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Ponmalai Nathar Temple in Thiruvannamalai

Let's take a virtual tour of this unique temple in Thiruvannamalai and know of its great history.

By Siji Ram

The Ponmalai Nathar Temple, or the Kanagagreeswarar Temple, is located at the foothills of Ponmalai or Kanagachalam in the town of Devikapuram in Tamil Nadu. Erected at a height of 500 metres above sea level, this 1000-year-old temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is said to have been built during the period of the Chola dynasty.

Legend Behind the Temple's Existence

There's an interesting legend behind the existence of the Ponmalai Nathar Temple. Once a villager named Irula was digging the forest to collect roots, his axe accidentally hit a 'lingam' beneath, after which he fell unconscious due to his sinful act.

Later, the God appeared in his dream and conveyed the message that "He" is present inside the pit. Irula then found the lingam and placed it atop the hillock and started worshipping it.

Know More About Shiva Temples In Tamil-NaduKnow More About Shiva Temples In Tamil-Nadu

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Following this incident, a Pallava King, who crossed the path with his army, came to know of the deity being worshipped at Ponmalai, prayed and vowed to build a temple where the lingam is installed, if he comes victorious. However, there are no clear evidences of the construction of the temple.

Shrines Worshipped In The Temple

Apart from the Shiva Linga, the temple also includes other deities like the Nandi, the bull vehicle of Lord Shiva, Lord Vinayaka, Muruga, Dakshinamurti, Chandikeswara, Agora Veerabhadra and the Saptha Mathas.

Offering At The Temple

Devotees who come here to the temple to fulfil their wishes light ghee lamps, offer garlands, tender coconut, milk, oil, curd, etc. People believe that if the prayers are offered wholeheartedly and with deep devotion, their wishes will be fulfilled and they will be free of all the obstacles in life.

Chidambaram Temple In Tamil-NaduChidambaram Temple In Tamil-Nadu

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How to Reach the Ponmalai Nathar Temple

The temple is located around 50 km from Thiruvannamalai in Tamil Nadu. The nearest railway station to the temple is at Bolur; and the nearest airport is located at Chennai.

Hotels Near The Temple

Some of the best hotels and other stay options near the temple include Trishul Hotel, Arunai Lodge, Hotel Ramakrishna, Akash Lodge, Arunai Anandha, etc.

Other Temples in Thiruvannamalai

There are several other temples in Thiruvannamalai. Some of them are the Arunachaleswarar Temple, Kubera Lingam Temple, Pachiamman Temple, Anjaneyar Temple, Adi Annamalai Temple and Kali Amman Temple amongst the rest.

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