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Chathuranga Vallabha Nathar Temple

This temple is the 220th Thevaram Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalam and the 103rd sthalam located on the southern side of the Kaveri River in Chozha Nadu. According to the Periyapuranam, Sekkizhar recounts that Thirugnanasambandar visited this temple after offering his worship to Lord Shiva at Parithinayamam.

Timings

The temple is open from 6.00 a.m. to 11.30 a.m. and from 4.30 p.m. to 8.30 p.m.

Entry Fee

Free of cost

Origin/History :-



The history of this temple is as follows:

  1. Early Existence: It is believed that the original temple existed before the 7th century, as Thirunavukkarasu Swamigal (also known as Appar) has sung in praise of Lord Shiva of this temple.
  2. Chozha Period: The temple was reconstructed in stone during the Chozha period, indicating significant architectural advancements and a flourishing of temple culture during this time.
  3. Subsequent Developments: The temple underwent further extensions and maintenance by the Nayakas, a dynasty known for their contributions to temple architecture and culture in Tamil Nadu.
  4. Nattukottai Nagarathars: Additionally, the temple was maintained and developed by the Nattukottai Nagarathars, a community of merchants known for their patronage of temples and cultural activities.


Puranic Significance :-


King Vasudevan, in search of a child boon, visited several Shiva temples with great devotion, ultimately worshipping Lord Nellaiappar in Tirunelveli. Pleased with their prayers, Lord Shiva blessed the royal couple with a daughter, with Mother Parvathi as their child and Mother Chamundeeswari as her nurse.

While bathing in the Tamiraparani River, the royal couple discovered a conch floating on a lotus. Upon picking it up, the conch transformed into a child, whom they named Rajarajeswari. As decreed by the Lord, Chamundeeswari, one of the Saptha Madhas, became the child's nurse.

Rajarajeswari excelled in all arts, particularly in chess. The king announced that any suitor who could win her hand in a game of chess would marry her, but no one was able to defeat her.

Following the advice of a sage, the king embarked on a pilgrimage with his queen, daughter, nurse Chamundeeswari, and their entourage. During their journey, the Lord, disguised as a Siddha, met the king and claimed mastery in the game of chess. The king welcomed the Siddha to play against his daughter. The Lord, in His disguise, won the game and then revealed His true form, granting divine darshan to all present.

The divine wedding took place with great pomp and splendour. As a result of winning the chess game (Chaturangam in Tamil), the Lord was revered as Chaturanga Vallaba Nathar. Both Ambica and her nurse Chamundeeswari bless devotees from their respective shrines. Consequently, the temple was established, with the Lord choosing to reside there along with them.

Do's and Don'ts

  1. Dress Appropriately: Wear modest clothing suitable for worship.
  2. Be Respectful: Maintain a respectful demeanour; speak softly.
  3. Follow Rituals: Participate in rituals as guided by priests.
  4. Offer Donations: Contribute to temple maintenance if possible.
  5. Observe Cleanliness: Keep the surroundings clean and dispose of waste properly.
  6. Ask for Permission: Seek permission before taking photographs.
  7. Be Mindful of Others: Allow space for others to pray or meditate.
  8. Participate in Activities: Engage in temple events and volunteer opportunities.


  1. Avoid Distractions: Do not use mobile phones or electronic devices inside.
  2. Do Not Touch Deities: Refrain from touching idols or sacred objects.
  3. Avoid Food and Drink: Do not consume food or beverages unless it’s prasadam.
  4. Do Not Wear Footwear Inside: Remove shoes before entering sacred areas.
  5. Avoid Irreverent Behaviour: Refrain from loud talking or disturbing the sanctity.
  6. Do Not Display Affection: Avoid public displays of affection.
  7. Do Not Bring Non-Sanctioned Items: Avoid meat, alcohol, or non-vegetarian food.
  8. Avoid Taking Offence: Be respectful of the temple's customs and traditions.


Dress Code

For Men:

  1. Traditional Attire: Wear dhoti or lungi with a simple shirt or kurta.
  2. Trousers: Plain, modest trousers are acceptable; avoid flashy designs.
  3. Shirts: Short- or long-sleeved shirts; no sleeveless tops.

For Women:

  1. Traditional Attire: Wear sarees, salwar kameez, or other traditional dresses.
  2. Modest Clothing: If wearing Western wear, opt for long skirts or trousers with covered shoulders.
  3. Dupatta: Consider wearing a dupatta to cover shoulders or head.

How to reach

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Best season to visit :-


The best season to visit the temple is typically during the winter months, from November to February.


How to reach :-



  1. By Air: The nearest airport is typically in Tiruchirappalli (Trichy), about 30-50 kilometres from the temple. Transport: From the airport, you can hire a taxi or use ride-sharing services to reach the temple.
  2. By Train: The nearest major railway station is in Tiruchirappalli or Karaikudi, depending on your location. Transport: You can take a taxi or local transport to reach the temple from the railway station.

Nearby Cities and Rivers

Rivers:

  1. Cauvery River: The temple is located on the southern bank of this significant river, which is known for its cultural and spiritual importance in Tamil Nadu.
  2. Tamiraparani River: Located nearby, this river is also revered and is associated with various legends and rituals.


Nearby Cities:

  1. Mysore: Located to the northwest, Mysore is a prominent city known for its royal heritage and cultural significance.
  2. Tirunelveli: Situated to the south, this city is famous for its temples and historical sites.
  3. Kanchipuram: To the northeast, Kanchipuram is known as the "City of a Thousand Temples" and is significant in Hindu tradition.