Shri Thaanthondreeswarar Temple is a historic Hindu temple located in Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple is known for its unique name, which means “self-manifested” or “swayambhu” in Tamil. The main deity, Thaanthondreeswarar, is believed to have emerged naturally, making the temple a significant spiritual site. The temple features traditional Dravidian architecture with intricate carvings and a serene atmosphere, attracting devotees and history enthusiasts. It is a place of deep religious importance, where devotees seek blessings for prosperity and well-being.
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- History/Legend of the Temple Based on the sculptures, the temple was built during the 7th Century Pallava king Mahendravarman's period. Hope the original temple was intact till the 18th Century Sri Sivagnana Swamigal’s period was reconstructed not following any architecture or agama. The sad part of it is, that the walls are affixed with red color granite slabs, leaving space for the sculptures, spoiling the original temple in the name of renovation. These sculptures are identified by Mr Nagasamy, in 1970 and recorded in his book titled Damilica part-1. In that, he said these are the forms of Koothu or a street play called அகக்கூத்து & புறக்கூத்து. Mr Nadana Kasinathan, the then Director of the Archaeology Department also accepted the same view and records in his book titled, Art Panorama of Tamils. Later he changed his view and wrote in one his articles as Kapalika sculptures. The Kapalikas hold the horn and human skull as begging bowls. Both ladies and gents wear Yagnopaveetha /பூநூல் made of cloth and ladies wear big-size anklets. Lord Shiva appeared as Shiva Linga on his own to give mukti to all living beings. Hence called Thanthondreeswarar. As per the legend, Upamanniayar was born to Viagra Padar and Vashistar’s sister ( who got a boon from Lord Shiva with Tiger’s leg to climb trees to plug flowers to worship ). When he was at Vashistha Ashram, he had the opportunity of drinking Kamadhenu’s milk. When he returned to his father and mother he was disappointed for not drinking the Kamadhenu’s milk. On seeing Upamanniyar's disappointment, his mother advised him to go to Kanchipuram and worship Lord Shiva. After he came to Kanchi he started his penance on Lord Shiva. Satisfied with the penance, Thanthondreeswarar, Lord Shiva gave darshan in the form of Indra. Since Upamanniya Munivar couldn’t accept this, he tried to kill himself. Then Lord Shiva Appeared as Rishabaroodar and gave a boon of the real knowledge of God, to live young without getting old and immortal life, ie being exempt from death.
- Name of the Deities Lord Thaanthondreeswarar (Shiva) & Goddess Anandhavalli.
- Nearby Cities and Distance Chennai (Tambaram) (52.9 km). Vandavasi (43.6 km). Vellore (68.3 km).
- Mode of Transport(from the nearest city) Car. Bus. Train. Bike.
- Duration (from the nearest city) Chennai (Tambaram) 1 hr 6 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 Bath and wear clean attire before entering the temple premises. Avoid smoking or consuming alcoholic beverages within the temple premises. Do not consume non-vegetarian food within the temple area.
- Special Days and Special Happenings Somavaram (Mondays dedicated to Lord Shiva). Karthigai Deepam. Skanda Sashti. Maha Shivaratri. Annabishekam. Pradosham.
- Rituals Available Devotees often choose this temple for functions such as weddings, naming ceremonies, and special poojas, seeking the blessings of Lord Thaanthondreeswarar and Goddess Anandhavalli. To organize a family function at the temple, it's essential to coordinate with the temple authorities to discuss availability, specific requirements, and any associated rituals. They can provide detailed information on the procedures, facilities, and any necessary arrangements to ensure your event proceeds smoothly.
- Offerings Devotees can offer materials for the ritual bathing of the deity, known as Abhishekam. This typically includes items like milk, honey, coconut water, and sandalwood paste.
- Prasadham Neivethanam.
- Benefits of Visiting Some say that Sage Ubamanyu did penance at this temple and was blessed with the power to live forever and forever young. The temple is known for giving bangles as prasadam to pregnant women, believed to ensure safe childbirth and the well-being of the baby.
- 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. Sri Upanishad Brahmendra Mutt. Sri Kanchi Kamakoti Peetam. Nandi Temple. Thiru Nilathingal Thundam Temple.
- Nearby Temples Ekambaranathar Temple. Arulmigu Mrityunja Nathar temple. Arulmigu Sri Subramaniya Swami Temple. Arulmigu Pandava Thootha Perumal Rohini Star. Sri Kachabeswarar Temple.
- Nearby Eateries Sri Saravana Bala. Nithya Amirtham – Kanchipuram. Surya mess Kanchipuram. Dakshin Restaurant. Noble Dine. Shri Ramanaas.
- Hotels / Home stays: Chakravarthy Holidays. Hotel MBJ Inn. MM Hotels. Hotel Comfort Kanchipuram. SR ROOMS.
- Standard Weather Wet and dry climate. The weather in Kanchipuram is generally hot and humid.
- For the best experience / Must know Sage Agastya is believed to have worshipped here to balance the earth’s weight during Lord Shiva’s divine wedding at Mount Kailash. Special poojas related to Rishi Agastya’s blessings are performed in the temple.
- Not to miss The presiding deity, Thaanthondreeswarar (Shiva), is a self-manifested (Swayambhu) Lingam, meaning it appeared on its own without human intervention. This makes the temple spiritually powerful and sacred.
- Note for Travelers The temple is about 300 meters from Ekambaranathar Temple 1.5 meters from Kanchipuram Bus Stand, 2.5 Km from Kanchipuram Railway station, 28.0 KM from Arakkonam and 65 KM from Chennai. Nearest Railway Station is Kanchipuram and Railway Junction is Arakkonam.
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FAQ's
Where is Shri Thaanthondreeswarar Temple located?
Shri Thaanthondreeswarar Temple is situated in Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu, India.
What is the significance of the temple?
This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva in the form of Thaanthondreeswarar, meaning "self-manifested deity." It is a sacred place with deep spiritual and historical significance.
What is the history of the temple?
The temple is believed to have been built several centuries ago and has rich legends associated with its Swayambhu (self-manifested) Lingam. It is an important Shiva temple in Kanchipuram.
What festivals are celebrated here?
Major festivals include: Maha Shivaratri Pradosham Karthigai Deepam Arudra Darshanam Navaratri Panguni Uthiram
How to reach the temple?
By Road: Kanchipuram is well-connected by road with Chennai (75 km away) and other major cities. By Rail: Kanchipuram has a railway station with connections to Chennai and nearby towns. By Air: The nearest airport is Chennai International Airport, about 65 km away.
Can non-Hindus visit the temple?
Yes, non-Hindus can visit the temple, but certain inner sanctum areas may have restrictions.
Whom to contact for temple-related inquiries?
For details on poojas, festivals, or donations, you can contact the temple office or local authorities in Kanchipuram.
