Tiruchirappalli – Land of Temples

Tiruchirapalli, popularly known as Trichy is a bustling city in the southern state of Tamil Nadu and has been around for many centuries. It has a rich heritage going back to the Chola dynasty and has remained a prominent destination since those ancient times.

Even though modern-day Trichy is well-known as a commercial, manufacturing and educational center, it is equally important as a spiritual center. It is home to a number of ancient temples featuring magnificent architectural styles and resplendent with rich legends. Here is a look at some of the most significant temples:

Jambukeswarar temple 

Located in Thiruvanaikkaval, it is the most famous Shiva temple in southern India and one of the five major Shiva temples in Tamil Nadu. It’s located in Srirangam Island on the northern banks of the Cauvery River. It has 7 Gopurams with the main Rajagopuram facing east having 13 tiers of exquisitely carved sculptures and the west-facing Gopuram with 7 tiers. The temple covers 18 acres of land.

Sri Ranganathaswamy temple

Located on Srirangam Island, this temple is believed to be one of the largest Hindu temples in the world. The temple complex is spread out over 156 acres and enclosed within 7 ‘prakaras (enclosures) with 21 magnificent ‘Gopurams’. It also has the tallest Gopuram in south India. Here, Lord Vishnu is referred to as Ranganatha.

Ucchi Pillayar Rockfort temple 

This is a 7th-century rock-cut temple located atop a huge rock jutting out of an otherwise flat terrain. The 273-feet high rock has a fort enclosing the Ganesha temple and was the site of many wars fought during the last two millennia. Over 400 steps lead to the temple where you can enjoy panoramic views of Trichy city, Srirangam Island and the Cauvery River.

Samayapuram Mariamman temple

Located in Samayapuram, the temple is dedicated to Goddesses Parvati, Durga and Kali. It is the second richest temple in Tamil Nadu and thousands of believers worship here. They offer prayers by rolling along the corridors leading to the deity.

Erumbeeswarar temple

Located in Thiruverumbur, atop a 60-feet high hill, devotees climb 125 steps to worship Lord Shiva. The temple was built by the Chola kings and is a protected monument under the Archaeological Survey of India.

Aside from these, there are so many other interesting temples in Tiruchirapalli to visit. Getting to Trichy is very easy as the city is well-connected by excellent highways, railways and an airport. A number of good hotels, including the classy Sangam hotel are available for accommodation. Get more information here: https://www.sangamhotels.com/trichy/.