Home > Indian History > Temples of India > Palaivananathar Temple
Palaivananathar Temple
Palaivananathar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is located in Papanasam in Tamil Nadu. The temple, built during the rule of the Chola Dynasty, is regarded as a Paadal Petra Sthalam.

Share this Article:

Palaivananathar Temple, Tamil NaduPalaivananathar Temple, an ancient Hindu temple depicting the rich architectural elements of yesteryears, is located in the Papanasam in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. Papanasam meaning destruction of sins is a panchayat town located in Thanjavur district. It is almost 25 kms away from Tanjore and 15 kms away from Kumbakonam. The village is the confluence point of three rivers, Kaveri, Thirumalairajan and Kudamurutti. The presiding deity of the Palaivananathar temple located in this village is Lord Shiva. This holy pilgrimage centre is regarded as a Paadal Petra Sthalam and is relegated as the 19th shrine in the sequence of Thevara Stalams of the Chola kingdom situated on the southern direction of Kaveri River.

Architecture of Palaivananathar Temple
Palaivananathar Temple, built during the reign of the Chola Kingdom, is spread over an area of 3 acres of land. The temple has 2 prakarams i.e. outer courtyard and its entrance door is coroneted by a five tiered rajagopuram. Several ancient inscriptions of the Chola Dynasty and Vijayanagar Empire have been engraved on the walls of the temple. Lortd Shiva, the central deity of the temple is known as Paalaivananathar by the devotees. The temple also houses the idol of Goddess Thavalavennagaiammai. Generous contributions have been made during the period of Kulothunga Chola I and Kulothunga Chola III of the Chola Dynasty for the development and maintenance of the temple.

Palaivananathar Temple is also known for housing a world famous granary, a store house of paddy. The granary built by Nayaks in 1600 - 1634 is 36 feet in height and 86 feet in breadth. It has the capacity of 3,000 Kalam.

Presently, the temple is preserved and maintained by the State Archaeological Department.

This article is a stub. You can enrich by adding more information to it. Send your Write Up to [email protected]


Share this Article:

Related Articles

More Articles in Temples of India


Khajuraho Temples
Khajuraho Temples are known the world over for their beauty and architectural construction. This group of temples is situated in the central Indian state of Madhya Pradesh.
Temples In Hampi
Temples in Hampi are the manifestations of rich religious beliefs and architectural and sculptural abundance.
Dilwara Temples
Dilwara Temples located at Mount Abu date back from the 11th to 13th century and rank among the popular tourist destinations of Rajasthan.
Chola Temples
Chola Temples of South India comprises of the three great temples that were constructed in the 11th and 12th century and is declared as a World Heritage Site.
Badami Cave Temples
The Badami Cave Temples, an exemplary production of Indian architecture, are situated in the town of Badami.
Temples in Guwahati
Known to be the temple town of Assam, the temples in Guwahati are a reflection of the Assamese style of culture and architecture.
West India Temples
West India Temples are worth a visit for their beautifully designed masterpieces on stone.
North Indian Temples
India has a rich cultural and historical heritage because of its temples and pilgrimage sites. The North Indian Temples are in plenty and cater to people of all religion.
South Indian Temples
South Indian Temples lavishly built and aesthetically designed, in true sense are the symbol of architectural brilliance.
East India Temples
East India temples are really fascinating and enthralling and visit to these places can mesmerize a person very easily.
Northeastern Temples of India
Religious fervor and spiritual passion enlaces the northeastern temples of India.
Central India Temples
Central Indian temples amidst their religious fervour reverberates the true spirit of Hinduism.
Temple Architecture During Rajput Period
Temple architecture during the Rajput period was inclined to the aspect of Bhakti. Rajput kings encouraged this art which is reflected in the grandeur style of the temples.
Architecture of Mata Vaishnodevi Temple
Architecture at Vaishnodevi has been the source of artistic enjoyment for many, reinstating the vitality of the Indian religiosity and cultural fervour.
History of Sri Sanjeevi Rayar Temple
Steeped in glorious history this is indeed a legendary temple.
Temples in Munnar
Munnar houses myriad temples that are visited by many people. The temples of Munnar are especially known for their festivals that are celebrated with great grandeur.
History of Indian Temples
The history of Indian temples dates back to the ancient ages and variant dynasties that have ruled throughout the ages. Every temple of every region has a story attached to it that reflects the cultures of the specific dynasty.
Kalyaneshwari Temple
Kalyaneshwari Temple is one of the well known Shakti peeth of India. Located at a distance of 20 kms from Asansol this age old temple is known for its miracles and a number of legends that attract the devotees and tourists as well.
Kalika Temple in Udhampur
Also known as Maha Kali Temple, the Kalika Temple located at the Reasi town is a holy shrine.
Medieval Temples of India
Medieval temples of India vary from each other due to the style and architecture. The impact of the prevalent kingdom is prominent in the style of building.
Temples of Ramanathapuram District
Temples of Ramanathapuram district have special significance in the state, owing to its architectural attributes.
Architecture of Brihadeeswarar Temple
Architecture of Brihadeeswarar Temple in Thanjavur reflects the Dravidian style architecture. Lord Shiva is the primary deity of this temple.