This temple is the 48th Thevara Paadal Petra Sthalam and the 16th Sthalam of Nadu Naadu. It was known as Vadugur before the 6th to 7th century and is now called Thiruvandarkoil. The temple is located on the banks of the Thiruvandarkoil Lake and is also referred to as the Vaduku Bhairavar Temple. It is believed that the temple was originally known as Andavanar Koil, which later became Thiruandar Koil with the addition of "Thiru," and over time, this name evolved into Thiruvandarkoil. The temple is situated in the Union Territory of Puducherry.
Timings
The temple is open from 6.00 a.m. to 11.00 p.m. and from 5.00 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Entry Fee
Free of cost
Origin/History :-
The original temple of Tiruvarainakkan Koil Paramasvami, believed to have been built by the Pallavas, existed before the 7th century. The temple was later reconstructed during the Chola and Vijayanagara periods. The temple complex is currently under the control of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).
Uthama Chola’s 15th-year reign inscription (AR 366 of 1917): This inscription, though incomplete and damaged, records a grant made to Pillai Sadasivan Narayana Bhattan of Kilimadam in Idaiyarrukkudi. He was granted one share in the right of worship at the Tiruvarainakkan Koil Paramasvami temple, located at Thiribhuvanamahadeevi Chathurvedi Mangalam. The grant was made by Aramur Oramman Adittan Sankaran of Narayanachcheri, a member of the Alunganam, who had purchased two shares out of eight from Viraswami Somasiyar of Idaiyarrukkudi, the previous owner. The inscription also mentions the obligations associated with this grant.
Uthama Chola’s 16th-year reign inscription (AR 369 of 1917): This inscription, left unfinished, mentions Bharadvaja of Sattamangalam, residing at Narayanachcheri in Thirubhuvanamahadeevi Chathurvedi Mangalam, a Brahmadeya on the northern bank. The inscription ends abruptly, leaving further details unspecified.
The legend associated with this temple revolves around a demon named Mundasuran. After performing rigorous penance, Mundasuran was blessed by Lord Shiva with immense powers, including the ability to be immune to death at the hands of other demons or gods.
However, Mundasuran misused his newfound powers and began harassing Lord Brahma and other celestial beings. In response, they sought Lord Shiva’s intervention. Lord Shiva then instructed Vaduka Bairavar, one of the eight Bairavars, to destroy the demon.
After slaying Mundasuran, Vaduka Bairavar is believed to have worshipped Lord Shiva at this location to seek relief from the Brahmahathi dosham (the sin incurred from killing). Consequently, the lord here is named “Sri Vadukeeswarar,” and the place became known as Vadukur.
Another legend associated with this temple concerns Lord Brahma, the creator, who originally had five heads, just like Lord Shiva. Lord Brahma became proud of this equality. Once, Goddess Parvathi mistook Lord Brahma for Lord Shiva and extended the honors reserved for Shiva, which Brahma did not refuse. This led to confusion, as both had five heads.
To resolve this confusion, Lord Shiva decided to remove one of Lord Brahma's heads, which he did at this very location. Realizing his mistake, Lord Brahma pleaded with Lord Shiva for forgiveness, and Lord Shiva granted his request. It is believed that this event occurred here, and since Lord Shiva removed one of Lord Brahma's heads, the deity here is honored as "Sri Vadukeeswarar" ("Vaduku" means "to pluck" in Tamil).
Do's and Don'ts
Regular Maintenance: Inspect and restore the temple’s structure using traditional methods.
Community Involvement: Engage locals in temple upkeep and awareness programs.
Secure Artifacts: Catalog and safely store sacred objects and artworks.
Respect Sanctity: Conduct rituals respectfully to prevent damage.
Eco-Friendly Practices: Implement sustainable practices in temple activities.
Educational Programs: Organize workshops on temple history and preservation.
Use Technology: Digitally archive temple features and monitor restoration.
Avoid Vandalism: Prevent any defacing or damage to temple structures and artifacts.
No Alterations: Don’t modify original architecture or materials.
Control Crowds: Prevent overcrowding to avoid damage to the temple.
Avoid Harmful Materials: Don’t use non-biodegradable or harsh chemicals.
Respect Rituals: Don’t disturb sacred ceremonies or use the temple for non-religious purposes.
Ensure Security: Don’t neglect temple security to protect artifacts from theft or vandalism.
Dress Code
For Men:
Wear a shirt or dhoti (no sleeveless or t-shirts).
Avoid shorts; wear dhoti or formal pants.
Remove footwear before entering.
For Women:
Wear a blouse, saree, salwar kameez, or long skirt (no sleeveless or short dresses).
Remove footwear before entering.
Covering the head with a scarf or dupatta may be customary.
The best season to visit the temple is typically during the cooler months, from October to March. This period offers more comfortable weather, with lower temperatures and less humidity, making it ideal for temple visits and outdoor activities.
How to reach :-
By Air: The nearest airport is Puducherry Airport, about 20 km from the temple.. From the airport, hire a taxi to reach the temple.
By Rail: The nearest major railway station is Puducherry Railway Station, which is well-connected to cities like Chennai, Bangalore, and others. From the station, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach Thiruvandarkoil.
By Road: The temple is located in Thiruvandarkoil, which is situated near Puducherry. From Puducherry: Thiruvandarkoil is approximately 25 km from Puducherry city, and can be reached by car or taxi in about 40 minutes.
Nearby Cities and Rivers
Rivers:
River Palar – Located to the north of the temple, this river flows through parts of the Tamil Nadu region.
River Pennai – Another nearby river flowing through the region.
Cities:
Puducherry – The closest city, located about 15-20 km away from the temple.
Cuddalore – A city situated to the south of the temple, approximately 30 km away.
Villupuram – A town located about 50 km to the east of the temple.
