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Uchi Nathar Temple

Sivapuri Uchi Nathar Temple, also known as Thirunelvayil, is a prominent Hindu temple located in Sivapuri, Cuddalore district, Tamil Nadu, India. The temple's presiding deity is Lord Shiva, who is worshipped as Uchinathar, while his consort is known as Uchinayagi. This sacred site holds significant religious importance as it is revered in the 7th-century Tamil Saiva canonical work, the Tevaram, composed by the saint poets known as the Nayanmars. The temple is also classified as a Paadal Petra Sthalam, indicating its esteemed status in Saiva tradition.

Timings

The temple will be kept open between 07.00 hrs to 11.00 hrs and 17.00 hrs to 19.30 hrs.

Entry Fee

Free of cost

Origin/History :-


The original Sivapuri Uchi Nathar Temple is believed to have existed before the 7th century, possibly built by the Pallavas and later reconstructed by the Cholas and Vijayanagara rulers. The temple has three recorded inscriptions. One of these, from the Vijayanagara period during the reign of Muthu Venkatappa Nayak in Saka 1564 (1642 CE), details a donation of 25 ma of land at Abhishekapuram by Muthu Venkatappa Nayak’s assistant for the well-being of Dubash Krishnappa Nayak.

The temple has undergone Kumbabishekams (consecration ceremonies) on several occasions, specifically on 11th September 2008, 1st September 1982, 16th June 1957, and 25th May 1928.


Puranic Significance :-



Saint Gnanasambandar was born to devout Shiva devotees, Shivapada Hrudayar and Bhagawathi. At the age of three, while visiting the Brahma Theertha in the Sirkali temple, his father left him on the temple steps and went for a bath. Feeling hungry, the child began to cry. In response, Lord Shiva instructed Mother Parvathi to feed the child, which she did. When Shivapada Hrudayar returned and noticed milk drops on his son's face, he asked the child who had fed him. The child pointed towards the temple and sang his first hymn, "Thodu Udaya Sevian." Overwhelmed with joy, Shivapada Hrudayar realised that the Great Mother herself had fed his son.

When Gnanasambandar was 12 years old, his wedding was arranged. The wedding party, including relatives and 63 Shiva devotees, travelled to the Achalpuram Shiva temple. It was midday, and everyone in the group was hungry, so they decided to stop at Sivapuri. Understanding their plight, Lord Shiva, in the guise of the temple priest, provided them with a delicious meal. For this reason, the Lord is praised as Uchi Nathar, meaning "Midday Lord," and is known as Madhyaneswarar in Sanskrit. Locals also refer to this temple as Kanakambal Koil.

Do's and Don'ts

  1. Dress Modestly: Wear clean, modest clothing and remove shoes before entering.
  2. Maintain Respect: Speak softly and behave respectfully.
  3. Follow Rituals: Participate in rituals as guided by priests.
  4. Make Offerings: Offer flowers, fruits, and prayers with devotion.
  5. Respect Sacred Areas: Follow guidelines for accessing sacred spaces.
  6. Adhere to Rules: Follow any specific temple instructions.
  7. Support Preservation: Contribute to temple upkeep and volunteer if possible.


  1. Avoid Disrespect: No eating, drinking, smoking, or loud behaviour inside.
  2. Respect Sanctity: Do not touch deities or sacred items without permission.
  3. Do Not Disrupt: Avoid interrupting rituals or disturbing priests.
  4. No Physical Contact: Maintain personal space and avoid unwanted touch.
  5. Follow Queue: Respect the order and do not rush during darshan.
  6. No Unauthorised Photography: Refrain from taking photos unless allowed.
  7. Avoid Vandalism: Do not damage or alter the temple or its artefacts.


Dress Code

For Men: Attire: Wear traditional clothing such as dhoti, lungi, or formal pants with a shirt. Avoid shorts and sleeveless shirts.

For Women: Attire: Wear traditional clothing such as sarees, salwar kameez, or long skirts with tops. Avoid dresses or skirts that are too short or revealing.

How to reach

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Best season to visit :-


 The best season to visit the Uchi Nathar Temple in Sivapuri, Tamil Nadu, is during the cooler months:

1. Winter Season (November to February): Cooler temperatures and pleasant weather make it comfortable for travel and temple visits. This season coincides with major festivals like Navarathri and other local celebrations, offering a vibrant experience.

2. Early Summer (March to May): Although it can start to get warm, early summer offers a pre-monsoon climate that's generally still manageable.  You can enjoy the Vaikasi Visakam festival during this period.


How to reach :-



  1. By Air: Pondicherry International Airport (TRZ), approximately 80 km (50 mi) from Sivapuri. From Airport: Hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the temple.
  2. By Train: Chidambaram Railway Station, about 5 km (3.1 mi) from the temple. From Station: You can take a taxi, auto-rickshaw, or local bus to the temple.

Nearby Cities and Rivers

Rivers :-

  1. Vellar River: A significant river flowing through the Cuddalore district, providing water to the region and contributing to local agriculture.
  2. Kattalai River: Another river in the district, which plays a role in the local ecosystem and agriculture.


Nearby Cities:

  1. Chidambaram: Approximately 5 km (3.1 mi) from the temple, Chidambaram is a major city known for its historic temples, including the Nataraja Temple.
  2. Cuddalore: The district headquarters, situated about 30 km (18.6 mi) from Sivapuri, Cuddalore is a key city with various historical and cultural sites.
  3. Pondicherry: Located around 50 km (31 mi) from Sivapuri, Pondicherry is a Union Territory known for its French colonial architecture and vibrant culture.