Sri Abirameshwarar Temple – The Sacred Abode of Lord Shiva
Introduction
Perched near the GST (Chennai–Viluppuram) highway in Thiruvamathur, Viluppuram district, the Sri Abirameswarar Temple is a historic shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva (as Abirameswarar), with his consort as Manonmani Amman/Muthambigai. Celebrated as a Paadal Petra Sthalam in the 7th‑century Tevaram hymns, the temple features classic Dravidian architecture, a serene environment, and deep spiritual resonance.
Why Visit Sri Abirameswarar Temple?
- Ancient Shiva Temple : one of the 275 Paadal Petra Sthalams sung by Appar, Sambandar, and Sundarar
- Legendary Origins : cows were blessed with horns by Shiva here, giving rise to the name “Thiru–aa–mathur”
- Features : a majestic seven‑tiered east-facing rajagopuram and beautifully stacked mandapams
- Iconic twin‑shrines : Lord Shiva faces east and Mother Muthambigai faces west, gazing at each other through a perforated wall
- Hosts vibrant festivals : Maha Shivaratri (Masi/Feb–Mar), Navaratri(Purattasi/Sep–Oct), weekly/fortnightly/monthly rituals
Key Features
Temple Architecture: A spacious 2‑acre compound with concentric granite walls encloses the main sanctum, pillared halls, a Dwajasthambam, Bali Peedam and two Nandhis (one in a pit). The shrine of Abirameswarar houses a self‑manifested Shiva lingam; the separate Ambal shrine has its own five‑tier rajagopuram.
Unique Layout: The twin shrines of Shiva and Muthambigai face each other, symbolizing divine unity, with a small hole in the wall allowing views between the sanctums.
Ancient Inscriptions: Stone inscriptions credit contributions from Chola rulers (Rajaraja I, Kulothunga I, Rajendra III) and Vijayanagara king Achyuta Deva Raya. The site also honors Rajanarayana Sambuvaraya.
Tevaram Significance: Cited by Appar, Sambandar, Sundarar and later by Arunagirinathar — making it the 53rd Thevara Paadal Petra Sthalam.
Miraculous Legends: Rama is believed to have cleansed sin here using the Danda Theertham; Muruga is said to have received his Vel before battling Surapadma.
Visitor Information
Timings:
- Morning: 7:30 AM – 12:30 PM
- Evening: 5:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Entry: Free of charge. Donations welcome.
Dress Code: Modest traditional attire; footwear must be removed before entry. Observe temple etiquette.
Location & Accessibility
- Address: Sri Abirameswarar Temple, Thiruvamathur, Viluppuram District, Tamil Nadu – 605402
- Distance: ~7–8 km from Viluppuram via Gingee Road
- Nearest Transport: Viluppuram Junction (rail), Viluppuram Bus Stand; temple accessible by road.
Festivals & Rituals
- Daily Poojas: Three times daily (Kalasanthi, Uchikalam, Sayarakshai) with abhisheka, alangaram, naivethanam, deepa aradanai.
- Weekly & Moon-day Observances: Monday, Friday, Pradosham, Amavasai, Pournami, Kiruthigai, Chaturthi.
- Major Festivals: Maha Shivaratri (Masi) & Navaratri (Purattasi), celebrated with special poojas and cultural events.
Plan Your Visit
Whether you’re a devotee, spiritual seeker, or heritage traveler, Sri Abirameswarar Temple offers an uplifting and historic experience. Festivals are a vibrant cultural highlight, and off-festival visits promise peaceful reflection amid historic grandeur.
Contact & Additional Resources
Phone: 098420 22544
For Transport & Nearby Stay: Viluppuram offers lodges and hotels if you’re planning a spiritual road trip.
