About Veerattaneswarar Temple, Thiruvathigai
Veerattaneswarar Temple is a Hindu Shiva temple located in Thiruvathigai village near Panruti in Cuddalore District, Tamil Nadu. Dedicated to Lord Shiva as Veerattaneswarar, it is one of the eight Ashta Veerattam temples and a revered Paadal Petra Sthalam. Notable for its large complex, Dravidian architecture, massive gopurams and association with the legend of Tripura Samharam, the temple reflects Chola and Pallava architectural influences and remains an important pilgrimage centre.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a large Dravidian-style temple complex with towering gopurams, pillared halls, spacious courtyards and stone sculptures. The main shrine houses the lingam of Veerattaneswarar with a separate shrine for Goddess Thiripurasundari. The surroundings include temple tanks, mandapams and shrines for other deities. Visitors can observe daily pujas, explore architectural details, and experience a traditional South Indian pilgrimage atmosphere.
Key highlights
- 01
One of the Ashta Veerattam temples associated with Shiva's Tripura Samharam legend
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Paadal Petra Sthalam revered in the Tevaram hymns of Appar, Sambandar and Sundarar
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Large Dravidian architecture complex with seven-tiered gopuram and pillared halls
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Shrine of Goddess Thiripurasundari and 16-pillared hall with sculpted pillars