Thiru Parthanapalli, thirunangoore, Seergazhi

1. Thiru Parthanapalli:
   
   
   
   
   This is one of Thirunangoore Divya Desa Temple and one of 108 Divya Desam temples. The temple is about 4 kms distance from Thituvenkadu. The temple has a Raja gopuram of three storey, single prakaram with Maha mandapam, Artha mandapam and Main sanctum.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   As we enter through the Raja gopuram we see a small sanctum for Garudazwar facing Lord in the main sanctum.
   
   
   
   Main deity is known as Thamarayalkelvan, in standing posture with Sridevi and Bhoodevi. Urchavar is known as Parthasarathy. There is a separate sanctum for Thayar Chenbaka valli / Thamarai Nayaki, is seen when we go around the outer prakaram. We see a small sanctum for Hanuman also. Teertham is known as Sangasaras teertham.
   
   
   
   Purana says Varunan meditated and worshipped Lord here. The Lord was seen in person by Varunan, as Parthasarathy perumal. Agasthiyar, Gowathamar, and Baradwajar rishi’s meditated and worshipped perumal, and were able to see Lord in person.
   
   
   
   
   Story of the temple is related to Arjuna, who happens to come to this place. He was feeling thirsty and he asked for drinking water from Agasthiyar who was there. Unfortunately Agasthiya muni’s Kamandalam was empty without water. He was a great rishi and foresees the cause for this happening.
   
   
   
   He spoke to Arjuna, saying always he used to think of Lord Krishna whenever he was in need. Agasthiyar's word made Arjuna realize his fault.
   
   
   Arjuna prayed Lord Krishna to forgive him. Lord Krishna was happy with Arjuna, and he came before Arjuna in this place and hence the name for the place Parthanapalli. We see a separate sanctum for Arjuna here in Artha mandapam.

[Arjuna][Parthasarathy]

Thiru Vellakulam, Annan Koil.

1. Annan Koil:
   
   
   One of Thirunangoore Divya Desa Temples
   The temple is in Thiru Velvikulam 8 kms from Seergazhi. The temple is known as Annan Koil.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Main Deity is Sri Annan Perumal in standing posture with Sridevi and Bhoodevi facing east. Urchavar is Sreenivasa perumal and Padmavathy Thayar. We see Thayar sannidhi of Poovar Thirumagal Nachiyar as we go around the prakaram. Pushkarani is known as Swetha Pushkarani, which is in front of the temple.
   
   
   
   Sanctums of other deties seen in the temple are Garuda, Kumudha Valli Nachiyar, Nammazwar, and Manavala Ma Munigal.
   
   
   
   Purana: Prince Swethan, son of King Dunduraman of soorya vamsam, was blessed with a life of only 9 years. Knowing this, Swethan had his Upadesam from Marutha Muni. He started penancing here in this place under a Vilva tree after having a dip in Swetha Pushkarani.
   
   
   Lord Vishnu was happy with his prayers and blessed him a life like Markandeya.
   
   
   Kumudha malar (flower) used to bloom in this pushkarani and Devalokha ladies used to pluck these flowers. Kumudha Valli Thayar with Kumudha malar was brought up by a Brahamin. King Thirumangai wanted to marry Kumudha Valli Nachiyar.
   
   
   To marry her he had to fulfill certain conditions of her, finally he was known as Azwar and the King was known as Thirumangai Azwar. He married Kumudha Valli Thayar, here in this place. We see a separate sanctum for Kumudha Valli Nachiyar in the temple.
   
   
   Importance: Perumal in this place is considered as elder brother of Tirupathy Balaji. Offerings to Balaji of Tirupathy can be offered in this place, if it is not possible for one to give the offerings at, Tirupathy due to various reasons

Thirunangoore temples, Seergazhi.

This is just an introduction to Thirunangore temples. I will be writing about the temples from my next post. the place Thirunangoore also known as Purasangkadu and Parasavanam , is situated between River Cauvery and Manni aru, about 8 kms from Seergazhi towm.

Thirunangoore Temples:


There are 12 temples known as Thirunangore Divya Desam temples where Perumal on Garuda seva of all these, temples meet at Narayana Temple. This function takes place every year on, next day after half-moon day of month Thai (Tamilmonth) English calendar will be celebrated between Jan14- !4 Feb.
Stone inscriptions say the place was known as Chaturvedi Mangalam.



As per Parasavana Purana, Madanga muni meditated here on Lord Narayanar. As per the request of muni Lord Vishnu took twelve form in twelve places nearby, in this Thirunangoore kshetram. These places are known as Thirunangoore Divya Desa temples.



Parasavana Purana says Swethyaranya known as Esanya Peetam; the main moola lingam was worshipped by Thirumal.

Madangeeswarar of Tatpurusha Peetam was worshipped by Narayana Moorthy.

Arayneswarar of Akora Peetam was worshipped by Parthasarathy Perumal.

Yoganandar of Vamadeva Peetam was worshipped by Annan Perumal.

Swaranapureeswarar of Sathyojatha Peetam was worshipped by Perarulala perumal.


Jurahareswarar of Soma Peetam was worshipped by Kudamadum koothan Perumal.

Naganadhar of Swarna Peetam was worshipped by Pallikonda Perumal.

Nambuvarkanbar of Mahadeva Peetam was worshipped by Purushothama Perumal.

Kailasa nadhar of Bheema peetam was worshipped by Vaikunda Perumal.

Sundeswarar of Bava Peetam was worshipped by Thirumeni Azhgar Perumal.

Irawadeeswarar of Pranava Peetam was worshipped by Madhava Perumal.

Kalikameswarar of Rudra Peetam was worshipped by Narashima Moorthy.

Nayanarpaneswarar of Pasupada Peetam was worshipped by Lakshmi Narayanar.

All these peetams are considered as Thirunangore temples.

Sri Vaikundam temple of Nava tirupathy, Thirunelveli.

1. Sri Vaikundam:
   
   
   The temple is one of 108 Divya Desam, and one of Navatirupathy.
   The place Srivaikundam is about 26 kms from Thirunelveli town on the banks of River Thamirabarani. This is Soorya graha kshetram of Nava Tirupathy.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   The temple main Raja gopuram is of 9 stories with three prakarams around the main sanctum.As we enter we pass through mandapam with pillars. There is a sanctum forSri Ramar and Sreenivasar.
   
   
   Near dwajasthambam garudazwar is seen. We see Lakshmi Narashimar and Dasavathara sculptures.
   
   
   Main deity is Sri Vaikundanadhan in standing posture with Adiseshan’s five heads like an umbrella for him. Normally we see him in relaxing posture when he is with Adiseshan, but this is the only place where he is standing which is unique.
   
   
   
   There are two Thayar sannidhi. One is Vaikundavalli Thayar and the other one Soranadha Nayaki Thayar. Teertham of this temple is Brugu teertham, River Thamirabarannnni, and Kalasa teertham.
   
   
   Other deities in the temple are Santhana Garudan, Krishnan, Lakshmi Narashiman, Manavala Mamuni, Thiru Venkatamudayan and Hanuman.
   
   
   Urchavar of the temple is known as Kallarbiran with Sridevi and Bhoodevi placed inside the sanctum in front of main deity.
   
   
   
   
   Purana says once rakshas Somukan took the Vedas from Brahma. To get back the Vedas Brahama penenced here and got it with lords blessings.
   
   
   There was a thief Karadushanan who used to give half of his wealth which he steals. Once he was arrested and put into jail when he tried to steal in palace. He thought of Vaikundanadhan at the time when he was caught.
   
   
   
   So Vaikundanadhan appeared as Karadushanan in front of King and discussed about principles, and created a good opinion about him. King thought he was a yogi at this time Lord revealed himself. King and the thief became friends and so here
   
   
   urchavar is known as Kallarbiran.
   There is a mandapam with pillars to which we see beautiful sculptures carved.
   

Srivilliputthur Andal temple.

1. Srivilliputthur:
   
   
   One of 108 Divya Desam temples.
   The place is about 4kms from Virudhunagar, and 75 kms from Madurai.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Main deity is Rangamannar and Thayar Andal.
   
   
   Importance of the temple is it is the birth place of two Azwars,
   One is Periyazwar and the other Andal.
   
   
   The temple is of two portions Nachiar Temple and Vadapathrasai temple.
   There is a garden inbetween the two temples, which was cultivated by Periyazwar.
   
   
   He found Andal as a child in this garden. The garden is taken of even today.
   This was the garden from where daily Andal use to pluck and make garland for Rangamannar.Periyazwar’s house is the place where Andal Nacchiyar temple is found now.
   
   Perumal temple is of two floors.
   
   
   We find Narashima Perumal sanctum. Here we see Dasavathara moorthy and Azwars.
   We climb few steps to reach the second floor and enter in artha mandapam, were we see Utsava Moorthy, Chakkratzwar and Kannan.
   
   
   Inside the main sanctum perumal is seen in sleeping posture on Adiseshan, with Sridevi and Bhoodevi under Vada vruksham.
   
   
   To the side walls inside the sanctum we see sudai chirpam (sculptures) of Garuda, Surya, Thumburu, Naradha, Sanath Kumarar, Brahma, Sankarar, Gandharvas, Chandra, Madhukaitapar, Brugu and Markendeyar. All these are painted with colours. Andal and garuda are seen to either side.

Thiru Meyyam temple , Pudhukottai district.

1. Thiru Meyyam:
   
   
   
   This is a cave temple about 20 kms from Pudhukottai.
   This temple is one of 108 Divya Desam.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Pudhukottai District is the only district where we find lot of cave temples in Asia. All the temples were mostly to pallava regime. Here we find temple for Lord Vishnu and a temple for Lord Siva is seen, in the same mountain in two different caves.
   
   
   
   
   Here the mountain itself is considered as Vishnu and Siva, which is one more example for Siva and Vishnu are one and the same.The temple was built by Narashima Pallavan. The temple is older than Sri Rangam temple and hence it is known as Adi Rangam.
   
   
   
   Main deity is Sathyagiri nadhan in standing posture, and his consort Senbagavalli or Uyavandha Nachiayar. Utsavar is known as Meyappar. Jack fruit tree is sthala vruksham of the temple. As we go around we see Chakkratzwar, Andal, Krishna, Lakshmi, and Narashimar sanctums.
   
   
   
   Inside the cave here we see Anantha sayanam of Vishnu Moorthy, carved to the mountain rock. Here we find Perumal in relaxing posture which is about 30’ length and this is supposed to be the lengthier idol in Asia.
   
   
   
   
   He is relaxing on 5 headed snake known as Adiseshan, and at the back to the rock we see Garuda, Chitrguptan, Markandeyar, Brahma, Devas, Rishi, Kinnaras, and rakshasas Madhu, kaitabar. Bhooma devi is seen sitting under the leg, Lakshmi Devi on his chest with his left hand holding her close to him, and the right hand on Adiseshan in the form of patting him.
   
   
   
   Purana says Madhu, Kaitabar came to attack Vishnu, Bhoodevi and Sridevi were afraid of asuras and we see Bhoodevi hiding under his leg and Sridevi to the chest. Adiseshan in anger spelled out poison air and defeated them. This incidence is also carved beautifully in the cave temple.

Devadhana perumal Temple, Neimisaranyam , UP.

1. Neimisaranyam
   
   
   Nimisaranyam is 85 kms from Lucknow to Sitapur road. The place is on the banks of River Gomathy. There are few temples to visit.
   
   
   
   Devadhana perumal, One of the Divya Desam, Hanuman temple, Veda mandir, Durga temple, Chakkra teertham and Ahobila matt. A lady by name Mrs.Vinaya is arranging for taxi for your tour from there to Ayodhya, Allahabad and Varnasi. If someone is interested they can contact to the cell phone number 09936046748 She is a tamilian lady and travelers from south can converse in tamil to avoid confusion.
   
   
   Neimisaranyam:
   
   
   This place was arayanyam once, and it is considered sacred place to penance and attain divine power. The whole forest is worshiped as Supreme Lord. According to legends Lord chooses this place to establish Dharma. Vrittasura was troubling the sages and they prayed Lord to give a remedy for their issue. The Lords requested Maharishi Dadichi to give his bones to create a weapon to kill the demon. The maharishi obliged and they were able to get rid of the demon Vrittasuran.
   
   
   
   Sthala puranam says, Sutha puranikar recited 18 puranas for the benefit of Maha Rishi’s, in this place.
   
   
   The reason for the name Neimisaranyam is once Maharishi’s along with Sownakar, went to Lord Brahma, and asked him to show a place where they can do meditation and yagnas. Brahma took the wheel of his charriot and rolled it down. He said the place where wheel stops, that would be the ideal place for them. They wheel stopped at this place which was Aranyam
   
   
   Nemi means chakkram and the place it stopped, was Aranyam and hence the name.
   
   
   
   
2. Devadhana perumal temple:
   
   
   
   This is one of 108 temples of Divya Desam. This is One of 8 Swayam Vektha kshetrams. The rest are Badri, Pushkaram, Srirangam, Salagramam Srimushnam, Vanamamalai, Pushkaram and Tirupathy. The place is regarded as Tapovanam.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Main Deity is Devadhana Perumal in standing posture and in the main sanctum next to perumal we see lot of saligrahamas. In front of the main deity sanctum we have the darshan of Garudazwar. Goddess Pundarikavalli is seen if different sanctum. She is also known as Sri Hari Lakshmi, Sri Hari Priya.
   
   
   
   Sthala Vruksham is Thapovanam. All the trees in this forest are considered as sthala vruksham and hence it is known as Thapovanam.
   River Gomathy and Chakra Teertham are the pushkaram of this place.

[Saligrama][Chakkra Teertham][Thapovanam][swayamvektha Kshetram]

Ayodhya, UP

1. Ayodhya:
   
   
   This is one of 108 Divya Desam. Birth place of Lord Sri Rama.
   
   
   
   Ayodhya is situated on the bank of River Sarayu. This place is 7 kms from Faizabad. This is a popular pilgrimage centre. The ancient city of Ayodhya according to Ramayana was founded by Manu. This is one of the seven sacred cities
   
   
   
   According to Purana. Ayodha is famous for its close association of Ramayana. It’s a city full of sacred temples and historical significance. Atharvana Veda describes Ayodhya as “a city built by Gods and being prosperous as Paradise itself”. Various faiths have grown and prospered simultaneously in different periods. Jains consider that 5 tirthankars were born in Ayodhya and the first Tirthankar Rishabadev is one amoung them.
   
   
   
   
   
2. River Sarayu:
   
   
   
   The River was full of water and water flow was wild. We did enjoy the dip in the river. Some sort of arrangements is made for changing dress. There is lot of cows with panda’s standing there to do the godhan pooja for pilgrims.
   
   
   
   
   
3. Hanuman Gadi
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   This is temple of Hanuman and it is most popular temple of Ayodhya. The temple is in center of the town. One has to climb about 70 steps to reach the main sanctum. The main temple there is statue of Anjana Devi with Bal Hanuman on lap. Legend says Hanuman stays here and guarded the Ramkot. The faithful belief is that all the wishes are granted with a visit to the temple
   
   
   
   
   
4. Kanaka Bhavan:
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   This is the palace of Sri Rama. We climb few steps and enter into a big hall. Here we get to have darshan of Rama’s Paduka. This was the place from where Rama climbed into the chariot, to leave Ayodhya for vanavasam
   
   
   
   There is another mandapam in which we have the main sanctum. Here we see Sita, Rama, and Lakshmana. There are two sets of idols we see here, one is the main idol and the other was worshipped by Sri Krishna. This is the place where Rama and Janaki matha lived. Main deity is decorated so well we hardly feel like leaving the place.
   
   
   
   
   
5. Sri Ram Janma bhoomi
   This is the main place of worship in Ayodhya.
   This is the site of the ancient citadel of Ramkot which stands on the elevated ground in the western part of the city. Lot of checking is there. We are not allowed to take anything inside. One has to walk a lot to reach the main place. They have kept the idol of Seetha Sri Rama and Lakshmana. It is so far we hardly get to see clearly and has to imagine and feel happy. We have the darshan of Hanuman to the side
   
   
   
   
   
6. Janma Bhoomi Karyalaya:
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   This is the place where the work is going on for the construction of Sri Rama mandir. There is a model of the temple is exhibited. Pillars with carvings, designed ceiling material, doors and all the designed stones to the sides of the walls are ready. They intend erecting the temple with these ready materials by year 2013.

Devipatnam, Darbhasayanam Temple, Ramanadhapuram District.

1. Devipattinam:
   
   
   This place is about 15 kms from Ramanadhapuram. It is to the sea shore, and here the sea is without noisy wave’s looks like a lake.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Here Lord Rama has installed 9 stones, which is known as Navabashanam and they represent Navagraha’s. There is a Siva temple,and the main deity is known as Thilakeswarar and Soundranayaki.
   
   
   
   The purana says Rama did thila tharpanam for his parents. The sea waves were disturbing Lord Rama in worshipping Navagraha, so he prayed to Jaganadhar to help him and he was blessed. That’s the reason the sea looks like a big lake over here.
   
   
   
   
2. Thirupullani / Dharbasayanam: Jaganadha perumal.
   This place is 6 kms from Sethu karai.
   
   
   Main Deity : Kalyana Jaganadhar in standing posture and Lord Sri Rama in relaxing posture, Goddess is Kalayana valli and Padamasini thayar.
   
   
   
   Importance: Vebeeshana surrendered himself to Lord Rama in this place.
   Here Lakshmana is in the form of Adiseshan on whom Lord Rama is relaxing in different sanctum.
   
   
   
   Purana says Pullar worshipped Lord by Astakshara mantra under the Aswatha vruksham and he was blessed, hence the place is known as Pullaranyam.
   
   
   
   We find Chakkra teertham in front of the temple. The teertham is also known as Hamsa teertham, because Lord gave upadesham to Brahma in the form of Hamsa pakshi [bird}

[Navagraha][Ashtakshara Manthram][Navabashanam][Aswatha Vruksham]

Koodal Azagar temple, Madurai.

1. Azagar Temple or Koodal Azagar:
   
   
   This is One of 108 Divya Desam.
   The temple belongs to krutha yugam. The temple is between Kruthamala River and Vaigai River
   
   
   
   
   
   Main Deity:"Koodal Azagar" in sitting posture known as Vieuga Sundarajar, Vaikundanadhan and Goddess "Madura valli Nachiyar", in different sanctum. Sthala Vruksham: Kathali. {Plaintain} Teertham: Hema Pushkarani.
   
   
   Importance: The main sanctum vimanam here known as Ashtanga Vimanam which means eight sides and it represents eight letters Narayana. The temple is of three floors and we see koodal Azagar in three different forms.
   
   
   
   As we enter we see the main deity in standing posture known as Koodal Azagar, Second floor he is seen in standing posture as Soorya Narayanar and in third floor he is seen in sleeping posture as Ranganadhar.
   
   
   
   We see Navagrahas in the temple which is a rare thing in Vishnava temples. Purna says Deva architect Viswakarma designed and constructed the temple in Krutha yugam.
   
   
   
   Name: once there was heavy rainfall and living beings suffered a lot. They prayed almighty and he was pleased with the prayer and sent four clouds which joined in four directions, in this place and protected them. Hence the place is known as Thiru koodal.

Azgar koil, Madurai.

1. Thirumalirun cholai also known as Azagar Koil:
   
   
   
   This is One of 108 Divya Desam. The place is 21 kms from Madurai to north. The temple is within the fort. As we enter we see Karuppanna swamy who is kaval divam of this place.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Main deity is Sundarajar or Kallazagar and Goddess Sridevi and Bhoodevi.
   urchavar is known as Goddess Sundaravalli. sthala vruksham is Sandalwood.
   Teertham: Noopura gangai and Silambu aru.
   
   
   Importance: Both main deity and urchavar are with panchayudam. The purana says Lord Yama penanced here to get rid of his curse and was blessed. As a gratitude he prayed to lord, permitting him to do pooja atleast once in a day. He was permitted to do, and they say, the midnight pooja is performed by Yamadarma raja.

href="http://technorati.com/tag/%5BDivya%5D+%5BDesam%5D" rel="tag">Divyadesam

Urayoor, Uthamar Koil, and Thiruvellarai temple. Trichy.

This time our tour was to Thirchirappalli for four days from january 9- 2008. The place is one of the important junctions well connected to Airways, Railways and Roadways. We stayed at Mayavaram Lodge, 87, Vanappattarai Street, Teppakulam Post, and Thiruchirappalli-620002. Phone number: 0431-2704089, 0431-2722400.


The accommodation was reasonable and service rendered was good. It was homely. They have car for rents also. The car driver Kuzandhaivelu was very coperative and helpful.


Our tour was mainly to visit Old important temples of Siva, Vishnu, and few temples on the way. We were unable complete all temples of our choice, due to temple timings.

My next few posts will be about our places which we covered in and around Trichy.

1. Urayoore:
   
   
   
   One of 108 Vishnu temple known as Divya deasam. The place is about 2 kms from Trichy central bus stop.
   
   
   Main Deity is Azagiya Manavala perumal in standing posture and his consort Kamala valli Thayar. Teertham is Kalyana teertham and Surya teertham.
   Importance: Komala Valli thayar is seen in bridal form over here. This is birth place of Thiruppanazwar, and he is seen separate sanctum here.
   
   
   
   Purana: King Nanda cholan found a female child fluting on lotus flower. He took the child named her Kamala valli and took care of her. Vishnu wanted to marry the princes. He appeared as a prince, in the dream of the King and asked his daughter to be married to him. Kamala Valli thayar and Manavala Perumal got married in this place
   
   
   
   
2. Uthammar Koil:
   
   
   This is one of 108 Vishnu temples known as Divya Desam..
   The place is about 6kms from Trichy.
   
   
   Main Deity: Puroshotama perumal in lying posture and Poornavalli Thayar in separate sanctum.Teertham is Kadamba teertham.
   
   Importance: other dieties in temple are Lakshmi Narayana perumal, Varadaraja perumal, Rama and Nammazwar. We have a separate sanctum for Brahma and as well as Saraswathi. While we go around the temple we see at the back of perumal Swayambu linga known as pichandar sannadhi in different sanctum. Vadivudai nakayi amman is seen in different sanctum. We see lakshmi , nayanar, Dasaradha linga, Chandikeswarar.
   
   
   Purana says Lord Siva to get rid of brahmahathi dosha due to the removal of brahma’s
   head. Lord Siva took the form as pichandar, and was roaming around with a bowl in his hand. At this time Poornavalli thayar gave biksha to him in his bowl and he was relieved from the dosha.
   
   
   Siva preached Gyana upadesa. The place is known as Saptha guru sthalam. Dakshina moorthy as Siva guru,Varadaraja perumal as Vishnu guru, Brahma has brahma guru, Soundarya parvathi as Sakthi guru, Dandayudha pani as gyana guru, Guru of navagraha as Deva guru, Sukra of navagraha as Asura guru.
   
   
   
   
   
3. Thiruvellari:
   
   
   
   The temple is one of 108 Divaya desam. The place is about 17 kms from trichy to north.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Main Deity is Pundarekaksha perumal and his consort known as Pankayach selvi thayar, Shenbagavalli in different sanctum. Teertham is Manikarnika, Kusa, Pushkala. Sthala Vruksham is Elandhy maram.
   
   
   Importance: There are two entrances to the temple known as Uttharayana and Dakshinana. There is one more door inside known as Nazhikettan door.
   
   
   
   PuranaThe story for the door is when perumal came late in the night thayar questioned him for the delay. Priority is for Goddess here. Lakshmi, Bhomadevi, Surya, Chandra, and Adiseshan worshipped god in human form. There is a pond belonging to the temple in swastik shape known as mamiar kulam. The construction is in such a way that person taking bath in a side cannot see the person who is to the other side
   
   

Thiruvallore and Thiruneer malai. Chennai.

1. Thiruvallore:
   
   
   this is One of 108 Divaya desams temples. The place is about 45 kms from Chennai. The place can be reached by rail route from Chennai to Arakonam. Busses are available from all places.
   
   
   Main deity: Sri Veeraraghava perumal in sleeping postureand his consort Kanakavalli thayar in different sanctum.
   
   
   Importaance: When Sali hothra muni was penancing here, Vishnu in the form of old man visited him and had lunch with him and after lunch he asked the muni to show the place for him to take a nap. Muni showed him the parnasala (kutil).
   
   Here he rested in his original form, in sleeping posture and hence the name Thiruvallore which was originally known as Thiru a vull.
   
   
   Maindeity: Veeragava perumal has rested his hand on the head of Salihothra muni, and his left hand depecting Gyana mudra to preach Brahma.
   
   
   There other deities like Vinayaka, Gopalan, Desikar, Andal, Lakshmi narashimar, Sudarshanar, Ananthan & Azhwar.
   
   
   This place is known as Punyavarthi kshetram. Everyone who worships here their good deeds multily and bad ones are waved. One who takes a dip in hruththapanasini pushkaram is relieved of all ailments. The perumal here is also known as Vaidya Veeraragava perumal.
   
   
   
2. Sri perumbudhoore: Vishnu temple.
   
   
   the place is 31kms south west of Chennai.
   
   
   Main deity is Sri Adikesava perumal with Sridevi and Bhoodevi thayar in standing posture and Goddess Ethiraja valli thayar. Teertham is Anantha saras.
   
   
   Importance: The place is known as Aranyaranam, Boodhapuri. To get rid of Siva’s curse Boodha ganas penenced here and were blesaed by Vishnu. In turn, they built the temple for Vishnu and hence the place is known as Boodhapuri.
   
   
   There is an idol of Ramanujar here which was embraced by him. Other deities like Rama, Andal, Udayavar, Desikan, and Alavandhar are there. This is birth place of Ramanujar.
   
   
   
   
3. Thiruneer malai:
   
   
   This is One of 108 Divya desam. the place is 25 kms from chennai.
   
   
   Main deity: Vishnu in 4 different forms together is one Divya desam
   
   
   Importance: On the top of hill three different types of deities, they are Ranganadhar, Narashimar and Tiruvikramar.
   
   
   Purana says after worshipping three deities on top hill, Valmiki muni came down and prayed thinking of Rama. For him Ranganadhar whom he saw appeared like Rama; Lakshimi like Janaki; Adiseshan like Lakshamana; Sanku and chakra as Baradha Satrugana; Viswakarma as Sugreeva, and Garuda as Hanuman.
   
   Then the Lord disappeared. Valmiki prayed and God appeared as Neervannan. Azwar and Andal sanctum are there.
   
   
   Teertham is Ksheera, Karunya, Siddha and Swarna pushkarani together as big pond known as Manikarnika. Rama here known as Kalyana raman.
   
   
   The up hill is known as Thoyadri malai, about 200 steps to climb. First we have darshan of Ranganadha swamy and Ranganayaki thayar. As we go around we see come to Thiruvikrama perumal in standing posture known as ulagalandha perumal, and third deity Santha Narashima in sitting posture. This place is considered as mukthi sthalam.

[Vishnu temples][DivyaDesam]

Teruvidanthy, Thiur Kdalmallai and Thirupukzhi temple. Kancheepuram.

Kanchi Temples


We happen to read a book written by sri. J.c.Murali about old temples of south india.We were inspired and planned to visit as many temples as possible.Our thanks to him for diverting our attention towards the age old temples.


Every temple as its own importance and many a places it is in Swayambu linga form. 276 Siva temples are known as Devara sthalam were Navakkuarsar, Manikkavachakar, Appar & Sundarar (who are known as saiva kuravas) ardent devotees of Siva sang hymns on siva.


There are 108 vishnu temples which are important known as Divya desams. Our first such tour was to Kanchi, south india and places around. We planned to visit important Vishnu temples also which are nearby. The temples dates back to 8 and 9th century. It was a 6 day tour from 21st feb 2006.


Kanchi: During pallava times it was their capital. The place is well known for temples and silk sarees. We started our tour from chennai . We were able to cover 90% only, due to temple timinges. Bus facility is available to all the places except few.

Some places are too small villages were nothing is available for tourists. We made our trip by taxi so that we can cover many places. We were 5 in number and our cost worked out to Rs2500 per head including room and food.

1. Thiruvidanthy:
   
   One of 108 important Vishnu temples.
   
   The place is located at, chennai to Mahabalipuram via (Kovalam). 40kms distance fronm chennai.
   
   
   Main deity: Lakshmi varaha perumal standing posture.Utsavar: Nithya kalyana perumal and Komavalli thayar. Teertham: Kalyana teertham and Varaha teertham.
   
   
   Importance: Vara perumal married 360 daughers of Klava maharishi and he is known as Nithya Kalyana perumal. All 360 were united into one and named as Lakshmi and he has her on his lap, so the name as thiru vidanthay.
   
   
   
2. Thiru kadal mallai:
   
   This is One of 108 Divya desams, 60kms from Chennai or 15kms from Thiru vidanthai.
   
   
   Main deity: Sthala sayana perumal sleeping posure, bujanga sayanam with his right hand on his chest as upadesa mudra.
   
   
   
3. Mahabalipuram:
   
   
   
   
   
   It is sea shore 50 kms from chenni. We have a temple, five charriots made of stones with rich carvings, stone elephant, etc. Holiday resorts are there.
   
   
   
4. Thirupukuzhi:
   
   This is One of 108 Divya desam, 10 kms from kancheepuram. The temple is ½ km inside from the main road.
   
   
   Main deity is Vijaya ragava perumal in sitting posture and Maragadavalli thayar in different sanctum. Teertham is Jatayu teertham.
   
   
   Importance: Women who want to concieve come here. They fry some green gram wash it and tie that to their stomach and sleep in the temple premises that night & next day if it sproutes their wish is fulfilled.
   
   
   Yadava prakasar guru of Ramanujar preached vedanta here. Rama when he was in search of Sita, he performed last rituals of jatayu here. Pond was made by Rama known as Jatayu teertham. Jatayu attained moksha here.
   
   

[Vishnu temples][Divya Desam]

Nadhan Koil, Anjaneyar and Sarangapani temple. Kumbakonam.

1. Nadhan Koil: Vishnu temple
   
   
   This is one of 108 Divya Desam. The place is about 2kms from pazhiarai, or 14kms from Kumbakonam.
   
   
   
   Main Deity: Jaganadhar and his consort Senbagavalli Thayar,in sitting posture.
   Teertham: Nandi teertham.
   
   
   Importance: Sthala Vinayakaris Siddhi vinakayar. Nandi worshipped Siva in this place. Jaganadha perumal with Sword, Bow, Chakram, Sanku and Dandam in his hand. On friday's special abishekam is performed. Wishes are fulfilled in this temple.
   
   
   
2. Jaya Vijaya anjeneyar:
   
   We have a single banian tree which has multiplied into many number or trees by roots spreading all over.
   
   
   
   
   
   There is a Rama temple and Anjeyana sculpture. The place is calm and pleasant.
   
   
   
3. Sarangapani temple:
   
   
   This is One of 108 Divya desam. The temple is located near Portamari kulam.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Main deity: Sarangapani in sleeping posture, and Komalavalli thayar.
   Teertham: Hema pushkarani.
   
   
   Importance: There are 2 main doors known as utharayana and dakshinayana doors. uthsava vigraha has bow in his hand hence the name Sarangapani. The main gopuram is third highest one of vishnu temple 150 feet. The temple has vasantha mandapam and 100 pillar mandapam.
   
   
   Other deities like Sreenivasar, Krishna, Andal Gopalan, and Garuda are there. Lakshmi got married to perumal in the name of Komala valli daughter of Hema muni.
   
   

[Vishnu temple][Anjaneyar temple][Divya Desam]

Thiru Velliankudi and sengnoor temple. Kumbakonam.

1. Thiru Velliankudi:Vishnu temple.
   
   
   This is one of 108 divya desam.The temple is about 20kms from Kumbakonam. Town buses are available.
   
   
   Main Deity: Kolavalvil Raman and Maragadha valli thayar. The main deity is in sleeping posture. Utsavar: Srungara sundarar.
   
   
   Teertham:chakra, Brahma, Indra and Parasara teertham Sthala vruksham is Kadali.
   
   
   Importance: Garuda with sanku and chakra. Sukra, Brahma, Indra and Parasara muni were blessed by vishnu of this place.
   
   
   
   
2. Senganoor:Vishnu temple.
   
   
   Distance: 13kms from Adhurai and 18 kms from Kumbakonam.
   
   
   Main Deity: Sreenivasa perumal in standing posture and a Siva temple also, which we missed.

[Vishnu temple][Divya Desam]

Thiru vellakulam,Thiru semponsai, Talachangkadu, Thiru Indaloor, Thiru Kandiyoor and Thanjaiyali Nagar Temple. Kumbakonam.

1. Thiruvellakulam: Vishnu temple.
   
   
   This is One of 108 Divya desam. the place is about 7kms from Seergazhi.
   
   
   Main Deity: Sreenivasan and Alarmelmangai. (standing posture) Teertham is Thiruvellakulam.
   
   
   
   Importance: One of 11 tirupathi of Thirunangoore. The place is known as then tirupathi. Swetharaja, son of Thenthuraman of Surya vamsa was blessed by lord Sreenivasa for a long life like Markendya. Initally his life span was only 9yrs. He visited the temple had a dip in swetha pushkaram started doing mruthyanjaya japam under vilva tree, and got blessed. Thirumangi Azhwar got married to Kumudha valli in this place.
   
   
   
2. Thiru semponsei koil: Thirnangoore Temple.
   
   
   This is One of 108 important temples. The place is 5kms from Thirunangoore.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Main Deity: Perarulalan and Allimamalar nachiar. Utsavar known as chemponarangar.Teertham: Hema pushakarani and Kanaka teertham.
   
   
   
   Importance: Rama stayed at Druda nethra muni’s place & donated a golden cow to brahamin to get rid of his sin. The brahamin built this temple by the money he got out of cow. Hence the name. Siva to get rid of his brahamathi dosham performed Ekadasa rudhra, at this place. Vishnu with Bhooneela & devas gave darshan. Rudra requested him to stay at this place and bless devotees. 11 Garuda seva utsavam of Thirunangoore is famous.
   
   
   
3. Thalachangkadu: Vishnu temple
   
   
   This is one of 108 divya desam.The place is about 4kms from Akkoore.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Main Deity: Nanmadhiya perumal and Thalaichanga nachiar in standing posture.
   Utsavar: Venchudar piraan and chenkamala valli thayar.
   Teertham: Amritha pushkarani and Markendeya teertham.
   
   
   
   
4. Thiru Indhaloore: Vishnu temple.
   
   
   The temple is 1/108 divya desams. The place is at Municipal limits of Mayavaram.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Main Deity: Parimala ranganadhan or Sugandhavana nadhan and Parimala ranganayaki or Pundareekavalli. The deity is in sleeping posture with four hands.
   
   
   Importance: cauveri sangamam into sea. Kaveri is near the head side and Ganges the leg side of main deity.
   
   
   
   
5. Thirukandiyoor: Vishnu temple.
   
   
   This is one of 108 Divya desam. The place is about 8kms from Tanjoore.
   
   
   Main Deity: Harasapavimochana perumal, Standing posture. Utsavar Kamalanadhan and Kamalavalli thayar.
   
   
   Teertham: Kapalamoksha pushkarani, Padma teertham, Kapala teertham and Kudamuruti river
   
   
   Importance: Kapala of Brahama which was hanging in the hands of Siva left him only after worshiping Vishnu at this place. Separate Brahma, Vishnu & Siva temples are near by.
   
   
6. Tanjaiyalinagar: Vishnu temple.
   
   
   This is one of 108 Divya desam.
   
   
   the place is about 4kms from Tanjore. Three temples together are considered as one Divya desam.
   
   
   Markendya has seen the perumal of all the three places. Rama teertham is common for all the three temples. There is only one pujari for all three temples. Utsavar called as Sriman Narayanan.
   
   
   Main Deity: Neelamegha Perumal and Senkamalavalli thayar, sitting posture.
   Place: Manikundram.
   
   
   Main Deity: Manikundra perumal and Ambujavalli thayar, sitting posture.
   Place: Tanjayali nagar.
   
   
   Main Deity: Narasihma and Tanjay nayaki.
   
   
   Importance: Tanjaga elephant was killed by Narashima and to full fill the wish of Tangajan he his there in the same for devotees to worship. Hence the name for the town also as Tanjai.
   
   

[Vishnu temples][Divya Desam]

Uppliappan, Thiru Naryayoor, Tirucherai, Adhanoor, Thirupullam Boodhankudi and Kavi sthalam. Kumbakonam..

Following is list of temples belonging to 8-10th century in Kumbakonam area. the place u can call as a temple town. Our option of temples were important Siva temples numbering 276 and 108 Divya Desam.



We visited these temples during christmas holidays of 2006. Spent 1 full week covering these temples with base at Kumbakonam. Preferred mode of transport for visiting these temples is to hire a taxi with a local driver.


Importantly remember all temples are closed during 12:00 - 16:00hrs. The approx cost for a group of 5 people hiring a taxi is Rs.3000 which included taxi and food.

We stayed at my brother's place which saved the boarding expense. Boarding expense in Kumbakonam is moderate.I have separated the Siva Devara sthalam and Vainava Divya Desam on 2 different heading. One can still find our complete tour visits in my blog heading as "Ancient temples".


The temples are very old. They were visited by Azwars who sung hymns praising Lord (Renowned devotees, who composed hymns in praise of lord)and experienced the nearness of the respective lord. we were able to cover a part of the list of temples which we planned. I only hope we will be able to see rest of places also.

1. Uppiliappan Koil:
   
   
   This is one of 108 important Divya desam Maha vishnu temple also known as Oppiliappan Koil 7 kms from Kumbakonam
   
   
   Main deity: Oppiliappan, his Consort Bhuma devi.
   
   
   As per purana, Bhuma devi-Daughter of Markandeya rishi, marries Mahavishnu and cooks food for him without salt.Hence upillada perumal. Prasadam is Curd rice.
   
   
   Importance: Salted food is prohibited in the temple premises.
   
   
   
2. Thirunarayoor: Vishnu temple.
   
   
   This is one of 108 Divya Desam: 5kms from kumbakonam.
   
   
   Main deity: Thiru Nariyur Nambi in standing posture. Consort Vanjulavalli
   in bride posture. Teertham: Mani mutha teertham.
   
   
   Importance: Personal appearance of God for Meydavi muni and Brahama. Another important thing to be seen in this temple is Garuda is made of stone. Festival Garuda seva is world famous here.
   
   
   
   Starting of garuda seva only 4 persons lift it and gradullay number of persons double to every door finally the number lands to 64 in number. The reason why the no. of people carrying the diety increases is at every stage the wieght of the stone Garuda increases (unknown reason). Same way the number of persons decrease on return of the diety to moola sthanam. Ambal in Hamsa vahana.
   
   
   
   
3. Thirucherai Temple:
   
   
   This is One of the 108 divya desam.
   
   
   Theertham: Sara theertham, Vimanam: Saravimanam.
   
   
   
   Main deity saranadha perumal in standing posture and his consort saranayaki Thayar Perumal is giving darshan with five of his consorts, "Sridevi, Bhoodevi, Neeladevi, Mahalakshmi Saranayagi".This place is known as "Panchasarashetram".
   
   
   
4. Adhanoor: Vishnu temple
   
   
   This is one of 108 divya desam. The place is about 3kms from Swami malai.
   
   
   Main deity: Andalakumayan and Ranganayaki. Lord in the form of Bujayanga sayanam ie. in sleeping posture. One can see the measure under his head as a pillow and in left hand he has palm leaf and pin. Teertham: Surya pushkarani.
   
   
   Importance: Thiru mangaiAzawar and Kamadenu near the feet of the lord which is unusual.
   
   
   
5. Thirupullam Boodhamkudi: Vishnu Temple.
   
   
   this is one of 108 divya desam. The place is about 5kms from Swamy malai.
   
   
   Main Deity: Valvil Raman and Portamaraial or Hemambujavalli.Bujanga sayanam. (sleeping posture) Teertham: Jhatau teertham and Kruthra teertham.
   
   
   Importance: Vishnu’s posture here in the temple is like taking rest after granting the eternal bliss to Jhatau..This happens when sita was in Lanka so u find Bhooma devi with him,so that he can perform the religious rituals for Jhatau. Utsava vighara is Rama with four hands.
   
   
   
6. Kavisthalam: Vishnu Temple.
   
   
   This is one of 108 divya desam and also known as pancha Krishna kshetram.The place is about 3kms from papanasam.
   
   
   Main Deity: Gajanderan Varadhan and his consort known as Ramamani valli thayar. Teertham is Gajandra pushkarani and Kapila teertham.
   
   
   Importance: When gajandra was caught by the crocodile while drinking water in the pond he took the name of lord Vishnu to rescue him, he surrendered himself with full dedication and vishnu was pleased and rescued Gajendra.
   
   
   
7. Thirukoodaloor:
   
   
   This is One of 108 Divya Desam The temple is located at, Tanjore to Ganapathy Agraharam.
   
   
   Main Deity: Jagadhrakshan and Thayar Padmasini,standing posture.
   
   
   Teertham: cauveri and Chakra teertham.
   
   
   Importance: The place where Nandaga muni and devas performed puja was washed away by floods. Rani Mangammal dreamt about the renovation of temple and she renovated it. Another important thing to observe is there is shanku formation in the sthalavruksham.

[Sakthi Peetam][Vishnu temples][Divya Desam]