Unnathur Perumal Temple, Salem

Address

Unnathur Perumal Temple, Kambathu, Unnathur village, Salem, Tamil Nadu 636112

Diety

Perumal Amman: Sridevi and Bhudevi

Introduction

Kambathu Perumal Unnathur is a small east-facing temple situated in a single Prakaram surrounded by fields and the backdrop of the Shervaroy Hills. Kambathu Perumal Unnathur is about 75 kilometers east of Salem off the road going to Kallakurichi. At Thalaivasal take a left towards the north and proceed for about 12 kilometers to reach Kambathu Perumal Unnathur which is outside and before the Unnathur Village.

Puranic Significance

Kambathu Perumal Unnathur is an ancient temple as is evident from the idols and the Dwahasthambam. The Temple is believed to be 500-1000 years old. Historical information is not available as of now. In the prakaram under a Peepal Tree are a Vinayaka idol and a Tulsi Maadam (Holy Basil). In front of the sanctum sanctorum are a stone Dwajasthambam and Garuda. A small door leads inside, where a beautiful Kambam (stone pole also used as a Dwaajsthambam) with an elegant carving of Lord Vishnu (Kambathu Perumal) seen facing east. This Kambam is a very beautiful piece with a broad square base tapering up with multisided surfaces forming a circular shape. The top portion of this pole is above the temple and is in a very different style resembling an ancient Mayan sculpture. Behind this pole is the sanctum sanctorum of the main deity who is seen in a standing posture with his consorts Sridevi and Bhoodevi.