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.

1. Tharasuram:
   
   
   
   Siva temple and also one of panchakrodha sthalam.
   
   
   
   The place is about 5 kms from Kumbakonam
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Main Deity: Iravadeeswarar and his consort Dhaivanayaki amman. Teertham is Brahma teertham.Sthala Vruksham is Padari.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Importance: Iravatham lost its white in colour due to curse of Dhoorvasa muni. It prayed Siva of this place and got its colour changed back. So the name of Siva here known as "Iravadeeswarar".
   
   
   
   Asuras named Thara worshipped here so the name Tharasuram.The temple is full of pillars with intricated work. Mandapam is like a charriot and we see stone horses and elephant to pull it.
   
   
   
   There is Ardhanareeswara carving three heads and eight hands. Most of the pillars we see Dragon like thing carved with elephant face and horns like goat and lion body.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Each and every pillar has beautiful carvings to enjoy and feel this a day is not sufficient. There are miniature carvings like Gnash and Soma skander which is equal to the size of match stick.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   carvings of menaka, kalayanam Manmadha vadham and Kailasa is found. we can see
   kannappa nayanar, Ganga, sarswathi and vishnu sculpture near the entrance of sanctum.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Ravana lifting kailsa sculpture is also here. The Goddess is in different temple next to it.Yamuna and Ganges are dwarabalaka for Goddess.
   
   
   

1. Thirupandhal: Siva temple
   
   
   This is one of 275 siva Devara Sthalam.
   
   
   The place is about 10kms from Adhudurai.
   
   
   
   
   Main Deity: Swayambu linga known as Arunajadeswarar and his consort Perainayaki.
   
   
   
   Sthala Vruksham is Panai (palm).Teertham is Brahma, Iravadha,and Manniarru.
   
   
   
   Importance: Thadakai was worshipping God for a child.One day when she was performing pooja and she was about to garland the God at that time her saree was about fall down and she managed to hold it and try to put the garland. Siva wanted to help her in putting the garland to him so he bent down to front.
   
   
   
   From that day the Deity was not straight. King tried to straighten with his labor power but failed in the task.Kukuliakalai nayanar an ardent devotee of Siva and one of the nayanmars tied a chain to his neck, and to linga. He tried to straighten it by his devotion.
   
   
   
   Sambandhar Navakkuarasar hymns about Siva here. Arunagirinadhar ’s contribution to Thirupugazh.Temple is also known as Thadagaeeswaram and lord as Thadagaeesaramudaiar.
   
   
   
   
   
2. Senganoor: Vishnu temple.
   
   
   
   The temple is about 13kms from Adhurai and 18 kms from Kumbakonam.
   
   
   
   Main Deity: Sreenivasa perumal in standing posture and a Siva temple also, which we missed.
   
   
   
3. Keezhi pazharai:
   
   
   
   Siva temple one of 275 Devara sthalam.
   The place is about 2kms from patteeswaram.
   
   
   
   Main Deity: Swayambu linga known as Somanadhar and somakalambikai.
   Teertham: Soma teertham.Sthala Vruksham is Nelli (amla).
   
   
   
   
   Importance: Garuda wanted to release his mother from being a slave so he got pot full of nectar from Indra as he was on his way back he was attacked by asuras and three drops of nectar fell down in this place. Each drop formed as Linga, Goddess and teertham.
   
   
   
   
   Garuda had a dip in the teertham and worshiped Siva here and was blessed. He made a pond known as Jatayu teertham. Chandra was blessed in this place from the curse he had and it was changed to that he to grow from the half moon day and gradually decreasing from full moon day onwards. It was second capital city of Cholas.
   
   
   
   
   Navukkarasar sang hymns on Siva of this place.

1. Thiru Neelakudi:
   
   
   This is one of 275 Siva Devara Sthalam.
   
   
   This place is known Pancha vilvaarayana kshetra. It is about 3kms from Adudhurai.
   
   
   
   Main Deity: Swayambu linga known as Manaokyanadhar and his consort Anoopamasthini amman.
   
   
   
   Sthala Vruksham known as Vilvam.Teertham: Brahma teertham as a well, Devi, Baradwaja and Markendeya teertham.
   
   
   
   Importance: Brahma lingamis there in the temple which was worshipped by Brahma. Oil abishekam to the main deity linga is absorbed fully. Siva after drinking the poison chose this place and took the form of linga to reside and hence the place is known as Neelakudi.
   
   
   
   Vilva leaf is 5 in number in this place which is unusual.Navakkuarasar was chained by king and thrown into sea.
   
   
   
   Navakkuarasar sang hymns about Siva of this place and was able to float and reach the shore.
   
   
   
   
2. Adhudurai: Siva temple.
   
   
   This is one of 275 important ones..
   
   
   
   The place is about 3kms from Thiruvidaimarudhur.
   
   
   
   Main Deity: Swayambu linga known as Abathsahayeswarar and his consort Pavalakodiammai. Teertham known as Sakaya teertham.
   
   
   
   Importance: Sugreeva worshipped Siva in this place, hence the name Thenkuranguaduthurai.
   
   
   
   
   Sambandhar and Navakkuarasar sang hymns about Siva here.
   
   
   
   
3. Thiru kanjanoor: Siva temple.
   
   
   
   One of 275 important ones and as well as Navagraha kshetram. the place is about 4kms from Adudhurai.
   
   
   
   Main Deity: Swayambu lingam known as Agneeswarar and his consort Karpagambikai.
   
   
   
   Sthala Vruksham is Palasa tree.Teertham is cauveri
   
   
   
   Importance: Kanjan and (sukra) worshipped in this place so it is known as kanjanoor. Sivacharya named Haradatta sat on iron stool in the middle of fire to prove Lord Siva as Almighty in this place. There is a separate sanctum for him in this temple and the linga which he worshipped.
   
   
   
   Navakkuarasar sang hymns on Siva here. Arunagirinadhar sung Thirupugazh on Lord Murugan.
   
   
   
   
   
4. Thirumandhurai: Siva temple.
   
   
   
   This is one of 275 Siva Devara Sthalam.
   
   
   
   The place is about 5kms from Adhudurai.
   
   
   
   Main Deity: Swayambu linga known as Aksharanadhar and his consort Lokhanayaki.
   
   
   Importance: Periyapuranam says Sambandhar has worshipped Siva in this place.This place is known as vaippu sthalam.
   
   
   
5. Thirukodikaval: Siva temple.
   
   
   
   This is One of 275 Siva Devara Sthalam.
   
   
   
   The place is about 12kms from Thiruvidaimarudhar.
   
   
   
   Main Deity: Swayambu linga known as Thirukodeeswarar and his consort Vadavambiki amman. Sthala Vruksham id Perambu (cane variety).Teertham is Cauveri River.
   
   
   
   Importance: Ganesa of this place is known as karai atrum vinayakar. Nataraja idol is made of stone here which is rare thing. Chitragupta and Yama have separate sanctum here.
   
   
   
   Navakkuarasar sang hymns on Siva. Arunagirinadhar sang Thirupugazh.
   
   
   

1. Nadhan Koil:
   
   
   One of 108 Divya Desam temples. the place is about 2kms from pazhiarai, and 14kms from Kumbakonam.
   
   
   Main Deity: Jaganadhar and Senbagavalli Thayar,in sitting posture.Teertham is known as Nandi teertham.
   
   
   Importance: Sthala Vinayakar is Siddhi vinakayar. Nandi worshipped Siva in this place. Jaganadha perumal with Sword, Bow, Chakram, Sanku and Dandam in his hand. On friday's special abishekam is performed. Wishes are fulfilled in this temple.
   
   
   
2. Aandan Koil:
   
   
   
   one of 275 important Siva Devara sthalam. the place is about 2kms from Valangimaan.
   
   
   
   Main deity: Swayambu linga known as Swarnapureeswerar and sornambikai amman.
   Sthala Vruksham is Vanni.
   
   
   
   importance: Kasyapa Muni worshipped siva here. king Musukunda and Kandadevar had seen God personally here.
   
   
   Navakkuarasar sang hymns on Siva here.
   
   
   
   
3. Jaya Vijaya anjeneyar:
   
   
   
   We see a single banian tree which is multiplied into many number or trees by roots spreading all over.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   There is a Rama temple near by with Anjeyana sculpture is seen here. The place is calm and pleasant.
   
   
   
4. Marudha nalloore:
   
   
   
   One of 275 important Siva Devara Sthalam. It is also known as Thirukarukkudi. The place is about 6kms from Kumbakonam to valangaimaan route.
   
   
   Main Deity is known as Karukkudi nadhar and Sarvalankara ammai.Teertham is Ayama teertham.
   
   
   
   
   Importance: Linga here is made of mud .It is small and impression of hand is visible on it.Sri Ramar and brahma worshipped Lord Siva of this place.
   
   
   
   Sambandar sang hymns about Siva here.

1. Thiru Velliankudi: Vishnu temple.
   
   
   
   This is one of 108 divya desam temple.
   
   
   
   The place is about 20kms from Kumbakonam. Town buses are available.
   
   
   
   Main Deity: Kolavalvil Raman and Maragadha valli thayar. The main deity is in sleeping posture. Utsavar: Srungara sundarar.
   
   
   
   Teertham: chakra, Brahma, Indra and Parasara teertham
   Sthala vruksham: Kadali.
   
   
   
   Importance: Garuda with sanku and chakra. Sukra, Brahma, Indra and Parasara muni have seen vishnu of this place.
   
   
   
   
2. Thiru Mangalakkudi:
   
   
   
   This is one of 275 Siva Devara sthalam.
   
   
   
   The place is about 2kms from Adudhurai.
   
   
   
   Main Deity is swayambu Lingam known as Prananadheswarar and Mangla nayaki amman.
   
   
   
   Teertham: Mangala teertham and Cauveri. Sthala Vruksham: Kongilavalam.
   
   
   
   
   Importance: The accountant of King used the money for temple building and renovations without the permission of King. Regarding this the accountant was asked to meet the King. He dare to meet the king and committed suicide. King asked his workers to remove the dead body away from the town. Wife of the accountant appealed to Goddess Mangala nayaki for justice. Her prayer was answered and her husband came to life. This is the place were navagraha’s worshipped and got rid of their sins.
   
   
   
   Sambandhar and Navakkuarasar sang about Siva.
   
   
   
   
3. Sooryanar temple:
   
   
   
   Lord Siva and Navagraha temple.
   
   
   
   The place is about 2kms from from Aduthurai.
   
   
   
   
   Main Deity: Viswanadhar and his consort Visalakshi ammai.
   
   
   
   Teertham: Surya teertham. Sthala Vinakar: Kolteertha vinakayar.
   
   
   
   Importance: Navagraha's have separate sanctum in this place and there are constructed around Surya in their respective place. Navagraha’s here are without their Havana and weapon as Anugraha moorties.
   
   
   
   
   Kalava muni suffered of leprosy for his sin, but he was helped by navagraha’s in changing his time of sin. Brahma was not happy with navagaraha’s action and punished them.
   
   
   
   To get rid of their sin Navagraha‘s worshipped Siva of Thirumangalakkudi Prananadeswarar. So one has to worship in both Surayanar temple and Thiru Mangalakudi Siva also for full effect.
   
   
   
   Sambandhar sang hymns on Siva as well as navagraha’s.
   
   
   
   
4. Melmaruthuvakudi: Siva temple.
   
   
   
   The plaace is about a 1km to Adhudurai.
   
   
   
   Main Deity: Swayambu linga known as Iravadeswarar and his consort Abhirami.
   
   
   
   Sthala Vruksham: Vilva. Teertham: Chandra, Yama, Agani, Agastiya, Brahma, Kasyapa, Gowthama and Sesha teertham.
   
   
   
   
   Importance: The linga portion is white in colour and mud sort of material so abishekam is performed with kavacham on linga portion. Iravadham worshipped in this place and was blessed.
   
   
   
   A learned Brahmin who was too greedy and stared taking til dhana which fetches more money because the person will be transferring his sin also. Over a period the Brahmin became black and huge ugly figure due to sins he accumulated. To get back to normal form he started penance in the middle of fire for 12 years. Siva was pleased with his worship and granted boons. Again he started troubling everyone.
   
   
   
   
   Indra was afraid of Brahmin and he worshiped Iravadeswara of maruthuvakudi. Siva sent Akoramurthy to punish brahmin and to take him in custody. . Since he was a devotee Siva excused him for his sin and made him incharge for nandavanam.
   
   
   
   Vinayaka here is known as Vrichaka Vinayaka. One can see numerous scorpio like thing engraved on Ganesha all over. Ganesha like this is no where.
   
   

1. Thalachangkadu: Vishnu temple.
   
   
   The place is about 4kms from Akkoore.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Main Deity: Nanmadhiya perumal and Thalaichanga nachiar in standing posture.
   Utsavar: Venchudar piraan and chenkamala valli thayar.
   Teertham is Amritha pushkarani and Markendeya teertham.
   
   
   
   
2. Thiru kaddayoor:
   
   
   One of 275 important siva Devara sthalam. The place is about 22kms from Mailadurai or 55kms from Kumbakonam.
   
   
   Main Deity: Swayambu linga known as Amrithakadeeswararand Abirami Amman.Vinayakar, kalla ganapthy.Sthala vruksham is Vilvam and Jadi mullai. Teertham is Amritha pushkarani, markendya teertham, kala teertham.
   
   
   Importance: Pot of Amrutham was kept here by devas and asuras, after returning from bath they were not able to remove it and they found it deep rooted upto padala and it was in the form of linga. Brahma was given a vilva pathra and told by Siva, where the vilva grows within a moohurta (3 hrs) in that place he will get gyana upadesam, and it was this place.
   
   
   Markendeya sought the help of Siva when he was chased by yama, Siva kicked yama to protect his devotee Markendeya and was blessed to be always 16 yrs. There is Kala samhara moorthy and Balambiki with markendeya with folded hands, and standing in front of Lord Siva. During the time of arathi they remove the silver kavacham and we can see Siva kicking yama and he is under the foot.
   
   Abhirama battar sang Andadhi on goddess to change half moon day into full moon day. This is one of the Sakthi peetam. 1008 sanku abishekam performed here is well known.
   
   
   Sundarar, Navakkuarasar and Sambandhar sang hymns about Siva. Arunagirinadhar's Thirupugazh sthalam.
   
   
   
3. Akkoore:
   
   
   one of 275 important Sivs Devara Sthalam. the place is about 5kms from Semponar koil. The village is known as Thiru Akkoore and temple known as Thanthondri madam.
   
   
   Main Deity: Thaanthondreappar and Valnedungkannammi.Teertham is Kumudha teertham. Sthala vruksham is Sarakondri.
   
   
   Importance: Chola raja used to feed 1000 members daily. One day God was one among the people who ate food and he appeared in front of everyone with a stick in his hand. We can see the sculpture in the temple. This is birth place of sirappuli nayanar.
   
   
   Sambndhar and Navakkuarasar sang hymns on Siva here.
   
   
   
4. Sembanar koil:
   
   
   One of 275 important ones.This place is about 10kms from Mailadurai.
   
   
   Main Deity: Swayambu linga known as Sornapureeswarar and Maruvar kuzali amman.Teertham is Surya pushkarani. Sthala Vruksham: Vanni.
   
   
   Importance: Semponnal roofing so the place is known as Semponarkoil. Indra was able to defeat Vrithirasuran after praying Siva so this place is named as Indrapuri. Subramanya worshipped Siva and was able to defeat Tharasuran so Skandapuri.
   
   Veerabadharar took birth in this place to kill Daksha. Agastiar, Brahama, Vasista, Nagakanyas, Ashtadikbalakas worshipped in this place. April 21-27 the sun rays falls on Siva.
   
   Sambandhar and Navakkuarasar sang hymns about Siva.
   
   
   
5. Parasaloore:
   
   
   one of 275 important Siva Devara Sthalam. The place is about 2kms from Semponar temple.
   
   
   Main Deity: Swayambu linga known as veeratteneswarar and and Elangkodiammai.
   Teertham: Chandra pushkarani. Sthala Vruksham: Jack fruit tree.
   
   
   Importance: One of Veerateneswaram. Dakshan selected this place to do yagam and hence the place is known as Daksha puri.
   
   
   Veerabadharar removed the head of and Dakshan in this place after the yaga was interrupted. Veerabdhra swamy is placed in a separate sanctum. Sengazhuneer ganesa is also there.
   
   
   Sambandhar sang hymns on Siva. Arunagirinadhar sang a Thirupugazh.
   
   
   
6. Keezhayoor: Siva temple.
   
   The place is about 2 kms from semponar Koil.
   
   
   Main Deity: Swayambu linga known as Kadaimudinadhar and Abhiramavalli amman.
   Sthala Vruksham: Kiluvai.
   
   
   Importance:Brahma worshipped and gained fame. Sambandhar sang on Siva.
   
   
   
   
7. Poonjai:
   
   
   one of 275 important siva Devara Sthalam. the place is about 6kms from Semponarkoil.
   
   
   Main Deity: Swayambu linga known as Natrunanaiappar and Malaimaan madandhy amman.Teertham is Soorya teertham.
   
   
   Importance: Birth place of Sambandhar mother. Sambandhar sang hymns on Siva.
   
   
   
   
8. Arupadhi:
   
   One of 275 important Siva Devara Sthalams. the place is about 7kms from Adudhurai.
   
   
   Main Deity: Swayambu linga known as Thoraikattum vallalar and and Veurutholiamman.Teertham is Cauveri.Sthala Vrukasham is Vilamaram.
   
   
   Importance: Brahmin boy Arulvithan used to worship god with flowers which he used to get from his place and he crossed the river to reach the temple. One day river was flooding and he was struggling to cross with the flower basket in hand. He started shouting and and asking him to help in reaching the shore. Siva showed the shore for him so the name Thoraikattum vallal. (thurai means shore)
   
   
   
9. Dharmapuram:
   
   Durgai amman temple. Goddess Durga with 16 hands here.
   
   
   
10. Mailadhurai:
    
    
    One of 275 important Siva Devara Sthalam. the place is about 21kms from Seergazhi.
    
    
    Main Deity: Swayambu linga known as Mayuranadhar and Abhayambky.
    Teertham: Rishaba teertham and Brahama teertham.
    
    
    Importance: Goddess worshipped Siva in the form of peacock so the place known as Mailadhurai (peacock).Ganges comes here to bathe once in a year and get rid of sins which human being pass on to her by taking a dip. So the place is considered equal to Kasi. Visvanadhar and Visalakshmi are in a sanctum near the bathing ghat.
    
    One of the important festivals is all the Deities around the place come down to the Rishba teertha ghat in the month of Thula. Sambandhar  and Navakkuarasar sang hymns on Siva. Arunagirinadhar sang Thirupugazh.
    
    
    
    
11. Thiru Indhaloore:
    
    
    Vishnu temple.1/108 Divya Desam.
    Distance: Municipal limits of Mayavaram.
    
    
    
    
    
    
    Main Deity: Parimala Ranganadhan or Sugandhavana nadhan and Parimala ranganayaki or Pundareekavalli. The deity is in sleeping posture with four hands.
    Importance: Cauvery sangamam into sea. cauvery is near the head side and Ganges the leg side of main deity.
    
    
12. Kadhiramanglam:
    
    
    Durgai amman known as Vana Durgai.
    Distance: 10kms from Adudhurai.
    
    
    
13. Thirukandiyoor: Vishnu temple. one of 108 divya desam.
    Distance: 8kms from Tanjoore.
    
    
    Main Deity: Harasapavimochana perumal, Standing posture. Utsavar Kamalanadhan and Kamalavalli thayar.
    
    
    
    
    
    Teertham: Kapalamoksha pushkarani, Padma teertham, Kapala teertham and Kudamuruti river
    
    
    Importance: Kapala of Brahama which was hanging in the hands of Siva left him only after worshiping Vishnu at this place. Separate Brahma, Vishnu and Siva temples are near by.
    
    
    
14. Tanjaiyalinagar: Vishnu temple
    
    
    Distance: 4kms from Tanjore. Three temples together are considered as one Divya desam. Markendya has seen the perumal of all the three places. Rama teertham is common for all the three temples. There is only one pujari for all three temples. Utsavar is known as Sriman Narayanan.
    
    
    Main Deity: Neelamegha Perumal and Senkamalavalli thayar, sitting posture.
    Place: Manikundram.
    
    
    Main Deity: Manikundra perumal and Ambujavalli thayar, sitting posture.
    Place: Tanjayali nagar.
    
    
    Main Deity: Narasihma and Tanjay nayaki.
    
    
    Importance:Tanjaga elephant was killed by Narashima and to full fill the wish of Tangajan he his there in the same for devotees to worship. Hence the name for the town also as Tanjai.

1. Patteeswaran:
   
   
   One of 275 Siva Devara sthalams. The place is about 6kms from Kumbakonam.
   
   
   
   
   
   Main Deity: Swayambu linga known as Denupureeswarar and Amman Gyanambikai.
   Teertham is Gyanavavi. Sthala Vruksham is Vanni.
   
   
   Importance: Siva asked Nandhi Devar to move aside so that he can see Sambandhar who is been invited by Muthupandhar. Markandeya and Viswamitra worshiped in this place.
   
   
   Sambandhar sang hymns on Siva. It dates to Tanjai Nayaka period.
   
   
   
   
   
   Another important thing is to the north entrance u can have darshan of Durgai amman which is popular.
   
   
   
2. Thirusakthimuttram:
   
   
   One of 275 important Siva devara Sthalams. The place is about 6kms from Kumbakonam. The temple is in the next lane to patteeswaram temple.
   
   
   Maiin Deity: known as Sivakozindeeswarar and Periyanayakai amman./b>Vinayakar known as Vallabha Vinayakar. Teertham isSoola teertham.
   
   
   Importance: Goddess Uma devi worshiped and embraced Siva hence the name sakthimuttram. one can see this near karbha graha and sthala murti as goddess embracing Siva is also there as Itheeka murthi.
   
   
   Navakkuarasar was asked by Siva to go Nallore to get deeksha from him. Navakkuarasar sang hymns about Lord Siva. Sekkizhar has mentioned about Siva of this place in his book Periya puranam.
   
   
   
3. Thiruvalanzhui:
   
   
   One of 275 important Siva Devara Sthalams . Vinayaka temple. The place is about 7kms from Kumbakoonam.
   
   
   Main Deity: Swayambu linga known as Valazhuinadhar and Periyanakai amman.Teertham is cauveri, Arasalaru and Jada teertham. Sthala Vruksham is Vilvam.
   
   
   Importance: Once River cauveri was flowing through the place she entered into the hole (piladwara) and she went down till padalalokam. Eranda maharishi entered into the hole and brought Cauveri back to earth and when she came out she took a round and started following and hence the name b>Valanzhui.
   
   
   Eranda muni sculpture is seen here. Adiseshan worshipes Siva on Sivarathri day here. Vinayaka here, is of see water bubbles. There is no abishekam for him in this place.
   
   
   Sambandhar and Navakkuarasar sang on siva here. Arunagirinadhar contribution of Thirupugazh.
   
   
   
4. Swamy malai: Subramanaya swami temple.
   
   
   One of six important place of Murugan and one of 275 important Siva Devara Sthalams. the place is about 7kms from Kumbakonam.
   
   
   Main Deity: Subramanya Sunderaswar and Meenakshi.
   
   
   Importance: Subramanya conveyed the meaning of pranava in this place to Lord Siva like a Guru and student. the temple is 60' height deity is known as Nadha perumal sanctum.
   
   
   
   There are 60 steps, after climbing 28 steps we come to a floor, here we see Meenkshi and Sunderaseewarar perumal. when u go round the corridor we see Dakshin moorhy, Vinakar, Soma skander, Vislakshi Viswanadher, Durgai, Navagraha, Chandikeswarar, Subramanya with Valli, and Devainai.
   
   
   Purana says 60 steps represent 60 years of tamil calender year. after climbing 32 steps we come to Swamynadha Sanndhi. Subramanya standing alone.
   
   
   
5. Thirupunkoore:
   
   
   One of 275 important Siva Devara Sthalams. the place is about 50kms from Kumbakonam and 3kms from Vaideeswaran temple.
   
   
   
   
   
   Main Deity: Swayamu linga known as Sivalokha nadhan and Sokkanayaki amman,
   Sthala Vruksham is Punga tree. Teertham is Rishba teertham.
   
   
   
   Importance: Nandhanar ardent devotee of Siva was not allowed inside the temple, so siva asked Nandi to move from its place so that he can have darshan of Siva from the road itself. There is a sculptdure of Nandhanar with a bowl in his hand, near the gate.
   
   
   Navakkuarasar, Sundarar and Sambandhar sang about Siva.
   
   
   
6. Thiruvellakulam: Vishnu temple.
   
   
   One of 108 Divya desam. the place is about 7kms from Seergazhi.
   
   
   Main Deity: Sreenivasan and Alarmelmangai.(standing posture)
   Teertham is Thiruvellakulam.
   
   
   Importance: One of 11 Tirupathi of Thirunangoore. The place is known as Then Tirupathi. Swetharaja, son of Thenthuraman of Surya vamsa was blessed by lord Sreenivasa for a long life like Markendya. Initally his life span was only 9yrs.
   
   
   He visited the temple had a dip in swetha pushkaram and started doing mruthyanjaya japam under vilva tree, and got blessed. Thirumangi Azhwar got married to Kumudha valli in this place.
   
   
   
7. Thiru semponsei koil: Vishnu temple.
   
   
   One of 108 important temples. the place is about 5kms from Thirunangoore.
   
   
   Main Deity: Perarulalan and Allimamalar nachiar. Utsavar known as chemponarangar. Teertham is Hema pushakarani and Kanaka teertham.
   
   
   Importance: Rama stayed at Druda Nethra muni’s place and donated a golden cow to brahamin to get rid of his sin. The brahamin built this temple by the money he got out of cow. Hence the name.
   
   Siva to get rid of his brahamathi dosham performed Ekadasa rudhra, at this place. Vishnu with Bhooneela and devas gave darshan. Rudra requested him to stay at this place and bless devotees. 11 Garuda seva utsavam of Thirunangoore is famous.
   
   
   
   
8. Thiruvenkadu:
   
   
   One of 275 important siva Devara Sthalam ones. Budha parihara sthalam. the place is about 50kms from Kumbakonam.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Main Deity: Swayambu linga known as Swetharanyeswarar and Brahama vidya nayaki.Sthala Vriksham is vadavala tree, Vilvam and Kondrai.Teertham is Surya, Soma and Agni.
   
   
   
   Importance: Three deities are there. Swethyaranyeswarar, Natarajar and Akora moorthy. There are 6 temples equal to Kasi, this is one among them.
   
   
   Lord Siva performed 9 Thandavas they are as follows: Ananda, Kali nirithum, Gowri thandwam, Muni niruthum, Sandhya thandvam, tripura tandvam, Bujanga lalitham, Samhara thandavam, Byshadanam. Indira, Swetha, Iravatam, Vishnu, Surya and Chandra worshipped Siva in this place.
   
   
   There is a separate sannidhi for Budha, one of the shakti peetams. Sambadhar, Sundarar, Navakkurasar and Manikkavasakar sang hymns in this place.
   
   
   
9. Keezhperumpallam: Siva temple.
   
   
   Ketu parihara sthalam. The place is about 8km from Seergazhi.
   
   
   Main Deity: Naganatha Swamy
   
   Importance: This is Ketu parihara sthalam. This is the place where asura was caught disguising as a deva for Amrutham. He was idenfied by Surya and Chandra,  and  handed over to Vishnu, who punishes him with the serving spoon resulting in creation of Rahu and Ketu.
   
   
   
10. Melaiperumpallam:
    
    
    One of 275 important Siva Devara Sthalam, the place is about 5 kms from Sembanar temple.
    
    
    Main Deity: Swayambhu linga known as valampura nadhar and Vadurvahirkanni ammai.Shthalavruksham is Panai. Teertham: Brahma, Lakshmi and Swarna pankajam
    
    
    Importance: There is a cavity over upper portion of linga. Abishekam is done only after covering. (kavacham) Vishnu left back Lakshmi with Goddess to do penance. He returned with sanghu and chakra, in this place he got hands to hold it says sthala puranam.
    
    
    Eraranda muni who entered into phila dwara in Thiru valanzhui came out here. He has a separate sanctum here. Bikshadana moorthy was found here in the pond. After his death Dananjaya the King of magada asked his son to dissolve his bones in the teertha were it blooms into flower. This is the place where it happened. Kings sculpture is there in the temple.
    
    
    When Saint Pattinathar had his meal here the king was relived of his sin occurred due to lady curse. Sambandhar, Sundrar Appar sang hymns about Siva here.
    
    
    
11. Thalachangkadu: Siva temple.
    
    
    one of 275 impotant Siva Devara Sthalam. the place is about from Akkoore.
    
    
    Main Deity: Swayambu linga known as Sangarunatheswarar and Amman Sowandra nayaki.Sthala vruksham is Purasu. Teertham is Sanku teertham.
    
    
    Importance: Vishnu worshipped Siva and attained Panchajanya (sanku) in this place.
    
    Sambandhar has sung hymns about Siva here. There is a Vallaba vinayaka temple and Cauveri temple, which we missed.

1. Malayappa naloore. Ganapathy or vinakaya under banayan tree.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   It’s a very old banayan tree and its roots falling to ground, had multiplied into numerous trees.
   
   
   
   
   
   The trees have grown so close it looks like cave. Ganesha which was kept long back is now seen under the shelter of tree, as a room protecting him from rain and sun.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   The main tree is in ruins and supported by its roots the stands majestically.
   
   
   
   
2. Sivapuram: Siva Devara sthalam
   
   
   one of 275 Siva Devara Sthalam. The place is about 7kms from Kumbakonam.
   
   
   Main Deity is Swayambu linga known as Sivapuranadhar and singaravalli.Sthala vruksham is Sanbakam. Teertham is Chandra pushkarani and Surya teertham.
   
   
   Importance: Vishnu worshiped Siva in the form of Varaha. Guru and; Rahu are together in this place which is a rare combination. symbal of Bairava is dog. Here the left ear of dog which is near Bairava is lifting up as if your prayers are heard by him and forwarded.
   
   
   Sambandhar, and Navukkuarasar sang about Lord Siva. here
   
   
   
3. Azagaputhoor: Siva temple
   
   
   one of 275 Siva Devara Sthalams. the place is about 10kms from Kumbakonam,and 3kms from Nachiayar koil.
   
   
   Main Deity:Swayambu linga known as padikasualitha paraman and Amman Azagammi
   Sthala Vruksham is Vilvam. Teertham is known as Arasalaaru.
   
   
   Importance: Pugazahthunai nayanar worshipped and attained eternity. Lord Muruga in the form of Vishnu.
   
   
   
   
4. Theperumanallore:
   
   Siva temple. The place is about 8kms from Kumbakonam.
   
   
   Main Deity: Viswanadhar. Annadhana Dakshinamoorty is important here.
   
   
   
   
5. Thripuvanam:
   
   Siva temple one of 275 Siva Devara Sthalam.
   
   
   
   Main Deity is Swayambu lingam known as Kambakareswarar or Saranadhar and Aramvalartha nayaki. Sthala Vruksham is Vilvam. Teertham known as Saraba teertham.
   
   
   Importance: Lord Vishnu took the form of Narashima to kill Hiranyakasyap and he became too ferocious and un controlable. Indra and others were worried. They requested Siva to help in cooling down Narashima.
   
   
   Siva took the form of Saraparavai and he started pokeing Narashima and drank the blood, doing so he was cooled and became normal. Lord Sarabeswara has a separate sanctum for him in the temple. Worries of Devas was taken care by Lord Siva hence the name Kambakareswarar.
   
   
   Arunagirinadhar sang Thirupugazh.