Sivaloka Thiagesar Shiva Temple – Thirunallur Perumanam (Achalpuram)

This temple is located at Achalpuram (15 kms from Chidambaram) and has very special events associated with it – one is Thirugnanasambandar got married as per the wishes of his parents in this temple and the other is he attained mukthi along with his parents and relatives. During Sambandar’s marriage, divine mother Parvati herself took the role of inviting people who flocked the temple and distributed Vibhuti (sacred ash) to them. To commemorate this, even now in the Ambal temple inside the premises, Vibhuti is offered to devotees as against the norm of offering Kumkum. After the marriage, it is said that Siva Jyothi appeared in the temple and Sambandar along with his relatives and four more nayanmars entered the Jyothi to remain in eternal bliss with Lord Siva. This Paadal Petra Sthalam has been sung by Sambandar (2 pathigams).

Close to Achalpuram, there is a village called Nallur and it is said that the marriage procession of Sambandar started from this place. There is a temple dedicated to Lord Rama – Sundara Kothandaramar temple, worshipping in this temple is believed to remove the obstacles in marriage. This temple is also worth visiting but unfortunately it’s in a dilapidated condition.

On the Chidambaram-Sirkazhi road, immediately after crossing the kollidam bridge, there will be a road branching to the left. The temple is about 5 kms on this road. There is another paadal petra sthalam- Mahendrapalli at about 6 kms from this temple. Both the temples can be covered in the same visit. Bus bound for Mahendrapalli from Sirkazhi or Chidambaram can be taken but the frequency is very limited. It will be better to have a private transport arranged from Chidambaram.

Open from 6 am to 12 pm and from 4:30 pm to 8 pm every day.

Lord Siva: Sivaloka Thiagesar, Perumanamudaya Mahadevar.

Ambal (Goddess): Thiruvenneetru Umaiammai, Swetha Vibhuthi Nayagi.

Sthala Vriksham : Maa (Mango tree)

Theertham : 11 theerthams

Thirumeni Azhagar Shiva Temple – Mahendrapalli

This Paadal Petra Sthalam praised by Thirugnanasambandar is located at Mahendrapalli about 25 kms from Chidambaram.

As per the legend, Indra the Lord of devas has worshipped here. Indra is also known as Mahendra, hence the place got the name Mahendrapalli. Lord Brahma, Sun and Moon have also worshipped here. In the month of March, sunlight directly on the Shiva linga daily (lasts for a week).

The temple tank just in front of the temple is very special. As per the legend, Lord Krishna offered ritual prayers for His ancestors and because of this, Sun and Moon also came and worshipped. It is believed that worshipping in this temple is said to alleviate the Pithru (family ancestors) dosham.

On the Chidambaram-Sirkazhi road, immediately after crossing the kollidam bridge, there will be a road branching to the left. The temple is at about 11 kms on this road. There is another paadal petra sthalam- Achalpuram at about 6 kms from this temple which will first come while travelling in this road. Both the temples can be covered in the same visit. Bus bound for Mahendrapalli from Sirkazhi or Chidambaram can be taken but the frequency is very limited. It will be better to have a private transport arranged from Chidambaram or Sirkazhi.

Open from 9 am to 12 pm and from 6 pm to 7 pm every day. Since the number is visitors is less, this temple is likely to be in a closed condition mostly but the temple priest is living just adjacent to the temple. On request, he will be able to open the temple and offer the Darshan.

Lord Siva: Thirumeni Azhagar, Somasundarar

Ambal (Goddess): Vadivambal, Vadivambigai.

Sthala Vriksham : Thazhai

Theertham : Mahendra Theertham