 Temples of Vellore represent the cultural heritage prevailing in the region since ages. Most of the temples were built in ancient times by various rulers who reigned over the place. Thus the temples also showcase the religious beliefs that dominated different kingdoms in different eras. Many temples have been renovated and intricately embellished over time. Sculptures of some of the temples hold special significance for being the exemplary of the finest artistry of the country. Various myths are also associated with these temples that allure devotees from far off places.
Balamurugan Temple Balamurugan temple is situated in Rathinagiri located very near to the city of Vellore, over a hillock. This ancient temple was built in 14th century. About 130 steps take to the temple. A few decades back, the structure of the temple deteriorated badly which was then restored by Sri Swami Balamugan Adimai with reconstruction and sculptural works. The temple is also known as the 7th Padai Veedu of Lord Muruga. Sri Kangeeswarar Temple Sri Kangeeswarar temple was established during the rule of Chola dynasty as per the stone inscriptions on the temple. It stands at Kangeyanallur near the main city of Vellore. This 500 years old temple is dedicated to Lord Muruga. It was renovated by Sri Thirumuruga Kirupanandha Varriyar, a famed exponent of Hindu scriptures, and Sri Mallaiyadhas Bhagavadhar. The temple is adorned with artistic sculptures illustrating the six sthalams of Lord Muruga and the Kandhapuranam. Local myths say that Lord Muruga was worshipped by celestial Gods and sages at everyday at mid nights. 
Sri Selva Vinayagar Temple The temple stands at a distance of 3 kilometres from Vellore city at Shenbakkam. The temple is dedicated to Somasundareswarar and Sri Selva Vinayagar. The most fascinating feature of the temple is that the worship of the deity is performed in an open space. The main shrine is devoid of any roof so that all the celestial gods and sages can worship the deity. Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple It is another famous and ancient shrine dedicated to Lord Lakshmi Narasimha located near Vellore city at Singiri Koil. The temple is believed to have built in 10th century by Rajavarman, the local chieftain, after Lord Narasimha ordered him in his dreams. A small hillock houses this beautiful temple. In the main sanctum, a six feet tall idol of the lord is enshrined in seating posture. Uthira Ranganathar Temple It is located on the banks of Palar River. This 5th century temple was constructed by Vijayanagar kings. Lord Ranganathar is the presiding deity of the temple and his idol was believed to have excavated from the banks of the river. The temple also houses other deities like Lord Rama and Garuda, which were installed by the kings who ruled over the region. 
Subramanyar Temple This temple is situated near the Vellore city on the slopes of Javvadhu hills along the bank of River Palar in a place called Vallimalai. In the month of February the annual Brahmotsavam is organized in the temple every year. The temple is associated with several legends. Sri Margapandeswarar Temple It is a 1300 years old temple and is the biggest in the district of Vellore. The principle deities of the temple are Lord Vishnu, Lord Brahma, Gowri Devi and Lord Sriharan. It is known for its beautiful sculptures. Sripuram Golden Temple A Mahalakshmi temple also known as 'Sripuram' is one of the most gorgeous temples of Vellore. It is constructed by more than a tonne of pure gold which glitter under the sun brilliantly. The temple attracts numerous devotees from far off places and is the only one in the world covered completely with gold. The base of the temple is made of copper on which beautiful engravings have been made. Over this base gold covering has been made by beating the gold into nine layers of foils. The image of the deity is made of stone granite and is covered with gold. |
| More Articles in Temples of Tamil Nadu (494) | |
|
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
