Nandeeswarar Alandur

Nandeeswarar, Alandur

Saivite Temples, Tambaram Taluk

God

Nandeeswarar, facing east

Goddess

Aavudainayagi, facing south

Other Gods

Sidhdhi Vinayaka, Narthana Vinayaka, Sundara Vinayagar, Bala Muruga, Nagadevadai, Vishnu, Bhairava, Surya, Dakshinamurthy, Brahma, Durga, Chandikeswara, Navagrahas, Muruga with consorts, Nataraja, Sivakami, Rahu, Ketu

Nandeeswarar Alandur is an ancient small temple with entrance arch. The temple with a single Prakaram is well maintained and presents a peaceful picture. The main deity is 4 feet tall and looks magnificent. It is said that this is one of the very few temples where the main deity has the name of ‘Nandi’ and the goddess is with ‘Aavudai’ in her name. The pillars have some beautiful carvings including Fish, Kannappa Nayanar, Kamadhenu, Anjaneya, Narasimha and more.

Holy Water – No information

Holy Tree – Vilwam (Aegle marmelos)

History

Stone inscriptions found in the Thiruvotriyur Temple refer to the existence of Nandeeswarar Alandur about 800 years back. It includes land leases given by Kulothunga Chola III. Many sculptures and carvings in the pillars, a fish carved on the ceiling all indicate the very old nature of this temple.

Legend

A cow is said to come around Nandeeswarar Alandur even today during Pradosham day. Saint Brigu is said to have done penance in the hill in this area and the Lord appeared as a Nandi for him, hence the name Nandeeswarar. It is said that the adjacent hill was called Bringimalai which gradually changed to Parangimalai and in later days became St.Thomas Mount. This story was heard by a king called Adhan and he built the temple for the Lord. The place was called Adhani Pakkam and later became Adambakkam.

Directions

Nandeeswarar Alandur is located close to the Saint Thomas Railway Station. Just ask any local auto stand guy for the way. Park the car in the railway station and walk or take an auto.

Stay and Food

None locally except tea and snack shops.

Saivite Temples

Tamilnadu Temples