The Shivalokathyagesar temple is oriented towards the east and features a five-tiered Rajagopuram. Directly opposite the temple is the Panchakshara Theertham, one of the eleven sacred water bodies linked to this site.
The entrance of the Rajagopuram leads to an armored dwajasthambam and a Nandi Mandap, followed by the Nootru-kaal-mandapam, which contains a sannidhi for Tirugyanasambandar and his consort Sthothra Poornambika, both beautifully depicted in their wedding attire. Beyond this mandap lies the east-facing sanctum of the presiding deity, Shivaloka Thyagesar, with the walls adorned by goshta murthas of Vinayaka, Dakshinamurthy, Lingothbhavar, Brahma, and Goddess Durga. Sri Runavimochanar and Sri Mahalakshmi are positioned on the western side of the prakaram surrounding the sanctum. Tiruneelakanda Yazhpaanar, Muruga Nayanar and Tiruneelakka Nayanar have revered this deity. The sannidhi of Tiruneetru-Umayammai resembles a separate temple, situated in the western outer prakaram, complete with its own entryway and surrounding prakaram. Uma Devi Herself bestowed 'Tiruneeru' upon guests at Tirugyanasambandar's wedding, earning her the title 'Tiruneetru Umayammai.' At her sannidhi, devotees receive tiruneeru instead of kumkum and applying this sacred ash is believed to enhance the longevity of their spouses (mangalya bhagyam). The wedding ceremony of Sambandhar is commemorated in the Tamil month of Vaikasi Moolam.
Namashivaya Tirupathikam - Tirugyanasambandhar, having received the consent and blessings of his parents, entered into marriage and subsequently visited the temple with his spouse, friends, and family. At the temple, a radiant beam of light marked the path, prompting Sambandhar to encourage those present to unite with the 'Shiva Jyothi'. Some were scared and hesitant about approaching the fire beam. In response, Sambandhar emphasized the sanctity of the 'Namashivaya' Mantra and sang 'Namashivaya tirupathikam'. Together with his spouse, he led everyone into the beam, facilitating their spiritual union and attainment of salvation. Tirunallur perumanam is venerated as the site where Sambandar, alongside Tiruneelakanta Yazhpanar, Muruga Nayanar, and Tiruneelakka Nayanar, achieved 'Mukthi' on the same day.
The bride of Sambandhar was brought to the wedding from the adjacent Nallur Village. The Sundara Kodanda Rama Temple in Nallur is an essential site for visitors, although it requires restoration. It is thought that lighting a ghee lamp and offering prayers can aid individuals suffering from astrological 'doshas,' particularly those concerning marriage.
The place where Gyanasambandhar's wedding happenned is located within the temple premises. Annually, on 'Vaikasi Moola', the wedding of Sambandhar is commemorated through the contributions of donors and devotees. The day's events commence with the Upnayana ritual in the morning, which is succeeded by the wedding ceremony and culminates in the union with the Shiva Jyothi.
5 tiered Gopuram
Vinayaka Sannidhi
Goodess temple entrance
Goddess Sannidi
Dakshinamurthy
Lingothbhavar
Runavimochanar
Mahavishnu
Inside view
Dwajasthambam
Nandi in front of goddess temple