Vriddhapureeswarar Temple

Vriddhapureeswarar Temple is a Hindu Shiva temple located in Thirupunavasal village, Avudayarkoil Taluk, Pudukkottai District, Tamil Nadu, near the Bay of Bengal coast. Dedicated to Lord Vriddhapureeswarar and Goddess Karunainayaki, it is one of the 275 Paadal Petra Sthalams revered in Tamil Saivism. Notable for its large Dravidian architecture, ancient Chola-era structure, sacred temple tank and inscriptions, it attracts pilgrims and heritage visitors.

Visitors can expect a large traditional South Indian temple complex with gopurams, pillared mandapams, shrines to Shiva and Parvati, and a temple tank. The setting is a quiet coastal village with open courtyards and stone architecture. Visitors can explore the main sanctum, circumambulate the prakarams, observe daily poojas and rituals, view sculptural details and inscriptions, and experience a calm devotional atmosphere typical of Paadal Petra Sthalam temples.

The temple is an ancient Shiva temple with origins attributed to the Chola period and later contributions from subsequent dynasties. It is recognized as one of the 275 Paadal Petra Sthalams sung by the Saivite Nayanmars Appar and Sundarar. Inscriptions and Dravidian architectural elements reflect its historical importance as a regional religious centre in the Pudukkottai coastal area.

The temple holds significant religious importance for Shaivites as the abode of Vriddhapureeswarar and Karunainayaki. As a Paadal Petra Sthalam, it is part of the revered Tamil Saivite pilgrimage circuit. Daily rituals, festivals such as Maha Shivaratri, and traditional worship practices reflect living Tamil temple culture and devotional traditions.