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, making it one of the significant religious spots among the many places to visit in Tamil Nadu.

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

11. Koothanur Maha Saraswathy Temple

An image of Koothanur Maha Saraswathy Temple, dedicated to Goddess Saraswathi, known for its spiritual vibes.

Photo: Chandan Parihar / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

Kerala’s Koothanur Maha Saraswathy Temple is the only temple in the state that is dedicated to Goddess Saraswathy, the goddess of learning, arts, and wisdom. The temple is visited by students, scholars, and devotees who want to be successful in school and in their artistic work. During the Vijayadasami holiday, the temple has big celebrations, and a sacred ceremony called “Vidyarambham” is where children start school.

Distance From The Temple: 9 km

Suggested Read: Nellaiappar Temple

12. Sri Seshapureeswarar Temple

Sri Seshapureeswarar Temple near Srivanjiyam temple is an ancient shrine known for its intricate Dravidian architecture.

Photo: Garv Chaplot / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

The Sri Seshapureeswarar Temple, which is also called the Pampuranathar Temple, is a historic Shiva temple. As mentioned in Thevaram songs, it is one of the Paadal Petra Sthalams and is famous for Rahu–Ketu dosha parihara, which means healing for astrological problems. This temple is visited by devotees from all over South India who practice for world peace. Classical Dravidian style is used in the temple’s building, and the temple’s spiritual value comes from its peaceful rural location.

Distance From The Temple: 30 km

13. Thyagarajaswamy Temple

An image of Thyagarajaswamy Temple, a historic Chola-era temple famed for rituals and grand architecture

Photo: CC0 Public Domain / PxHere / Image For Representation Only

Thyagarajaswamy Temple is one of Tamil Nadu’s most beautiful Shiva shrines. Honouring Lord Thyagaraja, a form of Lord Shiva, it is famous for its huge temple chariot, elaborate stone carvings, and rituals that have been going on for hundreds of years. Associated with classical Carnatic music practices, the temple has a legendary musical and cultural history. Visiting this temple is like diving deep into the spiritual history and artistic beauty of Tamil Nadu.

Distance From The Temple: 20 km

Suggested Read: Guide To Vedapureeswarar Temple

14. Thirucherai Temple

Thirucherai Temple near Srivanjiyam Temple is a revered Vishnu temple featuring intricate carvings and spiritual charm.

Photo: Ssriram mt / Wikimedia Commons

Hindus and Vaishnavites worship Lord Saranatha Perumal and Goddess Saranayaki at the renowned Thirucherai Temple. People who worship Lord Vishnu go there on pilgrimages because it has a special place among the 108 Divya Desams. People think that the temple’s sacred tank holds the essence of all holy rivers, which makes swimming here a particularly spiritual experience. With its beautiful Dravidian design and peaceful surroundings, it offers a divine and peaceful experience.

Distance From The Temple: 16 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.

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.

Suggested Read: Best Food In Chennai

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, and don’t forget to check Srivanjiyam Temple photos to get a glimpse of its serene ambience.
  • 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.

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. As highlighted in a Tamil Nadu travel guide, this temple is a profound spiritual destination where rituals and devotion create a unique atmosphere. Plan your trip with TripXL to immerse yourself in this deeply spiritual experience!

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.
Koothanur Maha Saraswathy Temple in Tamil Nadu is dedicated to Goddess Saraswathy, the Goddess of wisdom and learning. People seek blessings especially before exams, music or dance performances, and auspicious beginnings.
Thirupampuram temple is one of the most powerful temples for Rahu–Ketu Dosha Nivarthi remedy. It attracts devotees from across India for astrological remedies and parihara poojas.
Yes, devotees often offer rice and grains at the temple as it relates to the story of Goddess Lakshmi storing grains during the floods.
The temple’s history dates back to the Chola period and is deeply rooted in Saivite traditions. Dedicated to Lord Shiva as Vanchinathar and Goddess Mangalambikai, it is among the important Padal Petra Sthalams.
Pranjal Sheokand

Pranjal Sheokand

A writer from a young age, Pranjal has always been passionate about storytelling, eventually transforming that love into a career in travel writing. She believes in the power of words to bring clarity to complexity, and her work reflects this. Her writing focuses on delivering practical insights, immersive narratives, and detailed guides that help readers plan memorable journeys. When not immersed in these tales, she enjoys studying psychology, charting constellations, playing chess, and watching the rain.

Pranjal’s Top Travel Highlights:

Pranjal focuses on the authentic, often overlooked side of travel, highlighting moments of genuine connection, solitude, and simplicity.

1. Offbeat Travel at 21:
Celebrated her 21st birthday in Chopta, an offbeat Himalayan village, with no network, minimal crowds, and amidst the raw, quiet charm of local life.

2. Firsthand Trekking Experience to Tungnath:
Completed the Tungnath trek through unexpected snow, challenges, and gained a deeper appreciation for the physical and emotional rewards of mountain travel.

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