Alambakkam Varadaraja Perumal Temple – Trichy

Address

Alambakkam Varadaraja Perumal Temple Alambakkam, Trichy District, Tamil Nadu 621711

Diety

Varadaraja Perumal Amman: Sridevi, Bhudevi

Introduction

The Alambakkam Varadaraja Perumal Temple, located in Alambakkam Village, Ariyalur Circle, Trichy District, is dedicated to Lord Vishnu.

Deities:

• The presiding deity of the temple is known as Varadaraja Perumal, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu.
• The temple also houses the consorts of Lord Vishnu, namely, Sri Devi and Bhudevi.

Historical Significance:

• The Alambakkam Varadaraja Perumal Temple is believed to be approximately 1000 years old.
• It is a sandstone structure with distinctive architectural features.

Architectural Features:

• The temple structure is unique in that it is two-storied.
• The aditala (the base or lowermost section) of the temple is solid and non-functional.
• The main temple body comprises the vimana (tower-like structure over the sanctum), ardhmandapa (front hall), and mahamandapa (main hall), all constructed over a molded adhisthana (base) of a common type.
• The temple belongs to a group of structures locally known as “Kattumalai” or “Anai-era-ttiruppani,” meaning “built-up hill” or “construction which the elephant cannot climb.” These structures are dedicated to both Shaivaite and Vaishnavite deities.
• The prakaram (circumambulatory path) of the temple was reconstructed during the Chola period.

Architectural Details:

• The superstructure above the prastaras (horizontal moldings) on the second tala (tier) of the temple is completely lost.
• The aditala features bays separated by tetragonal pilasters.
• The central bay of the aditala is projected further than the others and contains a devakoshtas (niche) flanked by nakulapadas (circular motifs), with a vajana lintel (architrave) above and a torana arch (decorative arch).
• The second story of the temple repeats the same pattern as the lower section, with five bhadras (small pavilions).
• The devakoshtas in the upper level are empty, and the hara (superstructure) is lost.

The Alambakkam Varadaraja Perumal Temple’s architectural features and historical significance make it an important religious and cultural site.

Century/Period/Age

1000 Years old

Nearest Bus Station

Alambakkam

Nearest Railway Station

Ariyalur

Nearest Airport

Trichy

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