Thirukkalukundram திருக்கழுக்குன்றம்

Thirukkalukundram திருக்கழுக்குன்றம் 

An exciting temple, with a very long history of existence, worship and more importantly visited and sung in praise by each  one of the four Saivite Greats.

A temple famous for its daily visit by an Eagle at 12 noon (though the Eagle has not been visiting of late it seems).

The temple structure itself is very complex with Two separate temple complexes, three ponds and a hill.

Vedagiriswarar temple is atop a small hill with 565 steps but is considerably taxing to climb. The steps are very steep and it is advisable to take regular breaks while climbing. Sponsors from the sixties have contributed to building the staircase leading to the temple, with neatly laid out steps and handrails making it safe for the devotees.

Temple atop the hill has a stunning view of hills and paddy fields around the town. The hill temple is small and reasonably well maintained though improvement works at the hill is always a challenge. Decent arrangements for water (Reverse Osmosis cured water) is available but there are no restrooms on the hill.


Lord Shiva and Parvati are in separate shrines. It is recommended to double check the temple timings before visiting the temple.

The temple complex in the mainland is that of Thripurasundari and Bhaktavathaleswara.  Each of the complexes are large and stunning. Granite work in the ceiling with intricate carvings and interlocked bindings are a treat to watch.


A whole complex with four large temple towers, one temple pond inside the temple, and two temple ponds outside the temple. The mega Pond Sanghu Tank is larger than proabably a football stadium  and is always full. The remarkable event around the temple is that once in twelve years a Shunk (Conch) emerges from this fresh water pond (Conches appear only in Saline water, one may know). The story behind the appearance of Conch in a freshwater pond goes like this.  ....

Markandeya who was to live only for 16 years visits some of the important temples of Lord Shiva, before the designated end nears. When  at the Pond (as his end is nearing) his Panchapatra disappears in the pond, depriving him of the opportunity to perform daily rituals, He prays to the Lord and a shunk raises from this pond for him to perform the rituals.  This day every twelve years witnesses rising of a conch, which are displayed in the temple. A true miracle indeed.

Thripurasundari Amman temple is also very interestng. The idol is not made of stone but with eight fragrances bound together. Abhishekams are performed only thrice in a year.   The Idol, her sanctum sanctorum and the corridor are stunning to look at.

There are innumerable interesting events and facts about the temple but that requires a full book to write.

All four saivite greats have sung in praise of LOrd, besides Arunagirinatha.   Not sharing their hymns here as there are too many.

In recent times  Late Dharmapuram Swaminathan, the inimitable Thevaram Singer has contributed to the events at the temple.

Temple pond inside the temple is very large, well maintained and beautiful.

The town, temple, hill, ponds are all beautiful. One must visit this place and spend quality time at the temple. You would need atleast eight hours for this temple.