Aiyarappar Temple also known as Panchanadeeswarar Temple is a famous temple in Thiruvaiyaru. This ancient temple is a famous tourist attraction and an important cultural center in the region. The architecture of Aiyarappar temple reflects the craftsmanship and artistry of the Chola period. The temple complex includes intricately carved stone structures, towering gopurams (ornate entrance towers), mandapams (pillars), and shrines to various deities and holy water tanks. One of the most important features of the temple is its main sanctum (garbhagriha), dedicated to the presiding Lord Panchanatheeswarar. The outer walls of the temple are decorated with beautiful sculptures depicting mythological figures, celestial bodies and other deities. The intricate carvings bear witness to the rich heritage of ancient India and provide insight into Hindu religion and culture. The temple celebrates many famous festivals every year such as the Maha Shivaratri, Arudra Darshanam, Panguni Uthiram and Navratri. These festive events includes, special pujas, cultural performances and religious lectures that enrich the spiritual atmosphere of the temple area.

History of Aiyarappar Temple

This temple was built by King Rajaraja Chola I in the 10th century AD. According to legend, while hunting, the king came across a group of saints celebrating Lord Shiva. The king was impressed by their faith and decided to build a temple for them. He chose a place surrounded by five mountains and built a temple using the five lingams. Therefore, the temple was named "Panchanadeeswarar" meaning "Lord of the Five Lingas".

Speciality of Aiyarappar Temple

The Temple is said to be 1000 years old and the presiding deity will be fasting east which symbolizes enormous spiritual power and solace to the worshippers

Visiting time – 6.00 AM – 11.00 PM, 5.00 PM – 8.00 PM

Dress code

Ladies are suggested to wear only sarees, chudidhar, and kurtis. For Men Dhotis, shirt are preferred and trousers and short dresses should be avoided.

How to reach Aiyarappar Temple?

By Air – Trichy airport is the nearest to reach Aiyarappar Temple covering 75 km.

By Train – Tanjore railway station is the nearest to reach Aiyarappar Temple covering 14 km. Trichy railway station is also the best option to reach the temple which covers 60 km.

By Road - All road ways in Tamil Nadu are well- connected to reach Thiruvallur through NH67, NH45C, and NH226

FAQ

1. Is Brihadeeswarar temple near Aiyarappar Temple?

Brihadeeswarar temple is located just 14 km away from Aiyarappar Temple

2. What is thiruvayar music festival?

It is a five-day music festival, dedicated to the greatest saint composer of Carnatic music known as Tyagaraja.

3. Who is Tyagaraja?

Tyagaraja is the most prominent person who has the greatest hand in the southern Indian classical music. He has composed music and words of over 1000 kritis.

4. What are the five main rivers in Thiruvaiyaru?

Arisilaaru, Vennaaru, Vettaaru, Kudamuruttiyaaru and Kaaviriyaaru are the five main rivers in Thiruvaiyaru.

5. Who built Aiyarappar Temple?

Aiyarappar Temple believed that this temple was built by the queen of King Rajaraja Cholan in 10th century .