Kanchanagiri Shiva Temple, Vellore

Address

Kanchanagiri Shiva Temple, Vellore

Thakkan Palayam Saalai, Lalapettai village,

Walajah Taluk,

Vellore District – 632 405

Mobile: +91 9003848655

Moolavar

Kanjaneswarar

Amman

Kanjanamadev

Introduction

• Location: Kanchanagiri is a picturesque spot surrounded by mountains, with a 60-acre plain and a large pond at its center. The area is known for its natural beauty and spiritual significance.
• Deities: The chief deity is Lord Shiva, worshipped here as Kanjaneswarar, along with his consort Kanjanamadevi.

Puranic Significance

1. Sacred Landscape:
   • Kanchanagiri is surrounded by a range of hills, and within the heart of the land is a large, fertile plain and a central pond, creating a serene and sacred environment.
   • The area is abundant in Lord Shiva’s favorite cassia flowers, which are believed to add to the temple’s sacred nature.
2. Lingams and Rocks:
   • The temple area is filled with numerous naturally occurring Suyambhu (self-manifested) lingams, believed to have been created by the Siddhas who lived in this region thousands of years ago.
   • A total of 1008 lingams are present on the hill, with some rocks in the shape of lingams, revered and worshipped by devotees.
3. Shakthi Peedam and Altar:
   • The temple has a Shakthi Peedam, where a Siva Lingam is surmounted by a seven-headed snake, symbolizing Lord Shiva’s power and divine protection.
   • The altar is adorned with Nagalinga flowers, which are considered particularly auspicious.
4. The Manipaarai:
   • One of the unique features of Kanchanagiri is a rock called Manipaarai, which produces a bell-like sound when tapped, adding to the mystical aura of the area.
5. Banyan Trees and Rivulet:
   • The temple is shaded by ancient banyan trees, some believed to be over 1000 years old, which extend over several acres, adding to the temple’s serene atmosphere.
   • A perennial rivulet flows nearby, further enhancing the temple’s sanctity and providing a peaceful ambiance for devotees.
6. Vilwanathan Temple:
   • In this temple, the Nandi (bull) statue faces away from Lord Shiva, facing east instead of towards the deity. This is believed to symbolize Nandi guarding against the Asuras, like Kanjanan, who, despite being an Asura, is devoted to Lord Shiva.
   • Lord Kanjaneswarar is worshipped here along with his consort, Kanjanamadevi, who blesses the devotees.
7. The River Ponnai:
   • The river Ponnai, considered a branch of the Ganges, is believed to have been brought to Kanchanagiri by Lord Shiva’s orders. The river adds to the spiritual significance of the area, linking it with sacred waters.

Temples and Shrines

• Murugan Temple: A small temple dedicated to Lord Murugan is located at the banks of the rivulet.
• Sapthakannigal Temple: Located in the northeast, this temple is dedicated to the seven divine maidens (Sapthakannigal).
• Lord Shiva Statue: A large statue of Lord Shiva is located in the open space in the southeast.
• Ayyappa Temple: In the northwest, there is a temple dedicated to Lord Ayyappa, adding to the diversity of deities worshipped at Kanchanagiri.

Beliefs and Rituals

• Lingam Worship: The self-manifested lingams on the hill are revered by devotees who believe they were created by the Siddhas. Regular worship and rituals are performed by the locals and pilgrims who visit this holy site.
• Shivarathri and Other Festivals: Special rituals and prayers are conducted during auspicious occasions such as Shivarathri, with devotees offering prayers to Lord Shiva, Kanjaneswarar, and Kanjanamadevi for blessings and spiritual growth.

Century/Period

1000 Years old

Nearest Bus Station

Lala Pettai Bus stand

Nearest Railway Station

Ranipet

Nearest Airport

Chennai

Location on Map

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