Thiru Ulagalandha Perumal Temple – A Divine Divya Desam

Introduction

Thiru Ulagalandha Perumal Temple is one of the 108 Divya Desams, the holiest shrines of Lord Vishnu, situated in Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu. This temple holds immense spiritual significance as it enshrines Lord Vishnu in the gigantic form of Trivikrama, an incarnation where He measured the universe in three strides.

This article provides detailed insights into the history, deity, darshan timings, pujas, significance, and festivals celebrated at Thiru Ulagalandha Perumal Temple.

Significance of Thiru Ulagalandha Perumal Temple

  • Recognized as one of the 108 Divya Desams glorified by the Alwars (Vaishnavite saints).

  • The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, known as Ulagalandha Perumal (meaning ‘The Lord Who Measured the Universe’).

  • Houses four Divya Desams within its premises – Thiru Ooragam, Thirukkarvaanam, Thirukaaragam, and Thiru Neeragam.

  • The deity is in a massive 35-foot-tall form with one foot raised, depicting His cosmic stride.

  • An architectural marvel with intricate Dravidian sculptures and towering gopurams.

Deity and Idol Description

The presiding deity of Thiru Ulagalandha Perumal Temple is Lord Vishnu in His Vamana Avatar. The idol of Ulagalandha Perumal is unique:

  • The Lord stands with one foot on Earth and the other raised high, symbolizing His cosmic step.

  • The deity holds a conch (Shankha) and discus (Chakra), signifying power and righteousness.

  • The massive idol, measuring 35 feet in height and 24 feet in width, is one of the largest depictions of Lord Vishnu.

Apart from Ulagalandha Perumal, the temple also houses shrines dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi, Andal, and various Alwars.

History of Thiru Ulagalandha Perumal Temple

The temple has an ancient legacy and is believed to be over 1,500 years old. Some key historical aspects include:

  • Built by the Pallavas and later expanded by the Cholas, Vijayanagar Kings, and Nayaks.

  • Mentioned in the Divya Prabandham, a collection of hymns sung by the Alwar saints.

  • The temple’s history is linked to the Vamana Avatar of Lord Vishnu, where He appeared as a dwarf to defeat King Mahabali.

  • The inscriptions found in the temple date back to the 9th and 10th centuries, providing evidence of its long-standing heritage.

Darshan Timings and Pooja Schedule

The temple is open for darshan and pujas at the following timings:

Temple Timings:

  • Morning: 6:00 AM – 12:00 PM

  • Evening: 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM

Daily Pooja Schedule:

  • Vishwaroopa Darshan: 6:00 AM

  • Kala Sandhi Pooja: 8:00 AM

  • Uchikala Pooja (Noon Pooja): 12:00 PM

  • Sayaratchai Pooja (Evening Pooja): 6:00 PM

  • Ardhajama Pooja (Night Pooja): 8:00 PM

Special poojas and abhishekams are performed on Ekadashi, Saturdays, and during Vaikunta Ekadasi celebrations.

Thiru Ulagalandha Perumal Temple Architecture

  • The temple showcases Dravidian architectural style, with huge gopurams (towering entrances), mandapams (halls), and exquisite carvings.

  • The sanctum sanctorum (garbhagriha) enshrines the massive idol of Ulagalandha Perumal.

  • The temple’s Vimana (tower) is known as Pushpaka Vimana.

  • Stone inscriptions from the Chola and Vijayanagara periods provide historical references.

Festivals Celebrated at the Temple

The temple celebrates numerous Vaishnavite festivals with grandeur. Some of the major festivals include:

1. Vaikunta Ekadasi

  • Celebrated in December-January (Margazhi month), this is the grandest festival of the temple.

  • Devotees pass through the Vaikunta Dwaram (Gateway to Heaven), seeking Lord Vishnu’s blessings.

2. Brahmotsavam

  • A 10-day grand festival celebrated with processions, special poojas, and utsavams.

  • Lord Ulagalandha Perumal is taken in processions on various vahanas (divine mounts).

3. Panguni Utsavam

  • Held in March-April, dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi and Perumal.

  • Devotees participate in rituals, abhishekams, and processions.

4. Krishna Jayanthi & Rama Navami

  • Celebrating the birth of Lord Krishna and Lord Rama, marked with bhajans and special poojas.

How to Reach Thiru Ulagalandha Perumal Temple

Located in Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu, the temple is easily accessible:

By Air:

  • The nearest airport is Chennai International Airport (75 km away).

By Train:

  • The nearest railway station is Kanchipuram Railway Station, well connected to Chennai and other cities.

By Road:

  • Well-connected by road; regular buses and taxis are available from Chennai, Bangalore, and nearby towns.

Nearby Attractions

Apart from Thiru Ulagalandha Perumal Temple, Kanchipuram is home to many significant temples:

  • Ekambareswarar Temple (Dedicated to Lord Shiva)

  • Varadaraja Perumal Temple (Another famous Vishnu temple)

  • Kamakshi Amman Temple (A major Shakti Peetha)

  • Kailasanathar Temple (Oldest temple in Kanchipuram)

Conclusion

Thiru Ulagalandha Perumal Temple stands as a sacred landmark of devotion and architectural brilliance. With its divine history, glorious Vamana Avatar deity, and its status as a Divya Desam, this temple attracts devotees from across India. Whether for darshan, spiritual solace, or witnessing its grandeur, a visit to this temple is an unforgettable experience.

Plan your visit and seek the blessings of Ulagalandha Perumal, the cosmic form of Lord Vishnu, at this holy Divya Desam!