There are instances where natural calamities alter the course of a landscape. In this case, a flood in river kollidam, destroyed the original temple which existed during the time when the thevaram hymns were sung. The original temple was initially situated 13 kilometers southeast of Chidambaram, along the northern bank of the Kollidam River. Following its destruction due to floods, the main deity, Paalvanna Nathar along with 'parivara devata's, were relocated to a newly constructed temple at Sivapuri, near (Tirunelvoyal). True to His name, the Linga of the main deity is as white as milk. Sage Vanmeeka has venerated and worshipped this deity.
The temple is prominently marked by its three-tiered Rajagopuram. Flanking the entrance are two 'Athikara Nandi' figures accompanied by their consorts. Notably absent is the customary Dwajasthambam within the prakaram, which contains sannidhis dedicated to Surya; the solar deity, Vinayaka, Kradha Murthy, Mahavishnu, Mahalakshmi, Subramanya, Kala Bhairava, and Chandra; the lunar deity. Advancing through an inner gate leads to a 'Mandap' where the 'dwarapalakas' can be observed. To the right of this mandap lies the south-facing sannidhi of the goddess Vedhanayaki. In the Nataraja Sabha, the divine form of Sivagami Ammai is depicted alongside two companions, positioned on a pedestal. The presiding deity is accessible for darshan within his sanctum, which is protected by Dwara Vinayaka and Dwara Subramanya. The main deity's linga, consecrated by sage Kapila, is characterized by its white color and a small 'Bana'. Its upper section is uniquely designed with a square shape that dips in the center, resembling a cup, where milk accumulates during the 'Abisheka' ritual, while all other 'Abishekam' rituals are performed solely for the 'Avudayar'.
Kapila Rishi, during his pilgrimage to various Shiva temples, reached this location which was formerly a tranquil forest of 'Vilva' trees, whose leaves are deemed sacred for Shiva worship. The sage crafted a shivalinga from white colored sand found in that area, which was enriched by the milk of grazing cows. This sand linga was later damaged by the hoof of a king's horse. When the distressed sage sought to replace the broken linga, Shiva and Parvati manifested before him, affirming that the linga, even in its fractured state, should remain as it was. They proclaimed that the divine cow Kamadhenu had blessed the sand with her milk, assuring that those who revere this linga would enjoy a fulfilling life. To this day, the white linga with the hoof made depression continues to be honored in the temple. Shiva and Parvati as a married couple is depicted behind the linga.
The figure of Kala Bhairava within this temple warrants particular attention due to its resemblence to the Bhairavar found in Kashi, and it is widely believed that offering worship to this deity yields benefits comparable to those derived from venerating the Kasi Bhairavar. The local community commonly designates this site as the Bhairava temple. Special rituals and poojas are conducted in honor of this deity on the eighth day following the full moon.
Tower
Nandi
Inside View
Dakshinamurthy
Lingothbhavar
Muruga,Valli, Deivanai
Dwarapalakas
Idols in Prakaram
View from prakaram
Gopura vimanam
Inside View
Kala Bhairavar sannidhi