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Ujjivanathar Temple

Uyyakondan Thirumalai Temple, also known as Ujeevanathar Temple, Karkudimalai, or Thirumalainallur, is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is situated on the banks of the Uyyakondan River in Trichy, Tamil Nadu. In this temple, Shiva is worshipped as Uyyakondan, represented by a lingam, while his consort Parvati is depicted as Anjanakshi Amman. This temple holds significant historical and religious value, as it is revered in the 7th-century Tamil Saiva canonical work, the Tevaram, composed by the Nayanars, and is classified as a Paadal Petra Sthalam.

Timings

The temple is open from 6.00 a.m. to 12.00 a.m. and from 5.00 p.m. to 9.00 p.m.

Entry Fee

Free of cost

Origin/History :-


The Uyyakondan Thirumalai Temple was built during the reign of the Cholas, around 950 CE, during the Sembian age. Numerous inscriptions are found within the temple. An inscription from the period of Rajaraja I records that Sembiyan Mahadevi donated a crown to the temple during the 10th year of his reign. The temple also has inscriptions from the time of Kulothunga Chola I (1070–1118 CE), mentioning a community called Rathakarar, known for their expertise in designing and building temple cars. The Uyyakondan Channel, a tributary built by Rajaraja Chola, was created to irrigate the lands near Tiruchirapalli. During the siege of Trichinopoly (Tiruchirapalli) in 1753–54, the temple was occupied by French and English forces. After the Battle of Sugar-loaf Rock, English Major Lawrence captured the fortified temple by assault. Today, the temple is maintained by the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Department of the Government of Tamil Nadu.


Puranic Significance :-



Sage Mrukandu prayed to Lord Shiva for the blessing of a child. Shiva gave him a choice: a son who would be foolish and handicapped but live for 100 years, or a son who would be wise and handsome but live only for 16 years. The sage chose the latter, and a boy named Markandeya was born. When Markandeya turned 16, the time for his death arrived. Pursued by Yama, the Lord of Death, Markandeya sought refuge in various Shiva temples. Eventually, he reached the Uyyakondan Hill temple, where he fell at the feet of Lord Shiva. In response, Shiva protected him and granted him Chiranjeevi—immortality—at Thiruverkadu.


Do's and Don'ts

  1. Dress Modestly: Wear traditional or modest clothing.
  2. Follow Rituals: Participate respectfully in temple customs.
  3. Remove Footwear: Take off shoes before entering.
  4. Maintain Silence: Speak softly to preserve sanctity.
  5. Offer Prayers: Take time to pray and reflect.
  6. Respect the Priests: Follow the guidance of temple staff.
  7. Contribute: Consider donating to support the temple.
  8. Photograph Respectfully: Take photos only in designated areas.


  1. Avoid Disturbing Others: Keep conversations quiet.
  2. Don’t Touch Deities: Refrain from touching idols or sacred objects.
  3. No Eating Inside: Do not consume food or drinks.
  4. Avoid Non-Vegetarian Items: Do not bring non-vegetarian food.
  5. No Inappropriate Clothing: Avoid revealing outfits.
  6. Don’t Engage in Commercial Activities: No selling without permission.
  7. Limit Mobile Use: Keep phones silent or off.
  8. Avoid Negative Behaviour: Stay positive and respectful.


Dress Code

For Men:

  1. Traditional Attire: Wear a dhoti or lungi, preferably paired with a shirt or kurta.
  2. Modest Clothing: If wearing pants, ensure they are not too tight or casual (e.g., no shorts or ripped jeans).
  3. T-Shirts: Should be plain and not have offensive graphics or slogans.

For Women:

  1. Traditional Attire: Wear a saree or salwar kameez, which are traditional and respectful.
  2. Modest Clothing: Avoid revealing outfits; avoid sleeveless tops and shorts.
  3. Long Skirts/Dresses: If wearing skirts or dresses, they should be long and cover the knees.
  4. Dupatta or Scarf: Consider carrying a dupatta or scarf to cover the shoulders if needed.

How to reach

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Best season to visit :-


The best season to visit the Uyyakondan Thirumalai Temple is during the winter months, particularly from November to February.


How to reach :-



  1. By Air: Tiruchirappalli International Airport (TRZ) is about 10 km away from the temple. Transportation: You can hire a taxi or use ride-sharing services to reach the temple from the airport.
  2. By Train: Nearest Railway Station: Tiruchirappalli Junction is well-connected to major cities in India. Transportation: From the railway station, you can take a taxi, auto-rickshaw, or local bus to the temple, which is approximately 8 km away.
  3. By Bus: Intercity Buses: Trichy has a well-connected bus service to various cities. You can reach the central bus station and then take a local bus or taxi to the temple.

Nearby Cities and Rivers

Rivers:

  1. Uyyakondan River: The temple is situated on the banks of this river.
  2. Kaveri River: Located nearby, it is one of the major rivers in Tamil Nadu, playing a crucial role in the region's agriculture and culture.


Cities:

  1. Tiruchirapalli (Trichy): The closest major city, located approximately 10 kilometres from the temple, known for its rich history and several prominent temples.
  2. Somarasampettai: A nearby village, known for its religious significance and celebrations related to the temple.
  3. Vayalur: Located in the vicinity, it is another area of interest, especially during festivals at Uyyakondan Thirumalai Temple.