1. Balaji temple:
   
   
   
   The temple is in Tirupoor town. It is popularly known as Tirupathi. It is in the same to the other end of Guruvayoor temple.
   
   
   
   Importance: The temple is recent construction well maintained, and everything is performed in a systamatic way. We see sculpture relating to Vishnu avataras, all through the temple. If one gets opportunity to visit Thirupoor do not miss to visit the temple.
   
   
   
   
2. Sivan malai: Subramanya swamy temple.
   
   
   
   The place is about 4 kms from Kangeyam. There are about 200 steps to climb. There is road laid so that car can reach till the top.
   
   
   
   Main deity: Swayambu linga known as Vennieeswarar, Nanjundeeswarar and Parvardhini amman. Sthala vruksham: Kotti.
   
   
   
   Importance: Puruna says the mountain is a bit of Sanjeeve parvatham. Butter and curd are offered to God here. Subramanaswamy is seen with four hands and a face. He is sitting on peacock. Hanuman worshipped Siva in this place and we see hanuman in separate sanctum here.
   
   
   
   Arunagirinadhar sang Thirupugazh on Subramanya swamy of this place.
   
   
   
3. Karoor: Siva temple.
   
   
   
   This is one of 275 important siva Devara Sthalam. The temple dates to 2nd century.
   
   
   
   The place is about 76 kms from Trichy, 112 kms from Coimbatoore and 100 kms from Salem.
   
   
   
   Main Deity is Swayambu lingam known as Kalyana Pasupadeeswarar, and his consort known as Soundara nayaki / Vadivudai amman, / Krupa nayaki and Alankara valli amman.
   
   
   
   Sthala vrukasham: Ashoka plant. Teertham: Amaravathi, Brahama, Thakadai teertham, Denu teertham and Muruga teertham.
   
   
   
   Importance: Kamadenu worshipped Siva of this place hence the name of the temple is Karoovur Anelai and kamadenu acquired the power of creating living beings.
   
   
   
   The other deities in the temple are Kanni Ganapathy, Murugan, Nayanmars, Natarajar Mahalakshmi, Karimala varadhar, Arunagirinadhar, Dandayudhapani and Navagraham.
   
   
   
   Arunagirinadhar sang Tirupugazh on Murugan of this place, and Sambandhar sang hymns on Siva of this place
   
   
   
   
4. Mariamman temple of Karoor
   
   
   
   
5. Thanthondri malai: Balaji temple.
   
   
   
   The temple belongs to 12th century.Location: Karoor.
   
   
   
   Main deity is Swayambu Balaji
   
   
   
   Importance: This temple is a cave temple. Venkatachalapati ie: Balaji idol is big in size. There is no separate Goddess. Here he is known as Kalyana Venkatesa perumal along with Lakshmi in him. Utsavar here is known as Sreenivasar and Ubaya nachiar thayar.
   
   
   
   The temple is on small hillock. Normally vishnu temples abishakam is done only once in a week but, here like Siva, Sreenivasa perumal is interested in daily abishekam different from other vishnu temples. The temple is important prarthany sthalam.
   
   
   
6. Venjamak Koodaloor:
   
   
   
   One of 275 important siva Devara sthalam. The temple is about 16 kms from Karvoor.
   
   
   
   Main Deity is Swayambu linga known as Kalyana Vikrutheeswarara and Panneer mozhiammai. Teertham is Vikrutha teertham and Kudavanaru. Sthala vruksham is Vilvam.
   
   
   
   Importance: Siva here was worshipped by King Venjan of hunter caste. Kuduvnaru and Chitraru sangamam so the place is known as Venjamakoodal. Indra worshipped Siva of this place to get rid of his curse by Agalaya.
   
   
   
   Sundarar sang hymns on Siva andArunagirinadhar sang Thirupugazh on Murugan of this place.
   
   
   
   
7. Koniamman of coimbatoore
   
   
   
8. Puliampatti: Ganesa. The temple is in Coimbatoore town.
   
   
   
   Importance: Ganesa is in the centre of the road and it is huge in size.

1. Thiru Avinankudi: Subramanayaswamy.
   
   
   
   Main Deity is Velayudha swamy on peacock.
   
   
   
   Sthala vruksham is Nelli maram.
   
   
   
   Importance: Thiru means Lakshmi, A means Kamadhenu, Inan means Surya, Ku means Bhooma devi, and Di means Agni. So by name Thiru Avinan kudi we learn that Lakshmi, Kamadhenu, Surya, Boomadevi, and Agni worshipped velayudha swamy of this place.
   
   
   
   The other deities are Arulmigu Meenakshi Sundareswarar, Pada Vinayakar, Vellieeswarar, Parameswarar, Arunagirinadhar, and Someswarar. Arunagirinadhar sang
   Thirupugazh on lord murugan of this place.
   
   
   
   
   
2. Periya nayaki temple:
   
   
   
   The temple is known as oorkoil and it is within the town. The temple was in Kadamba vanam near Shanmuga River, but now we see only the river.
   
   
   
   Goddess is given more importance hence the temple is known as periyanayaki temple.
   
   
   
   The story is when Subramanya swamy left in anger to this place Siva and Parvathi followed him to take him back along with them. Subramanya refused to go with them. Parvathi being a mother she followed her son further and this was the place she was stopped by Siva.
   
   
   
   The deity here is Somaskanda moortham, ie: murugan to the centre and Periyanakayi and Kailasanadhar to either side. Pillars of the temple are beautifully carved.
   
   
   
   Some sculptures like Markandeya rescued by Siva, from yama, Ravana lifting Kailasa parvatha with Siva and Parvathi, Manmadha and Rathi with flower arrow in hand are really good.
   
   
   
   
3. Kodaimangalam:
   
   
   
   Siva temple, known as periya Avudiayar koil.
   
   
   The place is about 7 kms from Palani. Teertham is Sanmuga teertham. Sthala vruksham is Kadamba vruksham.
   
   
   Main deity is Bruhadeeswarar and his consort known as Brughan nayakai amman.
   
   
   
   Importance: This is the place were Siva and parvathi came together following Murugan to take him back home. Here Natraja vigraha is of stone. Navagrahas are huge with vahanas. The other deities are Brahama Thirumal Dakshina moorthy and Rudra.
   
   
   
   
4. Kottai: Mariamman temple.
   
   
   Main deity: Swayambu Marriamman.
   
   
   
   The temple is in the end of the village and known as ellai katha amman ie: she safe guards the village.
   
   
   
5. Komara lingam: Siva temple.
   
   
   The place is about 4 kms from kozumam. Teertham is Amaravathi teertham.
   
   
   Main deity is Kasi viswanadhar and his consort known as Visalakshi.
   
   
   Importance: We see two nandi on same platform. One is pradosha nandi and the other is Adigara nandi. Puruna says, this place is equal to Kasi in all respects.
   
   
   
   
6. Dattharayea muni jeeva samadhi:
   
   
   
   The place is about 4 kms from kozumam.
   
   
   Main deity is Dattathreyeeswarar and Sowandraya nayaki.
   
   
   
   Imporatance: On request of muni Linga was kept and named after him. Pooja is done only two times a day. The temple is kept open only for short time.

1. Govinda nayakan palayam:Rama temple.
   
   
   
   Main deity: Kodhanda ramar sannidhi. Archaka says deity is very powerful and this he has experinced many a times.
   
   
   
   
2. Koil palayam: Siva temple.
   
   
   
   Main deity is Siva lingam known as Kalakaleswarar.
   
   
   
   Importance: Guru in different sanctum here.
   
   
   
3. Echanari Vinayakar:
   
   
   
   The temple is located on coimbatore to pollachi highway.
   
   
   
   
   Main deity is Vinayakar. The idol here is huge in size.
   
   
   
   Importance: Ganesha was taken from Madurai to Peroor onthe way they stopped here to rest and when they wanted to continue their journey they were not able to lift Ganesha from there. Ganesha settled here according to his wish.
   
   
   
4. Sree maha lakshmi temple.
   
   
   
   It is on the coimbatoore and Pollachi highway. The temple is private temple.
   
   
   
   Durga Lakshmi and Saraswathi idol made of granite and it is huge in size. Temple is well maintained. Even now we can picturise the goddess of the temple. U can see Dakshina moorthy, Dhanvanthri, Brahma in brass on the sides of outer wall of the sanctum. Brass idols are small in size.
   
   
   
   There is huge Anjeneya in granite placed outside the sanctum and within the compound. The temple is surrounded by flowering plants on three sides.
   
   
   
5. Baktha Anjaneya:
   
   
   The temple is on the Coimbatore and pollachi highway. The temple is care by Ram seva trust. The temple is a small one surrounded by beautiful garden with flowering plants with a neat path way to go around the main sanctum.
   
   
   A rare posture of Anjaneya with closed eyes and doing bajan with cymble in his both hands. The idol is 5’ in size made of granite. To the right we see Rama, Sita, and Lakshamana. The place is well maintained. There is a piramid in the compound to sit and mediate inside, where Hanuman photo is kept.
   
   
   
6. Otraikal mandapam: Siva temple.
   
   
   The place is about 23 kms from Coimbatoore to Pollachi highway.
   
   
   Main deity: Swayambu linga known as Putridamkondeesar and his consort Poong kodai nayakiin different sanctum.
   
   
   Importance: Daily a cow used to pour milk in one place and they had a doubt as to why it is happening so and when they try to find the reason they found the linga in the place.
   
   
   
7. Ponmalai: Murugan temple.
   
   
   The place is popularly kown as Kenathukkadavu.
   
   
   Main deity is Subramanya swamy known as Velandhiya swamy temple.
   
   
   Importance: The temple belongs to 14th century. It is a small hillock and we see the foot prints of Kumaraswamy here. Purana says Lord Subramanya did not get the mango fruit he left Kailasa and came to Pazani.
   
   On his way they say he rested his foot on this hillock and the foot print we see is related to it. In the dream of zamindar subramanaya swamy pointed to him that he can find his foot prints on the hill. When zamindar went and saw he found the foot prints. Zamindar constructed a temple and installed the velayudha swamy here and worshipped.
   
   
   
8. soolakal Marriamman:
   
   The place is about 9 kms from Pollachi.
   
   
   Main Deity: Swayambu Marriamman.
   sullam and Swayambu stone of mahamayi led to the name of the place as Sullakal.
   
   

1. poondi: Velliangiri.
   
   
   The place is about 40 kms from coimbatoore. The place is known as Dakshina kailash.
   
   
   Importance: Siva worshipped in the form of mountain as swayambu linga. Here Seven hills together known as velliangiri. This place is known as pancha boodha sthalam. Siva known as Panchalingeswarar.
   
   Foot of the hill Lord Ganesha is there popularly known as poondi vinayakar. We see Sivalinga at foot hill known as velliangiri nadhar and Soundara nayaki amman.
   
   
   
   The temple dates back to 3000years old and malai vazh makkal worshipped here. They say lot of chittars penanced and worshipped here. Puruna says Arjuna penenced and worshipped and got his pasupadasthram. We see people climbing up hill to have darshan of pancha lingaswarar.
   
   
   
   
2. Dhyana lingam:
   
   
   The place is known as Esha dhanaya maiyam beyond religion.
   
   
   We see Sarva dharma stupa of 17’height at the entrance with symbols of all religion on its sides. To one side we see seven chakkras present in human body depicted on it. On the top of thestupa we see sun face.
   
   
   As we enter and go around trimoorthy swaroopam ie: Rudra, Vishnu, and Brahama are seen. There the followers ask us to maintain silence the moment we enter in and observe till we get out from there.
   
   
   We see water flowing down and there is mercury lingam in the water, so the water has power to heal all ailments. Person who takes a dip can touch the linga for full effect. Bathrooms are provided so that one can take a bath and then take a dip in the water. The place is well maintained.
   
   
   The Dhanaya maiyam building is in circular form. Inside we have a big linga surrounded by water. One can sit and mediate. The class is conducted to teach about medetation.
   
   
   While comming out us see Patanjali statue and opposite to it vanasree ie: tree with golden leaf is seen. To the side walls we see stone pictures depicting puranas.
   
   
   
3. Chinna koil: Siva temple.
   
   
   Main deity:is Ambalavanar and his consort Akilandeeswari.The temple belongs to Rishi period. There is a river flowing beside.
   
   
   
   
4. Marudha malai: Subramanya swamy temple.
   
   The place is about 12 kms from coimbatoore.
   
   
   Main Deity is Bala Subramanaya swamy.
   
   
   Importance: The temple is on small hill. One side of marudha malai we have vellaingiri in the form of Siva and to the other side we have neela malai which is considered as Paravathi swaroopam, hence Marudha malai is considered as Somaskandha roopam. Down hill we have pampadi chittar samadhi.
   
   
   
5. Chenni Andavar: Murugan temple.
   
   
   Main deity: Subramanaswamy temple. Other deities like Viswanadhar, Visalakshi, Navagraham, Valli Devasena samaydha Kalyana Subramanayar.
   
   
   
   
6. Thiru murugan poondy: Siva temple
   
   
   The temple is, one of the 275 Siva Devara sthalam The place is about 45 kms from Coimbatoore.
   
   
   Main Deity is Swayambu lingam known as Thiru murugha nadhar and his consort known as Muyangu poon malai amman. Teertham is Shanmuga, Brahama and Gyana teertham. Sthala vruksham is Gurukkathi.
   
   
   Importance: Subramanya as Arumughan with valli daivanai worshipped Lord Siva of this place, to get rid of his due to sura samhara. Hence the place is known as Thiru murugan poondy.
   
   
   Sundarar got lot of wealth from Cheraman peruman nayanar, which was stolen by boodha ganas of Lord Siva in the form of hunter. Sundarar sang hymns on Siva of this place and he got back all his wealth. We see two sundarar idols one sad and one with glowing face.
   
   
   Arunagirinadhar sang Thirupugazh on Lord subramanaya of this place.
   
   
   
   
7. Guruvayoorappan temple: Krishna temple.
   
   
   The temple is in Thiruppur.
   
   
   
   Main deity: Lord krishna . We see Dasavatara picture on the wall. There is a small hanuman placed outside the main sanctum, to the side. There is Viswaroopa Darshan of Lord vishnu painted.
   
   
   

1. Karamadai: Siva temple.
   
   
   The place is about 5 kms from Mayttupalayam. 30 kms from coimbatore.
   
   
   
   Main deity: Nanjundeswarar and his consort known as Ulagambikai or Lokha nayaki. Vimanam: Asthagaja vimanam.
   
   
   
   Arangar came out from karai plant bush and later he came into the temple hence the name Karamadai.
   
   
   Other deities in temple are Nardhana Ganapathy, Bala Subramanayar, Rishabarooder, Kali, Brahma, Thirumal, Thirumagal, and Akora veerabadharar.
   
   
   
   
2. Karamadai:
   
   
   
   Vishnu temple of 16 th century.
   
   
   
   Main deity is Ranganadhar and his consort Ranganayaki thayar. Teertham is Brahma teertham.
   
   
   
   Importance: A cow is to pour milk on a snake pit.One day a person saw this and he try to clear the bush wdith the sword he had and he saw blood flowing out. He saw a siva linga there and he informed this to village people. They removed it, cleaned and applied sandal powder and found that Linga had Sanku and chakra marks on it, which we can see even today.
   
   
   
   Another important thing is here they bless with silver Rama banam instead of chadari, (padugai).
   
   
   
   
3. Thekkanpatti: Vana Badhara kali temple.
   
   
   
   The place is about 20 kms from Mettupalayam.
   
   
   
   Importance:Halfmoon day lot of people visit the temple.
   
   
   
4. Mathampalayam:
   
   
   Mettuppalayam main road.
   
   
   Karana Vinayakar temple, Sridevi, Bhoodevi, Karivaradha perumal, and Karana Subramanayar.
   
   
   
   
5. Veerapandi: Mariamman temple.
   
   
   
   Lakshmi narashima swamy temple under renovation.
   
   
   
6. Prical: Siva temple.
   
   
   
   Main deity is Meenakshi and Chokkeswarar. The temple under renovation
   
   
   
   
7. Periya nayakan palayam: Vishnu temple.
   
   
   
   Main deity is Kari varadha perumal.
   
   
   
8. Idikarai: Vishnu temple.
   
   
   The place is about 24 kms from coimbatoore.
   
   
   
   Main deity: Ranganadhar in sleeping posture.
   
   
   
   
9. Idikari: Siva temple.
   
   
   
   The place is about 24 kms from coimbatoore.
   
   
   
   Main deity is Siva lingam known as Valeeswarar. Lord Siva of this place was worshiped by Rama. The temple is under renovation.

1. Tri moorthy malai: Siva temple
   
   
   
   The place is about 20 kms from udumalaipettai.
   The temple is to the foot of the mountain. 900 meter above the mountain pancha linga is there.
   
   
   Main deity is Amana lingeswarar and parvathi amman.
   
   
   Importance: Brahama , Vishnu and Siva wanted to prove Anusuya's chastity. She transformed them into infants. Parvathi , Lakshmi and Saraswathi came in search of their husbands. They praised Anusuya and got their husbands to orignal forms. Hence the place is known as Trimoorthy malai.
   
   
   
   There is no idol as such. If one take dip in the river and pray god they are blessed with child. The place is full of natural beauty.
   
   
   
2. Anai malai:
   
   
   
   The place is about 15 kms from Pollachi.
   
   
   
   Main deity: is known as Masani amman.
   
   
   
   Importance: The main deity masani amman in sleeping posture of 17’ length facing the sky.
   
   
   
   The story is Viswamitra the Raja rishi wanted to do yaga at thadaka vanam were thadakai was troubling everyone. So Viswamitra sought the help of Rama to complete his yaga peacefully. Rama in turn worshiped Devi to help him out in his mission.
   
   
   
   Devi asked Rama to make an idol of Devi in mud and worshipher. She asked Rama to destroy the idol before going to face Thadakai. Rama did as he was told but he forgot to destroy the idol.
   
   
   
   After thadakai vadam he came to destroy the idol but at that time Eswari appeared and asked not to do so. She said here after the mud idol will be here, to take care of this place
   
   
   
3. Vada madurai: Siva temple.
   
   
   
   The place is about 17 kms from coimbatoore.
   
   
   
   Main deity is Virundheeswarar and his consort known as Viswa nayaki amman.
   
   
   
   Importance: Two linga on one sanctum. Big Linga at the back and small Linga to front.
   
   
   
   Sundarar sang hymns on Siva of this place.
   
   
   
4. Peroor: Siva temple.
   
   
   One of 275 Siva Devara Sthalam. The temple is 1800 years old temple. The place is about 6 kms from coimbatoore town. Buses are available. Sthala vruksham is Panneer maram. Teertham is Singa kenaru. (well)
   
   
   
   Main Deity is Siva lingam known as Patteeswarar or Pachai nayaki. Importance: We see Kamadenu at the back of the main deity.
   
   
   
   Subramanayaswamy in dandayudhapani form and Arunagiri nadhar sang thirupugazh on murugan.
   
   
   
   The place is known as Dakshina Kailasam and one can attain mukthi worshipping deity of this place. Bairavar is without vahana in this place which is unusual and known as gyana bairavar.
   
   
   
   Both Vishnu Durgai and Siva Durgai sculptures are there which is rare again. Hanuman of four and half feet made of single wood known as etti maram is installed here.
   
   
   
   Well known Kanaka sabha were 8 sculptures carved on pillars which are so good no words to mention and compare. The moorties are Urthuva thandavam, Akora veerabadharar, Pichadana moorthy, Gajasamhara moorthy, Agni veerabadhara moorthy, Alangattu Kalli amman, Nirthya Ganapathy and Subramanya swamy.
   
   
   
   The pillar sculptures are huge. There are many other beautiful sculptures in the pillars, to see and appriciate. We see Nataraja and Sivakami in kanaka sabha. This sculpture is made by Kamabanachari in 28 years period. There are 36 pillars in total.
   
   
   
   Purana says Kamadenu worshipped Siva of this place for many years. Calf of Kamadenu known as patti, by mistake stamped siva linga, which was covered with mud and it was not able to pull its leg out so Kamadenu tried to clear the mud by its horns. Blood started oozing from the place and kamadenu was worried.
   
   
   
   Siva revealed himself from the spot. We can see the mark of the horns of Kamadenu and hooves of the calf on Siva linga.
   
   
   
   The place is known as Kamadenupuram and Lord Siva known as Pattieeswarar. This is the reason we see Kamadenu with its calf patti at the back of main deity.
   
   
   

1. Dandu marriamman Temple:
   
   
   It’s a marriamman temple in the coimbatoore city. Small miniature parts of body are available here. People who have ailments worship goddess and offer particular parts to get rid of their ailment. They believe in this ritual. Annual celebrations of the temple falls in the month of April.
   
   
   
2. Palani: Subramanya Swamy temple.
   
   
   The place is about 57 kms from Dindukkal. Teertham is known as Vaiyapuri teertham.
   Sthala vruksham is Nelli maram.{amla}
   
   
   Main deity is Bala Dandayudhapani.
   
   
   Importance: The idol is made of navabashanam by chittar called Bogar and installed by him. Bogar ashram is there in this place.
   
   
   Story is once Siva had a mango and he said the mango will be given to one ie: Ganesha or Subramanya, who goes around the world first.
   
   
   
   Murugan started with his vahana peacock started to take a round, while Ganesha went around Siva and Parvathi. Since they are the supreme power and creator it is equal to going around the universe. Siva was pleased with Ganesha’s reply and gave the mango to him.
   
   
   When Muruga turned up he saw the mango in hands of Ganesha he got angry and he left the place and came to Palani and stayed back in this place at down hill
   
   
   
   
3. Idumban koil:
   
   
   This is near palani malai. The temple is on the top of hill and there 670 steps to reach the top. One has to visit this temple before visiting palani murugan.
   
   
   Importance: The sculpture is huge in size and holding thulabaram made of bamboo to the shoulder. Idumban is a rakshas who fought with murugan and was defeated. He requested murugan that he should be remembered in history.
   
   
   
   Another story is Idumban was asked to carry two mountains Siva giri and sakthi giri to either side on his shoulder. After sometime he was tired and he rested the mountains here. From that day onwards the habbit of taking Kavadi started says purana.
   
   
   
   
   
4. 
   


Kozumam or Sankrama nallore: Siva temple.


The place is about 18 kms from Udamalaipettai of coimbatore. Teertham is Amaravathi teertham.


Main Deity is Swayambu lingam known as Sozieeswarar or Thandeeswarar and his consort known as Bruhan nayaki amman.


Importance: This is one of the oldest temples of Kongu nadu. Nataraja of this place is unique and it is huge in size made of stone.

We visited Palghat for Kumbabishekam of sreenivasa perumal temple at Noorani village on 22 of April 2007. We availed the opportunity to visit temples of coimbatore and near by places.


Our tour started from 23 april and it was 5 day trip. Summer was horrible, so we had to skip some places according to our plan. We were 5 in number and we hired a taxi to go around.


We covered almost 300 kms on an average daily.Our taxi fare was Rs per head without our stay and food. We spent only a day in hotel. Our thanks, to my friend’s sister for hospitality, shown to us. We did enjoy our stay at their place.

1. Bannari: Siva temple.
   
   
   The place is about 14 kms from Sathya mangalam, is Vengaivanam.
   
   
   Main deity is Swayambu linga known as Bannareeswarar and Marriamman.
   Sthala vruksham isVengai tree. Teertham is sakthi teertham.
   
   
   Importance: Linga is near the padam of Amman.
   
   
   
2. Venugopala swamy:
   
   
   This temple is in Sathyamangalam and it is 800 years old.
   
   
   We see Kalyana Vinakar, Sudarshnar, Yoga Narashimar, Ranganadhar, Kalyana Lakshmi, Iyappan, Lakshmi Narayanar, Veera Anjeyanar and Vinaya Anjeyanar in temple premises.
   
   
   
   
3. Bhavaneeswarar temple: Siva temple.
   
   
   Main deity: Bhavaneeswarar and Bhavani Sankari.
   
   
   
   Importance: All deties in this temple including Navagraha are too big in size. 5’height Pancha muka Eramba Ganapathi in sukha asana on Simha vahanam. Arumugan on peacock, Sahasra linga with a big nandi in front of him.
   
   
   We see sculpture of Lakshmi, Annapurani and Saraswathi with intricated work. Navagra’s are with there wife on their vahanas. Maintance of the temple is good.
   
   
   
4. Punseipuliampatti: Sakthi peetam. Amman here is santha swaroopam.
   
   
   
5. Pongaloore: Vishnu temple in Avinasi taluk.
   
   
   Main deity: Sree devi Bhoodevi wdith Varadaraja perumal.It is 700 year old temple.
   
   
   
6. Annoor: Vishnu temple.
   
   
   The place is about19 kms from Avainasi.
   
   
   
   Main deity: Kari varadaja perumal and Andal in different sanctum.
   
   
   
7. Annoor: Siva temple.
   
   
   The place is about 19 kms from Avinasi, and 30 kms from coimbatore
   
   
   
   Main deity is Swayambu linga known as Mannieswarar and his consort Arunthavaselvi.
   
   
   Importance: one of the Siva temple were sanctum is facing west. The temple is in low level. As we enter the temple we see Ganesha to left and Nataraja with Sivakami ammai.
   
   
   Main deity swayumbu linga is big in size and the base known as avudai is attached to the linga portion. Linga has wings which the archaka show if we ask for the importance of the deity.
   
   
   Purana says linga portion came down flying and rested at this place which was found when an hunter was trying to remove sweet potato from the ground, he saw blood and he found the linga which was installed by the king later.
   
   
   There is mark on the top of the linga. Normally the wings are not seen because of the alankara. The siva linga was called as Manneesar.
   
   
   After coming out of the temple on the top of the gopuram we can see the replica of the main deity manneesar which looks like a penguin in shape with wings to the sides.
   
   
   Goddess Arunthavaselvi is seen in different sanctum. Other deities like Subramanya, Dakshina moorthy, Bairava, Soorya and Chandra are there.
   
   
   
8. Avinasi:
   
   
   This is One of 275 Siva Devara Sthalam.
   
   
   The place is 41kms from Coimbatoore.
   
   
   Main deity isSwayambu linga knowdn as Avinasi Appar and his consort Perum nayaki amman. Teertham is Naga Kanni teertham. Sthala vruksham is Padari tree.
   
   
   Vinasi means huge destruction. Avinasi means which protects from huge destruction. The old name of the temple is Thirupu kulioor.
   
   
   Importance: There is a 70’height single stone deepa sthamba with sculptures of Vinayaka and Sundarar. We see a pond in front of the temple and a Padari tree.
   
   
   
   Sthala purana says root of Kasi kshetra Linga is upto this place, and the Linga is formed on it. Brahma worshipped hence the name Brahmapureeswarar.
   
   
   Arunagiri nadhar sang Thirupugazh on subramanya of this place. We see a well inside the temple known as Kasi well.
   
   
   The purana says ganges of kasi is in the form of well here. The Linga here was worshipped by Parvathi and she did her penance. Siva was pleased and he gave her place, to the right side of body. So the Goddess sanctum is to the right side of Siva sanctum.
   
   
   The temple belongs to 10th century. Brahma worshipped and got rid of his sin. Others who worshipped Siva of this place are Iravath, Thadagai, Naga kannagai, and Rama who were blessed.
   
   
   Sundarar and Navukkarasar sang hymns about Siva.
   
   
   
9. Mondi pallyam: Vishnu temple.
   
   
   Main deity is Venkateswarar Swamy on plantain flower.
   
   
   
10. Kumaran kundram: Subramanya swamy known as Kalyana Subramanyar.
    
    
    
11. Then Tirupathi:
    
    
    The temple is a private one of recent time. They temple owned by Annor Govinda swamy Naidu. The temple construction is according to agama sastra. Well maintained and every day Kalyana utswam for Lord Venkateswara.
    
    
    The place is surrounded with plants and trees which are useful for pooja. We reach the main sanctum after climbing few steps.
    
    
    
12. Idugam palayam: Anjeyanar temple.
    
    
    Main deity: Hanumantharayar and we have Ganesha sculpture in one single stone and in the same stone there is a Lingam, sarpam at either sides, Surya, Chandra Mushikam.
    
    
    At the back of Ganesha we see Nandi to the same stone.
    
    
13. Mettupalayam: Vana Durgai temple.
    
    
    Durga temple were we have Nelliappar sannadhi and Kanthi amman sannadhi also.
    
    
    
14. Kurutha malai: Subramanya swamy temple.
    The place is about 18 kms from Mettupalayam.
    
    
    Importance: It is a small hillock. Subramanya swamy seen here as a small child and known as Velayudha perumal. This is one of the hillock were Muruga played as a small boy.There are many such hillocks in Kongu nadu were Muruga has played.
    

1. Thiruverkadu
   
   
   
   This is One of 275 important Siva Devara sthalam. Karumariamman temple is also famous.
   
   
   
   The place is about 7kms from poondamalli and the place is also known as veda vedaranyam.
   
   
   
   Main deity: Swayambu linga known as vedapureeswarar and Balambikai.
   
   
   
   Veda teertham and Sthala vruksham is velvela tree.
   
   
   
   Importance: Muka nayanars birth place. Poison has no effect here. When lord Siva got married to parvathi in Kailas, earth tilted to one side because of the presence of everyone in that place, so Agastiyar was asked to go to vedaranyam to balance the earth. Agastiar said he will not be able to participate in the marraiage cermony and enjoy.
   
   
   
   Siva promised that he will be able to see their marriage. when ever Agasthiyr wishes he will be able to see both Siva and Parvathi in bridal form. Here inside the sanctum at the back of linga we see Siva and Parvathi in bridal form and the marriage event is sculptured. So the place is known as veda vedanarayan.
   
   
   
   BY Worshipping Thhirverkadu Baalambikai, Thiru validhayam Sri Jagadambikai and Thiruvotriyoor Vadavambikai in one day is very good.
   
   
   
   Arunagiri nadhar sang Thirupugazh on Lord Murugan, Sambandhar sang hymns on Siva of this place.
   
   
   
   Lord Subramanya acquired his Vel from Parasakthi to defeat Suran, hence the name verkadu. Thirumoorthy’s worshipped Parasakthi known as Karumari here. Ka represents Brahma, Ru, represents Rudhara and Ma, represents Vishnu.
   
   
   
   
   
2. Mangadu: Tapas Kamakshi temple.
   
   
   The place is about 20 kms from chennai near to Poovirundamalli.
   
   
   
   Main deity: Kamakshi devi.
   
   
   
   Importance: Once Parvathi Devi closed the eyes of Siva for fun which resulted in darkness of whole universe. Shiva was displeased by her act, and she had to come down to earth and do penance and join Siva once again.
   
   
   
   
   She selected Mangadu to do her penance. she was not able to get darshan of Siva so she started penancing in the middle of Agni standing on single leg.
   
   
   
   
   Kamakshi here, known as Thapas Kamakshi. Siva atlast decided to marry her. On his way down he wanted to meet Sukracharya the Asura guru. He asked kamakshi to move to Kanchi and do her worship over there.
   
   
   
   
   Kamakshi came to kanchi and she made a Siva lingam of mud and started her pooja once again and she was blessed by Siva and he married her in this place, here she is kalyana kamakshi.
   
   
   
   In her anxity to meet Siva she forgot cool down the Agni in mangadu where she was penancing. The living being were affected due to heat and Adi sankara seeing the sufferings placed a Srichakra or Ardha meru made of eight muligi known as Ashta gandha.
   
   
   
   The place started cooling dowm but people were afraid to see goddess. so he removed the sculpture of thapas Kamaksi and placed a santha roopa Kamakshi with a parrot in one hand and sugarcane in another hand.
   
   
   
   This idol is made of panchaloga (five metals) and known as Adi Kamakshi.
   
   
   
   There is a tortise shape bottom, three steps above it 16 petal lotus flower on which Sri Chakra yantra is kept. It has 43 coroners represting 43 Devathis. Only kumkuma archana for this.
   
   
   
   Next to the temple there is a Siva temple known as Valleswara worshipped by Bargava muni and linga here is huge one in size. We have Subramanya swamy with devayani made of single stone and Ganesa with mango in his hand.
   
   
   

1. Thiruvalidhayam
   
   
   
   This is one of 275 important Siva temples.
   
   
   
   The place is about 15 kms from channai. Channai to Ambatoore via paadi and this is the stop to reach the temple.
   
   
   
   Main deity: Arul migu Thiru valinadhar and Jagandhambal also known as Thayammai in different sanctum.Teertham is Baradwaja teertham. Sthala vruksham is Padiri.
   
   
   
   Importance: The architecture of the main temple is known as Gajaprushta because the shape of the sanctum is like the back of elephant, and it is also known as toonganai madam.
   
   
   
   
   Other deities like Durgai, Vishnu, Dakshinamoorthy, Ganapthy and Subramanya are there. In front of Goddess there is a kodimaram and Simha vahanam.
   
   
   
   
   Sthala purana says Ganapathy got married to kamalai and vimalai daughter of Brahma in this place. Brahaspathi, Vishnu, Hanuman, Sugreeva, Rama, Agystiar, Vayu, Indra, Agni, Surya and Chandra worshipped Siva of this place.
   
   
   
   Baradwaja muni worshipped siva in the form of black bird known as valian hence the name Validhayam.
   
   
   
   Sambandhar sang hymns on Siva here.
   
   
   
   
   
2. Thiru Vadamullaivayil
   
   
   
   
   This is one of 275 important Siva temples.
   
   
   
   The place is about 20 kms to NW of Channai. Busses and train facility are available from chennai to Ambattoor. The temple is 2kms inside from Ambattoor station.
   
   
   
   Teertham is Subramanya teertham and palar river. Sthala vruksham is Mullai.
   
   
   
   Main deity is Swayambu linga known as Masilamaneeswarar and Arul migu Kodiedainayaki in different sanctum.
   
   
   
   
   Importance: Siva linga here, known as Teenda thirumeni nadhar, so no abishekam to deity. Once in a year sandal powder kappu is performed. Vimanam is gajaprushta vimanam.
   
   
   
   Purana says asuras Vanan, Kandan and Onaan were living in a palace near malathi vanam, and the doors of the palace had brass bell, coral palquin and Vellerukku pillars. The asuras were worshipping Bairava.
   
   
   
   Once the king went for hunting and he came near the palace of asuras. It was night and the asuras were closing the palace gates and the bell made a noise and the king who heard it, assumed he was close to some temple and started moving towards the dirrection with his men.
   
   
   
   Looking at king with his men, asuras thought they were comming to fight with them, and Asuras attacked the king and he was defeated. Since this was unexpected king escaped into the garden full of mullai plant. The place was so thick with the plant, the king had to cut the plant and make way for him to enter in.
   
   
   
   
   Suddenly he saw blood stains on is knife and was worried for his act, and wanted to punish himself by cutting his head and to his surprise he saw Siva and Parvathi on rishba vahana and they blessed him. Siva asked nandi to help king in his fight against asuras.
   
   
   
   So nandi in the temple is facing towards the gate to protect. King in turn constructed a temple for Siva here with the same woodden doors and bells with vellerukku pillars. King made a corol palquin for God. We can see the pillars even today in the temple supporting the roof.
   
   
   
   Sundarar sang hymns on Siva here.
   
   
   
   

1. Thiruvothoor:
   
   
   
   This is one of 275 important temples of Siva.
   
   
   
   
   The temple is about 28 kms from Kancheepuram in cheyar.
   
   
   
   
   Main deity: Swayambu lingam known as Vedanadhar and his consort Elamula nayakai.
   
   
   
   Teertham is Cheyar and Kalyana teertham. Sthala vrukaham isPanai.
   
   
   
   
   Importance: Siva preached meaning of veda to Devas and munis in this place, hence the name Thiruvothoor. Vishnu worshipped Siva here and got his chakrayudam. We can see his sculpture in the name of Adi Kesava perumal.
   
   
   
   
   Nandi before kodimaram is facing the entrance. Sambandhar sang and transformed male panai trees to female panai trees here.
   
   
   
   
   We see stone sculpture of the tree in temple premises with Siva linga under it and Sambandharworshipping Siva here.
   
   
   
   Smbandhar sang hymns and Navakku arasar has mentioned in his work. Arunagirinadhar sang Thirupugazh.
   
   
   
2. Kuranganilmootam:
   
   
   
   One of 275important temples of Siva.
   
   
   
   The temple is about 8kms to SW of Kanchepuram, South of palar river.Buses from kanchi to vandavasi or cheyar alight at doosi and 2kms from there.
   
   
   
   Main deity: Swayambu lingam known as Valeeswarar and Valai ammai.
   
   
   
   Sthala vruksham is Elanndi.
   
   
   
   Importance: The place is surrounded by fields. Vaali Yama and Indra worshipped Siva of this place in the form of monkey, Squriel and Crow. This shows that the animals and birds have worshipped and attained mukthi.
   
   
   
   Vaali worshipped and hence the name Vaaleswarar.Other deities like Vinakaya, Subramanya, Kasi viswanadhar, Visalakshi, Durgai, Brahma, Chandeeswarar, Bairavar Vishnu, Sapthamadhar, Dakshinamoorthy, and Navagraha are there. Sambandhar sang hymns on Siva here.
   
   
   

1. Ulagandha perumal:
   
   
   
   one of 108 Divya desam. the temple is near Kamakshi amman temple.
   
   
   
   Main deity: Ulagalandha perumal of 35’ height and 24’width. His left leg lifted up to sky and 2 fingers of left hand and one finger of right lifted up. We see Aranaravalli thayar in different sanctum. Teertham is Naga teertham.
   
   
   
   Importance: During Vamana avathara Vishnu asked for 3 steps of land from Mahaballi, who agreed to give Vishnu. Mahabali was under the feet of vamana and was unable to lift and see the complete form of Vamana.
   
   
   
   He penanced here, and Vamana was pleased and reappeared infront of him and even then he was not able to see the complete form, to his request he is in the form of Adiseshan in the same temple.
   
   
   
   There are other three deities also in the same temple which were once up on a time in different places nearby which is unknown.
   
   
   
   Thiru Neeragam:
   
   one of 108 Divya desam. Sri jagadeesa perumal and Neelamangala valli thayar are main deity. The teertham here is known as Akrura teertham.
   
   
   Thiru Karagam
   
   one of 108 Divya desam.
   
   Main deity: is Thiru Karunakara perumal and his consort Padamamani nachiyar.
   Thiru Karvanam: one of108 Divya desam.
   
   
   
   Main deity:Kalvar with Bhoodevi and Sridevi. Kamalavalli nachiyar in different sanctum.
   
   
   
2. Thiru pavalavanna perumal:
   
   
   
   One of 108 Divya desam.
   
   
   
   The temple is about 1kms distance from kamakshi temple.
   
   
   
   Main deity:Pavala vanna perumal in standing posture and pravaravalli thayar.
   Teertham: Chakkra teertham.
   
   
   
   Importance: The main deity is of red shade which is unique. When Saraswathi sent asuras to spoil the yagam done by Brahma, Vishnu came to rescue of Brahma and fought with asuras and he was with blood stains so the colour for pavala vannar.
   
   
   
   
   
3. Pachai vannar:
   
   
   
   Vishnu temple.The temple is to the other end of Pavalavannar perumal street.
   
   
   
   
   Importance: Brugu maharishi performed yaga here to have laksmi devi as his daughter and he married her to Vishnu here.
   
   

1. Thiru padagam :
   
   
   
   one of 108 Divyadesam. The temple is near Ekambaranadhar temple.
   
   
   
   Teertham is Mathsya teertham.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Main deity: is Pandavadootha perumal in sitting posture. The height is 28’. We see thayar Rukmani devi in different sanctum.
   
   
   
   Importance: king Janameyajeyan listen to story of Mahabaratha from Vaisambhavana muni. Sri krishna when he went to Hastinapuri as a mesanger of pandavas he reveled his Viswaroopa darshan.
   
   
   
   The king wanted to have the same kind of darshan of Vishnu so he performed a Aswameda yaga here in this place. Purna says that his wish was fulfilled. The temple is 1000years old and was built by King Rajakesari varman.
   
   
   
   
2. Varadharajaperumal temple:
   
   
   
   One of 108 Divya desam. the temple is in Chinna Kancheepuram.
   
   
   
   Main deity: Varadharajaperumal and his consort Perundevi thayar. Teertham is Vegavathi, Ananthasaras Brahma teertham and well.
   
   
   
   
   Importance: The main sanctum is 40’height with 43 steps to go. In the basement we see Azhagiya Singa perumal in sitting posture and Arithra devi thayar. Lord Vishnu in the form of mountain was holded by Iravathi. Hence the name Athigiri.
   
   
   
   
   Varadaraja perumal in punyakoti viman came down to bless Brahma for the yagam he performed. Brugu muni, Naradha, Saraswathhi and indra were blessed by Varadharajar. Hayman and Sukran were transformed into lizard for their sin and they penenced here and were blessed by Vishnu. There are two lizards to the roof of temple and everyone is allowed to touch them and will be relieved of all ailments.
   
   
   
   
   Atthi Varadhar is of wood and it is kept in anantha saras teertha, is taken out once in 40 years and pooja is performed. Devotees can have darshan of him at that time. We see Chakrathazhwar in separate sanctum near Ananthasaras teertham and at the back Adi seshan holding Narashima moorthy.
   
   
   
   

1. Thiruvekka:
   
   
   This temple is known as Yadodhakari, one of 108 Divyadesam.
   
   
   
   The temple is near Rangaswamy tank, small kanchipurm.
   
   
   
   Main deity is Sonnavannam seidha perumal in sleeping posture and Kamalavalli thayar in different sanctum. Teertham is Poighai teertham.
   
   
   
   Importance: Saraswathi river started flowing as Vegavathi river to disturb the yagam performed by Brahma. Vishnu came to rescue, on the request Brahma to stop the river flowing down. Vishnu laid down on Adiseshan to stop the flow of river. Vegavathi stopped due to shyness and hence the name Vecca.
   
   
   Poighai Azhwar took birth in a lotus flower represnting panchajanyam. Thirumishai Azhwar left the place in search of Karrikannan and he asked Vishnu of this place to join him. Vishnu rolled Adisesha took him in his hand and followed him.
   
   
   Once Vishnu left the place the whole town faced problem, the king realised his mistake of sending them away and he begged Azhwar to forgive and return back Knchi. Azhwar was pleased and he asked Vishnu to follow him once again and reside in same place. Since Vishnu did as he was asked by Azhwar the name Sonnavannam seitha perumal
   
   
   In this place the rarity is Vishnu has placed his head to south side.
   
   
   
   
   
2. Thiru Thangal: 0ne of 108 Vishnu temples known as Vilakoli perumal.
   The temple is to west of Ashtabuyakaram temple.
   
   
   Main deity: Deepa prakasar and his consort Maragdha valli thayar. Teertham is Saraswthi teertham.
   
   
   As per purana once, Without informing Saraswathi, Brahma started performing yagam in a nandavanam which was cool, hence the name Thanga. She was not happy about this and requested asura named mayanalam to help her in disturbing the precedings of yagam.
   
   
   Asura made the world dark by his powers. Brahma in turn sought the help of Vishnu to perform his yagam without interuption. Vishnu came to his resque with a lamp in his hand and hence the nameDeepaprakasar.
   
   
   
   

1. Ashtabuyakarm:
   
   
   One of 108 Divya desam.The temple is to South of Rangaswamy tank small kanci.
   
   
   Main deity is Adi kesava perumal in standing posture with ashta bujam having chakkrm, knife, flower, arrow, sanku, bow, kedayam and gadha. We see Alemelumanga thayar in different sanctum.Teertham is Gajendra pushkarani.
   
   
   Importance: Ashtabuyakaram name is due to Vishnu taking this form to control the asuras who were disturbing the yagam of  Brahma. Mahasudha muni was in penancing here.
   
   
   
   Indra was worried of his seat and he deva kanyas to disturb muni and kanyas took the form of elephant and diverted munis attention. He changed himself into an elephant and started living with them. After many years he came to know that he was fooled by them. Once when he realised his mistake he approached Markendaya muni to help him out.
   
   
   Muni asked him to worship Vishnu in this place Ashtabuyakaram. He worshipped vishnu with lotus flower, in the same form of elephant. One day the elephant’s leg was caught by a crocodile and to free himself the elephant took the name of Vishnu as Narayana and he was rescued by Vishnu and attained his previous form of human being.
   
   
   
   
2. Thiru vellukai:
   
   
   one of 108 Divyadesam. The temple is opposite to Vilakoli perumal temple.
   
   
   Main deity: Sri Azhagiya Singaperumal in sitting posture and his consort Sri Vellukai valli thayar in different sanctum. Teertham is Kanakasaras teertham.
   
   
   Importance: Lord vishnu took the form of Narashimam and started chasing the Asuras, when he came to this place it was cool and nice. Asuras were not to be seen, he liked the place and he stayed back there to take care if asuras return again. He is in Yoga form here.
   
   

1. Katchabeswarar: Siva temple.
   
   
   The temple is in Raja veedhi 1kms from Ekambaranadhar temple.
   
   
   Main deity: Swayambu linga known as Katchabeswarar and Soundrambikai ammai.
   Teertham is Eshta siddhi teertham.
   
   
   Importance: During koormavatara time Vishnu worshipped Siva here and hence the name Katchabeswarar. Brahma and Saraswathi worshipped here, to get the blessings of Siva for his work of creation. Asura guru Sukracharya worshipped here to get mruthsangeevini and Vajrayakkai.
   
   
   
   There are other deities like Chaturmukeswarar, Saraswathi, Vinayakar, Sastha and Bairavar. Around the pond we have temples of Dharma siddeswarar, Kama siddheswarar, Artha siddheeswarar and Moksha siddeswarar.
   
   
   
2. Thiru Onan Kandhan thali:
   
   
   One of 275 important temples of Siva. the temple is near Panjupettai electricity sub station about a kms from Ekambaranadhar temple.
   
   
   Main deity: Onakandeeswarar and Kamakshi amman. Teertham is Onakandhan teertham.
   
   
   Importance: There are two deities Oneswarar and Kandeswarar in different sanctum. Asurars Onan and Kandan comander in chief of Vanasuran worshipped here. Sundarar sang hymns on Siva here.
   
   There is a story that when Sundarar sang hymns Siva hidded himself in tamarind tree nearby and when he sang another song Siva was pleased and dropped tamarinds from the tree which turned into golden coins.
   

Temples of Kanchi Town:


The place is 75kms from chennai, bus and train services available.

1. Kanchi Kamakshi temple:
   
   
   
   This is known as Adi sakthi peetam and one of pancha boodha kshetram.Sthala vruksham is Sanbagam.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Importance: The temple is known as Kamakottam. Brahma Vishnu and Rudra were creations of her eyes, hence the name Kamakshi. Here kamakshi is in sitting posture with four hands and penancing. Adi Sankara has kept Srichakra in front of kamakshi to cool her.
   
   
   
   Inside the main sanctum we see Klla perumal, Soundra lakshmi and Arupa lakshmi. The kumkum prasadam should be first put in front of Arupa lakshmi and then we should take it from there. After worshipping Kamakshi when we come out in front we see Annapoorani.
   
   
   
   Kalla perumal inside the kamakshi sanctum is one of 108 important vishnu sthalam. When we go around the temple in front of the pond we see vishnu in different temple in three posture sitting, standing and sleeping.
   
   
   
   
2. Ekambaranadhar Temple:
   
   
   one of 275 Siva Devara sthalam.
   
   
   
   Here Siva is in the form of linga known as Ekambaranadhar and his consort Elavarkuzhali ammai. Teertham is Siva ganga teertham and Kamba river.
   
   
   
   
   Sthala vruksham is 3600yrs old mango tree with 4 branches, related to vedas. Unfortunately the tree is no more in now.
   
   
   
   
   Importance: this is one of the Pancha boodha kshetram. The linga is made of sand. The main Raja gopuram was constructed by krishna devarayar
   
   
   
   There other deities like vikata chakra vinayakar, Arumugar, 1008 and108 lingas, Vellai kambar, kallakambar, nallakambar, 63 nayanmars, Markendeyar, Bikshadanar, Nataraja, Nilathunda perumal, pralayankattha ammai and Navagraha.
   
   
   
   As per Purana, once parvathi closed the eyes of Siva for fun and the whole universe went dark and Siva was angry with her for doing so. She was punished for her act. She chose the place near Kamba river and made a lingam of mud, placed it under Ekamba tree and started her worship. One day due to flood the whole town was of water and she embraced Siva linga to protect him from dissolving in flood water and started doing her worship. Siva was pleased with her devotion and he agrees to marry her.
   
   
   
   We can see both Siva and parvathi together at the back of linga in main sanctum.
   Vellakambar worshipped by Brahma, kallakambar by Vishnu and Nallakambar by Rudra.
   
   
   
   
   Sambandhar, Navakkuarasar and Sundrar sang hymns on siva here. Arunagirindhar sang Thirupugazh on Subramanya.
   
   
   
   On Ratha sapthimi day sunrays falls on Siva here. Ganapathy near gopura vasal is on peacock which is different here.
   
   
   
3. Nilathunda perumal:
   
   
   
   One of 108 important Vishnu sthalam.
   Main deity is Neelathunda perumal standing posture with sapthagnaga.
   The deity is to north east side of Ekambereswarar within the temple premises
   
   
   
   Importance: At the time of churnning of occan to get nectar, the God of occan Vishnu’s body became warm and to cool himself he does penance here and the moon rays from Siva’s head falls on vishnu.
   
   
   

1. Kumarak kottam:
   
   
   
   Subramanyaswamy Temple.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Importance: Subramanya asked the meaning of pranava to Brahma the creator, he was not able to explain properly, so Subramanya captured him in a room and did allow him to do his work of creation. When the issue was taken to the notice of Siva he asked Subramanya to release brahma but he did not do so. Subramanya made a siva linga known as Devasenapadeesar and worshipped him and he was blessed by siva.
   
   
   Arunagirinadhar sang thirupugazh on Subramanya here.
   
   
   
   
2. Jurahareswarar Temple: Siva temple.
   
   
   
   The temple is to the south of sannidhi street of Ekambaranadhar temple.
   
   
   
   Main deity: siva in lingam form known as Jurahareswarar.
   
   
   
   Importance: Asura samhara of Sukran by Siva was in this place. Devas worshipped in this place to cure themselves from disease due to heat.
   
   
   
   
3. Kailasanadhar temple: Siva temple.
   
   
   The temple is to west of putheri street, 2kms from Ekamberaswarar temple.
   
   
   Main deity: Siva in the form of linga with 16 stripes.
   
   
   Importance: This is first temple made of stones and built by Raja sinha pallava. After the completion of the temple they fixed a date for Kumbabishekam. Siva in Kings dream asked him to postphone the kumbabishekam date because he had to honour the invitation of poosalar temple’s kumbabishekam at Thirunindravoor
   
   This is inscribed and Sekezhiar has also mentioned this in his work. Narada and Vishnu worshipped here to get rid of their sins. We have a small passage here to go round the deity in which we have to crawl and get into enter in.
   
   Archelogical department has taken the temple now.
   
   
   
   
4. Kachi Anekathangaradham temple:
   
   
   One of 275 important temples of Siva.
   West of putheri street and on the way to Kailasanadhar temple.
   
   
   Main deity: Swayambu linga known as Anekathagavadeswarar and his consort kamakshi amman.
   
   
   Importance: Vinayaka worshipped in this place and hence the name Anekabesuram. Kubera worshipped here. Sundarar sang hymns on Siva here.
   
   
   
5. Thiru Metrali:
   
   
   One of 275important Siva temple. the temple is 2kms from Ekambaranadhar temple in Pillyar palayam sanndhi street.
   
   
   Main deity: Thiru Metrali nadhar and his consort Kamakshi amman
   Teertham is Vishnu teertham.
   
   
   Importance: There are two linga here, known as Metralinadhar facing towards east and the other one Vishnu linga facing towards west. Vishnu worshipped Siva here to attain Sivasaroobyam.
   
   
   Sambandar sang hyms on Siva here standing at the end of the road and hearing this vishnu was deeply touched and melted into linga form. Sambandhar also attained Sivasaroobyam here. Budha one of the navagraha worshipped Siva here.
   
   
   
   
6. Kachi Kayaroganar:
   
   
   This a siva temple near pillarpalayam pond.
   
   
   Main deity: Kayaroganeswarar and Kamakshi amman.
   
   
   Importance: When Vishnu and Brahma were nearing their end Siva who is beyond time limit took both of them to his shoulder and started dancing and hence the name Kayaroganar. Lakshmi worshipped Siva here.
   
   
   
   

1. Thiru Erumbai magalam:
   
   
   
   One of 275 Siva Devara sthalam.
   
   
   
   The place is reached by, Pondicherry to Dindivanam via Killianoor stop at Thiruchitrambalam cross road and 3kms from there.
   
   
   
   Main deity: Thiru Makaleeswarar and his consort Kuilmozhi nayaki.
   
   
   
   Importance: Due to the penance of Karuvelachittar drought occurred and King was worried and he wanted to disturb him. Devadasi (dancer who dance in temple) was requested by the king to help him. She reached the place of chittar and he was disturbed by her presence, and he started living with her.
   
   
   
   Once when she was dancing in the temple her anklet fell down, and chittar tried to put the anklet without disturbing her dance. People around started making fun of him.
   
   
   
   chittar was annoyed and started singing about Lord Siva, to the surprise of everyone the linga broke into 8 pieces. King was worried again and he realised his mistake and asked chittar to pardon him.
   
   
   
   Once again chittar sang a song and the linga pieces joined together. From that day they put kavacam to linga and started worshipping. King made another linga to replace the one that is broken, but in his dream he was told not to do so by Siva. The new idol is to north side of the temple.
   
   
   
   Mahakalar worshipped in this place and hence the name Makaleeswarar. Sambandhar visied and sang hymns on Siva.
   
   
   
   
2. Thiruvakkarai:
   
   
   
   One of 275 important Siva temple.
   
   
   
   Dindivanam to Pondy via Mylam, stop at Perumpakkam and 7kms from there.Buses are available from Dindivanam.Sthala vruksham is Vilvam.
   
   
   
   Main deity: Swayambu linga known as Chandra shekarar and Vadivambikai in different sanctum. Sthala vruksham is Vilvam.
   
   
   
   Name: Vakrausaran worshipped Siva here and was killed by Vishnu, hence the name Thiru Vakkarai.
   
   
   
   Other deities like Durgi, Vinayakar, Dakshina moorhy, Lakshmi, Arumugar, Bairavar, Chandran, Vishnu in standing posture, Navagrahas and Sahara linga.
   
   
   
   Importance: Vishnu fought with Vakkrasura and blood started oozing out and asuras were multiplied in number. Vakkra kali was sent to drink the blood without falling on the ground. We see Vishnu at the back of Vakkra kali amman. She has baby like thing in her right ear. They say she fought with vakkrasuran sister who was pregnant at that time out of soft corner she adorned the baby of womb, in her ear.
   
   
   
   Nataraja here, stands on his left leg and the right one lifted in up in air and the thandavam known as Rudra thandavam. Opposite to Vakkra kali linga known as Vakkralinga worshipped by Vakkrasura. This linga is cool during summer and water drops are seen on top portion of linga during rainy season.
   
   
   
   Main entrance, Nandi, Dwajasthamba and main deity are not in a straight line in this temple as a rule.We see Varadaja perumal in standing posture with abya hastham, sanku and with prayoga chakkra in his hand.
   
   
   
   Sani graha is also different with his vahana crow to left. People who suffer of vakkra grahas can worship in this place and prosper in life.
   
   

1. Panchavadi:
   
   
   
   Pancha mukha anjaneyar. the place is 9kms from pondy,to Dindivanam route.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Main deity: pancha mukha anjaneyar of 36’ height. The five faces represents Garuda, Hyagreeva, Narashima,Vamana and Anjeneya.
   
   
   
   Importance: One day in his fight with Rama, Ravana was helpless and was asked to return next day with his armies to continue the fight. Ravana took the help ofMailravana
   
   
   
   Mail ravana will die only when all the 5 gaint bee's (vandu) are killed at the same time. Rama knew the secret and he gave all his powers to Anjaneya. He was also blessed with the powers of Garuda, Hyagreeva, Narashima and Varaha.
   
   
   That is how pancha mukha anjaneya came to help people in their difficulties when they worship him.
   
   
   
   
2. Thiru Arisili:
   
   
   One of 275 Devara sthalam.
   
   
   The place is reached from Pondicherri to Dindivanam via Kiliyanoor, Stop at Ozundiyapattu and 1.5kms from there. From Dindivanam it is 2.5kms.
   
   
   
   Main deity: Swayambu linga known as Arisili nadhar and his consort Periya nayaki ammai. Sthala vruksham: Arasa vruksham.
   
   
   
   Importance : The linga is in small size and goddess in different sanctum. Other deities likeGanapathy, Subramanya with Valli and Devanai, Chandeeswarar and navagraha.
   
   
   Purana says King Sathyavradhandevotee of Siva developed an nandavanam (garden) with flowering plants, useful for his worship. Unfortunately something was eating all his plants and spoiling his nandavanam. King was angry and he started watching the nandavanam.
   
   
   
   He came across a deer which was grazing and he tried to kill it. The deer escaped into a bush and from there a hunter came and started fighting with King. After sometime the hunter disappeared inside the bush. King was surprised and started clearing the bush and he found a linga there and he built a temple and named him as Arisili nadhar.
   
   
   Sambandhar visited and sang hymns on Siva.
   
   
   The temple timing is 7-12am and 4-7pm.
   

1. Mylam:
   
   
   Subramanya swamy temple. 10kms from Dindivanam.
   
   
   Main deity is Viswanadhar and his consort Visalakshi ammai.Teertham is Varaha river. Sthala vruksham:Punnai.
   
   
   
   Importance: After the samharam of asura Sura by lord Subramanya, sura requested that he wishes to be a vahana for Murugan. Sura was asked to penance at Varaha River by subramanya. Sura took the form of peacock and started the penance.
   
   Subramanya was pleased and accepet him as a peacock vahana in this place. Lord Subramanya in kalyana Kolam with Valli and Devannai. Arunagirinadhar sang Thirupugazh on Murugan here.
   
   
   
2. Dindivanam:
   
   
   One of 275 important Siva temples. the place is about 37 kms from vizhupuram.
   
   
   Main deity: Swayambu linga known as Thiru Trineeswararand his consort Maragadavalli amman. Sthala vruksham is Tamrind tree.
   
   
   Impotance: The linga is under the tamrind tree, hence the name Trineeswarar. There deities like Ganesha, Subramanya, Durgai, Lingothbavar, Dakshina moorthy, Navagraha and chandeeswarar are there.
   
   
   Navukkarasar sang hymns on Siva here.
   
   
   
   
3. Mel malayanur:
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Angala parameswari temple. The place is about 20kms from senchi and 30 kms from Thiruvannamalai.
   
   
   Importance : Full moon day and half moon day are important in this temple. Vinayaka in standing posture.
   
   
   
   
4. Thiru Achirrupakkam:
   
   
   One of 275 important temples of Siva. The place is about 16 kms from Madhuranthakam.
   
   
   Main deity: Swayambu linga known as Yamadeesar and Balambikai, the other one known as Umaiyadeesar and melilayal.Sthala vruksham is Kondrai.Teertham is Deva teertham, Sanku teertham and Bhanu teertham.
   
   
   Importance: There are two dities in the temple. Dwajasthamba and Nandi are not in straight line to main entrance but they are In a line to Yamayadheesar which is old swayambu linga. The second linga was installed by pandya king in later days.
   
   
   
   AS per Purana Lord Siva on his mission of Thirupra samhara did not worship Ganesha so axle of Siva’s charriot broke, in this place and after worshipping Ganesha they were able to proceed further. Hence he name Achirupakkam.
   
   
   
   Pandya king came to know from hunters that everyday a cow was pouring milk on a bush and king asked them to clear the bush, at that time they saw a udumbu (lizard family) and threw a arrow on it. They saw blood oozing out and when they cleared it they found a Siva linga which was kept in the temple by the King known as Umadeesar.
   
   Sambandhar and Appar sang hymns on Siva here.
   
   
   
   
5. Mel maruvathoor:
   
   
   Adi praskthi. The plce is bout 92 kms from Chenni to Dindivanam.
   
   
   Importance: some 35 years back it was a small temple in a small village. Now with dedication and devotion of Bangaru Adigalar the temple has expanded and lot of devotees. Adi parasakthi organisation is formed and it spread all over the county like a banian tree. Many trusts are formed under the organisaion. There are schools colleges and hospital of their own.
   
   
   
   
6. Thiru Edaichuram
   
   
   One of the 275 important temples of Siva.The place is about 7 kms from chengalpet to thiruppoorer we reach thirukadaichuram.
   
   
   Main deity: Swyambu linga known as Edaichuranadhar and his consort known as Emayamadakkodi ammai. they are also known as Gyanapureeswarar and Govardhanambikai. Teertham is Mdhura teertham.Sthala vruksham is Padhiri.
   
   
   Importance: The village is inbetween two mountains so the name Edaichurram. Swayambu maragadha linga which gllitters during harathi time.
   
   
   Sanathkumarar and Gowathama muni worshiped Siva here. Other deities like Vara siddhi vinayakar, Brahamandeeswarar, Subramanya and others are there.
   
   Sambandhar sang hymns on siva here.
   
   
   
   
7. Dhanvanthri temple:
   
   This is a recent temple. God Dhavanthri heals ailments. During the churning of paarkadal, Danvanthri came out from the occan.The temple is 5kms from Valajapet.
   
   
   
   
8. Kasi Viswanadhar and Visalakshi ammai.
   
   
   The temple is in Valaja town. By visiting this temple fear of yama will not be there. Kala bairavar and Sani are opposite to each other and it is a sani dosha nivarthi sthalam.
   
   
   
9. Konda puram:
   
   This temple is 20kms away from Kancheepurm in Kaveripakkam.
   
   
   Main deity: Swayambu linga knnown as Pancha lingaeswara and Kamakshi. The pancha lingas were made by Kamakshi representing pancha boodha and worshipped here before starting her penance near Kamba river.
   
   
   
10. Thirupukuzhi:
    
    
    One of 108 Divya desam. the place is about 10 kms from kancheepuram. The temple is ½ km inside from the main road.
    
    
    Main deity: 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 and 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 teerrtham. Jatayu attained moksha here.

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 inspiring, our attention towards the age old temples.


Every temple as its own importance and many a places it is in Swayambu linga form. 275 Siva temples are known as Devara sthalam were Navakkuarsar, Manikkavachakar, Appar and 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 date 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. Thiruvanmayoor:
   
   
   One of 275 important Siva Devara Sthalams. The temple is to south coast of chennai city about 8kms.
   
   
   
   Main deity: Swayambu linga known as Marundeeswarar and Tripura Sundari.
   Sthala vruksham Vanni. Teertham is Papanasini teertham.
   
   
   
   Valmiki muni worshipped Siva and hence the name Vanmeeka nadhar.Kamadenu worshipped and he was known as Palvanna nadhar.Agysthta worshipped and preached about Oushadha, (muligi) their importance, nature, and cure. So he is called as Oushadeeswarar. Devas worshipped and he is known as Vedapureeswarar.
   
   
   
   Importance: The main deiy is about 1’ height slightly slanting and hooves marks on the linga. Goddess Tripurasundari in different sanctum standing posture with abaya vardha mudra. "Srichakra" is there in front of her.
   
   
   
   Sthala purana says there are 5 teertham Janma nasini, Kama nasini, papa nasini, Gyana dhayini and Moksha nasini which are from jada mudi of Siva.
   
   
   
   Navakkuarasar and Sambandar sang hymns on Siva.Arunagirinadhar sang Thirupugazh on Murugan of this place. Saint Thyagaraja idol is noted one in temple. We see Subramanya with right leg on peacock with bow in his hand.
   
   
   
   
2. Solinganallore:
   
   
   
   On our way to Thiruvidanthy we visited this place. we saw Manthra varahi, Neela Saraswathi, and Prathyangira devi. All the idols are big in size
   
   
   
   
3. Thiruvidanthy:
   
   
   
   One of 108 Divya Desa Temples of Vishnu. The place is on the way from chennai to Mahabalipuram via (Kovalam) about 40kms distance from chennai.
   
   
   
   Main deity is Lakshmi Varaha perumal standing posture.Utsavar is Nithya kalyana perumal and Komavalli thayar. Teertham is Kalyana teertham and Varaha teertham.
   
   
   
   Importance: Varha 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 who is seen on his lap, hence the name Thiru Vidanthay.
   
   
   
   
4. Thiru poroor:
   
   
   
   This is Siva temple and well known for Subrayamanya swamy.
   The place is about 25kms from chengalpet.
   
   
   
   Main deity: Swayambu linga known as Vanmeega nadhar and Swayambu Subramaniyar with Valli and Devanai. Teertham is Saravana pogzhai.Sthala vruksham is Vanni.
   
   
   
   Vishnu to overcome the curse of and Kanva muni, worshipped Lord Siva here and was blessed. Subramanya fought with asuras and preached gyana in this place.
   
   
   
5. Thiru kadal mallai:
   
   
   
   One of 108 Divya desams temple. The place is about 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.
   
   
   
   
6. 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.
   
   
   
   

Sivarthri trip.


On 16 february the day of sivarathri we planned to visit 1000yrs old siva temple. We visited Kaleeswaram of Karimnagar district Ap. One of the trilinga desam, thousand pillar temple, and Badrakali temple of Hanumakonda.


We hired a sumo for our trip. We were eight of us and the cost worked out to Rs500 per head. We started from our place Sainikpuri, Secunderabad AP, at 5.30 am and returned back at 9pm.

1. Kaleswaram
   
   
   Kaleeswaram Siva temple on the bank of River Godaveri. Triveni sangamam of rivers Godaveri, Saraswathi and Pranahitha.
   
   
   We reached the temple at 11am. The distance is about 305 kms. We reached and from there via Parkal we reached Kaleeswaram. We went to dip our legs in the river, and on our way to temple to right we saw Sangameswara and Dattatreya in different temples. We proceded towards main temple.
   
   
   Sivarathri being annual celebration in the temple there was crowd, we made through by taking a ticket for special darshan.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Kaleeswara temple: We find two deites on same avudai (base). Only one of its kind. One to the left is Kaleeswara and the other to right is Swayambu linga known as Muktheeswara.
   
   
   Muktheeswara linga has two holes on it like nostrils. Any amount of water poured on linga enters through the hole and joins the River Godavari, something unique.
   
   
   The sthala purana of the temple is once Narada muni raised a doubt with Godaveri and Ganga as to who is great. They started arguing and finally Ganga said she is powerful because lord Siva is on banks of River Ganges at Varanasi to bestow moksha to people who worship there.
   
   
   Godaveri had no words to say. She wanted to prove herself competent to Ganga. She started penancing at the banks of Godaveri to be blessed by Siva. One day siva asked her what she wants. Godaveri asked Siva to reside on the banks and to bless people who worship there. Siva said yes and he said people attain moksha by touching, think or visit and worship. He formed as a Swayambu linga known as Muktheeswara.
   
   
   
   The other linga known as Kaleeswara was installed by Yamadarma. There was no work in yamalokha because of Muktheeswra. He wanted to do something about it and approached Narada muni who took him to Brahma who guided him to Siva. On hearing to his complaint Siva asked him to install a linga by name Kaleeswara next to Muktheeswara on the same base and worship. He said first pooja is to Kaleeeswara and then to Muktheeswara otherwise Yama has full rights to punish them.
   
   
   
   Goddess Parvathi is in different sanctum and there is a Srichakra yantra in front of her. There are other dieties like Vijaya ganapathi, Vishnu, Subramanya, Kasi visweswarar, Kala bairavar and Navagraha. To the front of the temple we see Yamakonam if one passes through that they will be relieved of all tortures in Yamapuri.
   
   
   We see a Saraswathi devi temple outside the main temple. She is known as Maha saraswathi.
   
   
   
   
   
2. Thousand pillar temple:
   
   
   The temple is in, Hanumakonda 6kms from Kazipet junction. It was built by Kakatiya King Rudra deva. The temple is in star shape and there are three shrines to lord Siva, Vishnu, and Surya.
   
   
   Now we see only Siva linga there and other two is not to be found. The pillars of the temple is richly carved. There is a large black Nandi placed on an open platform.
   
   
   
   
3. Badrakali temple:
   
   The temple is about a kilometer from thousand pillar temple. The temple is famous and well known. It’s a very old temple of 800 hundred years. The temple is extended without disturbing the old sanctum.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Badrakali is of stone and huge one in sitting posture with eight hands. Here we see her sitting on Sadasivan. Santha swaroopini in this place.

1. Kumbeswarar Temple:
   
   
   This is one of 275 Siva Devara Sthalams.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Main deity: Swayambu linga known as Kumbeswarar and Mangala nayaki. Prithivi sthalam. The top portion of ling is sharp.(kuda mukku)Teertham: is Mahamaga teertham and Surya pushkarani.
   
   
   Importance: when the end of universe was happening a pot of nectar was floating, Siva took the form of kratha and destroyed the pot and he opted to stay in the place where the main temple is now says sthala purna. This place is one of the sakthi peetam and Goddess is known as Manthra peedeswari.
   
   Kumba mela is once in 12 years. At that time kumeswara in rishba vahana and pancha moorties visit the mahamaha tank. Purana says that all the rivers are present in tank at that auspcious time. This is one of the saptha sthana sthalam.
   
   Navakkuarasar sang hymns on Siva.
   
   
   
2. Nageshwarar:
   
   
   One of 275 important temples of Siva.
   
   
   Main deity is Swayambu linga known as Nageshwarar and Periya nayaki. The base of linga is huge. Sthala vruksham is Vilvam.
   
   
   Importance: The pot of nectar when it was broken to pieces vilva formed as a siva linga and known as Nageshwarar. Adi seshan was unable to bear he weight of the universe. He approached Siva who asked him to worship here, and gained strength. The nataraja mantapa is in the form of charriot with 2 horses and 4 elephants.
   
   Sun pays, his homage to Siva on April 11, 12,and 13 and these days sun light falls on main deity Siva.
   
   Navakkuarasar sang hymns on Lord Siva.
   
   
   
3. chakkrapani temple: Vishnu temple.
   
   
   Main deity: chakkrapani iw seen with 8 hands holding, sanku, chakkra, bow, axe, shovel, gadai, stick, and lotus. Chakkrapani and his consort vijayavalli thayar are seen in standing posture. We see chakkra at the back of god.
   
   Suns haughtyness about his brightness was subdued by lord chakkrapani. Agni and Brahma worshipped vishnu here. Chakkrapani here is an example for siva vishnu tathvam.
   
   
   
4. Banapureeswarar: Siva temple.
   
   
   Main deity: Swayambu linga known as Banapureeswarar and Soma kamalambikai.
   
   
   
   Importance: Siva as Kradha moorthy broke the pot of nectar by his arrow in this place, hence the name banadurai.
   
   
   
   
5. Adi kambatta Viswanadhar temple: This temple is near Adi Kumbeswara temple.
   
   
   Main deity: Swayambu linga known as Viswanadhar and his consort Ananda Nithyammi.
   
   
   
   Importance: During Nayaka period coin minting was here so the temple is known as Kambatta Viswanadhar.
   
   
   
6. Maruda nallore:
   
   
   
   This is one of 275 important siva temple. Previously the place is also known as Thiru karrukadi. It is about 8kms from Kumbakonam.
   
   
   
   Main deity: Karukkudi nadhar and Sarvalankara Ambikai. Teertham is Yama teertham.
   
   
   
   Importance: sthala ganesha known as Valamburi ganesha. Linga is of mud and small in size. Impression of hands are visible on linga. Sambandhar sang hymns on Siva.
   
   
   
   
7. Someswarar:
   
   
   One of the 275 important temples of Siva. The temple is near portamari kulam (pond).
   
   
   Main deity is Swayambu linga known as Someswara and his consort Soma sundari.
   
   
   Importance: Moon worshipped Siva here and hence the name Someswarar. In the month of february / march on he day of Maga star all 9 river goddess meet here. When they all come goddess embraces god out of fear. Hence the Siva is known by name Kayaroganar. The hanging (uri) fell in this place so he is called as sikkaserar.
   
   
   Sambandhar sang hymns on siva.
   
   
   
8. Kasi Viswanadhar: Siva temple.
   
   
   This temple is to north of mahamaga pond.
   
   
   Main deity is Kasi Viswanadhar and Visalakshi amman.
   
   
   Importance: All 9 river goddess Kaveri, Ganga, Yamuna, Saraswathi, Narmada, Krishna, Godavari, Tungabadra, and Sarau are in temple. This is the only temple where we see all of them together.
   
   
   
   Purana says they are waiting there to take a dip along with Siva. Agastyar asked Rama to worship Siva here to overthrow Ravana and Rama did as per wishes of muni and Siva was pleased with him. Rudra amsa was given to Rama, hence siva is known as Kayarogaranar.
   
   
   
9. Abimukeswarar: Siva temple.
   
   
   This temple is to the east side of mahamaga pond.
   
   
   Main deity: Swyambu linga known as Abimukeswarar and his consort Amudha valli.
   
   
   Importance: During the dooms day Siva took the form of hunter and broke the pot of nectar at that time the coconut fell here and swayambu linga and coconut plant came up hence the name Narikesaran.
   
   The temple is important place for thula rasi people. When Nava kanniyar river goddess came siva turned around to give darshan for them so he is known as Abimukeswarar.
   
   
   
   
10. Gowthameswarar: Siva temple.
    
    
    The temple is to south west of mahamaga pond.
    
    
    Main deity is Swayambu linga known as Gowthameswarar and his consort Souandra nayaki. Teertham is Gowthama teertham.
    
    
    Importance: The thread around the kumba fell here and linga formed and known as Gowthameswaran. Gowthama muni to get rid of the sin due to killing of a cow he worshipped siva here and made a pond.
    
    
    
11. Vedanarayana perumal: Vishnu temple.
    
    
    Importance: Perumal Vishnu in the form of Brahma with Saraswathi and Gayatri known as Vedanarayana swamy in standing posture Here Brahma is with 4 faces. Narashimar is also seen here.
    
    
    
    
12. Koranattu karuppur:
    
    
    
    Siva temple and Petti kali amman. The place is about Kumbakonam to Annaikarai 3kms is Karrupur Or patalavanam.
    
    
    
    Main deity: Sundareswarar and his consort Abhirami ammi
    
    
    Importance: Petti kali amman came floating shore in this place. She was kept in temple and worshipped. The box is opened only once in a year with all rituals.
    
    
    
    
13. Sarangapani temple:
    
    
    One of 108 Divya desam. The temple is near Portamari kulam.
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    Main deity is Sarangapani in sleeping posture and his consort Komalavalli thayar. Teertham is 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 the daughter of Hema muni.
    
    
    
    
    
14. Ramaswamy Temple:
    
    
    The temple is in Kumbakonam Town near Kumbeswarar Temple.
    The main raja Gopuram is of five stories with single prakaram.
    
    
    
    
    
    There is a big corridor with beautiful sculptured pillars. Every piece of work is really amazing. The temple was renovated during Raghu Nayakar period.
    
    
    
    The main deity is Sri Ramar with his consort Seetha, his brothers, Lakshmana, Baratha, Sathrugna and Hanuman in pattabishekam form.