Uchi-Natheswarar temple, Tiru-Nelvayal
Location: Tiru-Nelvayal
Deity known as: Uchi-Natheswarar
Female Deity: Kanakambikai
Pathikam: Sambandar - 1
Gallery – Uchinatheswarar Temple, Tirunelvayal
How to Reach
This Shiva temple is located in Sivapuri, near Chidambaram. From the entrance of Annamalai University campus, take a right onto the road leading to the temple, which is about 5 kilometers from the campus gate.
Temple Address
Tirunelvoyal
Sivapuri Post
Via Annamalai Nagar
Chidambaram Taluk
Cuddalore District
PIN – 608002
Temple Hours
Morning: 7:00 – 12:00
Evening: 4:30 – 7:30
Near by Temples
| 1 | Tiruvetkalam - 4 kms | |
| 2 | Tirukazhippalai - 300 m |
Location Map
Temple Layout
The Shiva temple features an east-facing five-tiered Rajagopuram. Beside the temple is a sacred pond known as “Krupa Samudram,” which serves as its theertham. Within the temple’s prakaram are sannidhis dedicated to Vinayaka, Subramania, Bhairava, the Pancha Lingas, and the planetary deities associated with Saturn and the Moon. After completing the customary circumambulation of the prakaram and entering the front mandapam, devotees will find sannidhis for the Navagrahas and the Palli Arai, the resting chamber of the deity.
After offering respects to the Dwarapalakas and passing through the inner entrance, the sannidhi of the Goddess can be seen on the right, where she stands in a graceful posture. The temple also houses a Nataraja Sabha, and the presiding deity is a swayambhu Linga, along with a depiction of Shiva and Parvati depicted behind it.
Significance
The presiding deity of this temple is known as “Uchchinatheswarar,” who is believed to have appeased the hunger of Tirugnanasambandar at noon. During his stay at Tiruvetkalam, Tirugnanasambandar is said to have visited this place regularly.
Saint poet Arunagirinathar has glorified the Muruga of Tirunelvayal. One of his Tirupugazh hymns is dedicated to this deity, who is depicted with a single face and four divine arms.
Daily rituals at this temple include the performance of the five kala poojas. During the festival of Vaikasi Vishakam, a procession of the Pancha Murthys is held.
The pathikam composed by Tirugnanasambandar is included in the 2nd Tirumurai.
Gallery – Uchinatheswarar Temple, Tirunelvayal
