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Iravadeswarar Temple

Mela Thirumanancheri Airavateswarar Temple, located in Mela Thirumanancheri, Mayiladuthurai district, Tamil Nadu, is an ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple's historical name is Ethirkolpadi. Lord Shiva is worshipped here as Iyravatheswarar, and his consort, Goddess Parvati, is revered as Sugantha Kundalambikai. This temple holds a special place among the 274 Shiva temples that have been glorified in the Thevaram hymns sung by Saivite saints, making it the 24th shrine to receive such praise. The temple also features a significant shrine known as the Bharatha Lingam, worshipped in the Bharathalingam Prakaram, which is part of the temple complex.

Timings

Morning : 7:00 AM to 11:00 AM & Evening : 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM

Entry Fee

Free of charge

Sage Bharatha, serving as the chief priest, officiated the divine wedding of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati at Thiruvelvikudi. Afterward, he invited the divine couple to his place, Tirumanancheri, where he organised a grand reception in their honour. He welcomed them with great respect, a gesture referred to as "Ethir Kollal" in Tamil. This act of receiving the couple with due honours gave the place its historical name, Ethirkol Padi, which is now known as Melakoil.

Do's and Don'ts

  1. Pray to Your Ishta Devata: Before embarking on your pilgrimage to the temple, take a moment to pray to your chosen deity.
  2. Contact the Information Centre: For inquiries about temple information, pooja details, and other assistance, reach out to the Temple Devasthanam information centre.
  3. Reserve Travel and Accommodation: Make arrangements for your travel and lodging well in advance to ensure a smooth visit.
  4. Maintain Personal Hygiene: Bathe and wear clean clothes before entering the temple to show respect.
  5. Focus on the Deities: Concentrate your thoughts on the God and Goddess within the temple.
  6. Practice Silence and Recitation: Maintain silence and softly recite "Om Namah Shivaya" or your chosen mantra while inside the temple.
  7. Observe Traditions: Respect and follow ancient customs and traditions during your visit.
  8. Respect Religious Sentiments: Be mindful of the feelings and beliefs of others at the temple.
  9. Deposit Offerings Properly: Make sure to place your offerings in the designated hundi only.
  1. Avoid Non-Worship Activities: Do not visit the temple for purposes other than worshipping the God and Goddess.
  2. No Smoking: Smoking is strictly prohibited within the temple premises.
  3. No Alcohol Consumption: Do not consume alcoholic beverages in the temple.
  4. No Non-Vegetarian Food: Eating non-vegetarian food is not allowed in the Kshetram.
  5. Avoid Mediators for Quick Darshan: Do not approach mediators for expedited darshan, as it may inconvenience others.
  6. No Weapons: Carrying weapons inside the temple is not permitted.
  7. No Headgear: Do not wear helmets, caps, turbans, or hats inside the temple premises.
  8. No Sastanga Pranama in the Sanctum: Avoid performing Sastanga Pranama (prostration) inside the sanctum sanctorum.
  9. Limit Time for Sparsa Darshan: Do not linger excessively while performing Sparsa Darshan in the Garbhagriha.
  10. Avoid Spurious Prasad: Do not purchase counterfeit prasadam’s from street vendors.
  11. Do Not Encourage Beggars: Refrain from giving alms to beggars within the temple.
  12. No Spitting or Nuisance: Do not spit or create disturbances in the temple premises.

Dress Code

For Men : Men should wear traditional attire such as dhoti or kurta, and ensure that clothing is clean and modest. Avoid wearing shorts, sleeveless shirts, or any attire that may be deemed disrespectful.

For Women : Women are encouraged to wear traditional sarees or salwar kameez, ensuring that their clothing is modest and respectful. Avoid wearing revealing outfits or anything that may not be appropriate for a sacred space.

How to reach

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By Air: The nearest airport is Trichy Airport, located approximately 127 km from the temple. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach your destination.

By Rail: The closest railway station is Kutralam Railway Station, which is approximately 4.9 km from the temple. Taxis and local transportation options are available from both stations.

By Road: The temple is situated about 13.8 km from Mayiladuthurai Old Bus Stand.

Nearby Cities and Rivers

Rivers :

  1. Vadavaaru River: This river flows near the temple, contributing to the area's natural beauty and spiritual significance. It is often associated with local rituals and is considered sacred by devotees.
  2. Kollidam River: Another important river in the vicinity, the Kollidam serves as a vital water source and is revered for its cultural and religious importance. It is a popular site for various temple-related festivities and activities.


Cities :

  1. Mayiladuthurai: Located nearby, this city is known for its rich cultural heritage and numerous temples. It serves as a hub for devotees visiting the temple.
  2. Nagapattinam: A historical city not far from the temple, Nagapattinam is renowned for its ancient temples and proximity to the coast, attracting many pilgrims and tourists.
  3. Thiruvarur: This city is famous for its vibrant temple culture and festivals. It is also relatively close to the temple, making it a significant location for devotees in the region.
  4. Kuthalam: Another nearby town, Kuthalam is known for its natural beauty and temples, adding to the spiritual landscape of the area.