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Airavateswarar Temple

The Airavateswarar Temple, dedicated to Shiva, is a significant Hindu temple located in the village of Thirukottaram in the Tiruvarur District of Tamil Nadu. It was constructed by the Medieval Cholas around 1,000 years ago. The temple is situated on the banks of the Vanchiyaru River, a tributary of the Cauvery River. The main deity is a small Swayambu Lingam known as Iravatheeswarar, and his consort is Sukontha Kundhalambigai, also referred to as Vandavar Kuzali Amman.

Timings

The temple is open in the morning from 7.00 till 11.30 and from 6 o'clock to 8.30 in the evening.

Entry Fee

Free of cost

Origin/History :-


The temple has a rich history, existing since at least the 7th century, when Saint Sambandar worshipped here. According to the inscriptions within the temple, it was built by Kulothunga Chola I in the late 11th or early 12th century. The inscriptions also mention grants from various kings, including Sadayavarman Sundara Chola Pandyan. Notably, the temple features two altars: one located behind Nandi and the other in front of it. The main sanctum is situated in the bat-nethi hall. 


Puranic Significance :-


  1. Legend of Airavatam


Airavatam is the elephant vehicle of Lord Indra, characterised by its white skin and four tusks. Sage Durvasa once brought a lotus flower that adorned the Shivalingam consecrated by him at Kasi and presented it to Lord Indra during a ceremonial procession. However, Indra, showing arrogance, received the flower with one hand and placed it on Airavatam’s head. In response, the elephant rejected the disrespectful act by using its trunk to throw the flower on the ground and stamped on it. Angered by this, Sage Durvasa cursed both Indra and Airavatam, resulting in Airavatam becoming a wild elephant. For a hundred years, it wandered to several holy places, worshipping deities before regaining its original form in Madurai. This story is narrated in the Tiruvilayadal Puranam, and Tirukkottaaru is one of the holy places where Airavatam is worshipped as a wild elephant.


  1. Subha Maharishi's Devotion


Subha Maharishi dedicated himself to worshipping Shiva daily. One day, when he arrived late and found the temple doors closed, he transformed into a bee to enter the sanctum and worship the Lord. After this incident, Subha Maharishi remained in the form of a bee, and a beehive has since thrived in the sanctum of the Prime Deity. Devotees are advised to keep their distance from the hive while offering prayers. Annually, honey is extracted from the hive and used to adorn the Lord, allowing the hive to flourish again. An image of Subha Maharishi can be seen on the rear side of the outer round.


  1. Establishment of the Lingam


It is believed that both Sage Agasthiyar and Subha Maharishi established the imposing Lingam at this location. The site has been a place of worship for many renowned sages, including Agasthiyar.


  1. Significance of Kóttaaru


The place is called ‘Kóttaaru’ as it is located on the banks of the Vanchiyaru River. The name reflects the legend of Airavatam, who worshipped the deity after striking the clouds and causing waters to flow down like a river.

Do's and Don'ts

  1. Dress Appropriately: Wear traditional or modest clothing.
  2. Remove Footwear: Take off shoes before entering.
  3. Maintain Silence: Keep noise to a minimum.
  4. Follow Rituals: Participate respectfully in temple customs.
  5. Offer Prayers and Offerings: Use designated areas for offerings.
  6. Ask for Guidance: Seek help if unsure about rituals.
  7. Respect the Deities: Show reverence to idols and deities.
  8. Support Local Vendors: Purchase from local vendors.


  1. Don't Use Mobile Phones: Avoid phone use or photography in restricted areas.
  2. Don't Touch the Deities: Refrain from touching idols or sacred objects.
  3. Avoid Disruptive Behaviour: Don't engage in loud conversations or eating.
  4. Don't Bring Outside Food: Leave food and drinks outside.
  5. Don't Litter: Maintain cleanliness in the temple.
  6. Don't Disturb the Beehive: Keep a safe distance from any beehives.
  7. Avoid Wearing Footwear Inside: Do not wear shoes in sacred areas.

Dress Code

For Men :

  1. Traditional Attire: Wear a dhoti, lungi, or kurta.
  2. Modest Clothing: Avoid shorts and sleeveless shirts. Prefer plain T-shirts.

For Women :

  1. Traditional Attire: Wear sarees, salwar kameez, or other traditional Indian outfits.
  2. Modest Clothing: Avoid short skirts, shorts, and sleeveless tops. Ensure outfits cover the legs.

How to reach

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Best season to visit :-

Winter Season (November to February): This is the ideal time to visit the Airavateswarar Temple, as the weather is pleasantly cool, making outdoor activities enjoyable. Additionally, several important festivals, such as Thiruvadhirai and Visakam, are celebrated during this period, providing visitors with a rich cultural experience.


How to reach :-



  1. By Air: The nearest airport is Tiruchirappalli International Airport (TRZ), located approximately 90 kilometres from the temple. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the temple.
  2. By Train: The closest major railway station is Thiruvarur Junction, about 20 kilometres away from the temple. From Thiruvarur Junction, you can take a taxi, auto-rickshaw, or local bus to the temple.

Nearby Cities and Rivers

Rivers:

  1. Vanchiyaru River: This river flows nearby and is a tributary of the Cauvery River. The temple is situated on its banks, adding to the temple's scenic beauty and spiritual significance.


Cities:

  1. Tiruvarur: The nearest major city, Tiruvarur, is known for its rich cultural heritage and temples. It is approximately 10 kilometres from the Airavateswarar Temple.
  2. Thanjavur: Located about 30 kilometres away, Thanjavur is famous for its historical temples and the Brihadeeswarar Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  3. Kuthanur: A small town around 5 kilometres from the temple, Kuthanur is known for its local attractions and temples.