Sri Kalyana Pasupatheeswarar Temple Karur

Reputation:

Of the seven Shiva Shrines of the Kongu region, Karur Pasupatheeswarar is considered first and foremost. Emperor Musukunda, belonging to the Skanda Mahapurana period is believed to have undertaken renovation of the temple. According to the history of the place, Emperor Musukunda was extended an invitation to attend the wedding of Lord Muruga that took place in Tiruparankundram near Madurai.

Karur has the reputation that Siddha Karuvurar lived here. He has praised the Lord in his Thiruvisaippa hymns. As Karuvurar dissolved himself with the Lord, the Linga is found in a slanting position. Saint Thirugnanasambandar had also praised the Lord in his Thevaram. So Arunagiriyar His favourite deity Muruga in the temple.Karur also was the place of residence of Eripathanayanar, Pugazh Chola Nayanar . On 14, 15 and 16th of Panguni Tamil month (March-April) Sun rays fall on the shrine.

History:

Lord Brahmma became very proud as He is the creator of the world. With a view to teach him a lesson, Lord Shiva brought the divine cow Kamadenu. The divine cow also came to earth and performed penance here which was then a forest of Vanji trees. Kamadenu heard a sound from the sky directing it to worship an Adhi Linga hidden in an ant hill (puttru). The cow followed the order meticulously by pouring the milk on the ant hill but one day its feet touched the Lord. The cow apologized to the Lord for its careless behaviour causing bleeding on the Shivalinga. The Lord appeared before the cow and said that he would be worshipped as Pasupatheeaswara and the Kamadenu would be in charge of creation of the world. Kamadenu undertook the assignment and performed the job with all humily. At a later stage, Lord Pasupatheeswara restored the job to Brahmma himself and took Kamadenu to his Abode.

Speciality:

The Shivalinga – Anilayappar – is a swayambu that exists of its own. Lord Brahmma worshipped Anilayappar as one in the Ant hill (Puttru in Tamil). Kamadenu (divine cow) worshippped the Lord here. During the worship, the feet of Kamadenu touched the Lord’s head, the symbol of which is still on the Linga.

Prayer:
The devotee surrendering at the feet of Lord Anilayappar is blessed with a complete peace of mind. Those awaiting a marriage and longing for a progeny, in need of employment opportunity, development in business, promotion in job visit the temple and worship Anilayappar. It is the staunch belief of the devotees that the Lord would never fail his Bhaktas.

Prayer commitments:

Abishek is offered in oil, milk, curd tender coconut to the Lord and the Goddess. People also offer Mangalsutra and jewels to the Goddess. Dhoti and Sari are offered. Feeding the visitors ( Annadhanam) is also followed by the rich.

General Information:

Karur is 100 kms far from Salem, 76 from Trichy, 113 from Coimbatore and 144 from Madurai. The temple administration authorities can be contacted on phone No. 04324 – 262010.

Surutapalli Temple

About Suratapalli Temple

ABOUT 56 KM from Chennai, on the Tamil Nadu-Andhra Pradesh border, is a small village called Surutapalli, which houses the only "Sayana Sivan" (sleeping Siva) called Pallikondeswarar. The temple has an interesting Sthala Puranam. Sage Valmiki prayed to Lord Rama and the Lord gave him darshan. After defeating Ravana, and before reaching Ayodhya, Rama stayed at this place. So the two together prayed to Lord Siva. The Lingam, which Valmiki prayed to, is called Valmikeshwarar and the one Rama prayed to is Ramalingeshwarar. At present these two Lingams face each other. Harihara Bhugga, a king of the Vijayanagar dynasty, built this temple. There are 276 Saiva Sthalams, which have received the Thirumurais of Appar, Sundarar, Manikkavachagar and Thirugnanasambhandar. Their time was before the 10th century. Since this temple was built much later, it did not receive the Thirumurai.
Once Indra lost his kingdom and found that only if he consumed the Divine Nectar he could rule. So there was a tug of war between the devas and asuras to obtain this nectar. As they were churning the ocean, before the nectar came the poison. So there was complete pandemonium. Lord Siva then swallowed the poison and came to be called Nilakandan. A stunned Parvathi quickly stopped the poison at the throat. Siva then became drowsy and selected Surutapalli, where he is seen sleeping on the lap of Parvathi.
Narada, meanwhile, passed on the message and down came the Devas, Brahma, Vishnu and the Saptarishis, to have darshan. They were promptly stopped by Nandi who asked them all to come after some time, as Shiva was resting. All of them waited. Siva, when he woke up, was filled with extreme happiness and danced ("Ananda Thandavam"). This day, when the Devas, Brahma, Vishnu, Narada and Saptarishis had Siva darshan was a Krishnapaksha Trayodasi (Stiravaram, Saturday). This is the Mahapradosham day. Pradhosham, generally, is a significant occasion observed with great piety at all Siva temples. This temple was one of the favourites of the Paramacharya, who stayed here for 10 days, and in whose memory a Dhyana Manadapam is to be constructed. Pallikondeswarar's Sannidhi is seen in Kasi (Hanuman Ghat) and the Sage of Kanchi wished that devotees visiting Kasi would follow Pallikondeswarar to Surutapalli.
Sri Jayendra Saraswati and Vijayendra Saraswati performed the Kumbabhishekam of the temple on June 23, 2002. Along with it started the temple renovation. All the deities here are crowded together at one place. So plans are on to create separate shrines for Ganesha, Muruga, Saptamata, Navagraha, etc., The three-tier Rajagopuram will be made a five-tier one.
Goddess Maragadambikai, with Sanganidhi and Padmanidhi as dwarapalakas, greets one at the entrance. The Ambal shrine is at a slightly more elevated level than the Pallikondeswarar Sannidhi to highlight that it was She who saved the Lord. Denoting prosperity are Kamadhenu and Kalpakavriksha in front of the goddess. Outside are her sons, Saligrama Ganapathi and Subramanya. On the left wall of the Ambal shrine is Raja Rajeswari in a standing posture after destroying Bhandasura. Behind is Mahalakshmi and on the right wall is Saraswathi. There are number of other deities and rishis — all beautiful sculptures.
The Ambal shrine is surrounded by Appar, Sundarar and Sambhandar together, apart from Sage Valmiki, Ekapada Trimurthi (one foot and three forms) of Brahma, Vishnu and Siva with their Divine vehicles, the Swan, Garuda and Nandi, and Purna Pushkala Sametha Sastha. Intricate carving is a highlight of all the deities and mounts.
On the left wall of the Valmikeshwarar shrine is Dakshinamurthy, in a form entirely different from the usual image. Here he is Dampathi (Gowri) Sametha Dakshinamurthy. Incidentally, the Lord is often erroneously referred to as Dampadya Dakshinamurthy. Clearly seen are sages, Patanjali and Vyagrapthar. The Lord, mounted on His bull mount is in a seated posture with one foot on Apasmasura and the other leg folded on a Yoga Pattai and embracing his Consort Gowri on a Rishaba Vahana.
Behind Valmikeshwarar is Lingothbhavar, again an intricately carved. Siva is standing inside a Lingam. Below is Varaha and on the left is the swan indicating Brahma. To the right is Thazhambu. Both depicting the well-known legend. On the wall on the right side is Brahma, away from whom are Sapta Mata (seven mothers) namely, Bhavani, Maageshwari, Koumari, Vaishnavi, Vaarahi, Indrani and Chamundi.
Standing next to them are Visalakshi and Kasi Viswanathar. Beyond is Venugopala, Adigara Nandhi and footprints of Lava-Kusha (Sons of Rama) just outside Ramalingeshwarar.
Inside the sanctum of Ramalingeshwar is Rama, Lakshmana, Bharata, Shatrughna and Anjaneya.
The shrine of Pallikondeswarar is situated on the right. The huge reclining figure of the Lord is awesome.
The Lord is in the Bhoga Sayana on the lap of Sarvamangala with all the Devas, Saptarishis, Brahma, Vishnu and Indra waiting. So he is called Vishapaharanar (one who swallowed poison) or Sarvamangala Sametha Sri Pallikondeswarar.
Contributions for the renovation work of the temple may be made to:
Mr. K. S. Venkararama Raju, Chairman, Trust Board, Sri Pallikondeswara Swamy Devasthanam, Surutapalli, Dasukuppam Post, Nagalapuram M.D., Chittoor District Pin-517 588 (A.P.)
Darshan Time:
Morning : 6.00 a.m. to 12.30 p.m.
Evening : 4.00 p.m. to 8.00 p.m.
Pradosham days morning 6.00 a.m. to 8.30 p.m. Sani Pradosham is especially important when about 15,000 devotees throng this temple. On the occasion of Maha Sivaratri well over 30,000 devotees wait for the darshan of Pallikondeswarar.

MAHABALIPURAM TEMPLE

Mahabalipuram is located close to Chennai of Tamil Nadu on the shores of the Bay of Bengal, along the eastern coast of South India. The shore temples at Mahabalipuram are called as seven pagodas, among which six are submerged in the sea and only one has survived from the ravages of nature.

Significance of the temple

The Mahabalipuram Temples consist of several temples of enormous size, which were built by cutting huge boulders into exquisite carves and set against the background of unfathomable sky and vast sea. This was a concept of great Pallava Monarch Rajasimha, which was built during the period 830-1100 AD in the Pallava dynasty. Few of the great monuments of world stand here near the seashore. The freestanding monolithic temples are called `Rathas`. The cave temples are lavishly sculptured with the narration of the story of Arjuna obtaining the `Pasupata`. The temples with two towers, familiarly known as shore temples, also enhance the charm of this place.

There are two low hills in Mahabalipuram which are situated about 400 m from the sea which has eleven excavated temples on both sides, known as `Mandapas`. There is another unique type of temple standing nearby, called `Ratha`s , which have been cut out of large rocks. There are a total of five Rathas and three big sculptures of Nandi (ox of Lord Shiva), Lion and an Elephant. On the top of the bigger hill, there is a structural temple and in a little distance `Vijayanagara Gopura` is also situated.

The Five Rathas are very much famous which comprises of the Dharmaraja, the Bhima, the Arjuna, the Draupadi and the Sahadeva. The Rathas are situated about two hundred metre south of the main hill and were been designed out of smaller hill sloping down from the south. The biggest of the Rathas were the Dharmaraja, which was made from the largest part of the rock near the southernmost side. This follows in a descending order of height and to the direction of north the Bhima, the Arjuna and the Draupadi. A little to the west of Draupadi Ratha, Sahadeva Ratha was made out of a comparatively large rock. Immediately infront of the Draupadi, two smaller rocks were sculptured into an elephant and a lion. Behind the Draupadi and the Arjuna, Nandi is being sculptured on a common base.

The shore temple is a feast of vision to the spectators and it is at the very margin of Bay of Bengal in such a way that those tidal waves sweep away its walls. This is the reason why the sculptures of this particular temple have eroded most during the last thirteen century by saline water and high breeze. The shore temple is the most appealing in sense of aesthetic value. With the rising sun spreading its golden rays and white cloud moving across the azure sky, the tower looks most fascinating.

The Shore temple is the most complex group of all the temples having two shrines placed one behind the other, one facing east and the other west and these two shrines are separated by a third shrine. The first two shrines are Saiva and the third is Visnava, with an image of Lord Anantasavi made of live rock. Here Vishnu lies on his serpent couch and known as Stalasayana Perumal. There is an open large court at the western end. There are `Vimanas` over the Saiva shrines but not on the Vaishnava shrine, it seems to have disappeared with time. This is one of the earliest structural temples in Tamil Nadu, built by Narasimha Varman II and Rajasimha.

A little to the south of the sanctam, there is a majestic lion which carries a miniature of `Mahisasurmardini` carved inside a square cavity cut in the neck of the animal. Two attended deities or women are mounted on either side of the animal. A little north to this, a beautiful dear is carved on a platform, whose head is mutilated unfortunately. In between the lion and the dear a dwarf stands, whose legs are the only remnants now. The Shore Temple on the Bay of Bengal was constructed in the 7th century during the rule of King Narsimha-Varman II Rajasimha (c. 690-728).The Shore temple is a temple complex consisting of two Siva temples and a carving of Anantasayana Vishnu. The temple at the east is entered by a small gopura. On plan, it consists of a small sanctum and a front mandapa and is a two-tired vimana. The sanctum is housing a linga. The Somaskanda panel consisting of Siva and Parvati with baby Skanda on the back wall of the sanctum. The dhara linga and Somaskanda panel on the back wall of the sanctum are the features of the Pallava temples only. The temple facing west is also dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is large in plan comprising sanctum, mahamandapa, front mandapa, balipitha and dvajastamba. The temple’s vimana is four tiered with octagonal sikhara. It is important to note that stupas of both these temples are not covered by kalasa (copper finials). The carving on Lord Vishnu on a boulder in Anantasayana form is lying in between these two temples. It belongs to the period of Narasimhavarman I and thus it was earlier than the Siva temples.

KAILASANATHAR TEMPLE

The famous Kailashnath temple is situated at Putleri Street, 1.5 km from Kanchipuram. It is an ancient temple and is a specimen of the Pallava architecture. The Pallava king Rajasimha started the temple in the 7th century AD and was completed by his son Mahendra.

Significance of the temple

It is one of the oldest structure in Kanchipuram and the finest example of Pallava architecture in South India. The foundation of the temple is made of granite while the superstructure is carved out of sandstone. The circumambulatory path around the sanctum is made in such a manner that it requires visitors to climb up and down a flight of seven stairs and to crawl through narrow ways.

The temple is adorned with many interesting sculptures of Lord Shiva in 64 poses, which presents a picture of different aspects of mythology. The fresco paintings embellish the inner walls of the shrine. The temple is unique in its architecture and is viewed more as an architectural wonder than as a holy place.

Pujas are offered regularly here to the Lord Shiva-Kailashanatha. The festival of Shivaratri is held here once every year. Of all the temples in India, no other edifice has been so elaborately filled with all the 64 aspects of Lord Shiva. Two circuits, one outer and another around the sanctum adorn this temple. It is not mere walls that fringe the corridor. Small shrine-like cells have been constructed along the entire length of both sides and filled with the various exploits of Lord Shiva, not found anywhere else.

Shiva Lilarnavam, Sambu Nadaname and such other literatures have exquisitely described the dances of Lord Shiva. Come straight to this temple and walk around the corridor. The cells on the periphery are small, while on the inner wall they are big with big images

Lord Shiva's leg outstretched and piercing the high heavens; Gajantaka who attired himself with the torn skin of the elephant Asura, with Uma standing coyly nearby; Bhikasadana who with his comely figure disturbed the hearts of the wives of the sages, and as a charming Mohini lured the sages from their rituals; "Ardanari", a half blended with Uma; Sandya Thandava Shiva who danced at dusk wielding a Trisula (also spelt as Trishula);

Gangadara who stemmed the force of Ganga in his locks; Brahma-Chiracheda murthi who clipped off the fifth head of Brahma by his nail; "Vishapaharana" who arrested the poison Alahala in his throat; Gowriprasada who changed the colour from black to a golden hue; "Chanda Thandavan" with "Rowdram" (anger), "Karunai" (mercy), "Sringar" (amour), "Bayam" (fear), "Nagai" (Smile) and "Veeryam" (Valour) exhibited in his face, Thiripurantakan who without a single weapon destroyed the Asuras (demons) with his mere smile, Kritarjunamurti in the guise of a hunter, Chandesvara Anugraha, LinGodbavar, Bairava, Harihara are some the innumerable forms of Lord Shiva that can be witnessed here.

The Chola King Rajaraja Chola I visited this temple and named this temple as Kachipettu Periya Thirukatrali (Stone Tenple of Kachipettu (ancient name of Kanchipuram).It is believed by many archeologists that this Kailasanathar temple must be the inspiration for Rajaraja Chola I to built the Tanjore Brihadeeswarar temple.

A huge kneeling Nandi stands in the front facing the temple and a look at it clearly indicates it must have been painted in gorgeous colours once. In those days, all the sculptures were painted brightly. Now only traces are seen; and they are not inferior to those of Ajanta.

Though the construction of the Kailasanathar Temple was started by Rajasimha Pallava, it was his son Mahendra Varma Pallava who completed the construction. Local people believed that the temple of Kailasanathar served the purpose of a shelter for the king during the time of the battles. The origin or the legend behind building this temple is lost in the distant past.

A unique example of Dravidian style of architecture this temple is constructed mostly by sandstone. Fragments of 8th century's mural art are still visible reminder of the temple's architecture.The walls and the vimanam of this temple are filled with great art works in form of paintings and sculptures.Perhaps the most beautiful temple in Kanchipuram, this temple is regarded more as an architectural wonder rather than as a holy place. Currently the temple is well maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India

Kanchipuram's Kailasanathar Temple can be described as the successor of the rock temples at Mahabalipuram. The bases of the pillars in Mahabalipuram temples have seated lions while the Kailasanathar temple have confident grimacing lions standing on their hind legs.

It is learnt that the Shiva lingam has the flat stripes inside the temple which is specialty of this lingam. It is 10 feet high and the temple closes by 6 to 6:30 PM daily. There is a story behind this early closure. Temple priests narrate it to the visitors How to Reach the Temple Through Airways -Chennai is the nearest airport to Kanchipuram. One can take flights for most of the important Indian cities and cities abroad from Chennai. Through Railways- the Trains for Kanchipuram are available from Chennai, Chengalpattu, Tirupati, and Bangalore. Through Roadways- Kanchipuram is 75-km away from Chennai and is well connected by a network of roads. There are frequent buses from the city to Chennai, Bangalore and other places. For local transportation, bicycles can be hired from the shops near the bus stand. Cycle rickshaws and auto rickshaws are also available on hire to move in and around the city.

Ramanathaswamy Temple Rameswaram tamil nadu

Ramanathaswamy Temple at Rameshwaram is an important pilgrimage site for the followers of Hinduism. It is believed that a visit to this temple washes away one's sins and brings salvation (moksha). Located on an island off the Sethu coast of Rameshwaram, Ramanathaswamy Mandir can be reached via Pamban Bridge across the sea. Being situated in Rameswaram, the shrine is popularly known as Rameshwaram Temple. Rameswaram is a town in Ramanathpuram district of Tamil Nadu. The town is particularly famous for its religious shrine of Ramanathaswamy. The nearest airport to Rameshwaram is located at Madurai, which lies at a distance of 163 kms. One can easily reach Rameshwaram by taking regular tourist buses or by hiring taxis from all the major cities of Tamil Nadu including Madurai, Chennai and Trichy.

The construction of this temple began in the 12th century; nonetheless it was completed much later, during the reign of various rulers. Rameshwaram Temple is famous for embracing one of the twelve Jyotirlingas (lingam of light) of Lord Shiva. The temple is also accredited for being the southern most 'jyotirlinga' of India. It is believed that at this place Lord Rama offered his gratitude to Lord Shiva.
The Lingam of Ramanathaswamy is the presiding deity of Rameswaram Temple. The religious significance of this shrine has made it, one of the most visited temples of India. Rameshwaram (South) is one of the four major pilgrimage sites of Hindus, the other being Puri (East), Dwarka (West) and Badrinath (north). The main shrine adores the idols of Viswanatha Naicker and Krishnama Naicker.
In the inner section of the Ramalingeshwara, Ramalingam and Vishvalingam are placed side by side. Preserving the words of Lord Rama, Vishvalingam is worshipped before Ramalingam. Maha Shivarathri, Thirukalyanam, Mahalaya Amavasai and Thai Amavasai are the major festivals that are celebrated with gusto and fervor.

Ramanathaswamy Temple is closely linked with the great epic Ramayana. As per the legend, it is believed that Lord Rama worshipped Lord Shiva here, on his victorious return from Sri Lanka. As the legend goes, Sages (Rishis) counseled Lord Rama (along with Sita and Lakshmana) to install and worship the 'Shivalingam' at this place, to compensate the sin of Brahmahatya (killing of a Brahmin). Lord Rama approved the idea and fixed a favorable time for the installation of Shivalingam.

He sent Lord Hanuman (Anjaneya) to bring a 'lingam' from Mount Kailash. Lord Hanuman could not return in time and it was getting late. Apprehending the situation, Sita herself made a 'linga' of sand and Lord Rama installed the same. When Hanuman came back with the 'linga', the formal procedures of installation were over. Lord Rama consoled the disappointed Hanuman and installed his lingam (Visvalingam) next to Ramalinga. He enhanced the sanctity of lingam by ordaining that the rites would be made first to the Visvalingam.

The Temple
The temple had humble beginnings with an ancient shrine housed in a thatched hut until the 12th century. The first ever masonry structure was built by Parakrama Bahu of Sri Lanka.The Setupathy (architects and stone masons) rulers of Ramanathapuram completed the rest of the temple. Although manly Dravidian in style some of the temple vimaanams resemble the Vimaanams of the Pallava period. The temple has also received royal patronage from several kingdoms such as Travancore, Ramanathapuram, Mysore and Pudukkottai.Much of the additions were carried out between the 12th and the 16th centuries. The long corridor (3rd prakaram) dates back only to the 18th century.Stretched over a vast area of 15 acres, Rameswaram Temple is the typical specimen of Dravidian style of architecture. The skyscraping gopurams (spires) truly dominate the skyline of Rameshwaram. The shrine is acknowledged for having the largest temple hallway in India. This pillared corridor extends to 4000 feet in length, embracing more than 4000 pillars. Erected on a raised plinth, granite pillars are intricately carved with beautiful images. A hard fact about this corridor reveals that the rock doesn't belong to the island and it was imported from somewhere across the sea.

The main entrance of the temple tower has many storeys and stands tall. Its structure carvings, statutes and the peaks make people dumb founded. The grandeur of the Lord is really felt here. The human weakness for being narrow-minded is automatically removed and they feel their horizons broadened. On the tall stone pillars of temple, beautiful carvings can be seen. Elephants with their trunks raised are seen. The four sides of the temple are enclosed by strong stone walls. They are 650 ft. and 12ft. wide and tall respectively. This wonderful temple built on the sand island, is a work of great art and very impressive. Near to a gold plated pillar, a river is carved on a monolithic stone of 13 feet high and a foot wide. This indeed is a typical example of beautiful sculpting. 

Near the main temple of Rameshwar, there is a separate temple for Parvati known as Parvatavardhini temple. Besides this, there are temples of Santana Ganapati, Veerabhadra Hanuman, navagrahas, etc., At a distance of about nearly 2 kilometers from the main temple, there is Gandhamaadhan mountain. In spite of being a sandy area, it is very green with a variety of flora. This is the Nandanavan of Rameshwar.

Encompassing nine levels, the eastern Rajgopuram (spire) soars to the height of 126 feet. However, the western 'gopuram' is not as high as the eastern 'gopuram', still it is equally captivating. The temple comprises numerous 'mandaps' having small shrines, dedicated to other deities. The colossal image of Nandi (Lord Shiva's Bull) captures the attention, due to its sheer size. It measures 12 feet in its length and 9 feet in its height. High fortifications encircle the temple, making a rectangle along with big pyramidal 'gopura' doorways on every side. Ramanathswamy Temple has twenty two wells in its complex. Being the main attraction of this temple, the wells are also recognized with their distinct properties. All of these wells have water of different taste, temperature, salinity and have curative properties as well. It is said that these wells were made by Lord Rama himself, when he fired arrows in the sand.

There are 36 Theerthams in Rameshwaram of which 22 are in the temple. The waters possess medicinal properties and bathing in these is considered to be of great significance. The Agni theertham refers to the ocean (the first well) while the Koti theertham is located within the temple itself.

Ramanathaswamy Temple also has its name in history books as it has the largest hallway anywhere in India. The construction of Ramanathaswamy Temple which began in the 12th century was contributed to by many rulers. During its construction period, many dynasties came and fell and each of them put their input into the temple. However one thing that did not change was its Dravidian style of architecture. Ramanathaswamy Temple is an epitome of Dravidian architecture. The list of unique features in its construction seems to be endless. The temple is spread over an area of 15 acres, has lofty gopurams, massive walls and a collossal Nandi. The stuccoed image of Nandi is about 6 metres tall and 7 metres in length.

There is this huge pillared corridor that is of approximately 1220 meters in length. Throughout the length of the hall, there are 4,000 brilliantly carved pillars, the alignment of which will leave you totally amazed. The carved granite pillars are mounted on a raised platform. What is unique about this corridor is that the rock is not indigenous to the island and it was brought in from elsewhere in Tamilnadu across the sea.The 54 meter tall Gopuram has become the symbol of divinity in the heart of many pilgrims; such is the beauty and presence of it. This Gopuram has nine levels. The Western Rajagopuram, though impressive, is not as tall as the Eastern one.

It is said that the ancient shrine was placed in a thatched hut until the 12th century. Parakrama Bahu of Sri Lanka built the first ever masonry structure here. The Setupathy rulers of Ramanathapuram completed the rest of the temple. Some of the temple vimaanams are similar to the Vimaanams of the Pallava period. Much more was added to the temple between the 12th and the 16th centuries. The long corridor (3rd prakaram) dates back only to the 18th century. The Gandhamadhana Parvatam (hill) offers a panoramic view of the temple. Travancore, Ramanathapuram, Mysore and Pudukkottai kingdoms provided royal patronage to this famous Hindu temple.

Special to Devotees of Lord Siva and Lord Vishnu
The Shivastalam is considered to be one of the holiest shrines in India. It represents the southernmost of the 12 jyotirlingas of India and has been a time honored pilgirmage center held on par with Benares. The island-temple town is located off of the Sethu coast of Tamilnadu (south eastern). This shrine is regarded as the 8th of the Tevara Stalams in the Pandya region of Tamilnadu.This temple is associated closely with the Ramayana and Rama’s victorious return from Sri Lanka. Rama worshipped Shiva in the form of a Shiva Lingam made of earth by Sita, while returning to Ayodhya. Hanuman was entrusted with the task of bringing an image of Viswanathar from Benares. Anticipating delay in Hanuman’s return from Benares, Rama is said to have offered worship at a pre-chosen auspicious moment to a Shivalingam fashioned out of earth by Sita. This lingam is referred to as Ramalingam. There is yet another Shivalingam here – Viswanathar, said to have been brought by Hanuman from Banares. This Shivalingam is referred to as Kasilingam and Hanumalingam. Prayers are offered to Viswanathar before they are offered to Ramanathaswamy.Rama also worshipped Tilakeswarar at Devipatnam nearby enroute to Sri Lanka.There is also a shrine to Sethu Madhava and Lakshmi in Rameswaram. Sethu Madhava is also referred to as Sweta Madhava, the term Sweta referring to the white stone with which the image is made. The Gandamadana parvatam is a hill on the island which bears a small shrine containing imprints of Rama’s feet held in worship.

Places to visit near by Agnitheertham - The Agniteertham is located at a few meters from the Ramnathswamy temple. It is believed to be located at the same spot where Rama worshipped Lord Shiva.

Gandamadana Parvatham - This sacred shrine holds a wheel with the footprint of Lord Rama. The shrine stands on the highest point on the island, around 2 kms from Rameshwaram.

Ramjharoka Temple - The footprints of Lord Rama is placed on a Chakra at the Ramjharoka Temple. The chakra has been placed at the highest point of Rameshwaram. This point is at a distance of 5 kms from Rameshwaram town. Since it is the highest point of Rameshwaram, therefore it provides a fantastic view of the blue ocean waters below.

Rameshwaram has many small temples, apart from the main temples, dedicated to Lord Rama, Lakshaman, Sita and Hanuman. Each temple big and small of Rameshwaram does have a history of its own. Other than the temples, there is also a tomb of Saint Ibrahim Syed Aulia at Erwadi, about 24 kms away from Rameshwaram.

Dhanushkodi - Dhanushkodi is located at the eastern end of the island. It is named after Lord Ram's bow and is at a distance of 8 km from Rameshwaram. The boulders in the sea between Sri Lanka and Dhanushkodi are known as Adam's bridge. It is believed that Lord Rama used them to reach across Sri Lanka. Danushkodi is about 18 miles West of Talaimannar in Jaffna, Ceylon. Before 1964 storm there was a train service up to Danushkodi called Boat Mail from Chennai Egmore, the train linked a steamer to Ceylon. During the 1964 storm a huge wave of about 20 ft came crashing on the town from Palk Bay/Strait east of the town and destroyed the whole town, a train, the Pamban Rail Bridge etc all happened at the dead of the night. Danushkodi has the only land border between India and Ceylon which is one of the smallest in the world just 50 yards in length on a sand dune in Palk Strait. The Government of Madras declared the town as Ghost town and unfit for living after the storm, now a small group of fisher folk resides there. Buses (Rs 5, hourly) from the local bus stand on East Car St stop about 4km before the beach so you have to walk the rest of the way. Otherwise, an autorickshaw (45 minutes one way) costs Rs 250 return, including one hour waiting time.

Getting there and around 
By Air : The nearest airport is at Madurai, at a distance of 154 km.
By Rail : Rameshwaram is well connected by trains from all the major cities of India.
By Road : State transport buses are available from the railway station to the various places in and around Rameshwaram. For local transportation taxis, auto-rickshaws, cycle-rickshaws and tongas are available. Also city bus service is available in the island.
He sent Lord Hanuman (Anjaneya) to bring a 'lingam' from Mount Kailash. Lord Hanuman could not return in time and it was getting late. Apprehending the situation, Sita herself made a 'linga' of sand and Lord Rama installed the same. When Hanuman came back with the 'linga', the formal procedures of installation were over. Lord Rama consoled the disappointed Hanuman and installed his lingam (Visvalingam) next to Ramalinga. He enhanced the sanctity of lingam by ordaining that the rites would be made first to the Visvalingam.

Andal Temple Srivilliputhur tamilnadu

Aandal temple in Sriviliputtur is yet another famous and ancient temple and is also one among the 108 divyadesams of Vishnu. The imposing tower of this temple is very attractive and the main tower of the temple is on the official emblem of Government of Tamil Nadu.

The Aadi(Tamil month)Pooram festival is famous here and is for 12 days. The festival is on now and thousands of devotees converge here for the same . Pooram is the birth star of Aandal and the chariot festival on the 9th day attracts lot of devotees to this temple. Aandal is believed to be an incarnation of Goddess Bhoodevi.
There are two temples here . One for Lord Vishnu, known here as Vatapatrasayi and he is in a reclining position here. Vata patra means the leaf of banyan tree and this is found at the head of the deity here. This is the sacred place where the great devotee of Vishnu, Aandal used to worship the Lord . The sanctum has beautiful paintings of Gods and Goddesses.
Aandal temple is next to the Vatapatrasayi temple. In between the temples is Nandavanam, a small shrine where Aandal was found and adopted by Perialwar ( devotee of Vishnu). Aandal temple has beautiful mandapams with exquisite carvings and here She gives darshan to her devotees along with Rengamannar (Vishnu) and Garuda. .There is a well inside the temple where Aandal used to see her reflection everyday after wearing the garland meant for the Lord. She succeeded in winning the affection of the Lord . As per Lord's wish her father took her to Sri Rangam , Sri Ranganatha Swamy temple where she merged with the Lord.
Andal is the only woman Alwar (saint) of Vaishnavism and She has composed two beautiful literary gems in Tamil, Tirupavai and Nachiyar Tirumozhi which is sung even today by devotees during the Tamil month of Maarghazhi.
Her father Perialvar also has a separate sannidhi in Vatapatra Sayi temple and there are also separate shrines for Chakrathazhvar and Nammalwar.
Srivilliputhur is famous for palgova, a milk sweet and people make it a point to buy this when they visit this place.
If one makes a prayer to the divine Mother- Thayar- it is believed the prayer is heard and granted. Thousands of people make special prayers to Andal for education, success in business, marriage and child. The devotees usually offer tulsi garlands, butter, clothes and lamps. Nowadays people share feeding expenses of the temple to poor.
Many families whole heartedly pray for the marriage for their daughters and get good grooms after these prayers. If the eleven poems starting from ‘Varanam Aayiram’ are sung by the girls, who are in waiting for marriage for want of grooms, will get married very soon. The poems were written by Andal. It is called “Nachiyar Tirumozhi’.
During festivals abhishekams gather importance. The Abisheka thailam, which contains the essence 61 herbs, is believed to have medicinal qualities. People apply this oil on their body for various diseases as medicine.
Andal is believed to have used the well as mirror to watch her reflection. That is the reason why the well is named as ‘mirror well’- ‘Kannadi Kinaru’. Kannadi theeertham is famous.
Once Andal had a desire to offer 100 pots of butter and Akara vadisal to Kallazhagar, The Lord of Azhzgar Koil in madurai. She could not do it in her lifetime. But Sri Ramanujar did it on her behalf. When Ramanujar visited the temple later, Andal voice was heard calling him “My dear elder Brother”- ‘Anna’.Ramaunajar has become ‘Koil annan’ from that day.
"The garlands with the parrots made of leaves and flowers" are prepared daily by florists with fresh flowers and leaves and offered to Thayar.
Speciality of Andal garland and Tirupathi Balaji:
Tirupathi Brahmotsavam is important festival all over South India and attracts millions of devotees.
It is quite interesting to know that a Garland worn by Andal is sent all along to Tirupathi in Andhra Pradesh one day before the Brahmotsavam starts. The mala is used for garlanding Lord Balaji.
In the same manner every year, Tirupathi Balaji’s garland is sent to Srivilliputtur for marriage festival of Andal Thayar.Not only Balaji of Tirupathi, Kallazhagar of Madurai is also presented with a garland worn by Andal on Chithirai Festival day.

History:
Several centuries ago, the land area around Srivilliputhur was under the rule of Queen Malli. This Queen had two sons called Villi and Kandan. One day, while they were hunting in a forest, a tiger killed Kandan. Unaware of this fact, Villi searched for his brother, got tired and feel asleep. In his dream, God narrated to him what happened to his brother. Realising the fact, on divine orders Villi founded a beautiful city by setting right the forest. For this reason only, the city is named after him as Villiputhur. Further, because of the divine birth of Sri Andal in this city, it got the honorific of Srivilliputhur.
During the reign of Thirumalai Naikar (1623 – 1659) and Rani Mangammal (1889 – 1706), this city became very popular. Thirumalai Naikar had done a lot of renovation consecration to the temples of this city. From 1751 to 1756 A.D., Srivilliputhur came under the rule of Nerkattucheval Jamindar Pulithevar. Then it fell into the hands of Mohammed Yousoof Khan. Until 1850, Sri Andal temple was under the care of the king of Trivancore. The Britishers ruled the country till India attained freedom.
Formerly, Srivilliputhur was a part of Madurai district. Later on, it was annexed with Tirunelveli District in 1838 and in 1910 with Ramnad district respectively. When Ramnad District was divided into three districts, Srivilliputhur, significantly called the city of temples, came under Virudhunagar district. In this renowned city, there are many heritage temples.
The reputed temples of Sri Andal and Sri Vadapathra Sayanar are located in the heart of the city. The big tower of this temple stands as the official emblem of Tamil Nadu Government.
Towards west to this city lies the Western Mountainous range. And it contains dense forests and provides sanctuary to wild animals.
Srivilliputhur falls en route to the National Highways (N.H.208) extending from Thirumangalam to Kollam. The cities Rajapalayam and Sivakasi are 11 kilometres and 20 kilometres distance away from Srivilliputhur.
The important nearby cities:
Madurai – 75 Km, Chennai – 515 Km, Virudhunagar - 45 km.
How to reach: Srivilliputhur is about 75 Kms from Madurai on NH 208.Madurai is well connected with air, rail and road. Many buses ply from all parts of Tamil Nadu to the town of Srivilliputhur.
Accommodation: Budget hotels are available in Srivilliputtur and Rajapalayam town which is just 14kms. from here but I would suggest staying in Madurai is a better option as all types of accommodation, luxury , deluxe and budget hotels are available there.
Temples nearby :Temple of Ninra Narayana Perumal at Tiruthangal (on Virudhunagar- Sivakasi route)which is just 20 Kms. away.Kasi Viswanathar Koil -Sivakasi, 25 kms.Kuttraleeshwarar temple- 75 Kms. on NH 208

Srivilliputtur Andal Temple Contact Details:
Arulmigu Nachiar TempleSrivilliputtur- 626125Tamil NaduIndiaTel: 04563-260254

Sri Kallazhagar Temple madurai

Perumal Presiding deity      :Paramaswami

Mother :     Sridevei BhudeviProcession deity :    Sundararaja Perumal, RishabadrinatharProcession Mother:     KalyanasundaravalliVinayakar:      Valampuri VinayakarHoly tree:     Jyothi tree, Sandalwood treeHoly spring :    NoopuragangaiVimanam-Tower :    SomaskandarPlace :    AlagarkoilDistrict :     Madurai
Festivals:

People worship the Alagumalayan for fertile yield in their cultivations, business development, starting new business etc. People also pray to the Lord here for seasonal rains. Majority of the devotees pray for family welfare and children.

Prayer commitments:The main commitment is offering the hair. They also offer money equal to their weight in coins and corns. Thulabaram (offering things equal to one’s weight) is other commitment. Devotees offer new clothes, Bilwa garlands, flowers, incense sticks etc. are also offered to the Lord. The Nivedhana prasad offered to the God is distributed to the visiting devotees.

The security deity of the place, Karupannaswami is all powerful. He is most respected as Pathinettampadiyan. He takes care of the welfare of his devotees.

Fort: The farmers use to build a small Fort in their lands before the harvest, store the grains and offer to Lord Alagar.

Dosa: As Panchamirtham in Palni and Laddu in Tirupathi, in the Kallazhagar temple, Dosa is very famous. The grains donated to the temple are ground and dosas made and offered to the visitors here.

Noopura Ganga or Silambaru: This is a perennial river flowing from the feet of Rakkayee Amman from a cave in the temple.

The presiding deity is believed to have been installed by divine powers and not by humans. The Lord is worshipped by Saptharishis (seven Rishis), seven divine angels, Brahmma and Vishvaksenar. This Divyadesam is praised by the Alwars in their hyms. The Andal in the temple is in a sitting position here against the usual standing appearance in other temples. Lord Perumal is in a standing position holding Conch, Sudharsana Wheel. Club. Bow and the Sword, the five weapons known as Panchayutha.. The lamp in the temple is kept burning for ever.

Alagar Koil is 20 Kms from Madurai and 60 from Dindigul. Temple managed lodging (Devasthanam Chatram) is available at charges ranging from Rs. 100 to Rs. 350. Those coming with family can stay in lodges available in Madurai, .charges ranging from Rs. 200 to Rs. 800.

Adequate bus facilities are available from Madurai to Alagarkoil. Those needing more information may contact The Executive Officer or the Commissioner, Kallazhagar Koil, Thirumalirunjolai, Alagarkoil-625 301, Madurai district. Telephone 0452 – 2470228 and 2470229.

10 day Chithirai festival during April-May, 13 day Adi festival during July-August, Thalai Aruvi festival in Iypasi – October-November, 5 day Panguni Uthiram during March-April are important festivals in the temple. Other festivals are Vaikunda Ekadasi, Krishna Jayanthi,Deepavali, Pongal and Tamil and English New Year days in the year. There will be some festival each month. The crowd would be huge during week ends.

The temple is praised in the hymns of Periazhwar, Andal, Peyazhwar, Thirumangaiazhwar, Budhathazhwar and Nammalwar.

History:

Emadharmaraja, the God of Death had a curse. To relieve himself from the curse. he performed penance in Vrushabagiri Hills near Alagarmalai. The Lord, in recognition of his penance appeared before him and asked him what he wanted. Ema sought the Grace of Lord that he (Ema) should perform pujas to him atleast one time a day which was granted. Based on this story, it is believed that the Night Puja in the temple is performed by Ema himself. The Vimanam of the temple was constructed by the divine builder Viswakarma. There are records of historical evidence that the Buddhists, Jains and Muslims also worshipped in this temple. The pujas in the temple are performed without Saivite, Vaaishnavite discriminations.