Back to Results
Temple Image

Sri Naan Madhiya Perumal Temple

The Naanmadiya Perumal Temple, a Vishnu temple located in the village of Thalachangadu near Akkur in the Mayiladuthurai district of Tamil Nadu, India, is one of the 108 Divya Desams revered by the 12 poet saints, or Alwars. This temple is notable for its connection to the Brahmanda Purana, which recounts that Vishnu worshipped Shiva here to obtain the renowned conch, Panchajanyam. In the same village, the Sayavaneswarar Temple, dedicated to Shiva, is associated with Vishnu’s worship of Shiva. It is believed that Vishnu appeared for Chandra, the moon god, who also worshipped Vishnu at this site. The name "Thalachangadu" reflects this connection, with "Cankam" meaning conch, signifying the deity’s association with the famous conch.

Timings

The temple will be kept open between 09.00 hrs to 11.30 hrs and 15.00 to 17.30 hrs.

Entry Fee

Free of cost

Origin/History :-


The Naanmadiya Perumal Temple, revered by the 8th-century Thirumangai Alwar through his mangalasasanam, likely has origins predating the 8th century. It is traditionally believed that the original temple was constructed by Ko Chengat Chozha. The temple later received contributions from both the Chozhas and the Marathas, with inscriptions from the Chozha period found on the adhistanam kumudam and Padma jagathi.

The temple underwent Maha Samprokshanam (a consecration ritual) on June 13, 2002, and again on September 11, 2014. In 2019, solar lights were installed by Jaisai Solar Solutions from Trichy and Erode, with blessings from the 45th and 46th Pattam Azhagiya Singar of the Ahobila Mutt, at a cost of Rs. 184,150.


Puranic Significance :-



During the churning of the ocean of milk by the Devas and Asuras for nectar, Chandra, the moon god and elder brother of Sri Mahalakshmi, appeared before her. As the second in the planetary line after the Sun, Chandra is known for his handsome appearance, his scholarship under Jupiter, and his conduct of the Raja Suya yajna, which was attended by numerous Rishis and Dhara, Jupiter's wife. During the yajna, Chandra and Dhara fell in love, leading to Jupiter cursing Chandra with leprosy.

Chandra and Dhara's son, Bhudha (Mercury), was born from this union. Following Vishnu’s advice, Chandra returned Dhara to Jupiter, but Budha, angered by his father's actions, performed severe penance and became a planet himself.

Chandra's next mistake was marrying the 27 daughters of Daksha, promising to treat each with equal love but favouring only Rohini. The other daughters, feeling neglected, complained to their father Daksha. Enraged, Daksha cursed Chandra to suffer a diminishing appearance, which began to affect the full moon.

Chandra, burdened by these curses, sought relief from Lord Vishnu. Vishnu instructed him to visit Srirangam, Tiru Indalur, and Thalaichanga Naanmadiyam, bathe in the sacred springs there, and perform penance. Chandra followed this advice and was granted relief at Thalaichanga Naanmadiyam. Vishnu not only appeared to Chandra but also adorned Himself with Chandra as an ornament.

In this Divya Desam temple, Perumal is depicted with a crescent moon on His head, facing east, and in a standing posture as Lord Shiva. This is why He is known as Nanmadhia Perumal, or Chandra Shaba Harar, the deity who relieved Chandra from his curse.


Do's and Don'ts

  1. Do Regular Inspections: Check for structural issues and damage.
  2. Do Engage Professionals: Use experts for restoration and maintenance.
  3. Do Use Traditional Materials: Preserve authenticity with appropriate materials.
  4. Do Maintain Records: Keep detailed history and restoration records.
  5. Do Implement Preventive Measures: Address environmental threats and maintain systems.
  6. Do Involve the Community: Encourage local participation and ownership.
  7. Do Educate and Raise Awareness: Promote the importance of preservation.
  8. Do Follow Legal and Ethical Guidelines: Adhere to laws and respect cultural practices.


  1. Don’t Use Modern Materials Improperly: Avoid materials that clash with original construction.
  2. Don’t Neglect Regular Maintenance: Perform routine upkeep to prevent larger issues.
  3. Don’t Ignore Environmental Factors: Manage conditions like humidity and pollution.
  4. Don’t Make Unauthorised Alterations: Consult experts before making changes.
  5. Don’t Overlook Safety Concerns: Ensure preservation work meets safety standards.
  6. Don’t Disregard Cultural Sensitivities: Respect religious and cultural significance.
  7. Don’t Delay Repairs: Address damage promptly to prevent further issues.

Dress Code

For Men:

  1. Traditional Attire: Wear a dhoti or lungi paired with a shirt or kurta. Traditional wear is preferred.
  2. Casual Attire: If traditional clothing is not possible, wear clean, modest clothing such as long pants and a shirt. Avoid shorts, sleeveless shirts, and ripped clothing.

For Women:

  1. Traditional Attire: Wear a saree, salwar kameez, or a long skirt with a top. Traditional attire is encouraged.
  2. Modest Clothing: If traditional clothing is not available, wear modest attire that covers the shoulders and knees. Avoid shorts, short skirts, and revealing tops.

How to reach

Open in Google Maps ↗

By Road:

  1. From Mayiladuthurai - Distance: Approximately 16 km. Directions: Take the NH 45B towards Kumbakonam. After reaching Akkur, follow the local signs or ask for directions to Thalachangadu village. Link given below has directions by car/bus from Mayiladuthurai Bus stand to the temple :
  2. From Kumbakonam - Distance: About 40 km. Directions: Head towards Mayiladuthurai on NH 45B. After reaching Akkur, follow local directions to Thalachangadu village. Link given below has directions by car/bus from Kumbakonam Bus stand to the temple :

By Train: Nearest Railway Station: Mayiladuthurai Junction (MYL). Distance: Approximately 16 km from the temple. Directions: From Mayiladuthurai Junction, hire a taxi or take a local bus to Thalachangadu. Link given below has directions by car/bus from Mayiladuthurai Railway station to the temple :

By Air: Nearest Airport: Tiruchirappalli International Airport (TRZ). Distance: About 155 km. Directions: From the airport, hire a taxi or use bus services to reach Mayiladuthurai, then follow the road to Thalachangadu village. 

Nearby Cities and Rivers

Rivers:

  1. Cauvery River: The Cauvery River is one of the major rivers flowing near the region. It is revered as a sacred river and is significant in the cultural and religious practices of Tamil Nadu.
  2. Kollidam River: A branch of the Cauvery, the Kollidam River also flows near the Mayiladuthurai district, adding to the area's fertility and religious significance.


Nearby Cities and Towns:

  1. Mayiladuthurai: The nearest major town, located approximately 16 km from the temple. Mayiladuthurai is known for its numerous temples and is a prominent pilgrimage destination.
  2. Kumbakonam: A city located around 40 km from the temple, Kumbakonam is famous for its historical temples and is often referred to as the "Temple Town" of Tamil Nadu.
  3. Nagapattinam: About 40 km away, Nagapattinam is a coastal city known for its historical importance and religious sites, including temples and churches.
  4. Thiruvarur: Located around 45 km from the temple, Thiruvarur is another important town in the region, known for the Thyagaraja Temple and its rich cultural heritage.