Srivanjiyam Temple: Ancient Sanctum Of Faith And Divine Blessings

A distant view of a Srivanjiyam temple, surrounded by lush greenery

Srivanjiyam Temple is famously known as Vanchinadha Swamy Temple, located in the heart of Srivanchiyam village. The presiding deity of the temple is Lord Vanchinadha, who is a form of Lord Shiva, placed alongside his consort, Goddess Mangala. This temple is known to have been made by Chola king Rajendra Chola and was constructed over 1,100 years ago. In the temple there is a shrine dedicated to Lord Yama, who is known to be the Hindu god of death and justice. People believe that visiting this temple resolves the sins of the devotees and their ancestors.

Quick Details About Srivanjiyam Temple

Built In: 850 CE
Address: Srivanjiyam village, Tiruvarur, Tamil Nadu
Srivanjiyam Temple Timings: 6 AM – 12 PM and 3 PM – 8 PM
Best Time To Visit: November to March
Time Duration: 1 to 2 hours
Nearest Airport: Tiruchirappalli International Airport

Srivanjiyam Temple Location

An outer view of a temple that has been vibrantly painted and has intricate carvings

Photo: Ssriram mt / Wikimedia Commons

The Srivanjiyam Temple lies in a village known as Srivanchiyam, which is 5 kilometres away from Nannilam town. The temple is located in the Tiruvarur district of Tamil Nadu state in India. Srivanchiyam village has a geographical area of 42,82,700 square metres and a population headcount of 2,518 according to the 2011 census.

Suggested Read: Ancient Temples In Tamil Nadu For Every Devotee To Visit

How To Reach Srivanjiyam Temple

A distant view of the temple gopuram, with intricate carvings

Photo: CC0 Public Domain / Px Here/ Image For Representation Only

By Road: The nearest bus stand to the temple is Achuthamangalam bus stand, which is situated at a distance of 3.8 kilometres from the Srivanjiyam Temple.

By Air: Tiruchirappalli International Airport is the nearest airport to the Srivanjiyam Temple. From the airport, you can hire a taxi to reach the Srivanjiyam Temple.

By Train: Kumbakonam Railway Station is the nearest railway station to the Srivanjiyam Temple, which is located at a distance of 26 kilometres.

Places To Visit Near Srivanjiyam Temple

There are several famous temples located near the Srivanjiyam Temple that you can visit to seek blessings from various deities. Some of them are listed below:

1. Thirunaraiyur Shiva Temple

A distant aerial view of an extremely tall temple that has astonishing architecture

Photo: Jorge Royan / Wikimedia Commons/ Image For Representation Only

Thirunaraiyur Shiva Temple is a famous Hindu temple that is dedicated to Lord Shiva in his Siddha Natheswarar form alongside his consort Soundarya Nayaki. It is known to be among the two hundred and seventy-five paadal petra sthalams. Other than Lord Siddha Natheswarar and his consort, here you can offer prayers to other deities, such as Lord Ganesha, Lord Dakshinamurthy, Goddess Lakshmi, Lord Brahma, and the Navagrahas. Sambandar and Sundarar, who were the poets and saints of the 8th century CE, sang the hymns in praise of the Thirunaraiyur Shiva Temple.

Timings: Opens from 6 AM – 12 PM and 5 PM – 8 PM
Distance From The Srivanjiyam Temple:18.6 kilometres

Suggested Read: Shiva Temples In Tamil Nadu

2. Engan Murugan Temple

An inside view of the Engan Murugan Temple which is surrounded by vibrant sculptures

Photo: Shanze1 / Wikimedia Commons

Engan Murugan Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Murugan, which is a separate shrine situated on the campus of Engan Brahmapurisvarar Temple. To visit the shrine, you have to enter the temple complex from the south entrance. There is a legend related to the Engan Murugan Temple that the sculptor who sculpted the idol of Lord Murugan was blind, and for sculpting he had to take the assistance of a woman. One day, while sculpting, he accidentally cut a finger of the woman, and blood began to ooze, which, when fell on his eyes, cured his blindness.

Timings: Opens from 7 AM – 12:30 PM and 4:30 PM – 9 PM
Distance From The Srivanjiyam Temple: 11 kilometres

3. Ayyavadi Maha Prathyankaradevi Temple

An outer view of a religious site on the top of which there are idols of various deities

Photo: RAJUKHAN SR RAJESH / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Ayyavadi Maha Prathyankaradevi Temple is a renowned 1,000-year-old Hindu temple, located in Ayyavadi. The presiding deity of the temple is goddess Pratyangira, who is an incarnation of goddess Adishakti. It is believed that the goddess possesses the power of destroying the influences of black magic and negativity. Inside the temple, there are idols of goddess Saraswathi and goddess Lakshmi placed near the idol of goddess Pratyangira. There is a legend that Pancha Pandavas visited this place and worshipped the goddess Prathyangira.

Timings: Opens from 8 AM – 12 PM and 4:30 PM – 7:30 PM
Distance From The Srivanjiyam Temple: 22.6 kilometres

Suggested Read: Exploration Guide Of Pratyangira Temple In Tamil Nadu

4. Nageswaran Temple

A distant view of a stunning temple with intricate carving on its multiple upper layers

Photo: Ssriram mt / Wikimedia Commons

Nageswaran Temple, also known as Nageswaraswamy Temple, is an ancient temple known for its astonishing architecture. The temple is located in Kumbakonam city, and the presiding deity of the temple is Lord Shiva. The Nageswaran Temple was made by the joint contribution of the Thanjavur Nayaks and the Chola dynasty rulers over the years. It is believed that the temple was built around the 9th century CE and houses the shrines of various deities, such as Lord Surya, Lord Subramanya, Lord Ganesh, and Goddess Parvati.

Timings: Opens from 6  AM – 12:30 PM and 4:30 PM – 9 PM
Distance From The Srivanjiyam Temple: 28 kilometres

5. Kasi Viswanathar Temple

An astonishing architecture of the temple with intricate carvings coloured vibrantly

Photo: pandiaeee / Wikimedia Commons

Kasi Viswanathar Temple is a renowned temple located in Kumbakonam that is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple has an astonishing entrance (tower), which is known as gopuram. Lord Shiva presides in this temple, along with Goddess Visalakshi, a form of Goddess Parvati. It is said that visiting this renowned temple of Kumbakonam is equivalent to visiting the Kashi Viswanath Temple, located in Varanasi. There is a legend about this temple that while on their search for Goddess Sita, Lord Rama and Lord Lakshmana worshiped God Shiva here.

Timings: Opens from 5:30 AM – 12 PM and 4 PM – 8 PM
Distance From The Srivanjiyam Temple: 27 kilometres

Suggested Read: Kumbakonam Temples

6. Poompuhar Beach & Town

Image of Poompuhar Beach near the town - one of the best places to visit near the temple

Photo: MARIKANNAN G / Wikimedia Commons

Travelers can find both historical exploration and seaside rest in Poompuhar which was a prosperous ancient port town in the past. Visitors can enjoy walks during tranquil moments at this seashore which faces the Cauvery River mouth. This town maintains its importance as a cultural and historical site of Tamil literature and Chola history. The popular attractions at Silappathikara Art Gallery and ancient ruin sites display ancient tales from the past.

Distance From Srivanjiyam Temple: 20 km

7. Karaikal Beach

Image of Karaikal Beach shoreline near the stones where people stroll around

Photo: P Jeganathan / Wikimedia Commons

The peaceful Karaikal Beach serves as an excellent destination for families because it provides both walking opportunities and serene evenings. The beach facility maintains neat walking paths alongside play areas together with calm surf that provides people relaxation. Travellers and residents from nearby areas visit the beach near Srivanjiyam Temple where it stands accessible for all. Visitors can experience relaxation and adventure through water activities.

Distance From Srivanjiyam Temple: 25 km

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Karaikal

8. Mangrove Forests Of Pichavaram

Picturesque view of Mangrove Forests while travelling in a motor boat during day time view

Photo: Karthik Easvur / Wikimedia Commons

Pichavaram Mangrove Forests stands as the biggest mangrove system in India since it extends across multiple interconnected waterways and small land masses. Boat rides along narrow waterways allow visitors to observe the unique natural features of the area. The place offers both tranquility and exploration opportunities while serving visitors who explore the Srivanjiyam territory. People can use the mangrove area for photography while bird watchers will find it perfect for their hobby.

Timings: 9 AM – 6 PM
Distance From Srivanjiyam Temple: 45 km

9. Chidambaram Nataraja Temple

Image of stunning Chidambaram Nataraja Temple - one of the best places to visit near Srivanjiyam

Photo: Richard Mortel / Wikimedia Commons

The Chidambaram Nataraja Temple stands out as an important Shiva temple which celebrates its spiritual value together with its splendid architectural achievements. This temple worships the dancing version of Lord Nataraja whom devotees revere as their main deity. People seeking to experience South India’s sacred sites can conveniently visit this temple alongside its neighbor the Srivanjiyam Temple. During Natyanjali festivals numerous dancers together with devotees from all parts of India gather to attend.

Timings: 6 AM – 12 PM, 5 PM – 10 PM
Distance From Srivanjiyam Temple: 40 km

Suggested Read: Places To Visit Near Chidambaram

10. Velankanni Church

Picturesque view of church at Velankanni, Tamil Nadu - stunning architecture and day time view

Photo: Manojz Kumar / Wikimedia Commons

Velankanni Church serves as a highly valued Christian pilgrimage location on the Coromandel Coast. The religious site known for its Gothic architectural style operates as a popular place of peace. Visitors can experience a beachfront atmosphere at the church complex which provides rituals with candles and healing pastoral services. It takes around an hour to reach Srivanjiyam Temple from this site, which becomes very busy with visitors during September’s annual celebration.

Timings: 5 AM – 9 PM
Distance From Srivanjiyam Temple: 60 km

Where To Stay

Inside view of a hotel room that has a comfortable bed and has been decorated nicely

Photo: Haider Syed / Pexels/ Image For Representation Only

If you are planning your visit to the Srivanjiyam Temple in Tiruvarur, ensure to book your accommodation in a nearby place to the temple. A few of the hotels and guesthouses where you might experience a comfortable stay are Aditya Heritage, Hotel Kasi’s Inn, Hotel BRR, and Kommiya Inn.

Suggested Read: Temples In Tamil Nadu

Where To Eat

A crispy South Indian dish known as dosa is placed in a plate with other accompaniments

Photo: Jack Baghel / Wikimedia Commons

Depending on the cuisine you like, there are many eateries in the nearby area of Srivanjiyam Temple that present a wide variety of dishes. A few of the popular restaurants are Al Reyna Restaurant, Periyanna Biryani, Madurai Sri Muniyandi Vilas, and Mkh Matham Restaurant.

Other Factors To Consider

 A distant view of a South Indian temple showcasing its impressive outer structure

Photo: SabaFatima123456789 / Wikimedia Commons/ Image For Representation Only

Tips For Travellers:

  • Srivanjiyam Temple opening time is 6 AM so try to visit as early as possible in the daytime to avoid the crowd, especially on the weekends.
  • Wear comfortable sandals or slippers that will be easy to take off or put back on when required.
  • Carry a water bottle with you, preferably one that is not made up of plastic.
  • For people visiting the temple, it is advised to dress in modest clothes due to the temple’s religious significance.

Suggested Read: Murugan Temples In Tamilnadu

Srivanjiyam Temple is a sacred, ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, accompanied by Lord Yama, symbolising liberation and peace. Devotees gather here to perform rituals for their ancestors, seeking blessings and eternal rest. Begin your journey with a purifying dip in the sacred tanks, Yama Theertham and Gupta Ganga, believed to cleanse and protect. Plan your trip with TripXL to immerse yourself in this deeply spiritual atmosphere!

Cover Photo: Destination8infinity / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Frequently Asked Questions

The Srivanjiyam Temple is famous for having a separate shrine for Lord Yama and housing various Theertham, such as Agni and Lakshmi Theertham.
All year round, you can visit this holy temple. However, around November to March, many festivals are celebrated in the temple, making it a good time to visit.
Capturing photos and videos inside the Srivanjiyam Temple is not allowed for visitors, especially if it is with a digital camera.
Yes, the Srivanjiyam Temple stays open on eclipse days too, unlike other temples. Special abhisheks are done on these days, dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Festivals such as the Masi Magam festival and the Karthigai Gnayeru festival are celebrated in this ancient temple of Lord Shiva.
Poompuhar Beach is approximately 20 km from Srivanjiyam Temple and takes about 30–40 minutes by road.
Yes, Karaikal Beach is open 24 hours and is quite pleasant in the evening for a peaceful walk or relaxing by the shore.
The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva in his cosmic dancer form, Nataraja. It's known for its spiritual significance and intricate Dravidian architecture.

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