Thiruneermalai Temple Timings: Hinduism is usually considered a polytheistic faith, with the belief in 33 crore deities, each having temples dedicated to their worship. One such sacred place is the Thiruneermalai Temple. It is also known as Sri Neervanna Perumal Temple which is located in the Thiruneermalai suburb of Chennai, India. The temple is mainly dedicated to Neervanna Perumal, the presiding deity, but the grand festivals, or “utsavams,” revolve around Lord Ranganatha.
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History of Thiruneermalai Temple
According to legend, Sage Valmiki offered prayers to Lord Ranganatha and Goddess Ranganayaki at the base temple. In response, they transformed into Lord Rama and Sita, while the divine symbols of the Sesha, Conch, and Chakra appeared as Lakshmana, Bharata, and Shatruguna, respectively. Garuda, the divine vehicle, manifested as Hanuman. Sage Valmiki is also said to have witnessed Lord Ranganatha, Lord Trivikrama, and Lord Narasimha at the top temple.
In ancient times, the surrounding area of the temple hill was immersed in water when Thirumangai Azhwar visited, giving the hill its name “Thiruneermalai” (meaning “hill surrounded by water”). The temple is one of the revered Divya Desam (108 Vishnu temples). You must climb around 200 to 300 steps to reach the hilltop shrine.
Temple Structure
The architecture of the temple is highly praised, surrounding a large area with an optimal layout that allows much space for devotees to worship peacefully. The temple complex is divided into two sections.
The first part is located at the base of the hill, dedicated to Neervanna Perumal (in a standing posture), along with shrines for his consort Animamalar Mangai Thayar, Kalyana Ramar, and Andal. There is also a shrine for Anjaneya (Hanuman) on the way up the hill.
At the hilltop, the complex consists of shrines for Lord Ranganatha (in reclining posture), Lord Trivikrama (in walking posture), Lord Narasimha (in sitting posture), and Ranganayaki Thayar. The temple features a double prakaram (outer courtyard), with the Garuda shrine facing the Lord. The scenic view from the top is breathtaking.
Festivals
The temple celebrates several festivals throughout the year, and these occasions are marked by vibrant rituals and grand processions. Some festivals carry special importance and receive extra attention from the temple authorities.
Two annual Brahmotsavams are celebrated – one for Neervanna Perumal during the Tamil month of Panguni (mid-March to mid-April) and another for Ranganatha Perumal in Chittirai (mid-April to mid-May). The Panguni Uttiram festival honors Ranganayaki Thayar, while the Masi Uttiram is dedicated to Animamalar Mangai, Neervanna Perumal’s consort.
All rituals are conducted according to the Vaikanasa Agama traditions.
Darshan and Sevas
The temple offers different special services and rituals, particularly during festivals:
- Brahmotsavams: Panguni and Chittirai
- Uttiram for Masi (Animamalar Mangai Thayar) and Panguni (Ranganayaki Thayar)
- Rathasapthami
- Thirunakshatrams of Azhwars and Acharyans
- Pavitrotsavam
Thiruneermalai Temple Timings
- Temple Timings: 8 AM – 12 PM, 4 PM – 8 PM
Prasadam
The temple provides a combination of traditional offerings as prasadam to the devotees, including Puliyodharai (Tamarind Rice), Dhadhyonam (Curd Rice), Pongal, Chakkarai Pongal, Vada, Adhirasam, and Murukku.
Transport
Thiruneermalai Temple is accessible via public transport from Pallavaram, which is approximately 6 km away. The temple can also be reached by road through the Chennai bypass service road, about 8 km from West Tambaram. The newly constructed Outer Ring Road also delivers easy access.
This sacred place is one of the most famous temples in South India. It is known for its peaceful environment and well-maintained premises.