Thirupanjali Temple: Haven For The Soul In Tamil Nadu

Thirupanjali temple with a stone-carved sanctum and Dravidian architecture style

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

Thirupanjali Temple Location

: Thirupanjali Temple is a must visit destination for all pilgrims seeking a spiritual retreat

Photo: Jean-Pierre Dalbéra / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

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.

Suggested Read: Temples Near Tirunelveli

How To Reach Thirupanjali Temple

nside the courtyard Thirupanjali temple, offering a serene environment

Photo: Richard Mortel / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

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.

Things To Do At Thirupanjali Temple

Here listed are some of the things to do and experiences to have while visiting the Thirupanjali Temple:

1. Worship Lord Gneelivaneswarar

Inside the halls of Thirupanjali Temple, where you can worship Lord Gneelivaneswarar

Photo: Dileesh Kumar /Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

At Thirupanjali Temple, devotees can offer prayers to Lord Gneelivaneswarar, a self-manifested Shiva lingam. The sanctum radiates a powerful spiritual energy that attracts pilgrims seeking relief from personal struggles and blessings for peace and prosperity. Believed to be one of the 276 Paadal Petra Sthalams, it holds immense religious importance. Regular pujas, abhishekams, and sacred chants provide a deeply devotional atmosphere, making it a significant spiritual destination for followers of Lord Shiva.

Suggested Read: Shiva Temples In Tamil Nadu

2. Seek Blessings From Lord Yama

Image of special celebrations inside the Thirupanjali Temple

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Thirupanjali Temple is uniquely home to a shrine dedicated to Lord Yama, the god of death. Devotees visit this shrine to seek protection from untimely death and pray for long, healthy lives. It’s especially significant for people celebrating milestones like their 60th or 80th birthdays, during which special rituals are performed. This rare aspect of the temple adds to its spiritual depth, making it a place not just of worship, but also of life-affirming blessings.

3. Participate In Special Pujas

Indulge into special pujas at the temple, one of the ideal activities for spiritual tourists

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The temple is vibrant with special pujas during major Hindu festivals such as Vinayakar Chathurthi, Navaratri, and the Chithirai Brahmotsavam. These events bring a festive atmosphere with processions, music, and traditional rituals. Participating in these pujas allows devotees to immerse themselves in devotional service and community celebration. These auspicious occasions are believed to bring prosperity, remove obstacles, and bless devotees with spiritual upliftment, making visits during festival days especially rewarding.

Suggested Read: The Harvest Festival Of Tamil Nadu

4. Experience The Sapta Kanni Shrines

View of The Sapta Kanni Shrines inside the temple premises surrounded by greenery

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Thirupanjali Temple houses shrines for the Sapta Kannikas, seven celestial virgin goddesses, each symbolizing a divine feminine force. Worshiping these deities is considered especially beneficial for women seeking blessings related to fertility, marriage, and protection. The presence of these shrines within the temple complex adds a powerful Shakti element, drawing devotees who seek balance, health, and harmony in their personal lives. Their inclusion also reflects the temple’s holistic approach to spiritual well-being.

Places To Visit Around Thirupanjali Temple

After visiting the Thirupanjali temple, you should visit the following places to spend a productive and fulfilling day.

1. Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple

 Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple with grand Dravidian architecture

Photo: Adam Jones / Wikimedia Commons

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

Suggested Read: Ranganathaswamy Temple

2. Jambukeswarar Temple

Ancient temple structure of Jambukeshwarar temple with painted carvings and sculptures

Photo: Vinayaraj / Wikimedia Commons

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

Vibrant Rock Fort Temple on top of a massive rock formation with views of the city below

Photo: Ankushsamant / Wikimedia Commons

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. Visiting this temple is one of the best things to do in Tamil Nadu.

Distance: 20 km from Thirupanjali Temple
Timings: 6 AM – 8 PM

Suggested Read: Temples In Tamil Nadu

4. Pundarikakshan Perumal Temple

Pundarikakshan Perumal temple complex with the towering gopuram visible from behind

Photo: Ssriram mt / Wikimedia Commons

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

Perumal Temple’s cave-like structure made with stones in Malayadipatti

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

Suggested Read: Cave Temples In Tamil Nadu You Should Visit For A Spiritual Retreat

6. Uttamar Kovil

Uttamar Kovil, is one of the most famous places to visit near Thirupanjali Temple

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Uttamar Kovil, also known as Thirukkarambanur, is a unique temple where Lord Vishnu, Lord Shiva, and Lord Brahma are worshipped within the same complex—an exceptionally rare spiritual triad. Located near Srirangam, it’s steeped in mythology, believed to be where sage Uttanga received Lord Vishnu’s Sudarshana Chakra. The temple’s detailed sculptures, ancient Dravidian architecture, and peaceful riverbank setting create a powerful devotional experience. Unlike bustling pilgrim centers, Uttamar Kovil offers quiet divinity, historical depth, and a rare confluence of the Trimurti, making it a profoundly memorable visit.

7. Kallanai Dam

Kallanai Dam is one of the best places to visit around Thirupanjali Temple for all.

Photo: Beckamrajeev / Wikimedia Commons

Nestled in Tamil Nadu’s rich cultural landscape, the Kallanai Dam stands as a magnificent blend of engineering brilliance and natural beauty. Located just a short drive from the sacred Thirupanjali Temple, this ancient dam offers a refreshing and enriching experience for pilgrims and travellers alike. Whether you are drawn by the charm of nature, the marvel of age-old architecture, or the tranquil beauty of the surrounding landscape, a visit to Kallanai is sure to leave you in awe.

Distance From Thirupanjali Temple: 27.4 km
Timings: 7 AM – 6:30 PM

Suggested Read: Largest Lake In Tamil Nadu

8. Tropical Butterfly Conservatory

An amazing view of the Tropical Butterfly Conservatory in Tamil Nadu for travellers.

Photo: Balajijagadesh / Wikimedia Commons

If you’re journeying through the cultural land of Tamil Nadu, you’ll find a hidden gem waiting to enchant you, the Tropical Butterfly Conservatory. This vibrant oasis of colour and calm is a perfect destination for families, nature enthusiasts, photographers and anyone looking to reconnect with the beauty of the natural world. It is one of the largest butterfly parks in Asia where the air is filled with the soft flutter of delicate wings and the gentle hum of nature. It is one of the best places to visit in Tamil Nadu with family.

Distance From Thirupanjali Temple: 20.5 km
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM

9. Anna Science Centre

Anna Science Centre is one of the best places to visit near Thirupanjali Temple for all.

Photo: Mrsas1 / Wikimedia Commons

Anna Science Centre is a dynamic science park that is more than just an educational facility; it’s an interactive playground for the curious mind and a perfect stop for families and students. It is one of the most popular science museums in Tamil Nadu with a dome-shaped theatre that offers immersive shows about astronomy. Beyond the planetarium, the centre boasts numerous interactive science exhibits, covering topics such as energy, water conservation, ecology and physics. It is one of the best places to add to your Tamil Nadu travel guide.

Distance From Thirupanjali Temple: 25 km
Timings: 10 AM – 4:30 PM

Suggested Read: Royal Palace Museum

10. Puliancholai

Puliancholai is one of the best places for every nature lover to explore on their trip.

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Puliancholai is a hidden gem that combines scenic beauty, lush forests, and the calming presence of crystal-clear streams. Whether you’re a nature lover, a trekking enthusiast, or simply someone who craves peace away from the crowds, Puliancholai welcomes you with open arms and the gentle sound of flowing water. Puliancholai is best known for its tranquil waterfalls, natural rock pools, and untouched forested surroundings. The cool stream that runs through the area is not only soothing to the senses but also believed to have medicinal properties, thanks to the herbs and minerals from the hills.

Distance From Thirupanjali Temple: 56 km
Timings: 7 AM – 6 PM

Where To Stay

Accommodations  near the Thirupanjali Temple offer a variety of facilities according to tourists budget

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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.

Suggested Read: Enchanting Offbeat Hill Stations In Tamil Nadu

Where To Eat

Idli and vada served on a banana leaf over a silver plate with chutney and sambar

Photo: Harsha K R / Wikimedia Commons

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

 Image of the intricately carved top of the Thirupanjali Temple

Photo: Balajijagadesh / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

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.

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

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

Frequently Asked Questions

In the poojas and rituals, visitors can also participate, which are practised with great devotion here.
The temple here has only basic amenities like drinking water and bathrooms. However, it is advisable to carry all your supplies to make your visit comfortable.
It takes 30 minutes to an hour or two to thoroughly explore the temple and enjoy the surroundings.
Photography is allowed outside the sanctum sanctorum. You need to get permission to take pictures inside the temple.
Chithirai festival, Aipasi annabishekam, Karthikai deepam, Thiruvathirai, Ekadashi, Thai Theertha Vizha, Masi maha shivaratri, and Panguni uthiram are celebrated at the temple.
Yes, devotees can arrange for special pujas, homams (fire rituals), and birthday ceremonies by contacting the temple office in advance.
Photography may be restricted inside the sanctum and certain inner areas. Visitors should ask temple staff for permission before taking photos.
While the village itself has limited lodging, several hotels and guesthouses are available in nearby Trichy, which is well-equipped for pilgrims and tourists.
Thirupanjali Temple opens at 6:30 AM and is open till 1 PM. The temple reopens at 4 PM till 8 PM.
Thirupanjali Temple, near Trichy, Tamil Nadu, is dedicated to Lord Shiva as Panchanadeeswarar. Built during the Chola period, it reflects Dravidian architecture. The temple is historically significant for its ancient inscriptions and spiritual importance in Saivite traditions.
Thirupanjali Temple near Trichy is famous for its ancient Chola architecture, Lord Shiva as Panchanadeeswarar, and sacred rituals. It holds historical importance with inscriptions, spiritual significance in Saivism, and attracts devotees.
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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