Tourist places in and around Tiruchirappalli
Rockfort Temple
Almost 2500 years old, the famous Rockfort temple (also called Ucchi Pillayar Koil) is dedicated to two famous Hindu gods Lord Ganesha as Pillayar and Lord Shiva as Thayumanaswamy. The base of the temple is dedicated to Maanika Vinayakar. These intricately carved temples are situated on the rock, which is over 83 m high and is said to be the oldest in the world. The name ‘rockfort' is attributed to the fact that it was used as a military fortification by the Vijaynagar kings and later by the British.Between the two temples, the Shiva Temple is the bigger one and has a massive Shivling, and an inner sanctum for Parvati. This temple is beautifully carved and is two-storeyed, complete with exquisite carvings of Gangadhara (Shiva receiving the Ganges in his locks). In fact, in the month of April, the sun's rays fall directly on the lingam an ethereal sight.
The Ganesha Temple is smaller is size and accessible through rock-carved steps, approximately 417 in number. A tough climb, but well worth the stunning views of the city and Srirangam. These temples are worth visiting during
Open from: Maanika Vinayakar Temple - 5:30 am-noon, 4:00 pm-9:00 pm (upto 10:00 pm on Fri); Thayumanavar Temple: 6:30 am-12:15 pm, 4:00 pm-8:30 pm; Uchchi Pillaiyar Kovil: 6:00 am-8:00 pm (open in the afternoon) Note - Visit these temples during the temple car festival (April-May), Aadi Pooram Festival (July-August) and the Theppam Festival (May-June). Auto rickshaws are available to a spot up to the Shiva Temple. Non-Hindus are not allowed in the Ganesha Temple
The temple on top of this rock enshrines Sri Vinayaka, populary known as Uchi Pillayar. The shrine commands a panoramic view of the entire city below and river Cauvery. Before climbing the hill, pilgrims pay obeisance to Manicka Vinayagar at the foot of the hill.
There is a legend connecting Uchi Pillayar with the famous Srirangam temple. When Vibhishana was carrying the Ranga Vimanam to Lanka, Vinayaka intervened in the guise of a Brahmachari boy and placed the Vimanam on the ground which got rooted. Vibhishana got angry and chased the boy. He ran to the summit and transformed himself as Lord Vinayaka.
This icon of Tiruchchirappalli is set on an abrupatly rising 83m high rocky outcrop. It was originally built by the Nayaks and later on, by the Vijayanagar kings in 14th century. The Rock Fort played an important role during the Carnatic wars, which laid the foundation of the British Empire in India. Today, most of the structure lies in ruins, except the main gurd Gate of the rampart. The main attraction here is the Unchipillaiyar Koil temple perched atop the rock. It is dedicated to Lord Vinayaka or Ganesha and can be reached via a flight of about 344 rock - cut steps. The idol of Ganesha here has a bumb on the back of the head, which according to legends was formed when vibhishana hit Ganesha for his disobedioence. A panoramic view of the city can be enjoyed from the temple. Half way up is Sri Thayumanaswamy or Mathrubutheswarar Temple of Lord shiva. It has a 100 pillar and a gold plated vimana. On the southern face of the Rock are rock - cut cave temples built during the Pallava regime. Other attractions of Trichy are - Lourdes Church, Nadhirsha Dargah, and govt, Museum and Anna Science Centre / Planetarium.
The Rock fort temple is on a 83m high rock. This rock is one of the oldest in the world-approx, 3800 million years. The sheer abruptness of its rise is an attention grabber itself, but the actual centre of attraction is not the fort itself but the temple at the summit. 344 steps hewn out of rock lead to the top where there are inscriptions dating back to the 3rd centry BC Atop the rock is the Uchipilayar koil, a temple dedicated to lord vinayaka from where one can enjoy a panoramic view of Tiruchi. A Mathrubuteswara or Thayumnaswami the lingam is a projection of the rock ifself. Below the shiva temple there are two pallava cave temples that have beautiful scultures of the 6th and 7th centuries. Non-Hidus are not allowed into the vinayaka Temple and Sri Thayument is open daily from 0600hrs, to 2000hrs. entry is Rs. 0.50, plus Rs. 10 if you have camera.
The view from the fort is spectacular. The Vinayaka temple at the top is reached by climbing a tunnel in rock. Half way up is the Sri Thayumanaswamy Temple, dedicated to Lord Siva. It has a 100-pillar hall and a Vimana covered with gold. On the southern face of the rock are several beautifully carved rock-cut cave temples of the Pallava period.
Ranganathaswamy Temple
Located in Srirangam, this is one of the most revered Vaishanite shrines, dedicated to the reclining Vishnu. Sprawling across an area of almost 156 acres, this is undoubtedly one of the largest temples in India. The temple is bounded by 7 concentric walls, further enclosed by 21 towers. The most striking feature of this temple is the 73 m high and 13-tiered Rajagopuram (main tower), making it one of the largest religious structures in the world. Another marvel of the temple includes the Hall of 1000 Pillars (actually 953 in number). Other than the reclining Vishnu, there are smaller shrines dedicated to other forms of Vishnu, including Sudarshana Chakra, Narasimha and Rama; the Sudarshana Chakra shrine pillars is beautifully carved with sculptures of lions and elephants and it is extremely auspicious to light ghee lamps here. Also housed within in a separate shrine for his consort Ranganayaki. Housed within the third prakaram is a room which has the deity's palanquins, chariots and jewels.A particularly not-to-be missed sight is the early morning prayers, when music is played to wake up the lord. Reach the temple by 6.00 am to witness this special activity, when the temple elephant and cow are brought before the lord so he may see them first thing in the morning
Visit the temple during the Vaikuntha Ekadashi Festival, when the beautifully dressed idol of Lord Ranganatha is taken out in a procession. In fact, it is believed that a sight of this is a sure way to attain heaven! Throughout the day, 4,000 sacred Divya Prabandham are also recited. Also, don't forget to sample some prasadam, including the Chakra Pongal (made of jaggery, pulses and rice) and Puliyodarai and Thayir Sadam (rice with curd).
Open from: 5:30 am-1:00 pm, 2:00 pm-9:00 pm; Closed for rituals from 8:00 am-9:00 am, 1:00 pm-2:00 pm, 6:00 pm-7:00 pm Note: Non-Hindus are not allowed into the main sanctums of Lord Ranganathaswamy and Goddess Ranganayaki. Vehicles are allowed only up to the fourth prakaram. Footwear is not allowed beyond the entry to the fourth prakaram.
Sri. Jambukeswara Temple(5 km)
Located near the Ranganathaswamy Temple, Jambukeshwara is also dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple has colourful carvings adorning its external walls and is housed within five walls and seven towers. The main deity is almost submerged in the water flowing from the spring within the temple. It is believed that this lingam was worshipped by an elephant, hence the name Jambukeshwara. Open from: 6.00 am-1.00 pm, 3.00 pm-9.00 pm; 6.00 am-8.30 pm on Tue, Fri, Sun, festival days Note: Non-Hindus are not allowed within the main sanctumJambu is the name of the holy tree, under which Eswar (siva) is represented in the form of a Linga, submerged in water from a spring in the sanctum concentric walls and the first prakaram is called the Tirunetriprakaram. Non-Hindus are not allowed inside the temple. It is open daily between 0600hrs and 1300hrs and between 1600hrs to 2130hrs.
Situated 2 km east of Srirangam, this beautiful Siva temple steals the show from the larger Ranganathaswami temple due to its excellent architectural design. The temple is named after the elephant, which is believed to have worshipped Lord Siva here. Installed under an ancient Jambu tree, the lingam is partially submerged by water and meant to represent God incarnate as Water.
Samayapuram Mariamman Temple
One of the most visited temples of Tamil Nadu, this temple is dedicated to Mariamman, a manifestation of Goddess Shakti, made of clay and sand. The goddess is believed to have miraculous curing powers, and hence a peculiar feature of this temple is that it is mandatory to buy silver or steel replicas of various body parts that need to be cured and placed in the donation box. Devotees also offer a sweet dish made of jaggery, rice flour and ghee and raw salt. The Chariot Festival and Float Festival are celebrated with great pomp.Open from: 5:30 am-9:00 pm
Brammapuriswarar Temple
This is another popular Shaivite Temple, dedicated to Shiva as Brahmapureeswarar. It derives its name from the legend that Brahma himself sanctified the 12 Shivalingams in this temple. Also located with the patron deity is his consort Goddess Brahmanayaki. Don't miss the huge monolith of Lord Brahma seated in the lotus position. In fact, the temple tank has blossoms of lotuses and the main tower of the temple is five-tiered.Open from: 8:00 am-noon, 4:00 pm-8:00 pm
Hazrath Nathervali
Known for its marvellous architecture, the dome is made up of shining marbles giving a great look to the Durga. It is also situated in the heart of Trichy City.Mukkombu
A wonderful picnic spot,where the river Kollidam branches off from the river Cavery. It is 18 kilometer from Trichy City.The River Kollidam branches off from the Cauvery here. This is another picnic spot with lush greenery and a park.
Government Museum
Located at 19, Bharatahidasan road, Bronze and stone sculptures are on display here. Admission is free, open on all days except Fridays from 0900hrs to 1230hrs and 1400hrs to 1700hrs.St. John's church
Built in 1812, it is located near the Theppakulam. It has louvered side doors which can be opened to turn the church into a pavilion.St. Lourdes Church
Built in 1812, this church has levered doors, which when opened, turns the church into an airy pavilion. Its excellent setting and marvellous architecture, makes it a site worth visiting. It is in the heart of the Trichy city, surrounded by commercial markets.Padal Petra Sthalams
River Cauvery, which flows through Tiruchi and Thanjavur districts, has on its banks as 274 Siva temples along its course. Famous Saivite saints Appar, Sundarar, Sambandar and Manickavasgar, populary known as Naalvar, had visited these temples and sung in praise of the Lords. Of these, 160 shrines, including Tiruchi Kumbakonam. Thirunageswaram, Thiruvalanchuzhi etc on the southern bank, are noteworthy. On the northern bank, 63 Siva temples have this special significance attacted. These include Thiruvanaikaval, Thiruvaiyaru, Chidambaram, Sirkali, Vaitheeswarancoil etc.Thaymanavar Temple
This ancient rock-cut Siva temple is visited by thousands round the year. The Lord is popularly known as Thayumanavar because, according to a legend, He disguised Himself as mother to help a poor woman at the time of her delivery.Samayapuram Famous for its shrine to Goddess Mariamman. It is on the National Highway 45 (Trichy - Chennai highway). It is 20 kilometres from Trichy City.
Puliancholai
A fine picnic spot, it is located in the foothills of the kolli rage. It is 72 kilometers from Trichy city.Other attractions
Other than the numerous temples, Trichy is also home to the several churches and museums, located mostly near Rockfort Temple. To begin with, visit the house of Robert Clive, today converted to a hotel. The gothic-like church of Our Lady of Lourdes and the French-style St. John's Church are other popular attractions. The Trichy Museum houses some of the most striking antiques of this city.Open from: Our Lady of Lourdes 8:00 am-5:00 pm
St John's Church 9:00 am-5:00 pm
Trichy Museum 10:00 am-5:00 pm (except Fridays); Entry fee: Rs 5 for adults, Rs 3 for children, Rs 100 for non-Indians
Grand Anaicut-Kallanai (24 km)
A popular picnic spot and must-see is the engineering marvel - the only stone dam in the world, the 300 m long Kallanai Dam.The Grand anaicut built by karikalan chola in the 2nd century AD to harness the waters of the kaveri, made of stone, the dam is 329m long and 20m wide and still very much in use.
An irrigation dam built across the Cauvery by Karikal Cholan in the second Century AD and strengthened by the British.
Woraiyur
Better known for its Cigar Factory, head out to Woraiyur if you wish to get your hands some of the best varieties of hand-made cigar.Srirangam (7 km)
The Sri ranganatha swami temple complex lies on the island between the Kavery river and its tributary kollidam. It is surrounded by seven concentric walls with 21 gopurams.Sacred Srirangam, one of the most important vaishnavite pilgrim centres is located on an island surrounded by the waters of Kaveri and Kollidam. The entire town is enclosed within the seven walls of the fifantic Sri Ranganathaswami Temple, which covers an area of 600 acres and is the largest temple of India. The temple complex was built between 11th and 17th century and several additions were made to it by the cholas, cheras, Pandyas, Hoysalas, Vijayanagara rulers and the Nayakas of Madurai. The 13 storeyed Rajagopuram at the first wall on the southern side was built in 1987. It rises to a height of 72 metres and is perhaps the tallest in India. Besides Rajagopuram there are 20 beautifully decorated gopurams in the temple complex. The main sanctum crowned with a golden Ranga vimana is set at the centre of the inner most prakaram and is dedicated to Lord Vishnu as Ranganatha. A large number of devotees assemble here for the vaikunta Ekadasi (Dec-Jan) or the Partadise Festival.
The most important pilgrim center in the district is located in an island just 5kms from Trichy. Srirangam, surrounded by the waters of the Cauvery on one side and its tributary Kollidam on the other, is a 600-acre island-town enclosed within the seven walls of the gigantic Sri Ranganatha Temple. There are not less than 22 gopurams, one of which is the tallest in India. The 72m high 13-tiered Rajagopuram was built in 1987 and dominates the landscape for miles around, while the remaining 21 gopurams were built between the 14th and 17th centuries.
Narthamala (17 km)
Narthamad has some of the oldest structural stone temples, built by the Mutharaiyars. This temple has six large skillfully carved statues of vishnu in the central hall. A 9th centry pallava cave temple dedicated to siva lies to the south, and in front of this is the vijayalaya choliswaran temple.Tirumayam (79 km)
There are a couple of rock cut cave temples and an old fort here. The cave temple are dedicated to siva and vishnu. Atop the hill is the old fort called Oomaiyan kottai.Kudumiyanmalai (25 km)
The Siva temple here has some interesting inscriptions as well as beautiful sculptures.Sittannavasal (58 km)
Here are the remains of a 2nd century BC jain cave temple. Fresco paintings reminiscent of Ajanta adorn the walls.This is the site of an ancient Jain monastery with fine fresco paintings in a rock cave. It is also noted for its pre-historic burial grounds.
Manora (72 km)
The eight-storeyed victory tower here was built by the Maratha King serfoji in the year 1814. The name ‘Mannora' is derived from word min are t meaning small minar.Gangaikondacholapuram (100 km)
The Brahadeeswarar temple at Gangaikondacholapuram was constructed by the cholaking Rajendra-1.The Brahadeeswarar temple here was conceived and constructed by the Chola King Rajendra -I after his victory over the kingdoms in the region of the river Ganges. Apart from the huge Nandi, there are some beautiful sculptures including a dancing Lord Ganesha, a lion-headed well and a stunning piece depicting Rajendra being crowned by Siva and Parvati. The temple, along with the one at Darasuram has been declared a World Heritage by UNESCO.
Thanjavur (54 km)
The magnificent Brachadeeswarar temple dedicated to Lord siva bears witnees to the glory of chola architecture, sculpture and paintings. A museum in the temple courtyard has interesting chola artefacts.Pudukkottai (58 km)
This area is of absorbing interest to historians, anthropologists, archaeologists and lovers of art. The numerous dolmens, stone circles and other forms of megalithic burials in the district indicate the antiquity of this region dating back to pre-historical times.Viralimalai (30 km)
The temple of Lord subramanya is situated on a Hillock. There is also a peacock sanctuary.Tiruvanaikkaval Temple (5 km)
The sacred shrine of Lord Shiva lies 2 km east of srirangam and named Tiru Aanaikka, as an elephant is believed to worship the shivalingam. It is also called as Jambukeswarar, after the Jambu tree, under which the lingam is established. Lord shiva is believed to manifest here in form of water linga, hence it is always half - submerged in water and fully submerged during the monsoon.The temple here has a Siva lingam almost submerged in water, which flows from a subterranean spring in the sanctum sanctorum. The Lord's name Jambukeswarar is derived from a legend that an elephant once worshipped Him under the holy Jambu tree.