Sri Arulmigu Angaala Parameswari Amman Temple, Melmalayanur- Timings, How to Reach, Location
Sri Angaala Parameswari Temple-Architecture
Sri Angaala Parameswari Temple is built in the traditional Ilangoil architectural style, reflecting ancient Tamil temple traditions. The temple complex comprises the Sanctum Sanctorum (Garbhagriha), Ardha Mandapam, and Mukha Mandapam.
The Sanctum Sanctorum is rectangular in shape and rests on a Pada Bandha Adhishtanam adorned with three Patta Kumudams. A Salakara Vimanam rises above the sanctum, with the superstructure above the prastaram constructed using bricks and cement. It is believed that an anthill was originally worshipped at this sacred site, and later the idol of the Goddess was installed upon it, symbolizing fertility, protection, and divine power.
The Mukha Mandapam, built during the Vijayanagara Nayak period, features beautifully carved pillars with bas-relief sculptures of Nataraja, Kannappa Nayanar, and Ambal worshipping Lord Shiva. The Praharam pillars, added in recent years using cement concrete, depict various forms of Amman and other Hindu deities.
Deities & Temple Layout
The temple is believed to have been constructed in ancient times amid cremation grounds, emphasizing its strong association with powerful Shakti worship.
- Presiding Deity: Sri Thandeswarar – Lord Shiva in the form of a Shiva Lingam
- Consort: Sri Angaala Paramaeswari Amman (Angalamman) – an incarnation of Goddess Parvati
The Goddess is enshrined in the Moolasthanam, seated gracefully on an anthill, depicted with four hands. Inside the sanctum, devotees can also witness the Amman cradle (Thottil) and the Urchava Murthy idol. Facing the Moolasthanam are the Neivedhiya Peedam (Bali Peedam) and the Simha Vaahanam.
The temple is north-facing and features a Chariot Mandapam. In addition to the main northern entrance, there are two other entrances on the west and south sides. The Welcome Arch displays idols of Sri Rishaba Aroodar (Shiva), Angaala Paramaeswari Amman, Vinayagar, Murugan, and an anthill, reflecting the temple’s unique spiritual symbolism.
Festivals & Rituals
- A major and powerful festival celebrated here during February–March is the renowned Simmasana Kollai. During this ritual, devotees prepare and offer large quantities of various grains in the cremation ground as a wish-fulfilling offering to the Goddess.
- Sri Angaala Parameswari temple also witnesses a huge influx of devotees on Amavasai (New Moon days), which are considered extremely auspicious for worshipping Angaala Paramaeswari Amman.
Daily Timings at Sri Angaala Parameswari Temple
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
|
Timing |
05:00 AM to 09:00 PM |
|
General Darshan |
Free for all devotees |
|
Special Darshan |
₹300 per person |
|
Online booking |
Available |
By Air:
The nearest airport is Chennai International Airport, located approximately 129 km from the temple.
By Rail:
The nearest railway station is Polur, about 31 km away.
By Road:
Melmalayanur is well connected by frequent government and private buses. Taxis and cabs are also readily available from nearby towns and cities.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who is the presiding deity of the Sri Angaala Parameswari temple?
The presiding deity is Sri Angaala Paramaeswari Amman (Angalamman), an incarnation of Goddess Parvati. The temple also houses Sri Thandeswarar, Lord Shiva in the form of a Shiva Lingam.
2. What is the architectural style of the temple?
The temple is built in the traditional Ilangoil architectural style, featuring the Sanctum Sanctorum, Ardha Mandapam, and Mukha Mandapam.
3. What is unique about the Goddess’s idol?
Sri Angaala Paramaeswari Amman is enshrined in a sitting posture on an anthill, depicted with four hands, symbolizing fertility, protection, and divine power.
