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Araneri Achaleswarar Temple

This is the 205th Thevaram Padal Petra Shiva Sthalam and the 88th shrine located on the southern banks of the Cauvery River in Chozha Nadu. The revered Moovar has composed hymns in praise of Lord Shiva at this temple. It is situated within the Thiruvarur Thiyagarajar temple complex, also known as the Achaleswarar Temple or Araneriappar Temple.

Timings

5.00 a.m. to 12.00 a.m. and 4.00 p.m. to 9.00 p.m.

Entry Fee

No Entry Fee

This is the 205th Thevaram Padal Petra Shiva Sthalam and the 88th shrine located on the southern banks of the Cauvery River in Chozha Nadu. 

The revered Moovar has composed hymns in praise of Lord Shiva at this temple. 

It is situated within the Thiruvarur Thiyagarajar temple complex, also known as the Achaleswarar Temple or Araneriappar Temple.


PURANIC SIGNIFICANCE:


The Story of Naminandhi Adigal


Naminandhi Adigal, a devotee from Emapur near Thiruvarur, worshipped Lord Shiva at this temple daily. During his time, Jainism was at its peak.


The Lamp Dilemma


One evening, Naminandhi Adigal arrived at the temple to find that the lamps were running low on oil and were about to extinguish. Realising it would take time to fetch oil from home, he sought oil from nearby Jain households but was met with mockery. They taunted him, saying, “Why do you need light when Lord Shiva dances with flames in His hands? Just light the lamps with water!”


Divine Instruction


Desperate, Naminandhi Adigal prayed to Lord Shiva for guidance. A divine voice instructed him to pour water from the temple tank into the lamps. Following this instruction, he poured water from the Sangu Theertha Tank, and to his amazement, the lamp blazed even brighter than before.


A Miraculous Illumination


He proceeded to light all the lamps with water, and the temple was illuminated like sunlight. This miracle drew the attention of the Chozha King, who honoured Naminandhi Adigal and organised numerous functions at the temple.


Revered Legends


This legend is referenced in the hymns of Thirunavukkarasu Swamigal regarding the Thiruvarur Temple.


Historical Significance


Thirunavukkarasu Swamigal has sung praises of Lord Shiva in this temple, indicating its existence during the 6th to 7th century, with further expansions during the Chozha period. Inscriptions from the temple belong to several Chozha kings, including Rajaraja Chozha I, Rajakesarivarman, Madurai Konda Rajakesari Varman, and Vijayanagara King Veerabhupathi Udayar.


People Who Worshipped Here:


It is believed that many saints, including Seruthunai Nayanar, Kalarsinga Nayanar with his wife, Naminandhi Adigal, Thirunavukkarasu Swamigal, Thirugnanasambandar, Sundarar with Paravai Nachiyar, and Cheraman Peruman, worshipped Lord Shiva at this temple.


ADMINISTRATION:



The administration of the Araneri Achaleswarar Temple is typically referred to as the Temple Trust or Temple Committee. In some cases, it may also be called the Devasthanam or Endowment Board, depending on the specific governance structure in place.

Do's and Don'ts

  1. Dress Modestly: Wear respectful attire.
  2. Remove Footwear: Take off shoes before entering.
  3. Observe Silence: Maintain a quiet atmosphere.
  4. Participate in Rituals: Join in when welcomed.
  5. Make Offerings: Bring flowers, fruits, or sweets.
  6. Follow Guidelines: Adhere to instructions from temple staff.
  7. Respect Others: Be considerate of fellow devotees.


  1. Do Not Disrupt Ceremonies: Avoid loud talking.
  2. Avoid Photography: Don't take pictures in prohibited areas.
  3. No Food or Drinks: Refrain from consuming within the temple.
  4. Do Not Touch the Deity: Don't touch idols or sacred objects.
  5. No Smoking or Alcohol: These are strictly prohibited.
  6. Do Not Litter: Keep the temple clean.


Dress Code

For Men:

Traditional Attire: Dhoti or kurta preferred.

Modest Shirts: Long or short-sleeved (avoid casual T-shirts).

No Shorts: Avoid wearing shorts.


For Women:

Traditional Attire: Sarees or salwar kameez recommended.

Modest Clothing: Long skirts or dresses, or loose-fitting pants with modest tops.

Avoid Sleeveless Tops: Should cover shoulders adequately.

How to reach

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BEST TIME TO VISIT:



  1. September to November: Ideal for witnessing Navratri and Annabhishekam.
  2. November to December: Great for Thirukarthigai celebrations.
  3. February to March: Perfect for experiencing Maha Shivaratri.
  4. March to April: Enjoy the festivities of Panguni Uthiram.


By Air:

  1. Nearest Airport: The closest airport is Tiruchirappalli International Airport (TRZ), approximately 90 kilometres away.
  2. From Airport: You can hire a taxi or take a bus to Thiruvarur, and then proceed to the temple.


By Train:

  1. Nearest Railway Station: Thiruvarur Railway Station is well-connected to major cities in TamilNadu.
  2. From Station: The temple is about 3 kilometres from the station. You can take an auto-rickshaw or walk to reach the temple.


By Road:

  1. By Bus: Thiruvarur is accessible by state and private buses from nearby cities like Thanjavur, Kumbakonam, and Nagapattinam.
  2. By Car: You can drive to Thiruvarur, which is connected by good road networks. The temple is located in Thiruvarur town.

Nearby Cities and Rivers

Rivers:


Cauvery River: 



This major river flows near Thiruvarur and is vital for agriculture and spiritual practices in the region.


Vennar River: 



A tributary of the Cauvery, it flows nearby and contributes to the irrigation of the surrounding agricultural lands.


Cities:

  1. Thiruvarur: The nearest town, known for its rich cultural heritage and significant temples, including the famous Thiyagarajar Temple.
  2. Nagapattinam: Approximately 30 kilometres away, this coastal city is known for its historical significance and temples.
  3. Kuthambakkam: A small village nearby, offering a glimpse into rural life and traditions.
  4. Thanjavur: About 60 kilometres from Thiruvarur, this city is renowned for its grand temples and cultural history.