Tiruvekkaa Temple or Yathothkari Perumal Temple (also known as Sonnavannam Seitha Perumall) is a Hindu temple in Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu, devoted to the Hindu god Vishnu. The temple, built in the Dravidian architectural style, is honored in the Naalayira Divya Prabandham, an early medieval Tamil canon of Alvar saints from the 6th to 9th centuries CE. It is one of the 108 Divya Desams devoted to Vishnu, also known as Yathothkari Perumal, and his spouse Lakshmi, Komalavalli. This is the second largest temple in south Kanchi, behind the Varadaraja Perumal Temple.
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- History/Legend of the Temple The Sri Yathothkari Temple is also known as Thiruvekka Temple or Sri Son Vannam Seitha Perumal Temple. There are two well-known legends associated with this shrine. According to the first legend, Goddess Saraswathi and Goddess Lakshmi had a disagreement about who had the most merit between the two. They went to Lord Indra since they couldn't resolve their disagreement. Lord Indra concluded that Goddess Lakshmi was the bigger of the two; nevertheless, Goddess Saraswathi was dissatisfied with the judgment and went to his better half Lord Brahma to seek a verdict. Lord Brahma also decided in favor of Goddess Lakshmi, declaring her the better in merit of the two, which enraged Goddess Saraswathi greatly. Meanwhile, Lord Brahma had to conduct an Aswamedhayaga in Kancheepuram to fulfill his desire to meet Lord Vishnu; but, because Goddess Saraswati was furious, Lord Brahma had to do the Aswamedhayaga without his spouse, which enraged Goddess Saraswati even worse. Goddess Saraswati sought to interrupt the Aswamedhayaga's progress by taking on the appearance of the Vegavathi river and attempting to drown it. Lord Vishnu accompanied Sri Deepaprakasar, Sri Velukkainathar, Sri Ashtabujar, and Sri Yadokthakar in an endeavor to prevent disturbances to Lord Brahma's Aswamedhayaga. In his final incarnation, Sri Yadokthakar, Lord Vishnu lay down on his serpent couch before the Vegavathi river.
- Name of the Deities Yathothkari Perumal (Sonna Vannam Seitha Perumal) & Komalavalli Thayar.
- Nearby Cities and Distance Chennai (Tambaram) (50.1 km). Vandavasi (40.6 km). Vellore (72.3 km).
- Mode of Transport(from the nearest city) Car. Bus. Train. Bike.
- Duration (from the nearest city) Chennai (Tambaram) 1 hr 3 min.
- Estimated cost of the travel (from the nearest city) car,auto,bus... Car- Rs.2000 - Rs.2500. Bus - Rs.100-Rs.150. Train - Rs.50-Rs.100.
- Temple Instructions Devotees should dress in traditional clothing.
- Special Days and Special Happenings There are weekly, monthly and fortnightly rituals performed in the temple. Aipassi Thiruvonam, the birth star of Poigai Azhwar, is celebrated every year. Brahmotsavam celebrated during the Tamil month of Panguni (April - May) is the major festival of the temple. To indicate the legend of Kanikannan, the festive image of Yathothkari, Tirumalisai Azhwar, and Kanikkannan are taken in procession to Orikkai village to have a short stay during the Thai Magam festival celebrated during the Tamil month of Thai (January - February). Azhwar Utsavam is a festival celebrated annually during the birth date of the Poigai Azhwar based on the Tamil calendar in the temple.
- Rituals Available Not Available.
- Offerings Devotees are fulfilling Perumal and Thayar's requests by doing a Thirumanjanam (holy bath).
- Prasadham Neivathanam will be offered as prasadham to devotees.
- Benefits of Visiting It is said that this Perumal was particularly courteous and accommodating to his followers' needs. As a result, people believe the Lord will answer their prayers and grant their wishes.
- Is this temple a Paadal Petra Sthalam? No
- Who Sang | Song and its Meaning | Year No
- Other things to do / places of interest Varadaraja Perumal Temple (1.5 km). Sri Kanchi Kamakoti Peetam (3.1 km). Ashtabujakaram Perumal Temple (350 m). Shakunthala Jagannathan Museum (3.6 km). Kanchi Kudil (3.1 km).
- Nearby Temples Pavaala Vannam Perumal Temple. Kailasanathar Temple. Ekambareswarar Temple. Ulagalantha Perumal Temple. Deepa Prakasa Perumal Temple.
- Nearby Eateries Sri Saravana Bala. MATHURAM. Hotel Sri Saravan. Chakra Restaurant. Maithreyae Tiffen Center.
- Hotels / Home stays: Gayathri Stay. T.M. INN HOTEL. SBK PARK INN. TCS Residency. SSK Residency.
- Standard Weather Wet and dry climate. The weather in Kanchipuram is generally hot and humid.
- For the best experience / Must know The temple is regarded as the birthplace of Poigai Alvar, one of the first three Alvar saints. He was discovered in a tiny pond near the shrine. The temple and pond are consequently deemed holy because they are the saint's birthplace.
- Not to miss This Perumal is discovered in the Sleeping posture, from right to left. This stance is quite rare and represents His compassion for devotees, implying that He is easily accessible.
- Note for Travelers By Air- Chennai is the nearest airport, about 80 Km from Kanchipuram. By Rail - Kanchipuram railway station is only a few kilometers from the temple. By Road - Kanchipuram town is well connected by road to other cities and towns. Local transport is available in plenty.
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FAQ's
How to reach Sri Yathothkari Temple?
Sri Yathothkari Temple is about 3 km from the Kancheepuram central bus stand, there are regular buses plying from Chennai to Kancheepuram.
Can I visit the temple during festivals?
Yes, visiting during festivals like Vaikunta Ekadashi, Panguni Uthiram, and Purattasi Saturdays provides a spiritual and cultural experience. However, expect large crowds during these special days.
Is there parking available at the temple?
Yes, there is limited parking space available near the temple for visitors coming by car. It's advisable to arrive early on peak days to secure a spot.
What is the significance of the temple?
The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is considered to be an important site for Vaishnavites. The deity here is called Yathothkari, and the temple is famous for its unique legend that connects the deity with Lord Vishnu’s intervention during an ancient time.
What are the temple timings?
The temple is typically open from: Morning: 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM Evening: 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM These timings can vary on special days, so it’s advised to check with the temple directly or through local sources.
Is there any entry fee to visit the temple?
There is no entry fee to visit the temple. However, donations are accepted for the upkeep of the temple.
What is the best time to visit the temple?
The best time to visit the temple is during the cooler months, from November to February. Special festivals like Vaikunta Ekadashi and Tamil New Year are also significant times to visit the temple as the temple attracts a large number of devotees during these events.
Can non-Hindus visit the temple?
Yes, non-Hindus are allowed to visit the Sri Yathothkari Temple. However, it is important to be respectful of the customs and rituals followed within the temple premises.
Are there any rituals for devotees seeking marriage blessings?
Yes, devotees often perform special prayers and rituals in the temple for blessings related to marriage. It is common to offer prayers to Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi for a happy married life.
