 A
historically and architecturally significant landmark, built at Perur,
this 1,500-year-old temple was built on the banks of the holy river
Noyyal by King Karikala Cholan. The temple is a magnificent
piece of architecture which inspires as much awe and admiration for
its architecture, as devotion. Many other kings including those of
the Hoysala dynasty and the Vijayanagar emperors have
made architectural contributions to this temple.
 The
temple's deity is Lord Shiva and his consort Pachi Nayaki.
The temple complex has about seven separate smaller temples inside
its compound. There is a holy palm tree Irava Panai
(the deathless palm) and a holy Tamarind called Pirava Pule
(the unborn Tamarind). The temple is also popularly known
as Mel Chidambaram. The temple can be compared
to any other great temple of Tamil Nadu, except for its smaller size.
It has long pillared corridors with exquisite carvings and huge sculptures.
The space inside the compound provides the locals space to relax.
There are local buses which ply from Coimbatore bus stand to Perur.
Nearest Airport: Coimbatore
Nearest Railhub: Coimbatore
Route: 7 kms west of Coimbatore
Author: Leslee Lazar
Photographs: V Ganesan
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