Arulmigu Sri Vilakkoli Perumal Temple is a prominent Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, located in Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu, India. This ancient temple is revered for its unique deity, Vilakkoli Perumal, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. The temple is believed to have been built during the Pallava dynasty and has significant historical and religious importance in the region.
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- History/Legend of the Temple The temple's legendary narrative centers on a quarrel between Goddess Saraswati and her spouse Lord Brahma. There was once a disagreement over who was superior among the two, Lakshmi or Saraswati. The judge was Indra, the monarch of the sky, and he declared Lakshmi the winner. Unable to accept the result, Saraswati consulted her husband Brahma, who agreed with Indra's decision. Saraswati suffered from severe heartburn as a result of this. When Brahma performed a severe penance for Vishnu and attempted to perform the Ashwamedha Yagya, Saraswati attempted to create hurdles and disturb the proceedings. But Vishnu came to Brahma's aid and removed the obstructions. It is also said that Saraswati sent demons to ruin the austerities, which halted all light and caused so much darkness all around. However, Vishnu is claimed to have appeared as a stream of light, restoring the brightness and enabling the defeat of the dark forces. Lord Vishnu, who appeared as light to drive away the evil powers, is known as Deepa Prakasar.
- Name of the Deities Vilakkoli Perumal (Deepa Prakasa Perumal) & Maragathavalli Thayar.
- Nearby Cities and Distance Chennai (Tambaram) (50.1 km). Vandavasi (39.7 km). Vellore (70.6 km).
- Mode of Transport(from the nearest city) Bus. Car. Train. Bike.
- Duration (from the nearest city) Chennai (Tambaram) 1 hr 19 min.
- Estimated cost of the travel (from the nearest city) car,auto,bus... Bus - Rs.50 to Rs.150. Car - Rs.1500 to Rs.2500. Train - Rs.20 to Rs.100.
- Temple Instructions Visitors should dress traditionally, with men wearing dhotis and women wearing sarees or salwar kameez. Maintain silent and observe temple decorum. Photography inside the sanctum may not be permitted. Devotees should seek blessings at Vilakkoli Perumal and Vedanta Desikan's shrines.
- Special Days and Special Happenings Purattasi Brahmostavam is the temple's largest festival, held between September and October. Vedanta Desikar receives a lot of attention in temple worship, ceremonies, and festivities. During Brahmotsavam, the Desikar idol is transported to the famed Varadaraja Perumal temple, where the saint worships the Lord. At the same time, the festival god of Varadaraja Perumal visits the Desikar shrine in this temple during the Varadaraja Perumal temple's Brahmotsavam, which takes place in Vaikasi.
- Rituals Available Weddings at the temple are conducted as per Hindu traditions, with priests performing rituals in the presence of the temple deity, Deepa Prakasa Perumal.
- Offerings Devotees offer fresh Tulasi leaves, garlands, and flowers as a sign of respect. Contributing to temple maintenance, Annadanam (food donation), and other humanitarian endeavors.
- Prasadham The Arulmigu Sri Vilakkoli Perumal Temple in Kanchipuram offers various prasadhams (sacred offerings) to devotees.
- Benefits of Visiting It is thought that Deepaprakasar, the personification of light, may bring knowledge, insight, and joy into people's life. Devotees often come here to pray for the blessings of their children and for academic success.
- Is this temple a Paadal Petra Sthalam? No
- Who Sang | Song and its Meaning | Year No
- Other things to do / places of interest Kanchi Kudil (1.5 km). Shakuntala Jagannathan Museum (2.8 km). Arunachala Nagar Park (2.6 km). Arignar Anna Memorial Park (1.8 km). Government Museum Kanchipuram (2.8 km).
- Nearby Temples Varadaraja Perumal Temple. Ulagalantha Perumal Temple. Yathothkari Perumal Temple. Ekambareswarar Temple. Kailasanathar Temple.
- Nearby Eateries Saravana Bhavan. Dakshin Restaurant (GRT Regency). Sangeetha Vegetarian Restaurant. Annalakshmi Restaurant. Sri Krishna Bhavan.
- Hotels / Home stays: Mahalakshmi Homestay. Saibaba Homestay. Selva Homestay. Linga Homestay. Mayura Homestay. Om Muruga Home Stay.
- Standard Weather Wet and dry climate. The weather in Kanchipuram is generally hot and humid.
- For the best experience / Must know The Arulmigu Sri Vilakkoli Perumal Temple (also known as Deepa Prakasa Perumal Temple or Thoopul Vilakoli Perumal Temple) is a revered Vishnu temple in Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu. It is one of the 108 Divya Desams (sacred Vishnu temples glorified in the Divya Prabandham by Alvars). The temple is particularly associated with Thirumangai Alvar and Vedanta Desikar, a great Vaishnavite scholar born in Thoopul, near the temple.
- Not to miss Arulmigu Sri Vilakkoli Perumal Temple, located in Kanchipuram, is a significant Vaishnavite shrine dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It is one of the 108 Divya Desams (holy temples) of Vaishnavism. The temple is known for its spiritual importance, especially for devotees seeking blessings for prosperity and health. The presiding deity, Vilakkoli Perumal, is believed to have granted divine light to the region. The temple also features intricate architecture and a serene ambiance, making it a popular destination for pilgrims. Don't miss the chance to experience the divine blessings and peaceful environment at this historic temple.
- Note for Travelers The nearest airport is Chennai International Airport, which is about 60.3 kilometers from the temple. The nearest railway station is Kanchipuram Railway Station, which is 3.1 kilometers away. Trains to Kanchipuram depart from Chennai Central, Chengalpattu, Bengaluru, and Tirupati railway stations. Kanchipuram is well-connected by roadways. There are frequent bus services from Chennai, Selam, Tirupati, and Bengaluru. The temple is 1.6 kilometres from the Kanchipuram bus station. Automobiles and personal automobiles are also accessible.
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FAQ's
Where is Arulmigu Sri Vilakkoli Perumal Temple located?
The temple is situated in Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu, India, a city known for its ancient temples and rich cultural heritage.
What is the significance of the temple?
The temple is one of the 108 Divya Desams, revered by the Tamil Alvars (saints). Lord Vishnu is believed to have appeared here to grant the prayers of the saint Pirati and to bless devotees.
What are the special festivals celebrated at the temple?
The temple celebrates several important Hindu festivals: Vaikunta Ekadashi: A major festival for Lord Vishnu. Pongal: The harvest festival is celebrated with special rituals. Sri Rama Navami: The birth of Lord Rama is celebrated with grandeur. Annamacharya Aradhana: This is dedicated to the composer of devotional songs, Annamacharya.
How to reach Arulmigu Sri Vilakkoli Perumal Temple?
By Air: The nearest airport is in Chennai, around 75 km away. By Train: Kanchipuram Railway Station is well connected to Chennai and other cities. By Road: Kanchipuram is well connected by road, and there are local buses and taxis available.
Are there any special rituals or poojas at the temple?
The temple conducts various poojas, including daily rituals, special abhishekams, and the celebration of major festivals. Devotees can also participate in offerings and donations to seek blessings.
Can devotees participate in the rituals?
Yes, devotees can participate in various rituals, including offering prayers and lighting lamps. Special poojas and offerings can also be arranged.
What is the dress code for visiting the temple?
Devotees are generally expected to wear traditional attire. Men should ideally wear dhoti or trousers, and women should wear sarees or salwar kameez.
What is the history of Arulmigu Sri Vilakkoli Perumal Temple?
The temple is believed to have been established by the great Alvar saint, Thirumangai Alvar, and is considered one of the important shrines for Vaishnavite worship. It is famous for its ancient architecture and divine presence of Lord Vishnu in the form of Vilakkoli Perumal.
Are there any facilities available for pilgrims?
The temple offers basic facilities like drinking water and a small area for pilgrims to rest. Accommodation is available in nearby hotels and guesthouses in Kanchipuram.
Are there any unique features of the temple architecture?
The temple architecture is traditional South Indian style, with intricately designed pillars, a large sanctum, and multiple shrines. The sanctum sanctorum is where the primary deity, Vilakkoli Perumal, is enshrined.
