About Valikandeswarar Temple
Valikandeswarar Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located in Valikandapuram, Perambalur District, Tamil Nadu, along the Tiruchirappalli-Chennai National Highway (NH 38). The presiding deity is Valikandeswarar with consort Vadivambigai. Notable for its Dravidian architecture, east-facing sanctum, tiered gopuram and Chola-period stone inscriptions, the temple is traditionally associated with Vali of the Ramayana who is believed to have worshipped Shiva here.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a traditional South Indian Shiva temple complex with a gopuram entrance, pillared mandapams, stone sculptures and a central sanctum housing the Shiva lingam. The temple courtyard includes shrines for Goddess Vadivambigai and other deities, Nandi mandapa and inscribed stone walls. The setting is a small town environment on the highway, with a calm devotional atmosphere, priests performing daily pujas and space for circumambulation and prayer.
Key highlights
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Presiding deity Valikandeswarar (Shiva lingam) with Goddess Vadivambigai shrine
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Dravidian architecture with gopuram, mandapams and sculpted pillars
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Association with Vali from Ramayana tradition
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Chola-era stone inscriptions and historic architecture
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East-facing sanctum and Nandi mandapa
History of Valikandeswarar Temple
The temple is attributed to the Chola period with later contributions, featuring Tamil stone inscriptions and classic Dravidian structural elements. Local tradition links the name Valikandapuram to Vali, who is said to have worshipped Lord Shiva at this site, and the temple is also associated with sage Valmiki.
Culture & Context
A revered Shaivite temple dedicated to Lord Shiva as Valikandeswarar and Goddess Vadivambigai, it is an important place of worship for devotees in central Tamil Nadu. Major observances include Maha Shivaratri, Pradosham and other Shaivite festivals with special pujas and processions.
Route
| By air |
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