Temple Layout - The Shiva temple occupies an extensive area of six acres along the banks of the Kuchasthalai River, surrounded by walls on all sides. It features a striking three-tiered Rajagopuram facing west, with two concentric prakaram encircling the sanctum. The outer prakaram is adorned with intricate stucco sculptures, while a dwajasthambam, balipeetam, and nandi are aligned with the western gateway and a small opening can be observed on the wall opposite the nandi.
Nearby, there is a separate sannidhi for Vinayaka. The sannidhi dedicated to the female deity is located on the southern side of the outer prakaram, where Goddess Giriraja Kannigai stands facing north, embodying the protective gesture of 'Abhaya Varatham.' Adjacent to her is the sannidhi for Subramanya, accompanied by his consorts Valli and Deivanai. An entrance opposite the female deity's sannidhi leads to the presiding deity's sanctum, where devotees first pay respects to Dwara Ganapati and Dwara Subramaniar before encountering the Navagraha sannidhi. Further exploration reveals the Urchava idols of Somaskandar, Chandrasekhar, Bikshadanar, and the Natarasa Sabha. Continuing through another gateway guarded by Dwarpalakas, one arrives at the sand-made Linga of the presiding deity and because of the composition, the 'Abhishekam' ritual is exclusively performed for the Avudaiyar.
The inner prakaram features numerous sannidhis dedicated to deities such as Shakthi Vinayaka, Subramanya, Pancha Linga, Mahalakshmi, Nataraja, Surya, Chandra, Bhairava, and Saptha Matha. Surrounding the sanctum, the wall is adorned with 'Goshta Murtha' representations of Vinayaka, Dakshinamurthy, Mahavishnu, Brahma, and Vishnu Durga, all depicted in seated positions except for Durga. Notably, Dakshinamurthy is illustrated with his right leg down and left leg folded, while Mahavishnu is shown with his left leg down and right leg folded, his right hand in the Abhaya Mudra, symbolizing reassurance, and his left hand resting on his thighs. Brahma is also seated, while the sculpture of Vishnu Durga stands elegantly, reminiscent of Krishna playing the flute, with one foot slightly bent and the other resting on Mahisha's head, creating a striking visual that captivates the observer.
Goshta Inages
Temple Legend - Thiruural, a site of spiritual significance, is named after pivotal historical occurrences. According to tradition, water was said to flow from the mouth of Nandi, the sacred bull, and emerge from the earth beneath the main deity. This location is associated with Veerabhatra's intervention in Daksha's yagna, an act that disrespected Shiva and ultimately led to Daksha's downfall. In his last moments, Daksha's exclamation of 'Oh' contributed to the name 'Thakkolam' for this area. Adjacent to the northern boundary wall lies the esteemed water source known as 'Sathya Ganga theertham,' located to the west of the Gangadharar shrine. This site is particularly important as it is believed that Nandi, following Sage Uthathi's guidance, channeled the Ganges' waters through his mouth. It is thought that even now, during periods of high water in the 'Kallaru' river, the water flows through Nandi's mouth, enhancing the mystical character of Thiruural.
3 tier Gopuram
Four primary Nayanmars
Natarajar Sabha
Dakshinamurthy
Ambal Sannidhi
Stucco sculptures
Subramanya with Valli and Deivanai