About Odhanavaneswarar Temple
Odhanavaneswarar Temple is a Hindu Shiva temple located in Thiruchotruthurai village near Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu. Dedicated to Shiva as Odhanavaneswarar and Goddess Annapoorani, it is one of the 275 Paadal Petra Sthalams revered in Tevaram hymns and one of the Sapta Sthanam temples around Thiruvaiyaru. Notable for its Chola-era Dravidian architecture, historic inscriptions and religious importance, it attracts pilgrims and visitors interested in heritage and temple architecture.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a traditional South Indian temple complex with a gopuram, pillared mandapas, and shrines dedicated to Odhanavaneswarar (Shiva lingam) and Annapoorani. The temple is set in a quiet village environment near the Kudamurutti River, with stone sculptures, Nandi mandapa, and temple tank nearby. Visitors can observe daily pujas, explore the courtyard and architectural details, and experience a calm devotional atmosphere typical of ancient Chola temples.
Key highlights
- 01
One of the 275 Paadal Petra Sthalams sung by Appar, Sambandar and Sundarar
- 02
One of the Sapta Sthanam temples associated with Aiyarappar Temple, Thiruvaiyaru
- 03
Dravidian architecture from the Chola period with inscriptions and sculpted mandapas
- 04
Presiding deity Odhanavaneswarar (Shiva) with consort Annapoorani
- 05
Located near Kudamurutti River in a serene village setting close to Thanjavur
History of Odhanavaneswarar Temple
The temple dates to the Chola period and is revered as one of the 275 Paadal Petra Sthalams celebrated in the Tevaram hymns by Tamil Saivite saints Appar, Sambandar and Sundarar. It is part of the Sapta Sthanam group centered on Thiruvaiyaru and contains Chola inscriptions and architectural elements reflecting its antiquity and continued patronage through later periods.
Culture & Context
Dedicated to Shiva as Odhanavaneswarar and Goddess Annapoorani, the temple holds importance for Shaivite pilgrims. It is counted among the Sapta Sthanam temples and is visited during the Sapta Sthanam festival procession from Thiruvaiyaru. The temple remains an active place of worship with daily rituals and annual festivals.
Route
| By air |
|---|