Thirunarayur Divyadesam: Nachiyar Koil – Where Perumal Blesses in Five Forms & the Marvel of Kal Garudan

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• December 29, 2025
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Feature Snippet Summary: Thirunarayur Divyadesam, popularly known as Nachiyar Koil or Nachiyar Kovil, is one of the 108 Divya Desams dedicated to Lord Vishnu, located near Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu. It is uniquely significant as it is the only Divya Desam where the Goddess (Vanamamalai Thayar or Nachiyar) holds primary importance over the Lord (Thirunarayur Nambi). The temple is also famous for its presiding deity, Lord Vishnu, blessing devotees in five distinct forms and for the miraculous Kal Garudan (stone Garuda) idol that changes weight.

The Pre-eminence of the Goddess: Nachiyar Koil

Unlike most Vaishnavite temples where the Lord is central, at Thirunarayur, the Goddess Vanamamalai Thayar (Nachiyar) holds the primary position. All initial offerings and respects are paid to her first, even the Utsavar (processional deity) is taken out with the Nachiyar leading. This unique tradition gives the temple its popular name, “Nachiyar Koil,” meaning “The Temple of the Goddess.”

The Legend of Vanjuravalli (Vanamamalai Thayar)

According to the Sthala Puranam, the sage Medhavi performed severe penance here, wishing for Goddess Mahalakshmi to be born as his daughter. Lord Vishnu granted his wish, and Goddess Mahalakshmi emerged from a lotus pond as Vanjuravalli. Lord Vishnu, captivated by her beauty, came to Thirunarayur to marry her, and the divine wedding took place here. As the Goddess was born to a human, she is revered with great respect.

The Lord’s Five Divine Forms: Pancha Murthy Darshanam

Lord Vishnu, here known as Thirunarayur Nambi, blesses devotees in an extraordinary manner. Devotees can witness the Lord in five different forms within the temple complex:

1. Srinivasa Perumal: The main deity (Moolavar).
2. Thirunarayur Nambi: The Utsavar (processional deity).
3. Vyuha Avatars: Sankarshana, Pradyumna, Aniruddha, and Purushottama – these four forms collectively signify Lord Vishnu’s cosmic manifestations.

This unique Pancha Murthy Darshanam offers a comprehensive spiritual experience to pilgrims.

The Miracle of Kal Garudan (Stone Garuda)

One of the most astonishing features of Thirunarayur is the idol of Kal Garudan (Stone Garuda). This stone idol of Lord Garuda is believed to possess divine powers and exhibit a miraculous property:

• Changing Weight: During processions, the idol of Kal Garudan is carried out of its shrine. It is said that as it moves from its sanctum, through the temple corridors, and out to the streets, its weight miraculously increases or decreases.
  • Initially, inside the shrine, only 4 people are needed to carry it.
  • As it moves to the Vasantha Mandapam, it requires 8 people.
  • Further outside, at the main entrance, 16 people are needed.
  • When it reaches the outer perimeter, up to 32 or even 64 people may be required to carry it.
  • The reverse happens when it returns to its shrine, gradually reducing in weight.

This astounding phenomenon draws thousands of devotees, especially during the Kal Garudan Sevai festival, typically observed during the Tamil month of Panguni (March-April) and the Brahmotsavam.

Plan Your Pilgrimage to Nachiyar Koil with Saneeswaratemple.com

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• Specialized Itineraries: Crafted to ensure you experience the unique rituals and legends of Nachiyar Koil.
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• Knowledgeable Support: Our guides provide insightful commentary on the temple’s history and significance.
• Seamless Experience: From booking to darshan, we handle all logistics for a worry-free pilgrimage.

Discover the marvels of Nachiyar Koil! Visit Saneeswaratemple.com or RenghaHolidays.com to find your ideal Divya Desam tour package.

Temple Timings:

• Morning: 7:00 AM – 12:00 PM
• Evening: 4:00 PM – 8:30 PM

Location: Thirunarayur, about 10 km southeast of Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu.

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