History:

is a temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu located in Thiruvaiyaru, a small town in the Thanjavur district of Tamil Nadu. It is one of the 108 Divya Desams, the holiest abodes of Lord Vishnu. This temple is located around 15 km from Thanjavur, a historically important temple town. The temple is believed to have been constructed by the Medieval Cholas of the late 8th century CE and its historical records are found in inscriptions dating back to the 12th century CE. The temple is believed to be of great importance as it is filled with various musical instruments like mridangam, thavil, nagaswaram, etc. The temple is also known for its large temple complex and numerous sculptural depictions of Hindu gods and Chola period inscriptions. Other than the main deity, Vaidyanatheswara (Lord Vishnu) other deities such as Vishnu's consorts, the Saptamatrikas and Lord Shiva in the form of Nataraja are also worshipped in the temple. According to legends, Lord Rama installed an idol of Lord Vishnu here and worshipped Him during his period of exile. Lord Vishnu is also believed to have healed Vaidyesha, a sage living in these parts. It is one of the best temple in TamilNadu which you must visit.

Facts:

Vaideeswaran Kovil is one of the most important temples of Lord Shiva in Tamil Nadu. It is located in Thiruvaiyaru in Thanjavur district. This temple is considered to be one of the 275 Paadal Petra Sthalams and is also renowned for its architectural beauty and sandalwood fragrance. History: The temple was built by the Chola King Kochengat Cholan in 1000 AD and is a fine example of the Chola style of architecture. The name “Vaideeswaran” is derived from its presiding deity, Lord Shiva, who has three eyes - the third one being “Vaidya” (the doctor). Lord Shiva is also known by the name “Vaidyanathar” or the “Great Doctor” in this temple. Special Features: The main deity in this temple is in the form of a lingam. There are two other sub-shrines dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Lord Ganesha. The main temple is surrounded by a mandapam which has intricately carved pillars and a temple tank on one side which is also said to have medicinal properties. In addition, special poojas are conducted during the Maha Shivaratri and Karthigai Deepam festivals. The annual festival of the temple, in the Tamil month of Margazhi (December-January), witnesses thousands of devotees from all parts of the country. Here are some facts about the TamilNadu temple.These facts will help you understand why it is oldest temple list of the best temples in TamilNadu

Worship Method:

The worship method of Vaideeswaran Kovil in Thiruvaiyaru follows the rules and rituals of the Saiva system of worship. According to Hindu mythology, Lord Shiva is worshipped in the form of Swayambhu Linga at this place. The priests usually perform Abhishekams for Lord Shiva in the early morning by using fresh and pure cow’s milk, sandal paste, turmeric paste, and other auspicious items. This is accompanied by chanting the verses from Thevaram and other hymns. The priests light the earthen lamps during the afternoon. After this, Thailam or oil-based body massage is conducted for Lord Shiva. The priests apply sesame oil and other herbal oils on the Shiva lingam. This is accompanied by more chanting of hymns. The priests then perform Archana for the God in which offerings such as flowers, sacred ash, fruits, curd, coconut, etc., are made to the god. Followed by this special poojas are performed followed by presenting Modakai (a sweet made of jaggery, rice flour, and ghee) to Lord Shiva. The priests then perform Naivedhya or offerings of non-vegetarian items, which are usually preferred during festivals. Panchamrutam, a mixture of five milk products is offered to Lord Shiva. The priests perform several other services during the evening which again involve the worship of Lord Shiva followed by Arathi or waving of lights in front of the deity. Aarti consists of different mantras recited in praise of Lord Shiva. The priests perform mantras for Yagna, which refers to the ritual of sacrificing goats to Lord Shiva. Once the Yagna is completed, the priests offer Tulsi leaves, which is considered to be auspicious. This most visited temple in TamilNadu

Opening Timing:

Vaideeswaran Kovil temple opens at 4.30am and closes by 9.00pm. top temples in TamilNadu

How to reach:

Vaideeswaran Kovil is located about 38 km from Thanjavur and can be reached by road. The nearest railway station is Thanjavur Junction which is about 40 km away. From Thanjavur, you can take a bus to take you to Vaideeswaran Kovil. Alternatively, you can also take a cab or auto rickshaw to reach the temple. famous temples in TamilNadu