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Tiruvaalkoliputrur is located 16-km from Mayiladuturai. It
is also known as 'Vaalkoliputrur', 'Durgapuram', 'Vaaloliputrur' or
'Tiruvaalapputrur'.
The Legend
According to The Legend prevailing it is believed that Pandavas
and Draupadi worshipped Shiva here. Thirsty Arjuna hid his sword in an
Anthill ("Vaal Oli Putrur" ) and started worshipping Lord Shiva
here, who then was blessed by Shiva, who revealed his Self. The serpent
Vasuki is said to have resided in a snake hill - Putru and then worshipped
Shiva here.
The temple occupies an area of about 1.25 acres and has 3 Prakarams. A
Rajagopuram adorns the entrance to the inner Prakaram. The festival idol
of Vasuki is of great beauty. The Navagrahams are notably absent in this
shrine.
Goddess Durga Shrine
There is a shrine dedicated to Goddess Durga here, which is of much
significance. Vaaloliputtur is also known as "Durgapuram", and
it is believed that Durga is to be worshipped first in this temple. Durga
is said to have killed Mahishasuran at Kadaattalaimedu nearby.
Services and Festivities
Four worship services are offered each day and the annual festival is
observed in the month of Vaikasi (May-June). Other festivals celebrated
here include Kartikai Deepam, Arudra Darisanam, Pankuni Uthram, Aavani
Moolam, Aadi Pooram, Navaratri, Vinayaka Chaturti and Skanda Sashti.
Air: The nearest airport is at
Trichy.
Rail: The nearest railway station is in Mayiladuturai.
Road: Tiruvaalkoliputrur is well connected by road. Regular bus
services are available from Poompuhar and
Mayiladuturai.
Accommodation is available at the small budgeted hotels and choultries in Mayiladuturai.
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