Thiru Thiruthangaa Temple – A Sacred 108 Divya Desam

Introduction

Thiru Thiruthangaa Temple is one of the revered 108 Divya Desams, the holiest temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Located in Tamil Nadu’s Kanchipuram district, this temple holds great significance for Vaishnavites. The temple enshrines Sri Vijayaasana Perumal as the presiding deity, along with Goddess Varagunavalli Thayar.

This temple has been glorified in the Naalayira Divya Prabandham, the Tamil hymns composed by Azhwar saints, making it an important pilgrimage site for Vishnu devotees.

Thiru Thiruthangaa Temple Deity

The presiding deity of Thiru Thiruthangaa Temple is Sri Vijayaasana Perumal, who is depicted in a reclining posture. The Goddess, worshipped as Varagunavalli Thayar, is revered for her divine grace and blessings.

Important Deities in the Temple:

  • Sri Vijayaasana Perumal – The main deity

  • Goddess Varagunavalli Thayar – The consort of Lord Vishnu

  • Garuda (Vahana of Vishnu) – The celestial vehicle of Lord Vishnu

  • Anjaneya (Hanuman) – Devoted disciple of Lord Rama

  • Azhwars – Saints who have sung praises of this temple

Thiru Thiruthangaa Temple Timings

The temple follows a strict schedule for darshan and pooja rituals, ensuring a peaceful spiritual experience for devotees.

Daily Pooja Timings:

  • Morning Darshan: 6:00 AM – 12:00 PM

  • Evening Darshan: 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM

Special Poojas & Festivals:

  • Vishwaroopa Darshan – Early morning prayers for divine blessings

  • Sahasranama Archana – Recitation of a thousand names of Vishnu

  • Ekadasi Celebrations – Observed with devotion and grandeur

  • Vaikunta Ekadasi – The opening of the Vaikunta Dwaram for devotees

  • Panguni Uthiram – Celebrating the celestial wedding of Perumal and Varagunavalli Thayar

  • Sri Krishna Janmashtami – Commemorating the birth of Lord Krishna

Historical Significance of Thiru Thiruthangaa Temple

This temple holds an important place in Vaishnavism and is mentioned in Azhwar hymns. Thirumangai Azhwar, one of the 12 Azhwar saints, has sung praises of this temple. The architecture represents the Dravidian style, featuring intricately carved pillars, gopurams, and sculptures illustrating various forms of Lord Vishnu.

Temple Legend & Mythology:

According to legend, Lord Vishnu assumed the form of Vijayaasana Perumal to bless a sage performing penance. The temple is also linked to the life and devotion of Thirumangai Azhwar, who worshipped here and received divine enlightenment.

Architecture & Unique Features

The temple is a fine example of Dravidian architecture, with distinctive features such as:

  • Majestic Gopuram (Temple Tower) – A multi-tiered tower adorned with intricate carvings

  • Garuda Mandapam – A shrine dedicated to Garuda, Vishnu’s celestial carrier

  • Sacred Temple Tank – Known as Nitya Pushkarini, believed to have divine properties

  • Historical Inscriptions – Ancient Tamil inscriptions narrating the temple’s history

How to Reach Thiru Thiruthangaa Temple

The temple is well-connected via road, rail, and air:

  • By Air: The nearest airport is Chennai International Airport (80 km away).

  • By Train: The closest railway station is Kanchipuram Railway Station (10 km away).

  • By Road: Frequent buses and taxis operate from Kanchipuram, Chennai, and other Tamil Nadu cities.

Importance of Thiru Thiruthangaa in Vaishnavism

As one of the 108 Divya Desams, this temple is considered highly sacred. Worshipping here is believed to bring spiritual awakening, prosperity, and moksha (liberation). The temple emphasizes Bhakti Yoga, the path of devotion to Lord Vishnu.

Festivals & Celebrations

The temple hosts grand annual festivals, drawing thousands of devotees. The most notable ones include:

  • Vaikunta Ekadasi – The celestial gate is opened for devotees

  • Brahmotsavam – A grand 10-day festival with processions and rituals

  • Panguni Uthiram – Celebrating the celestial marriage of Perumal and Thayar

  • Sri Rama Navami – Marking the birth of Lord Rama

Conclusion

The Thiru Thiruthangaa Temple is a divine abode of Sri Vijayaasana Perumal, offering peace, spiritual enlightenment, and blessings to its devotees. Its historical significance, sacred architecture, and religious importance make it a must-visit pilgrimage site for Vaishnavites.

Whether seeking divine blessings, historical insights, or a serene pilgrimage experience, this temple provides an enriching spiritual journey, reinforcing faith and devotion in Lord Vishnu.