Achalpuram Shivaloka Thyagarajar Temple, Chidambaram - Timings, History, Darshan, Pooja Timings

At a distance of 15 km from Chidambaram, Achalpuram Shivaloka Thyagarajar Temple is a Hindu temple located at Achalpuram in the Mayiladuthurai district of Tamil Nadu, India. It is one of the prominent places to visit in Chidambaram.

Achalpuram Shivaloka Thyagarajar Temple is a revered site dedicated to Lord Shiva, who is venerated here as Shivaloka Thyagarajar. Renowned sages such as Vashishta, Kakabujandar, Viswamithra, Jamadagni, Dhurvasa, Brigu, and Manthatha are said to have been granted a vision of Shivalokam (Kailash darshan) following their intense penance at this location hence the deity of this temple is honored as 'Sri Shivalokathyakar.' This temple is recognized as one of the 276 Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams, glorified in the early medieval Tevaram hymns composed by the Tamil Saivite Nayanar Tirugnanasambandar, and it is the 5th Shiva Sthalam situated on the northern bank of the Cauvery River in Chozha Nadu (Vadakarai).

Historically, this area was known as 'Nallur Perumanam,' with Nallur being the village from which Saint Gnanasambanthar's bride originates. The term 'Perumanam' or 'periya thirumanam' translates to 'big wedding' in Tamil. It is believed that Saint Thirugnanasambanthar achieved salvation (mukthi) at this site during his wedding, along with the entire assembly present. Thus, this temple uniquely features Thirugnanasambanthar alongside his wife. Other saints, including Thiruneelakanta Yazhpanar, Madhanga Soodamani, Tiruneelanakka Nayanar, and Muruga Nayanar, are also said to have attained salvation here.

The temple is impressively oriented towards the east and features a five-tiered Rajagopuram. The main sanctum contains the lingam, which is encircled by a gold serpent worshipped as Sri Shivaloka Thyagarajar, alongside his consort Goddess Parvathi, known as Umai Ammai. Adjacent to the tower, one can find the Nanda Mandapam and the 100 Pillar Mandapam. In the 100 Pillar Mandapam, Saint Sambandar is depicted in a wedding posture with Stotra Poornambikai. The annual commemoration of Sambanthar's wedding, during which the entire assembly was blessed by Thiruveneetru Ammai and attained salvation, takes place on the Moolam star day in the Tamil month of Vaikasi.

Worshiping Lord Rina Vimochanar, a manifestation of Lord Shiva, here is thought to alleviate all debts and eliminate barriers to marriage proposals. Additionally, it is believed that individuals desiring 'santhana prapthi,' or the blessing of children, may offer their prayers to this deity.

Timings: 6 AM - 12 PM & 4 PM - 8 PM

Entry: Free