Older Than Srirangam: The Divine Abode of Thiruvellarai Sri Pundarikaksha Perumal Temple | Pilgrimage Guide

HOME | Older Than Srirangam: The Divine Abode of Thiruvellarai Sri Pundarikaksha Perumal Temple | Pilgrimage Guide
Thiruvellarai – Sri Pundarikaksha Perumal Temple

Did you know there is a temple near Trichy that is believed to be older than the mighty Srirangam Ranganathaswamy Temple?

Welcome to Thiruvellarai, the sacred abode of Sri Pundarikaksha Perumal (Lord Vishnu with lotus-like eyes). Located just 20 km from Trichy on the Thuraiyur road, this temple is a prominent Divya Desam steeped in ancient history, astounding architecture, and immense spiritual power.

Known as “Swethagiri” (White Hill), visiting this temple is considered spiritually equivalent to visiting Srirangam itself.

If you are planning a Divya Desam pilgrimage around Trichy, Thiruvellarai is an unmissable stop.


πŸ›• Quick Temple Snapshot

(This section is optimized for Google Featured Snippets – “Thiruvellarai Temple Facts”)

FeatureDetails
Presiding Deity (Lord)Sri Pundarikaksha Perumal (Standing Posture, facing East)
Goddess (Thayar)Sri Pankajavalli Thayar (Separate shrine)
Unique SignificanceBelieved to predate the Srirangam temple; A “Parihara Sthalam” for marriage and child blessings.
Key AttractionThe ancient, architecturally unique Swastika Well inside the complex.
LocationThiruvellarai village, approx 20-25 km from Trichy, Tamil Nadu.
Temple Timings07:30 AM – 01:00 PM
Official Tour Partnersaneeswaratemple.com (Sister concern of Rengha Holidays)

The Legend of the “White Hill” (Swethagiri)

The name Thiruvellarai translates to “Sacred White Rock.” According to legends, in the Treta Yuga, the great Emperor Sibi Chakravarthy brought 3700 Vaishnavite families from the north to settle here and built this temple. However, one family died during the journey. Lord Vishnu himself appeared in the guise of a Brahmin to complete the count of 3700, demonstrating that He is one among His devotees.

This temple is also where Markandeya Maharishi and Goddess Bhoomadevi performed penance to attain the grace of Lord Vishnu.

Why is it considered older than Srirangam?

While Srirangam is the first Divya Desam in the list, historical and mythological accounts suggest that the consecration of the idol at Thiruvellarai happened before Lord Rama worshipped the Ranganatha idol that eventually reached Srirangam.

Architectural Wonders: The Fortress and the Swastika Well

The temple looks like a fortress from the outside, with massive, high granite walls.

  • The Unfinished Gopuram: The main Rajagopuram was left unfinished for centuries and was finally completed recently.
  • The Swastika Well (Maamiyar-Marumagal Kulam): Inside the temple complex lies an architectural marvelβ€”a well built in the shape of a Swastika. It is designed such that people bathing in one corner cannot see people in the other corners. It is a stunning example of ancient Indian engineering.

πŸ•‰οΈ Experience Thiruvellarai with saneeswaratemple.com

Thiruvellarai is located slightly off the main city limits of Trichy. While public transport is available, it can be infrequent and time-consuming for pilgrims trying to cover multiple temples in a day.

Make your pilgrimage seamless and stress-free.

saneeswaratemple.com, the dedicated sister concern of the renowned Rengha Holidays, offers specialized spiritual tour packages that include this ancient temple.

Why Choose Our Trichy Divya Desam Packages?

  1. Trusted Expertise: We are backed by Rengha Holidays, a household name in travel with over 20 years of experience in conducting pilgrimage tours.
  2. Comfortable Travel: The journey to Thiruvellarai is best enjoyed in our clean, air-conditioned vehicles with experienced drivers who know the route perfectly.
  3. The Complete Circuit: It is highly recommended to combine Thiruvellarai with other nearby Divya Desams like Srirangam, Uthamar Koil (Bikshandar Koil), and Anbil. Our packages are designed to cover these efficiently without rushing.
  4. Guide Assistance: Our knowledgeable drivers/guides can help you with temple timings and puja procedures.

Popular Recommendation: Ask for the Trichy Outskirts Divya Desam Package to cover Thiruvellarai and surrounding temples comfortably.


❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: How far is Thiruvellarai from Trichy central bus stand/railway station?

A: It is approximately 20 to 25 kilometers. A private cab ride usually takes about 45 minutes depending on traffic.

Q: Are there any specific prayers (Pariharam) performed here?

A: Yes, the temple is very famous for devotees seeking blessings for marriage alliances and child boon (santhana prapthi). Many couples visit here to pray to Pankajavalli Thayar.

Q: Is the Swastika well open to the public?

A: The Swastika well is located inside the temple premises. While you can view it, access down the steps for bathing is often restricted for safety and maintenance reasons.

Q: What is the dress code?

A: Traditional Indian attire is required. Men should wear Dhoti/pants with shirts (no shorts). Women should wear Saree, Churidhar, or Salwar Kameez.


πŸ™ Seek the Blessings of the Lotus-Eyed Lord

Step back in time and experience the serenity of one of the oldest Vishnu temples in South India. Let the team at saneeswaratemple.com (by Rengha Holidays) handle your travel logistics while you focus on your prayers to Sri Pundarikaksha Perumal.

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Om Namo Narayana.