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Thirukovilur Temple, commonly referred to as Veeratteswarar Temple, is located in the small town of Thirukovilur, Tamil Nadu. This historical and marvellous temple is a common destination for tourists and religious pilgrims interested in visiting historical sites that were once home to the ancient culture of Tamil Nadu. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple is one of the eight Veeratta Sthalams in which Shiva is said to have shown his valour. With its architectural beauty, rich history and festivals in full swing, the temple promises a transformational experience.
Quick Details
Location: Thirukovilur, Kallakurichi district, Tamil Nadu
Elevation: 103 meters above sea level
Timings: 6 AM – 12 PM and 4 PM – 8:30 PM
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Nearest Railway Station: Tirukkoyilur Railway Station
Nearest Airport: Pondicherry Airport
About
Photo: Ssriram mt / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
According to mythology, the ancient temple is also mentioned in many historical Tamil literature. This temple is revered both by Saivaite and Vaishnavite devotees due to its association with legends involving both Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu. It reflects the style of Dravidian architecture with towering gopurams and beautiful carvings that reveal the mythological stories and deities. The sanctum of the temple has an imposing Shiva Lingam, and the ambience inside reflects the grandeur and tranquillity of the deity. Thousands of pilgrims across the state arrive for the annual festivals, mainly Mahashivaratri.
How To Reach
Photo: Pinakpani / Wikimedia Commons
By Road: Thirukovilur is well connected by road to other major cities such as Chennai around 200 km and Pondicherry around 100 km. The route covers scenic paths and thus travelling via buses or taxis can be a wonderful experience.
By Train: The nearest railway station is Tirukkoyilur Railway Station, 2 kilometres from the temple. This connects the town to several cities in Tamil Nadu.
By Air: The nearest airport is Pondicherry Airport, which is 100 kilometres away, and then Chennai International Airport about 200 kilometres away. From both the airports you can hire a cab or take bus facilities to reach the town.
Places To Visit Around Thirukovilur Temple
1. Tiruvannamalai
Photo: Vyacheslav Argenberg / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Tiruvannamalai is known for its huge temple, which contains one of the five major Shiva temples in Tamil Nadu. Also at the foot of Arunachala Hill, the temple is a marvellous example of architectural magnificence, with large open courtyards, intricately carved gopurams, and the sacred Annamalaiyar shrine. This attraction is also connected to Tiruvannamalai and is the Girivalam, which is the circuit of Arunachala Hill around most pilgrims pass on full moon nights. With its spiritual vibe, Tiruvannamalai is an essential visit for anyone travelling to Thirukovilur.
Things To Do: Seek spiritual blessing, sight seeing, photography
2. Gingee Fort
Photo: RealinRear / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Sometimes known as “the Troy of the East,” Gingee Fort is a historical fort built across three hilltops where each hill has its own fortress. In the complex of the fort are temples, granaries, ponds, and halls that have survived the ravages of time. One can have a thrilling trek up the rocky hills to reach the main fort while enjoying the panoramic views of the landscape. Gingee Fort is a wonderful peep into South India’s military architecture and the chivalry of the Chola and Nayak dynasties who defended it.
Things To Do: Trekking, hiking, sight seeing, photography, learn history
3. Villupuram
Photo: TNSE NEETHI VPM / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
As an important gateway to various cultural sites, like the ancient temples and traditional festivals, Villupuram holds great importance. The town itself provides historical insight into the region’s significance, with old temples that include Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple and the Sri Kamatchi Amman Temple. Villupuram also features a mix of local artisans and craft shops that celebrate Tamilian artistry and weaving.
Things To Do: Seek spiritual blessing, sightseeing, photography, shopping, learn history and culture
4. Angala Parameswari Temple
Photo: Chandan Parihar / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
This temple is dedicated to Angala Parameswari, a form of Goddess Parvati. This temple is considered to be a protector for devotees. The temple is powerful, and thereby people flock there in huge numbers during festival times. This occurs especially in the months of February and March, as rituals are performed here seeking blessing from her to save and prosper.
Things To Do: Seek spiritual blessing, sightseeing
5. Pondicherry
Photo: PIYUSH P PUJARI / Wikimedia Commons
The erstwhile French colony Pondicherry attracts the traveler to it with its serene beaches, colonial buildings, and cultural mixing. You can visit the French Quarter, Promenade Beach, Auroville, and many cafes serving Indian and French cuisine. Unlike the spiritual mood of Thirukovilur, you can enjoy a laid-back beach in Pondicherry.
Things To Do: Seek spiritual blessing, sight seeing, photography, meditate
Where To Stay
Photo: Andrew Neel / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Thirukovilur has a few budget-friendly stays, such as lodges and guesthouses like Sri Sarvesa Residency in Thirukovilur is a convenient, value-for-money option. Mid-range to premium options like Hotel Himalaya and Sparsa Resort in Tiruvannamalai offer in-house dining, Wi-Fi, yoga and garden spaces in an eco-friendly setting. GRT Regency in Villupuram is very accommodating to family groups, while Le Dupleix in Pondicherry is a heritage hotel with colonial charm and modern comforts. There are luxury seaside resorts, eco-friendly stays at Auroville, and heritage hotels.
Where To Eat
Photo: Anilsharma26 / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Thirukovilur has good, unpretentious Tamil food such as idli, dosa, and pongal at the Sri Krishna Bhavan. For a greater variety, A2B (Adyar Ananda Bhavan) in Villupuram can be visited for their South and North Indian dishes and sweets. In Tiruvannamalai town, one of the well-known places for vegetarian food is the Ramanashree Restaurant; if one wants tandoori and Northern curries, then Punjabi Dhaba is there to serve. In Pondicherry, head to Café des Arts for some pieces of French-inspired cuisine served with some nice fusion options in a lively atmosphere.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Rana Sawalha / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Tips For Travellers:
- Culture: It is a very conservative town, and one has to dress simple when visiting the temple and precincts. Respect for local norms and habits like not wearing shoes inside the temple or wearing shorts or sleeveless.
- Weather: The best seasons to visit are between October and March, as winters are quite cool and soothing for temple visits and outdoor activities.
- Packing Tips: Lightweight, loose, easy to move around in when visiting temples and walking around. Sunscreen and water and an umbrella for those who visit in summer.
A visit to Thirukovilur Temple promises a mix of spirituality, culture, and adventure. The ancient site of this temple offers you an opportunity to rediscover the beauty of Tamil Nadu’s heritage while taking pleasure in the serenity of the surroundings. Plan a trip today with TripXL to Thirukovilur, as every stone, story, and sculpture speaks of something from a timeless legacy.
Cover Photo: Ssriram mt / Wikimedia Commons
