Sivanandeeswarar Temple

This temple is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and the 18th Shiva Sthalam in Thondai Nadu. The main deity, Moolavar, is a Swayambhumurthy (self-manifested lingam). The temple has a single corridor, and its main tower, the Rajagopuram, has 5 tiers. The Moolavar’s shrine (vimanam) is of the Gaja Brishtam type. The temple faces east and has a beautiful tank in front of it. It is situated on the banks of the Kushasthali River and is believed to have been constructed during the Chola period. According to legend, Lord Rama’s sons, Lava and Kusha, lived at Siruvapuri, a village near Thirukkallil. It is believed that they frequently visited Thirukkallil to take a dip in the river and worship Lord Shiva. Since Kusha took a dip in the river, it came to be known as Kushasthali. Another interesting story is that Lava and Kusha once fought in a war against Lord Rama without realizing that he was their father.

Timings

The temple is open from 5:00 AM to 12:00 PM and again from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM.

Entry Fee

Free of charge

The ground level on the northern side sank deeply due to the weight of the crowd gathered to witness the wedding of Lord Shiva and Mother Parvati. To balance the earth's level, Lord Shiva asked Sage Agasthya to travel south. Sage Agasthya implored the Lord that He should grant him the wedding darshan at any place he chooses. The sage was relaxing at Tirupalaivanam when Lord Shiva appeared in his dream and showed him this place. Lord Shiva granted not only His wedding darshan but also the Somaskanda darshan along with Lord Muruga. Agasthya prayed to the Lord that this divine darshan should remain available to all devotees. Lord Shiva, granting this boon to the sage, rose from here as a Swayambu Linga and assumed the name Shiva Nandi Eeswara.

Administration History :

The temple, originally constructed during the Pallava period (6th to 7th century), underwent significant reconstruction during the Chozha period, reflecting their architectural influence. Inscriptions from the Chozha, Pandya, and Vijayanagar eras attest to its rich history and patronage. Over time, renovations have been carried out, including the addition of structures like the sanctum walls, Gajaprista Vimana, Mukha Mandapa, and Parivara shrines in recent years. Currently, the temple is managed and maintained by the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HRCE) Department, ensuring its upkeep and the continuation of rituals and festivals.

Do's and Don'ts

Bathe and Wear Clean Clothes: It is customary to bathe and wear clean clothes before entering the temple to maintain personal purity and respect for the sacred space.
Respect Ancient Customs and Co-Pilgrims: While at the temple, respect the age-old customs and traditions of the temple. Also, be considerate and respectful towards other pilgrims visiting the temple.

Smoking is Strictly Prohibited: Smoking is not allowed within the temple premises as it is considered disrespectful and inappropriate in sacred spaces.

Dress Code

For men : The dress code includes wearing a shirt and trouser, or a dhoti or pyjamas with an upper cloth.

For women : The preferred dress code is wearing a saree or half-saree with a blouse, or a chudidhar with pyjamas and an upper cloth.

How to reach

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Best Season to Visit :

The ideal season to visit this temple is during the winter, with the best months being from October to March.

By Air: The temple is located 49.8 km from Chennai International Airport, which is the nearest airport.

By Rail: The nearest railway station is Thiruninravur Railway Station, located 23.7 km from the temple.

By Road: The temple can be reached by road from Periapalayam Bus Stand, which is 10.9 km away.

Nearby Cities and Rivers

Rivers:

Kuchasthalai River – The temple is situated on the banks of the Kuchasthalai River, which holds significance in the temple’s rituals and history. It is said that the river played a key role in the past in the worship and pilgrimage practices associated with the temple.

Cities:

Tirukalleeswarar / Sivanandeswarar Temple is located in the region near Thanjavur, a historical city known for its temples and cultural heritage.
Tiruvarur – Another prominent city nearby, famous for its ancient temples, including the Srirangam Temple and Thiruvarur Temple, adding to the spiritual significance of the area.
Kumbakonam – Located at a distance from the temple, Kumbakonam is renowned for its many temples and religious landmarks and is considered an important center of Hindu worship in Tamil Nadu.