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.

Therazhundur Perumal temple.

1. Therazhundur: Krishna Kshetram.
   
   
   The place is about 21 Kms from Mailaduthurai. The main Raja gopuram is three storeys with two prakaram.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Main deity is “Devathirajan” in standing posture facing east. We see Garuda and Prahaladhan to one side and Goddess Cauveri, to other side of Lord inside the main sanctum.“Chengkamala valli thayar” is seen in different sanctum.There is a big tank seen in front of the temple known as “Darshna Pushkarani“.
   
   
   
   This is only Divya Desam temple where we see him as Lord Krishna. Urchavar is known as Amuruviappan. He has four hands and seen with Rukamani and Sathyabama. There is a cow seen standing beside him.
   
   
   
   Other deities seen in the temple as we go around are “yoga Narashimar, Vasudevar, Vishwaksenar, Desikar, Sri Ramar, Hanuman, Andal and Azwars” in different sanctums.
   
   
   
   Purana: when Agasthiya muni was worshipping Lord Devathirajan here, King Urthuvaradhan was passing on his chariot in air and the chariot got stuck and the place was known as Therazhundur from then on.
   
   
   
   Once Brahma took away the cow heard of Lord Krishna. When Lord Krishna knew about it he created cows with the help of Mayasakthi. Brahma when he saw this he was ashamed for his act and asked Kannan to forgive him.
   
   
   
   He requested Kannan to stay back in this place and bless him. So Kannan is seen here as Amuruviappan.

Thiru Kurungkudi Temple, Thirunelveli.

1. Thiru Kurungkudi: Vamana Kshetram.
   
   
   This is one of 108 Divaya Desam Temple.
   The place Kurungkudi is 47 kms from Thirunelveli Town.
   The main Gopuram is of five storeys and five prakarams.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Main deity is known as Sri Azhagiya Nambi, with Sridevi and Bhoodevi.
   Kurugkudivalli Thayar is seen in different sanctum.
   
   
   
   Here we see in the prakaram Nidra Nambi and Kidantha Nambi in separate sanctums. In-between the two sanctums there is a sanctum for Lord Siva and Bairavar also.
   
   
   
   Purana Says, during the time of Varaha Avatar Lord stayed with Sridevi and Bhoodevi in this place for sometime, and he shrunk his huge size to small one so the place came to be known as Kurungkudi.
   
   
   
   There is a place known as Mahendragiri to west of Kurungkudi, where lived a backward cast person named Nambaduvan. He was an ardent devotee of Lord Nindra Nambi and used to visit temple and worship from outside. Those days backward class people were not allowed inside the temple.
   
   
   One day when he was on his way to temple, and he was stopped by an asura to have him as meal. Nambaaduvan requested the Asura to allow him to worship, Lord Nindra Nambi and then he will be back to be a meal for him. Asura did not believe his words, so Nambaaduvan promised on the name of Lord. Asura left him.
   
   
   On his way to temple Nambaaduvan thought probably this was his last visit to temple; as usual he worshipped Lord from out side the main entrance. He was sad about not having the darshan of Lord for this lifetime.
   
   
   The Dwajasthambam moved a little away, for him to have the glimpse of Nindra Nambi. Nambaaduvan had a good drshan and he left the place to meet Asura as per the promise he gave. Lord as an old brahmin met him on his way back and asked him to divert his route, but Nambaaduvan refused to do so.
   
   
   
   He was strict in keeping to his words, and old Brahmin was not able to convince him so he revealed himself to Nambaaduvn. When he went to Asura, place he said he is not feeling hungry, but I want the blessing which you acquired from Lord. Nambaaduvan refused to give him; asura said he should give him at least quarter portion for him to get out of this Asura form.
   
   
   
   Asura was back to his normal form by Nambaaduvan’s help. This was on an Ekadasi day which is named as Kaisika Ekadasi. Even now they play the story of Kaisika puranam as a drama.
   
   
   This is the mukthi place of Thirumangai Azwar. Lord was born as Namazwar in this place to the couple, Kari and his wife Udaya Nangayar. Acharya Ramanujar called out Vaduga Nambi as he used to call his deciple. Nindra Nambi came as Vaduga Nambi and helped him with his hand box.
   
   
   Ramanujar went inside to worship Lord inside the sanctum at this time Vaduga Nambi crossed him went inside the temple first. When Ramanujar went inside he did not see Vaduga Nambi following him and he understood that Nindra nimbi was acting as Vaduga Nambi all these while.
   
   
   So, perumal here, known as Vaduga Nambi from then.

[Ramanujar][Nindra Nambi] [Nammazwar][Vaduga Nambi]

Vanama malai Perumal Temple, Nanguneri, Thirunelveli.

1. Nanguneri Vanamamalai Perumal Temple
   
   
   
   This is one of 108 Divya Desam. The temple is about 1500 BC, years old and later it was renovated by Pandya and Nayakar kings. This is a Swayamvektha Ksheram.
   
   
   
   The place is about 33 kms to south of Thirunelveli.
   The place is also known as Sri Varamangai, Totadri kshetram
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Main deity is Swayam vektha Vanamalai Perumal, with Sridevi and Bhoodevi in sitting posture. Urchavar is known as DevainayakanThayar Serivara mangai Nachiar is seen in different sanctum. Indra Pushkarani is the holy pushkarani of this place.
   
   
   
   We see other deities like Chakkratt azwar, Lakshmi, Sri Ramar, Andal, Garudan, Azwars, udayavar, Venu gopalan, and Manavalama munigal, in seperate sanctums as we go round the temple prakaram.
   
   
   
   Purana says when Asurs Madhu and Kaitapan were killed, their blood spread over the earth and started stinking. Bhooma Devi lost her purity, and she started meditating about Perumal who was pleased with her prayers, and he gave his darshan to her in Vaikunda Vimanam at this place. She was purified by Lord’s darshan.
   
   
   
   King of Sindhu land was cursed by Kusasana Muni, and he was roaming like a dog. Finally it reached this place and had a dip in the Chetru Thamarai Pushkarani. (Pushkarani with lotus flowers and the water is muddy). The dog came to its original form and worshipped here.
   
   
   
   The urchava idol of Thayar was in the temple of Vada Venkatam. Once they were arranging for marriage celebration of Venkatesa Perumal with the urchava idol. Sri Varamangai came in the dream of Sri jeeyar swamigal, and told him she is consort of Vanama malai Perumal.
   
   
   Sri Ramanuja jeeyar brought the urchava idol to this place and celebrated the marriage utsavam of Sri Vanamalai Perumal and Sri Varamangai

Thirukkolur and Azwar Thirunagari, Thirunelveli.

1. Thirukkolur:
   
   
   One of Nava Thirupathy related to kuja graham, and Divya Desam temple.
   The sthalam is about 2kms distance from Azwar Thirunagari.
   
   
   
   Here we see main deity Vaithama nidhiin sleeping posture on Adiseshan with his right hand pointing towards his face and his left handing pointing towards ground.The measure is seen as a pillow here which was used to measure the wealth of Kubera. The hand that pointing towards him means that navanidhi (wealth) is with him.
   
   
   Urchavar is known as Nithya pavithran in standing posture with Sridevi and Bhoodevi thayar. There are two sanctums seen separately for Kolurvalli and Kumudha Valli Thayar. Teertham is Kubera teertham and river Thamirabarani.
   
   
   
   The main Gopuram is mottai gopuram and as we enter we see Dwajasthambam and Garudazwar in small sanctum facing the Lord in the main sanctum. Yoga Narashimar is seen at the back of the main sanctum.
   
   
   
   
   Purana says once Kuberan went to Kailas to see Lord Siva, there he lost himself for a minute in the beauty of Parvathy, who cursed him for the act, and said all his Nava nidhi, (wealth)and his eye sight will be lost.
   
   
   
   
   When Navanidhi left Kubera, they came to Thirukkolur, and they were in the custody of Lord Vishnu. Kubera felt sorry for his act and asked a way to get out of this curse to Goddess Parvathy. He was asked to reach this kshetram of Thirukkolur on the bank of River Thamirabarani, and worship Lord Vishnu.
   
   
   
   Kubera came to this place and worshipped Lord Vishnu here. He got back part of his Navanidhi (wealth) from Lord Vishnu hence the lord here is known as Vaithamanidhi. Saying is someone who loose their property can worship Lord here and get back their wealth.
   
   
   
   
2. Azwar Thiru Nagari:
   
   
   Thirukurugoore, One of Nava Tirupathy for Brahaspathy graham, and Divayadesam temple. The place is 6 kms distance from Thirunelveli on the banks of River Thamirabarani. The main gopuram is of 5 stories, with three prakarams.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Main deity is Swayambu Sri Adi Nadha Perumal in standing posture with prayoga chakkram in hand. Thayar Adinadha Valli, and Thyar Kurugoor valli in two different sanctums.
   
   
   
   Sthala vruksham is Tamarind tree. River Thamirabarani and Brama teertham are the sthala teertham of this place.We see Dwajasthambam, garudazwar and proceed inside to left we see Venugopalan sanctum.
   
   
   
   Sthala purana says Brahma was asked to worship Adi nadha perumal of this place before starting his creations of living beings on earth.
   Adinadha perumal is Guru for Brahma, the guru of creations and hence, the place is known as Kurugoore.
   
   
   Bhooma Devi was rescued by Lord Vishnu as Varaha moorthy in this place so the place is considered as Varaha Kshetram.
   
   
   Some thing unique in the temple is there is tamarind tree, with leaves always fresh.(Does not sleep). They say Lakshmana is the tamirand tree in this Yuga waiting for Nammazwar for long years and the place is also known as Sesha kshetram.

[Kubera][Navagraha Sthalam]

Then Thiruperai, Nava tirupathy, Thirunelveli.

1. Then Thiruperai:
   
   
   
   One of 108 Divyadesam and one of NavaTirupathy.
   
   The place is important for Sukra graham.
   The place is about 7 kms distance to Azwar Thiru Nagari on River Thamirabarani.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   There is an outer mandapam with sculpture to pillars. We cross Dwajasthambam and have the darshan of Garudazwar in a small sanctum, which is a little away to the side, facing main deity in sanctum.
   
   
   Main Deity “Magra nedung kuzhai nadhar”, in veer asanam posture.(sitting with his left leg folded). “Kuzai kadha valli Thayar” and “Thiruperai Nachiar” are seen in different separate sanctums. We see Brugu Muni and Markendayer to either side in front of main deity inside the sanctum.
   
   
   
   Urchavar here is known as “Nigaril mugil vannan” with “Sridevi and Bhoodevi”. Teertham is Sukra pushkarani.
   
   
   Purana: Once when Hiranyakshiban kidnapped Bhoodevi and Perumal rescued her from the asura, after a fight with him Vishnu blessed her and placed her on his lap. Bhoomadevi felt happy and was in trance.
   
   
   Meantime Sridevi was looking out for Lord Vishnu, and she found Bhoodevi and Vishnu together and felt jealousy. She asked “Doorvasa Muni” to help her in getting back Lord Vishnu to her place.
   
   
   
   Doorvasar came to the place where Lord Vishnu was and since Bhoodevi was in trance and did not respect Muni. Bhoodevi was cursed by muni, and she asked for a way to get rid of it to him.
   
   
   
   She was asked to penance here in "Then Thiruperai" reciting “Narayana Manthram”. After long years of penance one day she saw huge Kundalam in the shape of a fish. As she offers everything to Lord Vishnu, she offered the Kundalam also to him which he wore and stayed back in the place and was known as “Nedung kuzhai nadhan”. He gave Lakshmi
   
   
   
   Devi’s features to her, and hence the place is known as Thiruperai.
   Once Samudra rajan, did not respect Varunan, so, he lost his kingdom and his weapon Pasam. Asuras came to fight with Varunan; he was unable to fight against them.
   
   
   
   Deva guru asked him to penance at "Then Thiruperai", and get back his weapon and kingdom which he lost. Varuna did as he was told. He was blessed by Lord, who poured water in his hand which turned out to be Pasam, (weapon) which was given to Varunan.
   
   
   He is known as “Mugil vannan” from then on.

Soranadha Perumal of Nava Thirupathy, Perungkulam, Thirunelveli.

1. Perungkulam: Nava Thirupathy temple.
   
   
   This place is one of the 108 Divya Desam temples and Sani sthalam for Navagrha sthalam.
   
   
   This place is about 10 kms distance from Sri Vaikundam town, on the banks of River Thamirabarani.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   There is a pushkarani near the temple. To the right side there is Sreenivasar sanctum with Hanuman. We see Dwajasthaambam as we enter inside. There is a sanctum for Manavala ma munigal.
   
   
   
   Main deity is Sreenivasan known as Soranadha Perumal in standing posture and thayar, Alarmelmangai and Kulandhaivalli thayar.
   
   
   
   Perumal has Prayaoga chakkra and Sanku in two upper hands and the other two as Varadha hastham pointing towards his feet (surrender to him) and other as Kadi Hastham touching his knee.
   
   
   
   Urchavar is known as Maya Koothan, with Sridevi and Bhoodevi. Teertham is Prungkulam teertham. Here Garudan is seen along with perumal
   
   
   Purana: Once the place was known as Thadaga Vanam. A brhimin named Vedasaran worshipped Soranadha Perumal here for a child. With the blessings of Perumal he had a child and named her Kamalavathy.
   
   
   
   As she grew old he wanted her to get married. Kamalavathy was not interested in getting married and leading a normal life, so she left to forest to penance and marry the Lord himself.
   
   
   Perumal was pleased with her penance and accepted her as his consort. The forest is known as Balika vanam.
   
   
   
   Once, Vedasaran’s wife Kumudavalli was kidnapped by an asura. Vedasaran was worried and pleaded perunmal to help him. Perumal wanted to help his devotee, so he killed the asura and danced on him hence, he was called as Soranadha Perumal.
   
   
   Brahaspathi and Vedasaran worshipped perumal of this place and were blessed.

Erattai Thirupathy

Tholaivilli Mangalam:


Two temples together are known as Erattai Tirupathy dedicted for Raghu and Kethu. When nectar was distrubted among Devas and Asuras, two of the asuras were in the Devar group and got the nectar from Vishnu, who punished him but they were given the posts as Grahams.


That is the reason why there are two temples with different deities for both relating to the place of Raghu and Kethu.

One is Tholaivillai Mangalam Devarbiran and the other one is Tholaivilli Manglam Aravindha Lochanan.

1. Devarbiran temple:
   
   
   This place is one of 108 Divya Desam, it is fourth temple of Nava tirupathy known as Erattai Thirupathy, and the Kshetram is reffered to Kethu Bagawan.
   
   
   
   The place is about 34 kms from Thirunelveli, And 3 kms from Azwar Thirunagari. The temple is near River Thamirabarani with two Prakaram.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Main deity is known as Devarbiran in standing posture and Thayar known as Karunthadak kanni. Teertham is Varuna teertham, and River Thamirabarani. Sthala vruksham of the temple is known as Vila maram.
   
   
   
   As we enter into the temple we see Dwajsthambam, and Garudazwar in a small sanctum near it facing main deity Deverbiran in the sanctum.
   
   Perumal is seen with Sanku and chakra in two hands, and the other two hands as Abhya varadha hastham and Kadi hastham. Thirumagal to his heart so there is no separate sanctum for Thayar in this temple. Urchavar is seen as Sreenivasan with Sreedevi and Bhoodevi here.
   
   
   
   Importance in this temple is one who worship the Lord of this place the soul attains Mukthi.
   
   
   
   Purana : Once a Gandrava named Vidyadharan and his wife were deeply immersed in love at this place and they did not respect Deva Guru who was passing over the place. He was annoyed and cursed them to become Thulai and Vill. (thulai means Tharusu, balance).
   
   
   
   Once they were out into normal state they realized their mistake, they worshipped Guru and asked for remedy to get out of his curse. He asked them to stay as Thulai and Vill inside the mud and penance at the place known as Kethara Nilayam
   
   
   
   When a muni by name Suprabar, visits the place and clean the place for
   Yagnam to be performed by him, he will find you in the cleaning process and the moment he lifts you will be back to your form.
   
   
   
   As it was predicted Suprabar muni choose this place for his yagnam and he found Thulai and villi, when he took it in hand turned out as gandarva and his wife. Since the Devas (Gandravas) did their penance and blessed, the place was known as Devarbiran. Muni Suparabar requested Lord to stay in this place and bless devotees.
   
   
   
2. Aravindalochanan:
   
   
   
   This is one of the temples of Erattai Tirupathy and is considered important for Ragu Bagawan. This temple is near Devarbiran temple.
   
   
   
   Main deity is known as Aravindalochanan, Chentamarai kannan and his consort Karundhadang Kanni. Teertham is Aswini teertham.
   
   
   
   Purana says Muni Suparabar was worshipping Devarbiran with Lotus flowers with good fragrance, which Lord liked. He followed the muni to find the place from where he was getting the flowers for him.
   
   
   When he saw the place he was happy and wanted to stay back in the place. Muni built a temple for him and worshipped him daily as he did for Devarbiran. Since the lord liked Lotus flower and his eyes are like Lotus he is known as Chentamarai Kannan.
   
   
   
   When Avirbagam (things which are included in Homam) is given it was taken by Devas. Aswini Devars did not get any Avirbagam. He complained and was asked to penance and worship Aravindalochanan. As a result they were blessed and given Avirbhagam. Since they were using the pushkarni it was named after them.
   
   
   
   As per Bramanda puranam Sathya seelar was living near River Ganges. He had three sons and one of his sons Vepidhakan was suffering of leprosy. Naradha muni asked him to have a dip in Aswini teertham at Tholaivili Mangalam and worship Aravindalochanan.
   Vepidhakan did as he told. He recovered and attained moksha.
   

Vara Gunamangai of Nava Tirupathy, Nattham, Thirunelveli

1. Varaguna mangai:
   
   
   This place is popularly known as Nattham. This is 2nd kshetram of Nava Tirupthy and one of 108 Divya Desam.
   
   
   The place is important for Chandra Graham. The kshetram is considered as Mokshapuri. The temple is near the bank of River Thamirabarani, about 2kms distance from Sri Vaikundam.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Main deity is Sri Visayasana perumal in sitting posture on Adiseshan with his consort Varaguna mangai. We see Sridevi and Bhoodevi inside the main sanctum. There is no separate sanctum for Thayar in this place.Teertham is Agni teertham.
   
   
   
   The main Raja gopurm is of 5 stories. There is a Dwajasthambam as we enter in. There is a small separate sanctum for Garuda near the Dwajasthambam facing Perumal inside the sanctum.
   
   
   Azwars and Achayars are seen inside in the mandapam here. They say the soul attains Moksha, when death occurs here.
   
   
   
   Purana: Romesa Muni was penancing here in this place for a long time with his disciple. There was a greedy fisherman living in the same place. He was hated by the villagers.
   
   
   One day he died due to snake bite and his soul as a jyothi left for moksha which was witnessed by the desiple of Romesa muni. He was surprised and he went to his guru and asked for an explanation.
   
   
   Guru told in his previous birth fisher man was King of Vidarpa desam, and due to his bad company he had the birth of fisherman in his next janma. Due to the good deeds of his ancestors he was born in this kshetra, and attained moksha. This was the main reason.
   
   
   
   Purana says there was a Brahamim named Vedavith who lived in Punyakosha Agraharm near River Reva. After rendering his services to his parents, and teacher he started penancing about Thirumal. He did not get the result for a long period and he was sad.
   
   
   
   Lord Kesavan came in the form of Brahmin and asked him to do his penance at Nattham. When he did here, Lord revealed himself to Vedavith and gave him Paramapadham which he wanted.
   
   
   As per request of Vedavith, Lord stayed back as Vijasanan in this place to bless his devotees who visited here.

[Moksham][Vijayasana Perumal] [Paramapadham][Nava Tirupathy]

Puliangkudi Temple of Nava tirupathy, Thirunelveli district

1. ThiruPulingkudi :
   
   
   One of Nava Thirupathy temple and one of 108 Divya Desam.
   The place is near to Sri Vaikundam situated on the banks of River Thamirabarani. The temple has two prakarams.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Main deity is Sri Bhoomipalaka Perumal on Adiseshan in relaxed posture with his consort Bhoomidevi, and Sridevi Thayar seen near his feet in sitting posture. The idol of perumal is about 12’ length. We see Brahma on lotus flower with its stem coming out from nabikamalam of perumal.
   
   
   
   Urchavar here known as, Sri Kaichina Vendhan with his consort, Bhoomidevi, and Sridevi Thayar. There is no separate sanctum for Thayar here. They are at service to Perumal inside the main sanctum.
   
   
   As we enter through main raja gopuram we see Dwajasthambam with small Garudan sanctum. This place is refered to Budha graham of Navagrahas.
   
   
   
   Purana says once Perumal and Sridevi were going around the universe on Garuda. They happen to see a place with natural beauty. They landed down and were taken up by the greenery and the river flowing beside.
   
   
   They stayed back for a long period, in the mean while Bhoodevi was searching for perumal. She came to know about there whereabouts and she felt jealousy. She started penancing at padala lokha, to gain the love and affection of perumal.
   
   
   
   Once when she was not there,in the earth, the seasons were not proper, draught was there and human beings suffered. Devas approached Perumal and asked him to solve the problem.
   
   
   
   Perumal went to Padhala Lokam and blessed Bhoodevi. She realized her mistake and she understood that both Sridevi and bhoodevi are equal to him. They decided to share and do service for him. That is the reason we see perumal with both of them in the santum.
   
   
   The Budha graham is destined for knowledge. Since Bhoodevi acquired her knowledge
   from perumal, who told her both of them are equal to him. This is the reason for considering it as a Budha graha sthalam.
   
   
   
   Purana says once a Brahmin named Yagna sarma performed a big yagam which was headed by Sons of Vashista Muni. Yagna sarma did not pay homage to people who helped him in performing the yagnam. They got angry and cursed him to become a Rakshas.
   
   
   Once Indra was performing yagam at this place Puligkudi kshetram and the rakshas was disturbing them in doing the yagam. Lord Vishnu came on Garuda and klled him with his gadha. After his death he was blessed by perumal and attained Moksha.

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.

Thiruthangal Nindra Narayana perumal temple, Sivakasi.

Thiruthangal:



One of 108 Divya Desam.



The temple is about 4kms distance from Sivakasi, 20Kms from Virudhunagar, and 20Kms from Srivilliputthur situated on a small hillock. The temple is about 5000 old.









Main Deity is Narayana perumal in standing posture with his consort Chengkamala thayar in separate sanctum. Teertham is papavinasa teertham and vimanam Deva Chandra vimanam.




We see Ranganadhar in reclined posture with Sridevi and Bhoodevi in a cave temple. Lord Ranganadhar is painted with color. All main deities are painted with colour in this temple.



Brahma, Brugu and Markandeyar are seen in picture form. Urchava vigraha of Ranganadhar with Sridevi and Bhoodevi is seen inside the sanctum.
As we go around Chengkamala Thayar is seen in different sanctum in standing posture.



We come in front of dwajasthambam and steps are seen to either side. As we go up there is a big hall and in the sanctum we see Nindra Narayanaperumal. Sridevi and Neeladevi are to left and Bhoodevi and Jambavathi are to right side of perumal. Markendeyar is seen in sitting posture to right side, we see garudazwar and Vishvakshenar standing posture to left side. Brugu Maharishi, Anirudha and his wife Usha is seen inside the sanctum.



As per purana, once there was a discussion among Sridevi, Bhoodevi and Neeladevi as to know who is best among them. Finally Sridevi left the place and reached this holy place Thiruthangal and meditated Narayana manthram.


Vishnu was pleased with her and fulfilled her wishes. Since Sridevi stayed here this place was known as Thiruthangal. Later on Bhoodevi and Neeladevi also joined Narayanaperumal in this place.


Garuda is with four hands here which unique. He has Amirtha kalasm to one hand and sarpam in another hand. The other two hands are joined together bowing to lord

As per purana Anirudha and usha got married in this place.

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.

Temples of Neimisaranyam

1. Hanuman Mandir
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Hanuman Ghat is the place on top of a small hill where we see Viswaroopa Hanuman carrying Sri Rama and Lakshmana on his shoulders. We had to climb few steps to the main sanctum. Near the entrance to left we see Makardwaj (son of Hanuman). In front of Sri Hanuman sanctum we see idols of Sri Rama, Sita and Lakshmana
   
   
   
   
   
2. Sukha Maharishi temple
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   This is near Hanuman Mandir. Here we see Sukar in bronze idol in a separate sanctum. In front of this sanctum we see a room in which books of all 18 Puranas and Vedas are preserved.
   
   
   
   
3. Balaji Temple
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Here as we enter we see Dwajasthambam, and we enter into a hall where we see Balaji in main sanctum and Padmavathy Thayar in different sanctum.
   
   
   
   
   
4. Durga temple:
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Durga Devi is considered as sister of perumal here. In the main sanctum we see Durga Devi and as we go around we come across another small sanctum in which we see Durga matha in Aruruvam, which is supposed to moolavar and nothing is clear to vision.
   
   
   
   


5. Chakkra teertham
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   This is in round shape and we have hectogn sort of pond around the chakkra teertham. we have steps to reach the water in the pond. The steps are too slippery. This is the pushkaram of this place. We have a sanctum for SriChakkrtazwar and Sri Rama, Sita and Lakshmana.
   
   
   
   



6. Ahobila Matt:
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   One of Ahobila Matt jeeyar attained paramapadham here and as a rememberence they have a sanctum for him. The sanctum is in the mutt premises. We have darshan of Sri Lakshmi Narashimar idols to which pooja’s are performed by a preist.
   
   
   
   Priest family takes care of the piligrims who visit the place. There are rooms to stay and food is arranged in mutt, if informed in advance. This is only for Brahmin community.
   

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]

Sri Ram Darbar, Ayodhya.

1. Ram Darbar:
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   There is a big hall and in the hall we see idols of Sri Rama, sita and Lakshmana. We also see a set of small idols there. This is the palace where Sri Rama and his courtiers meet, and he ruled the kingdom from here.
   
   
   
   
2. Bada sthan:
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   This is King Dasaratha's palace. Thre is a big hall we get to see the complete family. we see the idols of his four sons with their consorts Sri Rama and Sita, Lakshmana and Urvasi,Bharata and Mandavi , Sathrugana and Sruthakirthi.
   
   
   
   
   
3. Bada Hanuman is just a gate way sort. Nothing much to see inside.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
4. Kala Ram Mandir:
   
   
   
   The temple is constructed at the place where Sri Rama performed Aswamedha yaga. About 300 years ago Raja of Kulu built a new temple which was improved by Ahalyabai Kolkar of Indore in the year 1784. The main deity of Sri Rama is of black stone which was recovered from Sarayu River. The temple is near Nageshwarnath temple and it was closed when we went there.
   
   
   
   
   
5. Nageshwarnath temple:
   
   
   
   We reach the temple after crossing the bridge which was also constructed in the same year 1784.
   The temple was built by Prince Kusha, Sri Rama's son.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   According to legend this was the only place survived till the time of King Vikramaditya and rest of the city was ruined and covered by forest. King Vikramaditya located the city Ayodhya, with the help of this temple.
   
   
   
   Prince Kusha lost his armlet which was lost when he had his bath in River Sarayu. Nagakanya picked the armlet and gave it to Prince with whom she fell in love. Nagakanya was a devotee of Lord Siva, so Prince Kusha built this temple for her.
   
   
   
   Inside the sanctum we see Lord Siva in linga form, and a Dara pathra is hanging above the Siva Lingam. we see Ganesha to the front of main sanctun. Here we see different forms of Lord Siva's painted to walls. There is a seperate sanctum for Adi Siva Lingam. The present temple was built in the year 1750.

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.

Temples of Allahabad

1. Veni Madhavar:
   
   
   
   This is temple is near Saraswathi ghat, and it is one of the famous temples of Allahabad.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Veni madhavar temple is in Taraganj.
   Here main deity is known as Veni Madhavar. This is one of Panchava Madhava Kshetram. This is a small temple and darshan of Veni Madhavar in Allahabad is important.
   
   
   
   
2. Siddeswarar temple
   
   
   The temple is in Taraganj. This is very old temple. Here we see Main deity Durga Devi and other deities like Pancha Mukha Hanuman, and Navagraha. This is the only temple with Navagraha here.
   
   
   
   
3. Someswarar temple:
   
   Here the Siva Lingam ws installed by Chandran also known as Soman and hence the name someswarar.
   
   
   
4. Baradwaja Ashram:
   
   
   
   
   This place is 6 kms from Taraganj, and it is opposite to Ananda Bhavan. According to Purana Saint Baradwajar Ashram was here from the age of sri Rama lived. It says Sri Rama stayed for some period during his 14 years of vanavasam.
   
   
   
   
5. Akshaya vat:
   
   The immortal tree lies inside the fort within the Patalapuri temple. The tree stands in a niche above an underground shaft which is said to lead to Triveni. We are not allowed inside.
   
   
   
6. Ashoka pillar:
   
   
   This pillar is of polished sand stone of 10 meter height, dating back to 232BC. The pillar has persian inscription of Emperor Jahangir in scriptd on it commemorating his accession to the throne.

Hanuman mandir, sankrar mandapam and Triveni sangamam. Allahabad.

Allahabad

This place is about 135 KMS from varanasi.
Ganga, Yamuna and Saraswati, blessed by gods, came to be known as 'Prayag' or 'Allahabad'. Foreseeing the sanctity of the place, Lord Brahma also called it as 'Tirth Raj' or 'King of all pilgrimage centres.' The Scriptures - Vedas and the great epics - Ramayana and Mahabharata, refer to this place as Prayag.

1. Thriveni sangamam
   
   
   
   
   
   
   The sacred Sangam, is the confluence of three of the holiest rivers in Hindu mythology Ganga, Yamuna and the mythical Saraswati. At the Sangam, the waters of the Ganges and the Yamuna can be distinctly seen to merge into one. Once in 12 years Kumba mela takes place attracting people from all over the country.
   
   
   
   
2. Hanuman Mandir
   
   
   The temple is in kila ghat, near the Sangam.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   This temple is unique in North India. Here the 20’ big idol of Lord Hanuman is seen in a reclining posture. When the Ganga is in spate, this temple gets submerged.
   
   
   
   
3. Sankar Viman Mandapam
   
   
   The mandapam is 130 feet high with three floors. Near the entrance gate we see the idols of Kumarila Bhattar and Jagatguru Shankaracharya, meeting and to the other side, discussion between Mandana misrar and Adi sankarar.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   As you enter the temple we see Kamakshi Deviin sitting posture (with 51 Shaktipeethas around). On the outer wall of Kamakshi sanctum, we see Panchamukha gayathri, Moogmbikai, Durgai, Vindhyavasini , Ganga matha and saraswathy Tapas Kamakshi sculptures and paintings of life history of Adi sankarar.
   
   
   
   In the second floor Vishnu as balaji and veni Madhavar in front of him. We see 108 saligrahma in the sanctum. As we go around we can see the sculptures of Narashimar, Vamana etc. All around the wall beautiful paintings from Ramayana is seen.
   
   
   
   In the third floor Yoga sahastra Linga is seen made of one single stone. We can see 1008 small lingas in one big lingam which weighs 10 tones. There is a Rudrakshra mandapam for sahasra lingam in the sanctum. In this floor around the sanctum we see Dwadasa Lingam Pichadanar, Somaskandar, Dandayudhapani, Ardhanreeswarar, sankara Narayanar idols, and Siva leela paintings to the walls.
   
   
   
   The temple doors are made of sandal wood with beautiful carvings. As we come outside we have the darshan of Sowbaghya Ganapathy.
   
   
   
4. Akshyavat:
   
   
   The immortal tree within the Patalauri temple, has found mention in the description of several ancient scriptures, writers and historians. The tree stands in a deep niche above an underground shaft, which is said to lead to Triveni.We are not allowed inside, so we did not visit the place.