Arulmigu Vellai Pillaiyar Temple - Thiruvalanchuzh, Kumbakonam - Timings, History, Darshan, Pooja Timings
India | TamilNadu | Kumbakonam
#24 of 30 Places to Visit in Kumbakonam
Distance (From Kumbakonam): 8 Kms
Trip Duration (Including Travel): 1 Hour
Transportation Options: Cab / Auto
Travel Tips: None
At a distance of 8 km from Kumbakonam Junction Railway Station, the Vellai Pillaiyar Temple is an ancient temple situated in Thiruvalanchuzhi. Situated near Swamimalai, it is one of the must-include places in Kumbakonam pilgrimage tours.
Vellai Pillaiyar Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, revered here as Sri Kapartheeswarar or Sri Karpaganatheswarar, alongside goddess Periyanayaki. This temple ranks as the 88th among the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Sthalams devoted to Lord Shiva and is the 25th temple located on the southern banks of the Cauvery River. The deity of this temple is represented in the form of a Swayambhu Lingam.
The temple is renowned for its White Ganapathi idol, which is small in size and is believed to be crafted from sea foam, leading to the alternate name of Vinayakar as Norai Pillayar. The temple's origin story recounts how the Devas commenced the churning of the ocean using Mandara Mountain as the churning stick and the serpent Vasuki as the rope. During this process, Vasuki released venom into the ocean, posing a threat to the world's existence. In their desperation, the Devas sought Lord Shiva's assistance, who instructed them to worship Lord Vinayaka. Consequently, the Devas returned to Palkadal, fashioned an idol of Lord Vinayaka from sea foam, and offered their prayers. Their devotion led to the successful acquisition of 'amruth' from the ocean, thus earning him the title of Lord Swetha Vinayagar.
The term 'Thiru' signifies holiness, 'valadu' denotes right, and 'chuzhi' refers to round, symbolizing the rightward curve of Lord Vinayagar's trunk. Notably, the Cauvery River makes a right turn at this location, mirroring the curvature of the deity's trunk. Additionally, the temple houses other deities, including Saneeswaran, Murugan, and Bhairava Moorthy. The intricate carvings and granite columns within the temple are remarkable and worthy of admiration.
Timings: 6 AM - 12 PM & 4 PM - 8.30 PM
Entry: Free
