Shree Margabandeeswarar Temple, also known as Virinjipuram Temple, is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, who is also known as Margabandeeswarar, meaning “the Lord of the path”. The temple is located in Virinjipuram, a village about 14 km away from Vellore city in Tamil Nadu. The temple is a splendid example of Chola and Vijayanagara architecture, with impressive gopurams, sculptures and paintings.
The temple was built in the 13th century CE by Chinna Bommi Nayaka, a chieftain under Vijayanagara king Sadasiva Raya. The temple is also associated with some legends and miracles that add to its charm and sanctity. The Temple is famous temple and famous tourist attraction in Vellore, Visit during One Day Vellore Local Sightseeing By Private Cab.
Location of Shree Margabandeeswarar Temple
Shree Margabandeeswarar Temple is situated on the Bangalore-Chennai National Highway, which is easily accessible by road from various parts of Tamil Nadu and neighbouring states. The nearest airport is Chennai International Airport, which is about 130 km away from the temple. The nearest railway station is Vellore Town Railway Station, which is about 13 km away from the temple. There are also regular bus services to Virinjipuram from Vellore, Chennai, Bangalore and other cities.
Timing/Entry Fees Shree Margabandeeswarar Temple
Shree Margabandeeswarar Temple is open for visitors from 6:00 am to 12:00 pm and from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm every day. There is no entry fee for visiting the temple, but there are charges for special darshan and abhishekam. The special darshan charge is Rs. 10 per person, and the abhishekam charge is Rs. 50 per person.
How to Reach Shree Margabandeeswarar Temple
Shree Margabandeeswarar Temple can be reached by road from Vellore city or from the nearby towns. There are auto rickshaws and taxis available for hire from the railway station, bus stand and other places. Alternatively, one can walk or cycle to the temple from nearby areas.
Things to Do/Must See Shree Margabandeeswarar Temple
There are many things to do and see at Shree Margabandeeswarar Temple, such as:
- Darshan: The main attraction of Shree Margabandeeswarar Temple is darshan, which means seeing the deity with devotion and reverence. The temple has a magnificent idol of Lord Shiva as Margabandeeswarar, made of black stone and adorned with jewels and flowers. The idol is slightly tilted to one side, which is a unique feature of this temple. The idol radiates grace and blessings to the devotees who seek his divine intervention.
- Abhishekam: Abhishekam is a ritual of bathing the deity with various substances such as milk, honey, curd, sandalwood paste and rose water. It is believed that abhishekam cleanses the deity and enhances his power and beauty. It also bestows auspiciousness and prosperity to the devotees who perform or witness it. Abhishekam is performed daily at Shree Margabandeeswarar Temple at different timings for different substances.
- Architecture: Shree Margabandeeswarar Temple is a splendid example of Chola and Vijayanagara architecture, with impressive gopurams, sculptures and paintings. The temple has a towering gopuram over 100 ft in height, with intricate details of gods, goddesses, animals and floral motifs. The temple also has a mandapam with richly carved stone pillars of dragons, horses and yalis (lion-like creatures). The temple also has a kalyana mantapam (wedding hall) with a two-faced sculpture of a bull and an elephant. The temple also has several paintings depicting scenes from Hindu mythology on its walls and ceilings.
- Shopping: Shree Margabandeeswarar Temple is also a good place to shop for souvenirs, handicrafts, jewellery, books and other products related to spirituality and culture. There are many stalls and shops near the temple that sell these items at reasonable prices. One can also buy prasadam (sacred food) from the temple counter.
Shree Margabandeeswarar Temple Nearby Tourist Attractions
There are many other tourist attractions near Shree Margabandeeswarar Temple that are worth visiting, such as:
- Vellore Fort: This is a large 16th-century fort built by Vijayanagara kings that houses several monuments of religious and cultural significance, such as the Jalakandeswarar Temple, the St. John’s Church and a Muslim mosque. The fort is known for its grand ramparts, wide moat and robust masonry.
- Sripuram Golden Temple: This is a Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi, the consort of Lord Vishnu and the goddess of wealth and prosperity. The temple is located in Sripuram, a spiritual park in Thirumalaikodi, about 9 km away from the temple. The temple is famous for its golden exterior that covers an area of about 1500 kg of gold. The temple also has a star-shaped path that leads to the main shrine, which symbolises the path to enlightenment.
- Amirthi Zoological Park: This is a zoological park that is located about 25 km away from the temple that covers an area of about 25 hectares. The park has a variety of animals and birds, such as deer, monkeys, peacocks, crocodiles, eagles and parrots. The park also has a waterfall and a children’s park.
Significance of Shree Margabandeeswarar Temple
Shree Margabandeeswarar Temple is not only a tourist attraction, but also a source of spirituality and heritage for Vellore. It is a place that was built by Chinna Bommi Nayaka, a chieftain under Vijayanagara king Sadasiva Raya, who had a dream where Lord Shiva asked him to build a temple at that location. It is also a place that showcases the art and architecture of Chola and Vijayanagara dynasties, which ruled over South India for over two centuries. It is also a place that reflects the diversity and harmony of Vellore, as it is located near the Vellore Fort, which houses monuments of different religions, such as Hinduism, Christianity and Islam.
FAQ
Q: How big is Shree Margabandeeswarar Temple?
A: Shree Margabandeeswarar Temple covers an area of about 3 acres and has a circumference of about 1 km.
Q: How old is Shree Margabandeeswarar Temple?
A: Shree Margabandeeswarar Temple was built in the 13th century CE by Chinna Bommi Nayaka, a chieftain under Vijayanagara king Sadasiva Raya.
Q: What is the best time to visit Shree Margabandeeswarar Temple?
A: Shree Margabandeeswarar Temple can be visited throughout the year, as the climate is moderate and pleasant. However, the peak season is from October to March, when the weather is cool and dry.
Conclusion
Shree Margabandeeswarar Temple is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves spirituality, culture and nature. It is a place where one can see, worship and serve Lord Shiva as Margabandeeswarar, who is the Lord of the path. It is a place where one can enjoy the beauty and tranquility of Virinjipuram, which is a village with rich history and culture. It is a place where one can experience the glory and spirit of Vellore.
