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Vedapureeswarar Temple

This temple is the 155th Thevara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalam and the 38th Sthalam located on the northern side of the Kaveri River in Chozha Nadu. In ancient times, it was known as Santhanaranyam, renowned for its sandalwood trees.

Timings

From 06:30 AM to 11:30 AM and from 04:30 PM to 08:30 PM.

Entry Fee

Free of cost

Origin/History :-


Since Thirugnanasambandar sang hymns in praise of Lord Shiva at this temple, the original Mada temple is believed to have existed before the 7th century, likely built by Ko Chengat Chozha. It was later reconstructed as a stone temple during the Chozha period and further expanded during the Vijayanagara period.

According to inscriptions, this place was referred to as Jayankonda Chozhavalanattu Thiruvazhunthur Nattu Thiruvazhunthur, and Lord Shiva was called Thiruvazhunthur Udayar and Thiruvazhunthur Udayar Thirumadamudaya Nayanar.

An inscription from the reign of Kulothunga Chola III records his meikeerthi (title of accomplishment), stating that he performed the Veer Abhishekam and Vijay Abhishekam after conquering Madurai, Eelam, Karur, and the Pandya crown.

One inscription also mentions an endowment for performing Thirumanjanam (sacred ablution) for Lord Shiva, where water was brought from the Kaveri River, with donations made to support this ritual.

The Maha Kumbhabhishekam was conducted on 23rd June 1999 following renovations.


Puranic Significance :-


  1. Therezhunthur holds a special place in mythology due to its connection with the legends of several nearby Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams. The key events are as follows:
  2. Therezhundur: Lord Shiva cursed Goddess Parvathy, turning her into a cow. Lord Mahavishnu assumed the role of a shepherd here.
  3. Thirukkozhambam: Goddess Parvathy, in her cow form, worshipped Lord Shiva. During worship, her hoof accidentally struck Lord Shiva's chest, leaving a mark.
  4. Thiruvaduthurai: Here, Goddess Parvathy, still in her cow form, continued her worship of Lord Shiva. It is in this place that she was relieved of her curse and restored to her original form.
  5. Thiruthuruthi (Kuthalam): Sage Bharatha performed a yagna, and Goddess Parvathy is believed to have emerged from the fire as a child.
  6. Ethirkolpadi: Lord Shiva was received as a groom by his father-in-law, Sage Bharatha.
  7. Thiruvelvikudi: The wedding ceremony, including the yagna (Velvi), took place here. It is the sacred location where the earthly wedding of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvathy was conducted.
  8. Thirumanancheri: Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvathy granted their wedding darshan (divine vision) to all devotees here.

Do's and Don'ts

  1. Conduct Regular Maintenance: Schedule inspections and repairs to keep the structure sound.
  2. Use Authentic Materials: When restoring, use traditional materials that match the original design.
  3. Document Historical Significance: Keep detailed records of the temple’s history, architecture, and rituals.
  4. Engage the Community: Involve local residents in preservation efforts to foster a sense of ownership.
  5. Organise Educational Programs: Host workshops and events to raise awareness about the temple's significance.
  6. Seek Legal Protection: Apply for heritage status to protect the temple from unauthorised changes.
  7. Promote Sustainable Practices: Use eco-friendly methods in maintenance and landscaping to protect the environment.


  1. Avoid Unauthorised Modifications: Do not make changes without consulting preservation experts or authorities.
  2. Neglect Structural Issues: Don’t ignore signs of damage or wear; timely action can prevent larger problems.
  3. Disregard Local Traditions: Avoid altering rituals or practices that are integral to the community's culture.
  4. Overlook Documentation: Don’t neglect to document changes or repairs; this can lead to loss of historical knowledge.
  5. Isolate the Temple: Don’t keep the temple disconnected from the community; involve them in its upkeep and celebrations.
  6. Use Modern Materials Inappropriately: Avoid using contemporary materials that clash with the temple’s historical architecture.
  7. Underestimate Funding Needs: Don’t ignore the financial aspect of preservation; ensure there are sufficient funds for ongoing maintenance.


Dress Code

Men: Wear traditional attire like dhoti or kurta; avoid shorts and sleeveless shirts.

Women: Wear traditional attire like sarees or salwar kameez; avoid shorts and revealing clothing.

How to reach

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Best season to visit :-


The ideal time to visit is during the cooler months, from November to February, when the weather is pleasant.


How to reach :-



  1. By Air: The nearest airport is Tiruchirappalli International Airport, located about 133 km away. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the temple.
  2. By Train: The closest railway station is Mayiladuthurai Junction, which is about 12 km from the temple. Local transport options like taxis and buses are available from the station.
  3. By Road: The temple is well-connected by road. You can take a bus or drive from Mayiladuthurai or Kumbakonam, which is around 25 km away. Both towns have good road access to the temple.

Nearby Cities and Rivers

Rivers:

  1. Kaveri River: The major river flowing nearby, known for its sacred significance.
  2. Other tributaries: Smaller streams and tributaries associated with the Kaveri may also be present in the region.


Cities:

  1. Thanjavur: Approximately 12 km away, known for its historical significance and temples.
  2. Kumbakonam: About 30 km away, famous for its numerous temples and cultural heritage.
  3. Trichy (Tiruchirappalli): Roughly 50 km away, an important city with significant religious and historical sites.
  4. Nagapattinam: Located about 70 km away, known for its coastal beauty and temples.