This is the 16th Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalam in Thondai Nadu. According to the Periya Puranam, Sekkizhar recounts that after witnessing Lord Shiva's Urdhva Tandava darshan at Thiruvalangadu, Thirugnanasambandar, accompanied by his disciples, arrived at Thirupachur. They were warmly received by the local devotees and the followers of Thirugnanasambandar.
Timings
The temple is open from 6.00 a.m. to 12.00 a.m. and from 4.00 p.m. to 8.00 p.m.
Entry Fee
Free of cost
Origin/History :
The original temple at Thirupachur dates back to the 6th-7th century and was later reconstructed by the Cholas and Vijayanagaras. The temple has around 15 inscriptions that provide valuable insights into its history and the contributions made during various periods.
During the Chola period, the temple was mentioned in inscriptions as part of Jayangonda Chozhamandalathu Eekkattu Kottathu Kakkalur Nattu Thirupachur. An inscription from the reign of Rajaraja Chola records the endowment of pooja services and the gift of 47 kasu to the Bhattar (temple priest). Another inscription from the same period mentions the donation of 32 cows and a bull for lighting a sandhi lamp (a lamp lit at specific junctions in the temple).
In the Kulothunga Chola period, an inscription records a contribution of 40 kasu by Narpathonayiravar’s daughter for purchasing jewelry and providing 2 padi of rice for temple services. Another donation from a person named Kalingarayan mentions 78 kasu for burning 10 lamps at the temple.
During the Vijayanagara period, an inscription from the reign of King Veerakampannan mentions a land donation for establishing a Nandhavanam (garden) to serve the temple. These inscriptions highlight the consistent patronage and significance of the temple across various dynasties.
Puranic Significance :-
According to legend, in ancient times, the region was densely covered with bamboo trees. It is said that every day, a shepherd carrying milk would trip over a bush and fall at a particular spot. Frustrated by the constant loss of milk, the shepherd decided to clear the bushes. While cutting down the bushes with his axe, he discovered a bleeding lingam. Terrified by the sight, the shepherd immediately informed the local people, who then reported the incident to the king. Upon hearing the news, the king ordered the construction of a temple at that location.
The scars on the lingam, caused by the axe, can still be seen today, and the lingam slightly leans to the left. Due to the mark left by the axe, the lingam is not touched by human hands, and pujas are performed without physically contacting the deity.
The name "Pasu-Moongil" in Tamil refers to bamboo, which was abundant in the area where the lord was found. Consequently, the lord here is known as "Sri Pachura Nathar," and the place came to be known as "Thirupachur."
Another legend associated with this temple tells the story of a local chieftain named Kurumban, who failed to pay the taxes owed to his liege lord, the Chola King Karikalan. Kurumban was a devoted follower of Goddess Kali. When the king invaded his region to recover the dues, Kurumban prayed to Kali for help, and with her blessings, he was able to defeat the king and his army.
The Chola king, a devout Shiva worshiper, sought Lord Shiva’s intervention. In response, Lord Shiva sent Nandhi to control and bind Kali. Nandhi defeated Kali and bound her with a golden chain. To honor this event, the temple features a shrine dedicated to “Swarna Kali,” where the goddess's legs are depicted as bound. Evening pujas are performed at this shrine on full moon days.
Another belief surrounding this temple is that when King Karikalan was constructing it, his enemy, Kurumban, conspired with some Jains (samanars) to send a poisonous snake in a container to kill the king. Unaware of the contents, the king tried to open the container. At that moment, Lord Shiva appeared in the form of a snake charmer, saved the king's life, and blessed him. As a result, the lord here is also known as “Pambatteswarar” (meaning "snake charmer" in Tamil).
Another story associated with this temple is about the demons Madhu and Kaidaba, who stole the Vedas from Lord Brahma and hid them beneath the sea. Unable to continue his work of creation without the Vedas, Brahma sought help. Lord Vishnu responded by incarnating as Matsya, the fish. He dived deep into the sea, retrieved the Vedas, and killed the demons. However, the death of the demons left evil marks on Lord Vishnu.
Distressed, Vishnu prayed to Lord Shiva for a remedy. Lord Shiva advised him to worship at this place to remove the evil effects. Following Shiva’s guidance, Vishnu worshipped here and was cured. As a result, Lord Shiva appeared as a Swayambhu (self-manifested) deity at this location.
Do's and Don'ts
Pray to your Ishta Devata (chosen deity) before embarking on your pilgrimage to the temple.
Contact the Temple Devasthanam Information Centre for inquiries, temple details, and Pooja information.
Reserve your travel and accommodation well in advance.
Take a bath and wear clean clothes before entering the temple.
Focus on the God and Goddess while inside the temple.
Maintain silence and quietly recite "Om Namah Shivaya" or your chosen mantra.
Observe the ancient customs and traditions while in the temple.
Respect the religious sentiments and practices of the temple.
Deposit your offerings only in the designated hundi.
Do not visit the temple for any purpose other than worshipping the deities.
Do not smoke within the temple premises.
Do not consume alcohol inside the temple.
Do not eat non-vegetarian food in the temple.
Do not seek quick darshan by approaching mediators, as it may cause inconvenience to others.
Do not carry any weapons inside the temple.
Do not wear headgear such as helmets, caps, turbans, or hats within the temple premises.
Do not perform Sastanga Pranama (prostration) inside the Sanctum Sanctorum.
Do not linger too long during Sparsa Darshan (touching the deity) in the Garbhagriha.
Do not buy prasadams from street vendors; only accept offerings from temple-approved sources.
Do not encourage begging within the temple premises.
Do not spit or create any disturbances in the temple area.
Dress Code
For Men: The preferred dress code is a shirt and trouser, or a dhoti or pyjamas with an upper cloth.
For Women: The preferred dress code is a saree or half-saree with a blouse, or a chudidhar with pyjamas and an upper cloth.
For Foreigners: The same dress code applies.
Prohibited Attire: Shorts, mini-skirts, middies, sleeveless tops, low-waist jeans, and short-length T-shirts are not allowed.
The best time to visit this temple is during the winter season, from October to February.
How to reach :-
By Bus: Thirupachur is well-connected by local buses from Kanchipuram. You can board a bus to Thirupachur from the Kanchipuram bus stand.
By Train: The nearest railway station is Kanchipuram Railway Station, around 10 km from Thirupachur. You can take an auto-rickshaw or taxi from the station to reach the temple.
Nearby Cities and Rivers
Rivers:
Noyyal River – A major river flowing near Tiruppur, which is relatively close to the temple.
Nearby Cities:
Tiruppur – The closest city to the Veecheswarar Temple, known for its textile industry.
Coimbatore – A larger city about 50 km away, known for its industrial growth and proximity to several temples.
Erode – Another nearby city, approximately 60 km from the temple, famous for its handloom industry.
