Introduction

Located in Koliyanur, near Villupuram town, the Sri Valeeswarar Temple is an ancient Shiva temple with deep mythological, spiritual, and architectural significance. Believed to have been worshipped by Vali, the Vanara King of the Ramayana, this temple is renowned for its sacred ambiance, historical inscriptions, and rare deities. A must-visit site for devotees and heritage lovers alike.

Why Visit Sri Valeeswarar Temple?

• Mythological Significance: Lord Vali is said to have worshipped Shiva here for immense strength.
• Ancient Heritage: Originally built during Pallava times, later expanded by Chola and Vijayanagara dynasties.
• Spiritual Power: Known for granting strength, knowledge, and planetary relief to devotees.
• Unique Deities: Houses rare idols like Saptha Kannikas with Dakshinamurthy and a towering Ardhanareeswarar.

Key Features

• Main Deity: Lord Valeeswarar (Shiva) with Goddess Periyanayaki.
• Architectural Style: Pallava stone sanctum, west-facing vimana, Vesara brick superstructure, with mandapams and intricately carved koshta deities.
• Other Shrines: Lord Vishnu, Vinayaka, Muruga, Navagrahas, 63 Nayanmars, and more.
• Special Idol: Brass idol of Lord Vali near the sanctum, symbolizing his worship.

Historical Background

• Built By: Initially constructed by the Pallavas and later developed by Cholas and Vijayanagara kings.
• Inscriptions: Over 14 inscriptions from Rajaraja I, Rajendra Chola I, and Vikrama Chola speak of donations, endowments, and rituals.

Visitor Information

• Timings: 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM daily
• Phone Number: +91 4146 231159 / +91 94432 93061
• Entry Fee: Free
• Dress Code: Modest and traditional attire preferred

Festivals Celebrated

• Maha Shivaratri: Celebrated with great fervor and night-long abhishekams.
• Pradosham: Bimonthly rituals observed with special pujas.
• Kiruthigai, Amavasya & Pournami: Observed with Vedic chants and offerings.
• Aadi Thiruvilakku: Women participate with deep devotion and lighting rituals.

Location & Accessibility

• Address: Sri Valeeswarar Temple, Poonthottam Mettu Theru, Koliyanur, Villupuram – Tamil Nadu 605103
• Nearest Town: Just 1.7 km from Villupuram Railway Station and 200 meters from the old bus stand.
• Nearby Cities: 39 km from Tindivanam, 167 km from Chennai.

Closing Note

Sri Valeeswarar Temple is not just a place of worship, but a living heritage site rooted in the rich Shaivite traditions of Tamil Nadu. Whether you seek spiritual peace, architectural beauty, or mythological connection, this temple offers a profound and fulfilling experience for every visitor.