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Chengannur Mahadeva Temple Guide – Timings, Poojas, and History

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Chengannur Mahadeva Temple is one of the oldest temples in Kerala. Chengannur Mahadeva Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. There are two main Shrines in this temple. Lord Shiva facing East and Devi facing West. The main shrine is a conical copper plated one. Devi’s main Idol is made with an alloy of five metals.

Chengannur Mahadeva Temple is a ‘Maha Kshetram’ (temple having great importance) from olden days itself. The other sub-investitures of the temple are Ganapathi, Shasta (Lord Ayyappan), Chandikeswaran, Neelagrivan, Ganga, and Naagar. There is also a shrine of Sree Krishna nearby. Chengannur Mahadeva Temple is also referred to as Chengannur Bhagavati Temple, as the temple is one of the 108 Shakti Peethas dedicated to Goddess Parvathi.

Chengannur is also known as the Gateway to Sabarimala Temple. The temple was built according to the architectural design developed by Perumthachan. Chengannur Mahadeva Temple complex sprawls over an area of six acres, with a circular sanctum. The Shivalingam is said to have emerged on its own (Swayambu) and bears a gold planted image of Ardhanaareeswara. There are also shrines dedicated to other deities as well.

Chengannur Mahadeva Temple

History and Legend of Chengannur Mahadeva Temple

  • Lord Vishnu, Brahma, Saints, Devas, Gandharvas, Yakshas and all other heavenly ones went to Himalaya in order to attend the auspicious marriage of Shiva & Parvati. The Trimurthis requested sage Agastya to go and sit on shronadri, to prevent the Earth from sinking to the northern side due to the weight of all the invitees who came for the ceremony. Though Sage Agasthya conceded the request he expressed his concern about losing the chance of viewing the marriage.
  • After the marriage, Lord Shiva and Devi went to meet Agasthya muni at shronadri. There Devi became ‘rithu’ (menstruate) and she could not go back. Devi remained there till the period of menstruation was over. The place where sage Agastya meditated, is known as shronadri in Sanskrit and in Malayalam, it is Chenkunnu (Red hill). Later it is called as Chen Kunnu Urru (Ooru refers to a place) and hence the place is known as Chengannur.
  • According to another legend Lord Vishnu severed the body of Sati (Goddess Parvati) into pieces which scattered over different places. These places are called Shakti Peethas. Accordingly, it is believed that the reproductive organ of Goddess Sati’s body fell at the place where the temple is located. The Kamakhya Temple in Assam is also related to the same legend.
  • There is an interesting story related to a custom of oath at the western entrance of the temple. There was a Brahmin family who were great devotees of Chengannur Devi and who were very famous. Once an Alwar came to Chengannur to challenge the Muringoor family at a time when a boy of twelve years. He was the only male in the Muringoor family.
  • He prayed to the Goddess and moved by the prayer the goddess appeared to the boy in a dream. Goddess instructed the boy to make use of the brass pipe in the ‘Araa’ which had a snake in it and which will be under the control of the boy. The next day the boy challenged his opponent to release the snake with his magical powers.
  • The Alwar’s efforts failed and the snake, in turn, tried to bite the intruder. On the pleading of the Alwar, the boy controlled the snake with his prayers and sealed it into the pipe. He then made a hole in the wall of the Western Gopuram and put the snake into it. He informed the people around that if anybody utters a lie by putting his hand inside the hole will be bitten by the snake.
  • This is the place where Yuddhishtra offered prayers to Vishnu, seeking pardon for his actions on the battlefield. He uttered the words `Ashwattaama hatahkunjaraha` in an attempt to deceive Drona and lead him into a defenceless state and his life was brought to an end by Arjuna.
  • Kannaki was the incarnation of Devi Sati. After killing the king of Madurai Pandya raja she went to Chengannur at the top of a hill. While Devi was meditating her husband Kovalan appeared before her and they together went to Heaven. The people who were living in the valley and constructed a temple there with the financial assistance of their king Cheran Senkuttuvan.

Significance of Chengannur Mahadeva Temple

  • The most important and unique feature of the temple is the Thriputharattu which is marked as a symbol of fertility. It is believed that the temple is also associated with the great epic Mahabharata. Chengannur has been derived from the word ‘Tiruchenkunroor.’
  • Balithara is an altar is used for making ritualistic offering to demi-gods and the festive deities. The central shrine called Sreekovil houses the image of the presiding deity. It is on an elevated platform with a single door reached through a flight of five steps.
  • Either side of the doors have images of guardian deities called Dwarapalakas. The roof of the temple and some of the pillars have lavish wood and stucco carvings depicting various stories of ancient epics, Ramayana and Mahabharatha.

Chengannur Mahadeva Temple Timings

Chengannur Mahadeva Temple opens daily at 3:50 AM. Worship timings are from 04:30 AM to 11:30 AM in the morning and from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM in the evening. The temple timings are subjected to change during festivals and special events.

Festivals celebrated at Chengannur Mahadeva Temple

Varshikotsavam: The annual temple festival is observed for 28 days starting from Thiruvathira Nakshatram in Dhanu Masam to Thiruvathira Nakshatra in Makaram month. Special pujas are held on all days. The shrine is traditionally decorated with plantain, coconut leaves, flowers, leaves, traditional lamps and lights. Traditional performing arts, music and dance are staged during the period. The utsava murti of the deity is taken out of the shrine for ritual bathing on the final day. Hundreds of people arrive on the day to witness various rituals and festivities.

Thripputhu: Thripputhu is one of the main festivals celebrated in the temple. The festival is associated with the menstruation ceremony and is observed periodically in the temple. During this time the temple is kept closed for three days and worships will be offered to another image of the goddess in a different spot of the temple. On the fourth day, the idol of the Devi is taken to a nearby river on the fourth day and Arattu (holy bath) is conducted. This ceremony is called Thripputhu. Later the Devi rides an elephant and is taken back to the temple. During the festival, the idols of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati are taken in procession around the temple three times. Then the Lord enters the shrine through the eastern side and the goddess enters through the western side.

Thulasamkrama Neyyattu: This is the Ghee Abhishekam festival of the Chengannur Temple. This ceremony is conducted on every 1st day of Thulam (mid-October to mid-November). On this day 36 paras of ghee is showered on the ‘Shivalingam’. ‘Paras’ is a measurement in Malayalam.

Shivaratri: Maha Shivaratri is the night of the worship of Lord Shiva. It occurs on the 14th night of the new moon during the dark half of the month of Phalguna. It falls on a moonless February night when Hindus offer special prayer to the lord of destruction. Shivaratri is considered especially auspicious for women. Married women pray for the well being of their husbands and sons, while unmarried women pray for an ideal husband like Shiva. Devotees visit the temple in large numbers during Shivaratri.

Poojas and Rituals at Chengannur Mahadeva Temple

At 3:50 AM the first pooja that is conducted is the Ravile Palli Unarthal. It is nothing but the awakening of the presiding deity. It is followed by the Nadathurakkal which means the opening of the sanctum sanctorum to enable the devotees to venerate the holy portrait of the deity and to seek their blessings.

Shiva Abhishekam is usually performed to a Lingam representing his manifestation as a creator of good (by destroying evil). The first worship of the day is Usha pooja or pooja at dawn. Though generally, the time of Usha pooja is thirty minutes after the sunrise.

Panthiradi Pooja is done only in major temples. This is done 2 hours after sunrise. It denotes the time of pooja based on human shadow measuring 12 feet in the morning. Here abhisheka is done with the pure water taken in nine pots after detailed pooja.

Deeparadhana is the worship with lamp with lamps, performed at dawn and dusk. Pyramidal lamps with seven tiers, lamps with five wicks and plain lamps with a single wick are lightened and waved several times in front of the Lord, from head to foot. Similar waving is then done with lighted camphor.It is considered to be an auspicious act to pray during deeparadhana time. This is the last pooja conducted in a temple on a day.  This is done between one and two hours after sunset.

How to reach: Road, Rail and Air

By Air: Cochin International Airport at Nedumbassery is the nearest airport to reach Chengannur. Trivandrum International Airport is about 119 km

By Road: Chengannur is situated between Thiruvalla and Pandalam in Main Central Road. Chengannur Bus Stand is a major KSTRC bus station in Alappuzha District. It is one kilometre from Chengannur Mahadeva Temple. Regular bus services are available from Aranmula, Thiruvalla (10 km), Pandalam, Pathanamthitta, and Trivandrum.

By Train: The nearby railway stations are Chengannur, which is about 2 km, Thiruvalla about 10 km and Changanassery about 18 km. Some of the major trains passing through the station include Kerala Express, Hyderabad Express, Kanyakumari Express, Chennai Mail, Amritha Express, and Malabar Express.

Where to stay

There are many hotels nearby which offer deluxe rooms. They are equipped with modern amenities to make the guests stay comfortable and enjoyable.

  • Spice Haven Annexe Contact: Vandanmedu Junction. Kumily Thekkady, Kerala
  • Hotel Santhi Palace Contact: M.C.Road, Railway Junction, Chengannur, Kerala
  • Hotel Raj International Contact: MC Road, Opp, KSRTC Bus Station, Main Central Rd, Chengannur, Kerala
  • Hotel Navaratna Contact: Main Central Road, Near Railway Station, Chengannur
  • Hotel Wyte Portico Contact: High School Jn, Karuvatta, Pathanamthitta, Adoor, Kerala 691523
  • Hotel Breeze Land Contact: By-pass Junction, Vazhappally, MC Road, Changanacherry, Kottayam, Kerala 686103

Where to eat

There are many restaurants that offer some great food. One should really visit Oven Fresh Family Restaurant, Bafia Bakers, Food Palace Restaurant, Crupe Cafe, Joyces baker to taste some mouth-watering and tasty food.

Nearby Temples

Aranmula Sreekrishna Temple: Aranmula Parthasarathy temple is an ancient temple situated in district Pathanamthitta district. Near to the cultural village of Aranmula. Temple is situated near the river Pamba. This temple is believed to be one among the five temples built by the Pandava brothers. This temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna, is one of the most ancient and famous temples in Aranmula. The Aranmula Parthasarathi temple is a simple structure in Kerala style of architecture and the idol of Parthasarathy is six feet high. It is believed that in the war of Mahabharata Lord Krishna was Arjuna’s charioteer. This form of Lord Krishna was worshipped in the temple Aranmula. So the temple is named as Aranmula Parthasarathy Temple.

Chakkulathukavu Devi Temple: Chakkulathukavu Sree Bhagavathy Temple is one of the most famous Devi Temples in Kerala situated at Neerattupuram. The presiding deity of this temple is Durga Devi, who answers the call of her devotees. Chakkulathukavu Devi Temple is believed to be more than 3000 years old. There is an idol of Vana Durga with eight hands, installed near the original idol. Thousands of devotees visit the temple of every Fridays and during the annual Chakkulathukavu Pongala Festival in November – December the temple is visited by lakhs of devotees from all over the state.

Thiruvalla Sreevallabhaswami Temple: Sree Vallabha Temple is located at Thiruvalla in Pathanamthitta district of Kerala. It is a 400-year-old temple on the banks of the River Manimala. This ancient majestic temple devoted to Lord Mahavishnu is one among the 108 abodes of Lord Vishnu. There is a big pillar made out of a single piece of stone at the western side of the temple and an idol of Lord Garuda Bird is placed on its top. The building structure there is called as ‘Garuda Madathara’ and it has a Nepal style. There is Garuda Bird as sub deity in this temple. The deity of Sree Vallabha Swamy is facing east and in the same ‘Sudarshana Chakra'(Sudarshana Discus) is consecrated facing west and is known as ‘Chakrathazhvar’.There is an offering in this temple known as ‘Paala Namaskaram’ which will help to get blessings from Lord to fulfil the devotee’s wishes. The offering of ‘Kathakali’ to be performed in the temple is another special ritual here.

Nilakkal Mahadeva Temple Guide – Timings, Poojas, and History

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Nilakkal Mahadeva Temple is situated about 15 km east of Pampa in Kerala. The holy river Pamba flows through the northern part of Nilakkal. During Sabarimala pilgrimage, lots of devotees visit this temple. It is believed that Lord Ayyappa on his way to the forest to eradicate the demon got the blessings from his father Haran from Nilakkal Mahadeva Temple.

Pilgrims on their way to Sannidhanam seek the blessings from Nilakkal Mahadeva Temple. The deity here is believed to be in two moods fierce Ugramoorthy and auspicious Mangala Pradayakan. It is also believed that Lord Siva showered blessings to his son lord Ayyappa to fight against all evil spirit and save the people. There is also a Devi temple (Palliyarakkavu Devi Kshetram) near to Shiva temple. Lord Parameshwaran, Lord Kannimoola Ganapathi and Nandi are the three Prathishtana here.

History and Legend of Nilakkal Mahadeva Temple

  • There were attempts to construct a church in front of the Nilakkal Mahadeva Temple at Nilakkal (on the way to the temple). It was regarded as Poonkavanam (Garden) of Ayyappa. As is commonly followed by church planters, a Cross was found near the Nilakkal temple on March 24, 1983.
  • Media carried news of the discovery of the church claiming it was planted by none other than Jesus Christs’ disciple St Thomas. Christian pilgrims started flowing to the spot. Soon, the road to the temple was named St Thomas Road and the Christians started calling the Nilakkal hill as St Thomas Mount.
  • On May 19, within a month of the discovery, the Kerala government approved a grant of 1 hectare of land to build Church in Nilakkal. This was fiercely opposed by organizations and thousands of believers took to protests. And the planters had to shift the cross to a new location.

Significance of the Nilakkal Mahadeva Temple

  • Famous Hindu pilgrim centre Sabarimala is located 23 kilometres North-East to Nilakkal and also it is a Sabarimala Idathavalam. Hence the pilgrims on their way to Sabarimala seek the blessings of Lord Shiva.
  • During Sabarimala season, large vehicles drop pilgrims at Pamba and parks at Nilakkal in order to avoid the rush at Pamba. The parking ground’s at Nilakkal could accommodate more than 4000 vehicles.
  • St. Thomas ecumenical church here is believed to be the first ecumenical church in the world. Thus the Christian community in Kerala consider Nilakkal as a holy place. It is believed that an apostle of Jesus visited the place and established a cross here back in A.D 54.

Festivals celebrated at the Nilakkal Mahadeva Temple

Sivaratri: Puranas contain many stories and legends describing the origin of this festival. During the samudra manthan, a pot of poison emerged from the ocean. This terrified the Gods and demons as the poison was capable of destroying the entire world and they ran to Shiva for help. To protect the world from its evil effects, Shiva drank the deadly poison but held it in his throat instead of swallowing it. This made his throat turn blue, and he was given the name Neelakantha. Shivaratri is the celebration of this event by which Shiva saved the world. Shivaratri is one of the holiest nights of the year. It is the night dedicated to the worship of Lord Shiva.

Not eating too much, eating light and doing more meditation on this day helps in fulfilment of desires. Shivratri day is celebrated with Rudrabhishekam, singing of the ancient Vedic mantras. It is accompanied by a ceremony of washing the Shiva Linga with milk, curd, honey, rose water, etc.

Navratri: During Navratri, people from villages and cities gather to perform puja on small shrines representing different aspects of Goddess. A different form of the goddess is worshipped each day. Following the nine days of rituals and worship, the 10th day is celebrated as Dussehra. It is also known as Vijaya Dashami. It is celebrated to mark the victory of mythical King Lord Rama over the King of Sri Lanka, Ravana. People undergo rigorous fasts during this season that lasts for the nine days of Navratri.

The festival culminates on Mahanavami. On this day, Kanya Puja is performed. Nine young girls representing the nine forms of Goddess Durga are worshipped. Apart from the Navratri in September – October, there are three other Navratri in a year. The most important among the three is the Chaitra Navratri or the Navratri in March-April. This is also known as Vasant Navratri or Ram Navratri. Many devotees visit the temple to seek the blessings of the Lord.

Vinayak Chaturthi: Ganesha Chaturthi is also known as ‘Vinayak Chaturthi’ or ‘Vinayaka Chavithi’. It is the day when all Hindus celebrate the birthday of Lord Ganesh. Sweets especially laddoos and sugary modaks, which are a favourite of the Ganesha are distributed. The festival of Ganesh Chaturthi is observed on the fourth day of Bhadrapad Shukla Paksha, of the Hindu lunar month of Magh. It is believed that Lord Ganesha was born on the fourth day of the bright fortnight of Magh. And establishing an association between Ganesh and Chaturthi (four). A ritual known as Pranapratishhtha, that involves chanting of mantras by the priest, is a common sight during the occasion.

Poojas and Rituals at Nilakkal Mahadeva Temple

There are 3 Poojas performed every day. Special poojas are performed on weekly days on Sunday, Monday and Friday. The following poojas are performed.

Usha pooja: The first worship of the day is Usha pooja or pooja at dawn. The time of Usha pooja is thirty minutes after the sunrise.

Ucha pooja: There is Ucha Pooja that is noon pooja. The Abhishekas named Panchagavya, Navakam and any special Abhishekas that is Holy Baths are ordinarily performed during the Ucha Pooja. Special Abhishekams and Poojas are performed on certain days

Athazha pooja: This is the last pooja conducted in a temple on a day.  This is done between one and two hours after sunset. Deeparadhana is done after the Athazha pooja. Deeparadhana is the worship with lamp with lamps, performed at dawn and dusk.

How to reach Nilakkal Mahadeva Temple?

By Air: Cochin international airport is 136 km and Thiruvananthapuram international airport 156 km from the temple. There is also a heliport at Perunad, near Nilakkal, which operates at times of Sabarimala pilgrimage.

By Road: Mannarakulanji – Chalakayam route (SH 67) is the main highway passing through Nilakkal and also the Adoor. Vandiperiyar highway passes through Plappally which is 8 km west to Nilakkal. During Sabarimala pilgrimage, state-owned K.S.R.T.C buses provide chain services from Pamba to Nilakkal at fair charges for the devotees. Private busses only operate through nearby places like Angamoozhy and Thulappally. Transportation is comparatively less in this region.

By Rail: The nearest railway stations are Chengannur which is about 68 km and Thiruvalla which is 73 km.

Where to stay

There are many hotels and guest rooms available that offers contemporary rooms and suites. They offer brilliant overall design, facilities and dining options. They are the centre point for a number of tourist destinations.

  • Hotel Mannil Regency Contact: Kaipattoor Pathanamthitta Road, Pathanamthitta, Kerala 689645
  • Hotel Hills Park Contact: T K p.o, 689653, Kumbazha N Rd, Kumbazha, Mylapra, Pathanamthitta, Kerala 689645
  • Kizhakkedathu Tourist Home Contact: Pathanamthitta, Kerala 689645
  • Hotel Hey-Day Contact: Thiruvalla-Kumbazha Hwy, Valamchuzhy, Pathanamthitta, Kerala 689645
  • Hotel Evergreen Continental Contact: Kaipattoor Pathanamthitta Road, Pathanamthitta, Kerala 689645
  • Hotel Amala Contact: Pathanamthitta, Kerala 689645

Where to eat

One of Kerala’s popular attractions is its delicious Kerala cuisine. Various locally available vegetables such as tapioca, cassava and yam form part of the cuisine of Kerala. Seasonal fruit such as papaya, jackfruit, mangoes and lime are eaten at different times of the year. Bananas and coconut are available year-round and are a staple of the Kerala diet. The refreshing juice of the tender coconut is a delightful drink, which you can enjoy on Kerala Tours with Kerala Backwater. There are many restaurants nearby that offer some amazing food for the tourists.

Pathanamthitta is an important pilgrim hub and thus is always flanked by devotees and nature lovers. For its tourists, the town offers several restaurants and eating joints all across the town. You will also find some nice Christian restaurant which serves alcohol and Syrian Christian food. Other than that, South Indian cuisine is the predominant cuisine of the town.

  • Parayil Restaurant Contact: Door No: 788, Near R.T Office, College Road, Azhoor, Pathanamthitta, Kerala 689645
  • J Mart Contact: Pathanamthitta, Kerala 689645
  • Aananda Bavan Vegetarian Restaurant Contact: Thiruvalla-Kumbazha Hwy, Pathanamthitta, Kerala 689645
  • Khyber Pass Bake & Grill Contact: Kaipattoor Pathanamthitta Road, Pathanamthitta, Kerala 689645
  • Green Chillies Hotel and Family Restaurant Contact: Omalloor, Pathanamthitta, Kerala 689647
  • Hotel Evergreen Continental Contact: Kaipattoor Pathanamthitta Road, Pathanamthitta, Kerala 689645
  • Kream Korner Restaurant Contact: Opp.Karikkineth, JJ complex, K P Road, Adoor, Pathanamthitta
  • Teena Restaurant Contact: Mazhuvangad jn., M C Road, Thiruvalla, Pathanamthitta

Nearby Temples

Thazhoor Bhagavathi Temple: The temple is devoted to Sri Bhadra Devi (santham).This temple is the incarnation of Sri Parvathi who is the chief deity. Thazhoor Bhagavathy Kshetram is a 300-year-old Hindu temple. It is located on the banks of the Achankovil river in Vazhamuttom. The temple is also famous for the folk arts and the Kettukaazhcha procession with Kaala. Three glorious hundika towers are lately built around the periphery of the temple. Bharani is considered as the birth star of the Thazhoor bhagavathi. The Bharani star came in Makaram, Kumbham, Meenam and Medam are celebrated in a grand manner. The temple is having very huge and glorious surroundings with scenic beauty. It is having a large and glorious Aanakottil. It has a boundary wall and towered entree with full of handicraft and sculptures both in stone and wood.

Kodumthara Subramaniyam Temple: Kodumthara Sri Subrahmanya Swamy Temple is located near Pathanamthitta. The annual pooyam ritual organized in at the Murugan Temple attracts hundreds of devotees. The shrine is dedicated to Subramanya or Muruga. Carrying Kavadi is the main ritual on the day. People carry various types of Kavadi to the temple in a procession. Traditional temple music is part of the procession. Unlike numerous Kerala temples, this one is well-known for its traditional architecture with well-defined conical-shaped roofing over the Srikovil. On the Pooyam day, people also pierce their body with a small lance or vel. This is done for getting desires fulfilled.

Bhagavathikunnu Devi Temple: One of the important and famous Goddess Abode in Thiruvitamkoor is the Bhagawati Kunnu Devi Temple. It is said that the Devi Vilippurathamma stood as the protector for the passersby and the bullock carts that cross the dangerous route. Some of the main attractions of the temple are a stone statue of Lord Krishna, the sanctum sanctorum, obeisance courtyard, sub gods and goddesses. The sub gods are Ganapati, Yakshi, Rakhshas  Valyacchan, Naga Rajavu and mala nada. The first flag hoisting ceremony was conducted on  24th February 1999 with much fanfare through the 10-day festivities. Padayani festival was also first celebrated then and continues to be celebrated every year on the day of Maheeram Star in the Malayalam month of Kumbham.

Anikkattilamma Temple: Mallappally Anikkattilamma Shiva Parvati temple is situated in Anicadu village. Agnimahakalan and Agniyekshi are symbolized in these idols. The temple is believed to date back to 1600 years during the early days of Edappally dynasty. It is situated by the bank of river Manimala. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Shakti. The ever flowering Kanikonna located in the courtyard of the temple. It gives flower offerings to the Lords every day in all seasons throughout the year. Mallappally Anikkattilamma Shiva Parvati temple celebrates its yearly festival (Utsavam) for eight days during the month of Kumbham. It concludes on the day of Pooram star which is believed to be Devi’s birthday.  Other deities such as Lord Bhadra, Lord Nagaraja, Goddess Yekshiamma and Rekshas are also worshipped here.

Thila Homam Rameshwaram – Cost, Benefits and Procedure

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Thila Homam is a powerful Vedic ritual performed for the peace of souls of the ancestors and family members who died unnaturally. It is also a remedy for someone who is suffering from Pitru Dosha in his/her horoscope. Rameshwaram is the main place for performing Thila Homam.

Significance of Thila Homam
Thila Homam is a powerful Vedic ritual

These unusual deaths may be because of:

  • accidents
  • drowning
  • burning
  • poisonous bite of deadly creatures
  • suicide
  • premature death
  • killed by strangling the neck or weapons
  • died at the time of delivery or/and
  • left home due to madness

In all the above cases, the dead soul waits desperately to become free from the evil powers of hell.

Devotees also believe that these souls are haunting or roaming in space and thus the Shastras advice the Thila Homam as a remedy to give the soul peace and to relieve it from negative forces. The Homam helps the soul find its way to rebirth or sends such a soul back to the lotus feet of God.

Who should perform Thila Homam?

Here’s the list of people who should perform Thila Homam:

  1. Someone whose ancestors died unnaturally.
  2. People with intense problems due to powerful enemies.
  3. Someone whose forefathers have not achieved peace because of the evil deeds they did during their lifespan.
  4. People with Pitra Dosha (Ancestor Dosha).
  5. Someone who has not performed Shradhh ceremony for ancestors.
  6. A person whose forefathers are causing unhappiness in their lives like delaying in settling down in a job, late marriage, delayed child birth, disobedient children or children giving troubles or suffer ailments, disharmony with family members and between couples, more unwanted expenditure than income, have legal proceedings and often occurrence of accidents.
Pitru Dosh Nivarana Pooja
Thila Homam is performed to get rid of Pitru Dosha

Thila Homam Benefits

Here is the list of benefits of Thila Homam:

  1. It helps in providing relief to the dead souls and protects them from the clutches of hell.
  2. Also, it helps in driving away from the sufferings of the dead souls.
  3. It provides immediate relief from the unexplained sufferings and worries.
  4. The homam also brings good wishes and blessings for a happy, healthy and unhindered successful life from these alleviated souls.
Lord Yama
Lord Yama idol used during homam

When should I perform Thila Homam?

The Homam can take place any day if you are performing in Rameshwaram.

The most auspicious time is in Mahalaya Amavasya which is an annual ritual that is celebrated 15 days before Navaratri. It is known as the Pitru Paksha in most of India.

Thila Homam can be performed as per tithi (time of death) and if that is not known then it can be performed on any Amavasya.

Lord Shani
Lord Shani idol used during pooja

What is the procedure for Thila Homam?

Here’s how to perform Thila Homam:

  1. The priests at Rameshwaram perform the Thila Homam by following the Vedic customs to dispose-off the challenges emerging because of Pitra Dosha.
  2. The relatives of the departed soul perform the Homam.
  3. The major ritual involves offering the Bali Tharpanam to the ancestors in a Vedic ceremony while chanting the mantras.
  4. Next, the priest offers the homam samagri to the Agni while chanting mantras and it mainly involves the offering of ‘Til’ or ‘Elu’.
  5. Only learned Tamil Brahmans of the Ramanatha Swamy Temple in Rameshwaram, Sri Parasurama Temple in Thiruvananthpuram, Janardhana Swami Temple in Varkala or the Thinaavaya Temple in Malappuram should perform these rituals.
Idols of Female and Male for Ancestor's Worship
Idols of Female and Male for Ancestor’s Worship

How long does it take to perform Thila Homam?

It takes around 2 hours to perform Thila Homam.

Lord Lakshmi Narayana Swamy
Lord Lakshmi Narayana Swamy idol used for pooja

What dress should I wear while performing Thila Homam?

Men should wear dhoti. Women should wear a saree or salwar. The dress that you wear while performing Thila Homam should be let off in the river after the Homam.

Lord Uma Maheswara Swamy
Lord Uma Maheswara Swamy idol used in pooja

What are the materials required for performing Thila Homam?

The major ingredients of the Thila Homam are sesame seeds or ‘Til’ or ‘Ellu’, Homam or Havan samagri and all the holy materials that one needs to offer to the Agni Dev or the Holy fire while chanting mantras.

Goddess Kamadhenu
Goddess Kamadhenu idol used for pooja

Where to perform Thila Homam?

Thila Homam needs to be performed at Rameshwaram which is the most powerful place for the Homam. If you are planning on performing the ritual in Rameshwaram then you should let us know at least a week in advance so that we can make the arrangements.

After the Homam, the ashes of the dead are mixed in holy seawater as it is believed that the dead soul will rest in peace and get salvation only at this spot.

The ritual takes place once in a lifetime, unlike other death ceremonies that take place annually or monthly. The new moon rituals can be performed regularly like any other auspicious Homa or Pooja but not the Thila Homam.

Rameshwaram is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas in India out of which 5 jyotirlingas are in Maharashtra.

Where to perform Thila Homam?
Rameshwaram is the most powerful place to perform Thila Homam

What is the cost of Thila Homam?

Major costs of the Thila Homam are that of the ingredients and Dakshana for the priests.

If the homam takes place at the Rameshwaram temple, then below are the detailed costs.

Cost primarily depends on the count of chants performed during the homam. The cost of Brahmins is more due to the additional procedures required.

Thila HomamPrice Range
1008 Count₹12000 – 15000
3000 Count₹15000 – 17000
6000 Count₹18000 – 22000
10000 Count₹24000 – 27000

In addition to Thila Homam, below are the optional rituals that are performed and their costs.

RitualPrice Range
Sudarshana Homam 1008 Count₹12000 – 15000
Sarpa Shanthi, Rahu Ketu Shanthi₹12000 – 15000
Naga Prathista (including idol)₹17000 – 22000
Swayamvara Kalaa Parvathi (For delay in marriage) / Kalathra Dosham₹12000 – 15000
Thithi/Sraddam/Divasam (Yearly ceremony)₹5000 – 15000
Hiranya Sradham₹5000 – 7000
Theertha Sradham₹15000 – 17000
Kasi Yatra Sankalpam / Saikata Pooja in Dhanushkoti₹6000 – 8000
Ganga Pooja with Rudra Paarayanam₹5000 – 7000
God Nagaraja Swamy Thila Homam
God Nagaraja Swamy idol used during homam
Goddess Bhadrakaali Thila Homam
Goddess Bhadrakaali idol used in homam

Chottanikkara Temple Guide – Timings, Vazhipadu, Dress Code, and History

, 13 Comments Filed Under: Kerala Temples Tagged With:

Chottanikkara Temple is located near Kochi in Kerala. Goddess Lakshmi is worshipped here. The Goddess is also known as Bhagavathy. The idol is 4 to 5 feet in height. She has four arms. The upper right arm holds the disc. The upper left arm bears the conch. The lower right hand is in a blessing pose and the lower left arm is in an Abhaya pose, which means fearlessness.

Chottanikkara Temple
Temple Timings4:00 am to 12:00 pm. 4:00 pm to 8:45 pm
Prasadam Timings1:00 pm to 3:00 pm
Guruthy at Keezhakavu Temple8:45 pm to 9:30 pm
Dress CodeMen: Dhoti, no shirt. Women: Saree
Time Taken for DarshanNormal Season: 2 hours. Ayyappa Season: 3-4 hours.
Entry FeeFree. No Special darshan available.
Best Time to VisitSeptember – February
Nearest AirportKochi

Chottanikkara Temple Timings

Here are the timings of Chottanikkara Temple:

Ritual Timings
Morning Darshan 4:00 am to 12:00 pm
Evening Darshan 4:00 pm to 8:45 pm
Prasadam Timings 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm
Guruthy at Keezhakavu Temple 8:45 pm to 9:30 pm
Seeveli 6:00 am to 6:30 am
Ucha Pooja 12:00 pm to 12:30 pm
Deeparadhana 6:15 pm to 6:30 pm
Athaza Pooja 7:30 pm to 8:00 pm

Chottanikkara Temple Food Timings

Devotees can have food at the temple during the afternoon from 1 pm to 3 pm.

Dress Code at Chottanikkara Temple

As per the Chottanikkara Temple dress code, men should wear dhoti and no shirt (only Angavastram). Women devotees should wear a sari, churidar, pavadai chattai or salwar kameez. Devotees will not be allowed to enter the Chottanikkara Temple wearing informal attire like jeans, shorts or T-shirts.

History and Legend of Chottanikkara Temple

Chottanikkara Temple is one of the oldest temples of Kerala. There are several legends related to the temple.

  • The Goddess was worshipped by the great Bhogacharya.
  • As per myth, the Rudraksha Sila was worshipped by great saints. These saints were Adishankaracharya, Vilwamangalam Swamiyar, Kakkasseri Bhattathiri and Chemmangattu Bhattathiri.
  • It is believed that the deity was brought here from Mookambika Temple which is in Kollur, Karnataka.
  • It is also believed that Goddess Mookambika Saraswati is present at the temple during morning worship. She stays at the temple till 7 am. This is the reason that the Goddess is worshipped late at Mookambika Temple. As the Goddess is present at the Chottanikkara Temple during the worship.
  • Another myth states that the original deity of the Goddess was self-born; this is also known as swayambhu.
  • The original idol is made of laterite and is irregular in shape. This is in red colour.

Significance of Chottanikkara Temple

The temple is important in the religious history of Kerala due to the following reasons.

  • Goddess Bhagavathy is an evil destroyer here. She protects her devotees from danger.
  • As per folklore, pilgrims get free from the stress of material life here.
  • Goddess Rajarajeswari has three forms at the temple. In the morning worship, she is Goddess Saraswati. In the afternoon She is Goddess Lakshmi and in the evening She is Goddess Durga.
  • She is in a white dress in the morning. In the afternoon She is in crimson red cloth and in the evening the Goddess is in a bright blue dress.
  • There is a statue of Lord Vishnu on the same pedestal. For this reason, the Goddess is also known as Ammenarayana, Devinarayana, Lakshminarayana and Bhadrenarayana.
  • There are also deities of Lakshmi, Narayana, Brahma, Siva, Ganapati, Subramanya and Sastha on the pedestal.
  • The temple also has various idols of mythological characters.

Festivals celebrated at Chottanikkara Temple

  • Makom Thozhal Festival: This festival takes place on the Makom day in the month of Kumbham. The Malayalam month of Kumbham is either February or March. On Makom day Goddess Bhagavathy appeared before Vilwamangalam Swamiyar. There is another myth, that the Goddess appears before the devotees every year on the Makom day. Hence the celebration takes place on this day. Devotees sing Bhajanam on the occasion. As per legends, after Bhajanam, Bhadrakali at Kizhukkavu frees the devotees from the evil spirit.
  • Navaratri Mahotsavam: This is another major festival celebrated at the temple. The festival takes place every year in the months of September and October. It takes place for 10 days. Several cultural programmes take place at the temple during the festival. Priests perform Vidyarambham and Annadhanam during this time.

Poojas and Rituals at Chottanikkara Temple

Chottanikkara Temple follows some special rituals.

  • Worship starts at the temple by blowing the conch. Musicians play instruments at this time.
  • The day starts with Nirmalya Darshan. The swayambhu image of Goddess is visible only at this time.
  • Dhaara of Lord Shiva is the next ritual.
  • Several types of worship take place throughout the day. Ethruthu Pooja, Seeveli, Guruthi Nivedyam, Pantheeradi, Ucha, Uchaseeveli are the other afternoon worships.
  • The Evening Nada opening again worships Goddess Rajarajeswari.
  • Deeparadhana, Athazha and Seeveli worship take place in evening.
  • Bhajanam is a special ritual that takes place on the request of the devotees. Devotees can request Bhajanam only if they stay at the temple. They do not go out of the temple this time. Worshippers do not have food with salt, chilly and sour at this time. Bhajanam can heal diseases.
  • Mandapathil Paattu is another ritual which gives blessings of the Goddess. Bronze lamps and flowers decorate the temple. The devotees present satin clothes, fineries, rice and paddy to the Goddess. Devotees play Brahmini Amma Paatu devotional songs. After worship they get Chathussatham. This is a kind of sweet pudding.
  • Annadanam is another ritual that satisfies the Goddess.
  • Rudrabhishekam worship is for Lord Shiva.
  • Chuttuvilakku and Nirmala rituals are for prosperity.
  • Trikala worship is also for prosperity. In this ritual, the devotee has to worship the Goddess three times in a day.
  • One day worship is another ritual in which the devotee has to worship Goddess Rajarajeswari complete day.
  • Mahabhagavath Seva is for the main deity. This ritual gives jaggery to the Goddess.
  • Noorum Palum ritual worships the Naga snakes.
  • Palpayasam ritual worships Lord Vishnu.
  • Mrithyunjaya Homam ritual gives blessings of Lord Shiva. This ritual also provides long life. it helps to cure diseases.
  • Chathussadam is another form of worship of Goddess Rajarajeswari.

How to Reach: Road, Rail and Air

Chottanikkara Temple is easily accessible from all parts of the country.

By Air: The temple is at 38 km from the Cochin airport. This international airport is well connected to the other airports of India, Singapore and Gulf countries.

By Rail: The nearest railway station to the temple is the Thrupoonithura railway station. It is at 4 km from the temple. The temple is 18 km from Eranakulam south and north railway station. Eranakulam is a junction and connects the city with the other cities of the country. There are auto-rickshaws and private cars available from the railway stations which take you directly to the shrine. Trains are available throughout the day, starting from 4.00 am till 10.00 pm.

By Road: The temple is at 20 km from the Eranakulam KSRTC bus stand. It is at 22 km from the Kaloor private bus stand. Road transport to the Chottanikkara Temple is economical. Deluxe Volvo buses are available which connect the temple to the different cities, like Chennai, Bangalore, Trivandrum, Hyderabad and Mumbai.

Where to stay

  • Chottanikkara Temple authorities are planning to construct accommodation for devotees visiting the temple. Pilgrims who wish to donate to the temple can stay at the temple. These suites will come with a bedroom sum living room, kitchen and an attached bath. The suites planned are modern with ceramic floorings. Devotees will be provided with gas cylinders and stoves to enable cooking. The suites will have amenities like refrigerators, television sets with cable connection and hot water.
  • Besides this, the Hinterland Village Resort, PPG Tourist Home, Hill Palace Hotel and SPA, The Capital Fort Kochi, Royal Homestay and Casa de Forte are some of the best hotels at about 1.6 km from the temple. These hotels provide clean rooms with basic amenities. You can also get good food at these hotels.

Where to eat

Chottanikkara Temple is very famous and hence there are several eat outs near the shrine. Black N White, Grameen Ruchi, Kettuvalam, Naushad the Big Chef, The Avenue Regent and the Deagle Arabian Hut are also near. Visitors can relish authentic Kerala cuisines here. These eateries also provide Asian, Chinese and other Indian cuisines.

Nearby Temples

There are several temples near Chottanikkara Temple.

  • Kizhukkavu Temple: This temple is situated just on the eastern side of the Chottanikkara Temple. Moreover, the temple is famous for its ValiyaGuruthy worship. This means great sacrifice and the event takes place every day at 8.45 pm. This ritual takes place after the evening worship at the Chottanikkara Temple. This ritual cures women from mental disorders, like schizophrenia.
  • Ernakulatthappan Temple: This temple is situated at the heart of the Eranakulam city. Here also Lord Shiva is the presiding deity. The important feature of this temple is that the deity is west facing. In addition, here the great Villawamangalathu Swamiyar framed rituals. The shrine depicts the Kerala style of architecture. The temple also has deities of Lord Ganesha and Sastha.
  • Ettumanoor Shiva Temple: This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is from Travancore. The temple is also historically important. The Pandavas and Saint Vyasa worshipped here. The temple has mural paintings.
  • Kaduthuruthy Temple: Also known as the Thali Temple, this shrine is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is near the Vembanad Lake. In addition, Lord Shiva is east facing here. Kharasura demon worshipped Lord Shiva here. The wooden carvings of the temple narrate various stories related to Lord Shiva. Also, there are Lord Ganesha, Sastha and Goddess Durga here.
  • Sree Poornathrayesa Temple: This temple is also significant as it is 1000 years old and is dedicated to Poornathrayesan. Poornathrayesan is an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Furthermore, childless couples can pray here to get a child. Also, Vrishchikoltsawam is the main festival here. It takes place during the months of November and December.
  • Vaikom Mahadeva temple: This is the most famous Lord Shiva temple of central Kerala. While some believe that Parasurama installed Shiva Lingum here, others believe that demon Kharasuran placed the Siva lingam at this shrine. Also, Ananadana Prabhu is the major festival at the temple.

Winters (December to February) is the best time to visit the temple as Chottanikkara has pleasant weather at this time. The place experiences heavy rainfall during the monsoons (June and July) and moderately hot from March to May. If you want to participate in the festivals of the temple then it is best to visit the temple between August and November.

Thirunallar Saneeswaran Temple Guide – Timings, Poojas, and History

, 48 Comments Filed Under: Tamil Nadu Temples Tagged With: ,

Thirunallar Saneeswaran Temple of Sri Darbaraneswarar in Tamil Nadu is one of the Navagrahas. The main deities of the shrine are Lord Shiva, his consort Goddess Parvati, and Lord Shani Bhagawan. In the Thirunallar Temple, Lord Shiva is Darbaraneswara while Goddess Parvati is popular as Pranamambika or Bogamartha Poon Mulayal (Poonmulalammal).

Planning to visit the Thirunallar Saneeswaran Temple? Have a look at our Navagraha Temple Tour Package.

Thirunallar Saneeswaran Temple – Facts

DeityLord Shani (Saneeswaran)
LocationThirunallar, Tamil Nadu
SignificanceNavagraha
ToursNavagraha Temple Tour
Darshan Timings6:00 AM to 12:30 PM; 4:00 PM to 8:30 PM
Entry FeeGeneral Darshan: Free; VIP Darshan: Rs. 150 per person.
PoojasTil Pooja
Dress CodeTraditional wear
Best Time to VisitSeptember to February
FestivalsSanipeyarchi

What are the timings of Thirunallar Saneeswaran Temple?

Here are the darshan timings of Thirunallar Saneeswaran Temple:

RitualFromTo
Morning Darshan6:00 AM12:30 PM
Evening Darshan4:00 PM8:30 PM

What are the sevas and poojas at Thirunallar Saneeswaran Temple?

Thirunallar Saneeswaran Pooja
There are several poojas that take place at the Thirunallar Saneeswaran Temple.

The devotees believe that they can get rid of their curses and spells of bad luck if they pray in this temple. Hence, pilgrims take a dip in the Nala Theertha and offer worship at the temple. The worship here also includes lighting holy lamps with til (gingelly) seeds and oil. After prayers, balls of cooked rice are offered to the Crow, the mount of Saniswara.

Apply Gingelly oil on the head before the bath an leave the clothes there. After dressing up, visit the nearby Kali Theertha Vinayakar shrine and offer prayers and break coconuts.

Devotees can also donate for the poojas to the temple. Also, there are two ways to do poojas. One is the devotees themselves should collect all the materials for the pooja and handover to the concerned temple authorities. One can also send the money directly to temple authorities

What is the significance of Thirunallar Saneeswaran Temple?

Lord Saneeswaran
It is believed that Lord Shani is extremely powerful and his blessings can reduce the ill effects of the Grahas.

The significance of the Thirunallar Saneeswaran Temple is that offering prayers at this temple are believed to reduce the ill effects of Lord Shani and increase the positive effects. Also, for over thousand years Hindus have visited this temple and have found their misfortunes and bad luck to decrease as this is the only temple in the world where Lord Shani lost his power to Lord Shiva.

Saturn is popular as the Celestial Taskmaster and the Grand Teacher. Worshipping of Lord Shani helps people to develop a positive mindset even during the harshest of Shani periods. It will help us benefit from great difficulties, challenges and limitations. While it is true that offering worship here decreases the difficult effects and increases the positive effects of Saturn it does not completely eliminate the hardships we will face due to Shani Bhagawan.

Since the principal Deity Lord Dharbaranyeswara and his consort “Bhogamartha Poon Mulayal” have the power to offer benediction to the devotees, hundreds of people visit this temple daily. The other deities of the shrine are Swarna Vinayaka, Lord Subramaneswara Swamy and Thyagaraja. The image of Lord Saneeswara is there in a graceful standing pose in Niche on the left side of the Lord Dharbaranyeswara.

There is also an additional attraction in the shape of holy tanks which exists here possess healing powers literally and metaphorically. Also, the place was originally a forest of Dharba grass and it is stated that the Shiva Lingam even now has impressions left by the Dharba weeds within which it was situated.

The official website of the Thirunallar Sanesswaran Temple is:
http://thirunallartemple.com/

What is the history of Thirunallar Saneeswaran Temple?

According to the history of the Thirunallar temple, the famous King Nala and the Queen Damayanthi liked each other and got married. However, Devas wanted to marry the queen Damayanthi. So after this marriage, Devas got angry and jealous of Nala. Devas reached out Saneeswaran and asked him to help them out.

But after seeing the couple, he decided to make devas understand the Nala’s true love for his queen. Saneeswaran gave a lot of troubles to King Nala and finally, the King reached Thirunallaru. The King worshipped the Lord Dharpaneswara at this temple and hence the lord made him free from curses and doshas.

Nala stayed in place for some time and built the temple. After Nala got back his kingdom. The world Thirunallar is derived from two words – “Nala” means King Nala and “Aru” means “to heel” which means Nala’s place.

Another popular legend states that once, one of the wives of Surya Deva, Usha, couldn’t tolerate the heat of the sun. Hence, she converted her shadow as another woman in the name of “Saya Devi” and lived in that name. Saneeswaran was born to Saya Devi and Surya Deva.

Later when Surya Deva came to know this, he got angry with Usha and he didn’t accept Saneeswaran as part of his family. Saneeswaran then went to Kashi (Varanasi), worshipped Lord Viswanath (Shiva) and become part of one of the Navagrahas.

What are the festivals celebrated at Thirunallar Saneeswaram Temple?

How-to-reach-Thirunallar-Saneeswaran

Some of the festivals celebrated at Thirunallar Temple are:

  • Soorasamharam festival: The popular belief is that Lord Muruga killed Soorapadman with his ‘Vel’ and this divine act is known as Soorasamharam. Then, the next day is Thirukalyanam – the divine marriage of Muruga and Devasena.
  • Sanipeyarchi festival: On this day Sri Saneeswara Bhagawan transits from Thulam (Libra) to Vrischika (Scorpio). Also, poojas and rituals take place on the day for Shani Dosha Parihara. The day on which Lord Shani transits is Sanipeyarchi Festival in Thirunallar Temple.
  • Thiruvathirai festival: It is considered to worship Lord Shiva, and the devotees go early morning to temples. Unmarried women observe a partial fast on this day to get good husbands and married women take a fast from the preceding day (Makayiram Nakshatra) and on the day of Thiruvathira for the well being of their husband and family.
  • Adi Pooram festival: Aadi Pooram, also called as ‘Aandal Jayanti’, is a prime festival of Tamilians. This festival is for Goddess Andal, an incarnation of Goddess Lakshmi. The day begins with the making of huge kolams (rangoli) in front of the home. Dakshinayana Punyakalam, the night of the Devas, begins on the first day of the month Aadi. 

How to reach Thirunallar?

Here’s how to reach Thirunallar:

  • Air: The nearest airport is Tiruchirapalli which is 168 Km.
  • Road: This temple is 5 KM from the Karaikkal bus stand and 22 KM away from Nagapattinam bus stand.
  • Rail: The nearest station is Karaikkal. The easiest route is from Chennai to Thirunallar is via Tindivanam, Pondicherry, Chidambaram, Tranquebar, Karaikal.

Where to stay at Thirunallar?

Some of the places where one can stay at Thirunallar are:

  • Holiday Farms & Resorts: Main Road, Akkaraivattam, Karaikal
  • Kumaran Guest House: 160, Thirunallar Road, Karaikal
  • Hotel Arya Bhavan: Thirunallar Road, Karaikal, Pondicherry
  • Government Tourist Home: Near Bus Stand, Koilpathu, Karaikal, Tamil Nadu
  • Thirunallar Devasthanam Tourist Home: Thirunallar, Karaikal
  • Hotel Nandha: 207, Kamaraj Salai, Karaikal
  • Hotel City Plaza: Bharathiar Road, Karaikal
  • PWD Guest House: Beach Road, Karaikal

Where to eat at Thirunallar?

Some of the places where one can eat at Thirunallar are:

  • The Richmond: 12, Labourdonnais Street, Pondicherry
  • Sarovar Hotel: 23, Goubert Avenue, Pondicherry
  • Subasree Cottage: Near Nalathirtham, Thirunallar Rd
  • Food Land: 15/3, Market Street, Karaikal – 609602
  • New Husainiya Restaurant: 65/1, Church Street, Karaikal – 609602,

What are some temples near Thirunallar Temple?

Where is Thirunallar Saneeswaran Temple
There are many beautiful temples near the Thirunallar Saneeswaran Temple.

Some of the temples near the Thirunallar Saneeswaran Temple are:

  • Kailasanathar Temple: The Kanchi Kailasanathar temple in Kanchipuram is a famous temple of Lord Shiva. Also. the Shiva Lingam in this temple is 10 feet high. Moreover, King Rajasimha, of the Pallava dynasty, built this Shiva temple in the early 8th century. It is an early structural temple and consists of sandstone.
  • Bhadrakali Temple: The place was initially Ambara-harattur meaning victory over Ambaran, which subsequently became Ambagarathur. Goddess Bhadrakali is also the most efficient goddess in endowing blessings to the followers. It is a religious temple for the Hindus.
  • Karaikal Ammaiyar Temple: Karaikal Ammaiyar is a small shrine, which is dedicated to Karaikal Ammaiyar, the only woman out of the sixty-three Nayanmars. Further, Malaiperumal Pillai constructed it in 1929. It is also famous for the huge idol of this lady saint. Also popular as Goddess Punithavati, this woman and the episodes of her supernatural powers are famous among natives of the region. 

Frequently Asked Questions about Thirunallar Saneeswaran Temple

Is the Thirunallar Sanesswaran open throughout the year?

Yes, the Thirunallar Temple is open all 365 days of the year.

What is the entry fee?

The entry to the Thirunallar Temple is free of cost.

Is there any online darshan facility available?

No. There is no facility for online darshan available.

Is there any facility for specially-abled and senior citizen?

No. There is no facility for specially-abled and senior citizens.

What is the weather like during the summers?

The summers in Thirunallar starts from April and continue until June. The summers here can be very hot and dry. Temperatures during the daytime often go up to 45 º C.

What are winters like in Thirunallar?

In Thirunallar, winters start in October and continue until March. The temperatures during this time range from around 20 º C to 28 º C. The weather during this time is slightly warm but pleasant.

If you have any questions about The Thirunallar Saneeswaran Temple, please leave a comment below, and we will get back to you within one hour.

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