Thiruvazhkoliputhur

God

Manickavannar (also Rathnapureeswarar), facing east

Goddess

Vandamarpoonkuzhali (also Brahma Kunthalambal), facing south

Other Deities

Valampuri Vinayaka, Muruga, Gajalakshmi, Saraswathi, Bhairava, Chandra, Nalvar, Nataraja, Durga, Pancha Pandava Lingams

A large entrance Mandapam is followed by a 3 tier Rajagopuram as you enter the Thiruvazhkoliputhur temple. There is a large temple pond opposite on the east. Thiruvazhkoliputhur is a large and glorious old temple.

Holy Water (Theertham) – Brahmatheertham

Sacred Tree (Sthala Vriksham) – Vaagai (Albizia lebbeck)

History

Thirugnanasambandar and Sundarar (7th – 8th Century CE) have rendered Thevaram Hymns for the lord here at Thiruvazhkoliputhur.

Legend

Arjuna, Thirumal and a Bee are believed to have worshiped here. As per Arjuna’s request, the Lord is believed to have hidden a sword (Vaal) in a snake mound (Putru) and given it to him at the hour of need. Hence the name Thiruvazhkoliputhur.

Directions

Thiruvazhkoliputhur is about 13 Kilometers from Vaitheeswaran Kovil road towards Manalmedu and after Thalaignairu. Take a left at ‘Thiruvalaputhur’ (corrupted name of the place) to reach the temple.

Stay and Food

None locally. Closest is Vaitheeswaran Kovil.