amman in different sanctum.
   
   
   Sthala Vruksham: Banian tree. Teertham: Chandra teertham.
   
   
   Importance: Vinayakar of this place is known as Sevisaiyttha vinayakar. Reason is once when, Sambandhar sang hymns on Siva near the river, he was too keen in hearing the music.
   
   
   Anbil is name of the place but, temple is known as Alandhurai. Brahma and Vageesa muni worshipped Siva of this place.
   
   
   Other deities in the temple are Pichandar, Saptha kanniar, Kasi Viswanadhar, Vislakshi, Bairavar, Valli, and Devayana and Subramanyar.
   
   
   Sambandhar and Navakkuarasar sang hymns on Siva of this place.
   
   
   
   
2. Thirumandhurai:
   
   
   This is one of 275 Siva Devara Sthalam
   
   
   The place is about 5 kms from Lalgudi.
   
   
   Main Deity is Amravaneswarar / Mrugandeeswarar, and his consort Azagammi, Balambika.
   
   
   Sthala Vruksham: Mango tree. Teertham: Gayatri river.
   
   
   Importance: Surya, Chandra, Indra, and Mrugandu muni worshipped Siva of this place.
   
   
   Other deities areBrahma, Vishnu, and Durgai to main sanctum. Subramanya swamy is seen with family and Dandaudhapani in separate small sanctum.
   
   
   Arunagiri nadhar sang Thirupugazh on Muruga here. Sambandhar sang Hymns on Siva in this place.
   

Thiru Erumbur and Thiru Nedungkalam temple. Trichy.

1. Thiru Erumbur
   
   
   This is one of 275 Siva devara Sthalam.
   
   
   
   The place is about 11 kms from Trichy and known as Brahmapuram, Kumara puram , and Lakshimi puram.
   
   
   
   Main Deity is Erumbeeswrar / Madhuvaneswarar and his consort known as Soundranayaki amman.
   
   
   
   Sthalavruksham: Vilvam. Teertham: Brahma teertham and Pduma teertham.
   
   
   Brahma, Indra and Devas took the form of ant to hide from asuras and worshipped Siva in this place. Hence he is known as Erumbeeswarar.
   
   
   Importance: The Siva lingam is slanting to one side as though he is giving ear to the worship of bakthas. The surface of the lingam is coarse and it is easy for the ant to move around. The lingam is covered with mud and there is no abishekam here. We can see the marks of ant creeping, on the lingam.
   
   
   The temple is a small hillock of height and 100 steps to reach the top. Soundarya nayaki amman in different sanctum outside the main sanctum. There is an old idol of the goddess kept to a side because of slight damage in it. The one in the sanctum is of same height and it is the new one replaced in the place of old goddess.
   
   
   Navukkuarasar sang hymns on Siva of this place. The other deities that we see are Sankara Narayanar, Dakshina moorthy,and Bala vinayakar. Surya is with his wife here.
   
   
   
2. Thiru Nedungkalam
   
   
   This is one of 275 Siva Devara Sthalam.
   
   
   Trichy to Tanjore route. The place is about 4 kms from Thuvakudi junction.
   
   
   Main Deity is Nedungalanadhar, Anithya Sunderaswarar and his consort Mangala nayaki / Opila nayaki.
   
   
   
   Sthala Vruksham: Vilvam. Teertham: Agasthya teertham, Sundara teertham.
   There are two vimanams for the main deity here.
   
   
   
   Importance Paraskathi did meditation in this place.
   
   
   Lord Siva came in the form of Kalvan. Parvathi was frightened and tried to hide herself in a garden, Olimadhi cholai. Later Siva took parvathi to Kailas says purana.
   
   
   Sambandhar, Sundarar and Navukkuarasar sang hymns on Lord Siva of this place. Arunagiri nadhar sang Thirupugazh on lord Murugan.