The Thirupanjali temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is worshipped as Neelivaneswarar or Gneeliwaneswarar. Thirupanjali Temple is one among the 275 Paadal Petra Sivasthalangal, the list of holy Shiva temples created by Saiva poet-saints. Other names of this temple are “South Kailash” and “Melai Chidambaram,” owing to its architectural beauty, grandeur, and divinity. It represents a place of worship as something significant in the hearts and souls of people searching for peace and spirit in their lives.
Quick Details About Thirupanjali Temple
Thirupanjali Temple Address: Thiruppaigngneeli, Manachanallur, Tamil Nadu, India
Thirupanjali Temple Timings: 6 AM – 12 PM , 5 PM – 8 PM
Entry Fee: None
Nearest Airport: Tiruchirappalli International Airport, 28 km
Nearest Railway Station: Tiruchirappalli Railway Station, 26 km
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Location
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The Thirupanjali Temple is located in the Tirunelveli district in the town of Thirupanjali. The temple is in the area of Thirupanjali Village. The road leading to the temple is Thiruppainjeeli Road, which is connected to State Highway 78 and National Highway 44, linked to major cities like Tirunelveli and Madurai.
How To Reach Thirupanjali Temple
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By Air: The nearest airport to it is Tiruchirappalli International Airport, which is 28 km away from the temple. After reaching the airport, you can hire a taxi or bus to reach the temple.
By Train: The nearest railway station is Tiruchirappalli Railway Station, which lies 26 km from the temple. The station is connected to other cities of Tamil Nadu. Taxis and auto rickshaws are available at the railway station.
By Road: Regular bus services are easily available from the nearest towns and cities. You can take a bus from Tiruchirapalli bus station, which is 20 km from the temple. From there, use local transport to reach the temple.
Places To Visit Near Thirupanjali Temple
After visiting the Thirupanjali temple, you should visit the following places to spend a productive and fulfilling day.
1. Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple
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It’s a stupendous temple and is the largest functioning temple in the world of Lord Vishnu. This architectural wonder has been an important pilgrimage centre, with the subtleties of Dravidian architecture besides heaps of towering gopurams and exquisite carvings. The temple complex is humongous, and the compound accommodates a few smaller shrines with specific significance. You can participate in the daily rituals and festivals that speak of the bright spiritual atmosphere around the temple.
Distance From Thirupanjali Temple: 16 km
Timings: 6 AM – 12 PM , 4 PM – 8 PM
2. Jambukeswarar Temple
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Jambukeswarar Temple near Trichy is a temple of Lord Shiva, which was built nearly 1800 years ago by the Chola ruler, Kochenga Chola. The architecture is brilliant, and the intricately carved pillars with colourful frescoes of all Hindu gods and goddesses adorn it beautifully. The special abhishekam done with water in the sanctum is its main ritual. This Jambukeswarar Temple is said to be sacred and marked with a pleasing atmosphere and holy antiquity to attract many devotees and tourists.
Distance From Thirupanjali Temple: 14 km
Timings: 6 AM – 12 PM , 4 PM – 9 PM
3. Rock Fort Temple
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The Rock Fort Temple is located atop a huge rock formation in Trichy, which has fantastic views of the surrounding landscape. The ancient temple complex consists of Lord Shiva and a series of temples, including Ucchi Pillayar on top and Thayumanaswamy at the bottom. The marvels and unbeatable carvings on walls and an artistic blend of rock-cut and structural styles add up to its magnificence.
Distance: 20 km from Thirupanjali Temple
Timings: 6 AM – 8 PM
4. Pundarikakshan Perumal Temple
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Pundarikakshan Perumal Temple is one of the 108 Divya Desams dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The temple is situated in the village of Tiruchirapalli and has been famous for its stunning sculptures and intricate architecture presenting the artistic heritage credited to Tamil Nadu. The devotees come to the temple to get the boon of Lord Vishnu in the form of Pundarikakshan, who is said to be the epitome of good fortune.
Distance From Thirupanjali Temple: 5 km
Timings: 6 AM – 12 PM , 4 PM – 8 PM
5. Malayadipatti Perumal Temple
Photo: Thamizhpparithi Maari / Wikimedia Commons
The Malayadipatti Perumal Temple is a little cave temple with breathtaking ceiling paintings depicting various divine themes and stories of Hindu mythology. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva, the atmosphere is vibrant, and meditation here is considered to be relatively peaceful. It is a place apt for those ready to appreciate beautiful artistic expressions on the walls amidst peacefully serene surroundings.
Distance From Thirupanjali Temple: 50 km
Timings: 6 AM – 12 PM, 4 PM – 8 PM
Where To Stay
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Accommodation options near Thirupanjali Temple are plenty, catering to different preferences and budgets, making it easy for pilgrims and travellers. Several guesthouses and comfortable, mid-budget hotels exist where people can stay and visit the temple. You can prefer the basic comfort of Sri Ram Lodge, as it is a short walk to the temple and good for attending early morning prayers. Those needing more comfort could try other mid-luxury hotels, as they have air-conditioned rooms, room service, and other facilities to ensure a comforting stay.
Where To Eat
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Dining or drinking options are few around the Thirupanjali Temple, but there are several local joints with Tamil Nadu street food. Traditional food staples throughout this state are rice, sambar, and a variety of vegetarian preparations. There are meal services on auspicious days at the temple known as “Annadhanam.” The town contains many restaurants like Sarvana Bhavan, Hotel Anand, and Murugan Idli Shop to taste authentic South Indian dishes.
Other Factors To consider
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Best Time To Visit:
The best time to visit Thirupanjali Temple is during October and March. During these periods, the weather is good for outdoor activities and temple visits. The temperatures are not hot for tourists to view around the temple. Avoid visiting during the scorching heat periods between April and June.
Tips For Travellers:
- Carry water along since you have to walk across warmer areas.
- Be sure to wear comfortable and easy-to-remove footwear.
- You can visit the temple in the morning hours or late in the afternoon to avoid heat.
- Honour the local customs and traditions, as it makes a nice experience for the visitors as well as the community.
Thirupanjali Temple is one such place that creates a unique spiritual experience against the lush green landscapes of Tamil Nadu. An ancient temple for worship, it gives people a break from the daily rhythm of life, an abode for solace in the divine force. To seek spiritual enlightenment or explore the cultural aspects of Tamil Nadu, plan your trip with TripXL today.
Cover Photo: Ms Sarah Welch / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only