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Virudhachalam Temple, or Virudhagiriswara Temple, is renowned as the temple for Lord Shiva and lies on the banks of the River Manimutharu and is estimated to be over 2000 years in existence. Virudhagiriswarar, the main deity of this temple, is the swarup of Lord Shiva, and the idol is of Swayambumurthy. The goddess in this temple is worshipped as Viruddhambikai or Balambikai. The place is considered holy and is included in an anthology of Tamil hymns composed by three saints of the Saivite canon. A Vanni Tree also grows within this temple, and it is believed to be about 1700 years old.
Quick Facts
Virudhachalam Temple Address: Arulmigu Virudhagiriswarar Temple, Virudhachalam, Cuddalore, Tamil Nadu 606001
Virudhachalam Temple Timings: 6 AM – 12 PM, 4 PM – 8 PM
Architecture: Dravidian-style
Features: Five tirthas, five prakaras, and five flagstaffs
Best Time To Visit: November to March
Virudhachalam Temple Entry Fee: None
How To Reach Virudhachalam Temple
Photo: Aditya Doliya / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Virudhachalam Temple is situated in the city of Virudhachalam under the Cuddalore district of Tamil Nadu. The temple is easily accessible through the main roads, like the Chennai-Nagapattinam Highway.
By Air: Tiruchirappalli International Airport is 120 km away. You take a cab or a bus to the Virudhachalam village from here.
By Rail: The temple is about 2 km from Virudhachalam railway station, which connects the town with all cities of Tamil Nadu. From the railway station, onward transport can be hired for a taxicab or an auto to the shrine.
By Road: Public buses frequently travel to Virudhachalam from its nearest cities. The nearest bus station is 1 km from the temple.
Things To Do In Virudhachalam Temple
Visitors can explore the temple closely for an enriching and memorable experience.
1. Examine The Art And Architecture
Photo: Gautham Arcot / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
At the temple, you can experience the beauty of the Dravida architecture, the carving of the numerous pillars, and the tall Raja Gopuram, which is more than 150 feet tall. The temple dedicated to Lord Shiva has several stone carvings that illustrate beautiful mythology and Tamil sculptures. You should explore the Maha Mandapam, where the Dwarapalakas are carved in great detail. One more interesting thing is a Vinayaka figure carved in the form of a warrior along the Lingodbhava statue, showing the formless aspect of Lord Shiva. All of these are significant highlights that prove this temple’s cultural and artistic wealth.
2. Engage In Rituals And Festivals
Photo: Lara Jameson / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Virudhachalam Temple is not only famous for its structure but also for the live rituals and festivals that take place, most commonly during Maha Shivaratri and Thirukarthigai. Participating in the Shiva Lingam Abhishekam is held every day, followed by mantras and offerings as the spiritual ambience goes up. During festivals, a special event takes place, which is called Rathotsavam, wherein a chariot with the idol of the god is pulled around the temple. Devotees dance and sing in the temple, accompanied by other rituals. At these times, it becomes possible for one to enjoy the faith and splendour that are fundamental to the temple culture of Tamil Nadu.
Places To Visit Around Virudhachalam Temple
You can visit other places after visiting the temple since this place represents cultural and historical wealth within that region.
1. Devanathaswami Temple
This temple is located in the heart of Kuthanur and is a fine structure with great architectural beauty and a serene ambience dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The devout Vaikunta Ekadasi is celebrated here and is attended by thousands of pilgrims. It was the Chola dynasty that had established it, though Pandyas and later even the empires of Vijayanagara added to and developed it. The history of the temple is closely linked with legends of Hindu mythology. For ages, kings and queens patronised it, such that they left a mark on architectural greatness to stand firm for all time.
Timings: 6 AM – 12 PM, 4 PM – 8 PM
Distance: 60 km
2. Silver Beach
Photo: Karthik / Wikimedia Commons
Silver Beach is located at Cuddalore and is one of India’s longest beaches. This is an old place in terms of its historical and cultural value. People inhabited this area for ages; there were ruins from the Chola and Pandya dynasties. The long stretch and the crystal-clear water here attract people to spend some time relaxing amidst nature’s beauty, and it has become one of the favourite holiday destination spots for tourists all through India. The tranquil atmosphere, coupled with water sports and exquisite seafood, makes it ideal as a family destination as well as one for adventure seekers.
Timings: 24*7
Distance: 60 km
3. Pichavaram
Photo: Ashwin Kumar / Wikimedia Commons
Pichavaram is counted as an excellent place with dense mangrove forests and pristine backwaters. The destination is too elitist for eco-tourism. Boating through mangrove jungles lets the Pichavaram visitors directly witness the diversity and beauty of the forest. There are the scenic waterscape and the backwater trips inside the Pichavaram and over 400 water routes that the boaters can explore. It’s also a good place for birdwatching, which includes species like flamingos, pelicans, and herons found in the forest. The best time to visit this place is from October through March.
Timings: 8 AM – 5 PM
Distance: 60 km
4. Samiyar Pettai Beach
Photo: Jeremy Ricketts / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Samiyar Pettai Beach, a quaint coastal place with breathtaking views of coconut trees and streams, is situated in the Cuddalore district in Chidambaram Taluk. Apart from the beaches, there is also the famous Shri Pinnai Vazhi Amman Temple, which is known for its importance alongside the Cuddalore coastline. It is an ideal place for introspection or wholesome family activities. The beach is more renowned for exceptional sunrises and sunsets, which colour the skies in shades of pink and orange. You can engage with the local fishing community with the many boats; you can see them early in the morning bustling about with their work.
Timings: 24*7
Distance: 50 km
5. Poompuhar Beach
Photo: David Di Veroli / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Poompuhar is a quiet beach located at the mouth of the Kaveri River. Enjoy the sunset, take a leisurely walk, and savour local seafood delicacies available at nearby shacks. It used to be an ancient town, as it was also the seaport town as well as the early capital of the kingdom of the Cholas. You can experience the culture, sea beaches, and a beautiful scenic view of Kaveri meeting the sea. On the opposite side of the northward Kaveri River and towards Neithavasal, it is almost 3 kilometres away. The sand stretches to 3 kilometres along this beach.
Timings: 24*7
Distance: 80 km
Where To Stay
Photo: peterweideman / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
All types of accommodations exist to suit the budget and taste of the visitors who are on their way to the Virudhachalam Temple. The budget tourist can find very convenient accommodation at Hotel Virudhunagar, offering basic facilities like clean rooms with necessary services. It is conveniently located near the temple and other places of tourist interest. For a luxurious experience, Hotel Kavery and Hotel Royal Palace are available, 2–5 km from the temple, with fine dining and beautiful interior design, giving the guests an opulent experience. Their accommodation is well-equipped and amply furnished to provide maximum comfort and luxury, along with top-of-the-line amenities close to the religious and cultural richness of Virudhachalam.
Where To Eat
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There are local eateries and hotels around the Virudhachalam Temple. A vegetarian hotel called Saravana Bhavan serves dosas, soft idlis, and traditional thalis for a true taste of South Indian food. The other place is Kumar’s Kitchen. At Kumar’s Kitchen, savour delicious South Indian delicacies, especially Chettinad specials like chicken curry and fish fry, for that savoury appetite.
A quicker bite to take out can be ordered at the many small cafes and stalls that Virudhachalam offers; filter coffee and crispy vadas make them much more appealing with a host of sweets.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Khachik Simonian / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Best Time To Visit:
The best time to visit Virudhachalam temple is from November to March, as it is cool and is a particularly suitable time for temple visits and sightseeing. During these months, this temple complex can be viewed along with other attractions readily available close by, as temperatures prevail between 20°C and 30°C. On top of this, multiple festivals are scheduled on these premises within this period, creating an enabling environment for all the worshippers as well as visitors.
Average Cost Of The Trip:
A weekend trip to Virudhachalam can cost between ₹2,000 and ₹5,000 per person or more, depending on varied factors such as transportation costs, lodging, and all meals. This budget includes a comfortable stay while exploring around the temple.
Every aspect of Virudhachalam temple, be it history, art, or spirituality, engages you in a deep and immersive experience. Whether you are a religious person or a lover of history, any tourist can find this ancient temple of Shiva worth visiting and appreciate its religious values and beliefs. Feel the fervour of devotion in South India and plan your trip with TripXL before you miss the upcoming festivals to celebrate in Tamil Nadu.
Cover Photo: Ssriram mt / Wikimedia Commons
