Jalakandeswarar Temple, Vellore
Jalakandeswarar Temple, Vellore things to do, attractions, restaurants, events info and trip planning
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ஆங்கிலத்தில் எழுதுவதற்கு மன்னிக்கவும். We left koorathuazhwan temple and drove towards vellore to see this temple and the vellore fort. En route we had our lunch in Ranipet. Like the other temples on our visit today, even this temple and the fort was there in our list of "must see places / temples". As we approached the fort, was so excited that we were able to visit this place finally. As we drove inside the fort area, the first disappointment was there was no signage or board to tell, where to park the car. Such an historical / beautiful and most visited place without a signage was kind of sad. Finally did find out that car park is available and it is inside the fort, and not outside as u can see many cars parked. The fees for car parking is 30 rs. The second disappointment was when the parking attendant told us that the fort museum was closed today since it was a friday. But as we parked the car and got down, we were totally mesmerized by the wonderful beautiful rajagopuram of the temple. As we waited for the temple to open ( opening time in afternoon is 3.00 p.m) we took pictures of the raja gopuram from different angles. As the temple doors opened and as we went inside, we were literally stunned / astonished because it was so so so neat and clean. We knew before that the fort was under ASI control, hence the temple also has to be in ASI control. Generally ASI controlled hindu monuments are not maintained that properly, since they have this age old restrictions imposed on people who visit. But this temple, was so so clean, neat and the temple was alive, with priests doing pooja in every sannadhi. That was so shocking and stunning. Felt goosebumps on my hand, since i felt the lord was surprising us in each of the temple that we visited so far today. Came to know that though the temple is under ASI control, but a trust made up of 21 important / powerful / rich people of the area was made to run and oversee the day to day affairs of the temple. This is the first time, i am seeing an ASI controlled temple in such a grandeur fashion, full marks to the "TRUST" that runs this temple. Lord and Ambal face east, Ambal sannadhi on the left side of the Lord. Kodimaram present, Two beautiful Raja gopurams present and they face south, Temple pond present in the southern direction in the second parikrama. There are 3 praharams ( parikrama) present. Lord name : Jalakandeshwarar Ambal name: Akhilandeswari Both the lord and ambal were decorated so beautifully we were totally mesmerised in it. As the priest showed aarathi, we sang our Sivapuranam and Thevaram songs. As we came out of the temple, felt so so happy for visiting such a wonderful and beautiful temple, that too we wanted to visit so long. Would advice to visit the temple with some time at hand, to enjoy the beautiful sculptures and the fine artistic work inside the temple and also in the mandpam outside. Definitely a must visit place in one's life time.
Kalyan SundarKalyan Sundar
10
The Jalakandeswarar Temple, located in Vellore, Tamil Nadu, is an ancient and architecturally remarkable temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, who is worshipped here as Jalakandeswarar (meaning "Lord of the water"). The temple is situated inside the Vellore Fort, which adds to its historical significance. Historical Overview: Construction Period: The Jalakandeswarar Temple is believed to have been built during the reign of the Vijayanagara kings in the early 16th century, though its exact date of construction is not clearly documented. The architectural style and inscriptions suggest that it dates back to this period. Vijayanagara Influence: The Vijayanagara Empire, which ruled parts of South India from the 14th to 17th centuries, was known for its patronage of temple architecture, and the Jalakandeswarar Temple is a prime example of their Dravidian architectural style. The intricate carvings and detailed sculptures of gods, goddesses, and mythological figures found throughout the temple are hallmarks of Vijayanagara craftsmanship. Architecture: The temple is known for its grand, multi-tiered gopuram (entrance tower), which is adorned with intricate carvings. The temple’s pillars are decorated with exquisite sculptures depicting scenes from Hindu mythology. One of the most notable aspects of the temple is the huge Nandi statue (the sacred bull, the vehicle of Lord Shiva) and a beautiful stone mandapam (hall) with a ceiling intricately carved with lotuses and floral motifs. Connection with Vellore Fort: The temple’s location within Vellore Fort adds to its historical importance. Vellore Fort was built by the Vijayanagara kings as a military stronghold, and the temple was constructed within the fort premises as a place of worship for the rulers and the military personnel. British Era: During British rule, the temple had an unusual history. The temple was closed for worship for nearly 400 years and was used by the British East India Company as an armory. In the early 20th century, it was reopened and returned to its original function as a place of worship after persistent efforts by the local people. Water and the Deity: The name "Jalakandeswarar" is derived from the belief that Lord Shiva resides in water here, as the temple has a subterranean water source. There is a shrine with a natural spring, which is believed to have miraculous properties. Religious Significance: The temple is a place of deep religious importance for devotees of Lord Shiva. It has become a major pilgrimage site, and various rituals and festivals are celebrated here, including Maha Shivaratri and Panguni Uthiram. Today, the Jalakandeswarar Temple stands not only as a significant religious site but also as a symbol of the rich cultural and architectural heritage of South India.
DhanasekarDhanasekar
00
**Jalakandeshwar Temple: The Hidden Gem of Vellore Fort That Takes You Back in Time (With a Dash of Fun!)** If you’ve ever wondered what it feels like to time-travel, a visit to *Jalakandeshwar Temple* in Vellore will give you a pretty good idea. Nestled right in the heart of Vellore Fort, this place is like the secret level in a video game—tucked away but worth every step it takes to find it. You walk in expecting a regular temple experience, but oh no, this is anything *but* regular. Get ready to channel your inner Indiana Jones, minus the boulders and snakes, of course. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, and right from the get-go, the vibe is mystical. Imagine stepping through the doors of history: centuries-old stone carvings greet you with stories that are probably more interesting than any Netflix series you’re binge-watching. The architecture is stunning, with intricate carvings that look like someone spent their entire life sculpting them by hand—because, honestly, they probably did. You can’t help but stare at the ceiling, the pillars, and the details that feel almost too perfect to be real. And let’s talk about the location. Situated *inside* Vellore Fort, this temple feels like a hidden treasure. It’s as if the fort was built around the temple just to protect its sacredness. Fun fact: many visitors come for the fort and accidentally stumble upon the temple, and it always leaves them pleasantly surprised. It’s like ordering fries and getting extra, but spiritually. Now, as serene and ancient as this place feels, there’s also a lighter side to it. Picture this: amidst the solemn air, you’ll spot some playful monkeys making themselves at home. Don’t be surprised if one of them tries to photobomb your temple selfie or goes after your snacks. They’re cheeky little guides—though not officially employed by the temple, they sure know how to keep you entertained. One of the unique things about Jalakandeshwar is the sense of peace that hangs in the air. No matter how crowded it gets, there’s always a quiet corner where you can just sit, breathe, and take in the history. It's a place where time stands still—well, except for the monkeys, they’re always up to something! So, whether you’re a history buff, a Lord Shiva devotee, or just someone who appreciates a good surprise, this temple will leave you in awe. Pack a camera, a sense of adventure, and maybe some snacks (for the monkeys, of course)—you’re in for a divine experience with a twist!
Ajith Puthan PisharathAjith Puthan Pisharath
00
Greatness Of Temple: The temple is built at the centre of a tank. There is a beautiful water fencing (Agazhi) around the temple appearing as a garland. The circumference of this Agazhi is 8000 feet. The sculpture in the wedding hall of the temple has two faces in a single body, an elephant and the bull. Water for the abishek of the Lord is drawn from well which is very old. This is the Ganga Gouri holy theertham. The well has a natural spring in itself and not dug. The Revolving Lamp: There is an earthern lamp on the Balipeeta behind the Adhikara Nandhi (the bull vehicle of Lord Shiva) which would revolve if some people place their hands on it as they wish it. But it doesn’t revolve in all the cases and till today nobody knows the reason. Those facing some troubles caused by lizards falling on them worship the Golden and Silver Lizards in the temple. On the Kanu Festival or Mattu Pongal day (January), special abisheks are performed to Adhikara Nandhi. The wedding hall or the Kalyana Mandapam of the temple is as beautiful as the 1000 pillared Mandap in Madurai Meenakshisundareswarar temple. Navashakti Jyothi: A torch called Navasakthi Jyothi is in front of the Goddess – Amman shrine. It never extinguishes and round in shape. The main flame (jyothi) is at the centre and eight around it. A great lamp above the jyothi has a diameter of 27 inches representing the 27 stars starting from Ashwini to Revathi. This is called Star Deepa – Nakshatra Deepa. Temple History: There was an ant-hill (a sand mount made by white ants having many holes housing snakes inside called Pampu puttru in Tamil) in the place where the sanctum sanctorum of Jalakandeswarar exists now. Rain waters in the lower levels of the anthill made a tank there. There was also a Shivalinga under the water of the tank. Lord Shiva appeared in the dream of a chieftain Bommi Reddy who was ruling the region and asked him to build a temple there. The king went to the tank, demolished the ant-hill and took out the Shivalinga and installed the Lord in the water itself. As the Lord was installed in a place surrounded by Jalam (Water), He is named Jalakhandeswarar
SundararajanSundararajan
10
The Jalakandeswarar Temple in Vellore, Tamil Nadu, is a remarkable temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Situated within the Vellore Fort, this Vijayanagar period temple is a significant historical and religious site in the heart of the city. According to the fascinating legend associated with the temple, the sanctum sanctorum was originally an ant-hill surrounded by stagnant water. A Shiva Lingam was placed in this water and worshipped. In a dream, Chinna Bommi Nayaka, the Vijayanagar chieftain who controlled the fort, was instructed by Lord Shiva to build a temple at this location. Following the divine guidance, Nayaka demolished the anthill and constructed the temple in 1550 CE. The deity was named Jalakandeswarar, signifying "Lord Shiva residing in the water." The temple's architectural beauty and historical significance make it a must-visit destination for both devotees and history enthusiasts. The intricate craftsmanship of the temple showcases the skills of the artisans from the Vijayanagar era. The temple complex also houses the statue of Sri Akhilandeshwari Amma, the consort of Jalakandeswarar, adding to the spiritual ambiance of the site. Managed by the Archaeological Survey of India, the Vellore Fort is home to several other notable structures, including St. John's Church, Tippu Mahal, Hyder Mahal, Candy Mahal, Badhusha Mahal, and the Begum Mahal. Exploring these additional attractions within the fort complex further enriches the overall experience. Visitors to the Jalakandeswarar Temple are greeted with a serene atmosphere, allowing them to immerse themselves in devotion and appreciate the historical significance of the temple and its surroundings. The temple's location in the bustling Vellore city makes it easily accessible, ensuring that visitors can conveniently include it in their itinerary. In conclusion, the Jalakandeswarar Temple is a captivating destination that seamlessly combines spirituality, history, and architectural brilliance. Whether you are a religious devotee or a history enthusiast, this temple within the Vellore Fort is a place of beauty and cultural significance that should not be missed.
Sandeep BiswasSandeep Biswas
10
I recently had the opportunity to visit the Jaliandeshwar Temple located within the historical Vellore Fort, and the experience was truly captivating. This ancient temple, with its intricate architecture and rich history, left a lasting impression on me. The Jaliandeshwar Temple is a stunning example of Dravidian architecture, characterized by its intricate carvings and ornate design. As I entered the temple complex, I was immediately struck by the impressive gopuram (gateway tower) that greeted me. The temple's exterior is adorned with beautifully carved sculptures and figures that tell stories of Hindu mythology. What makes this temple truly unique is the presence of a massive, monolithic lingam, a representation of Lord Shiva, which is one of the largest in India. The sheer size of the lingam is awe-inspiring and adds to the spiritual ambiance of the temple. Inside the temple, I was immersed in a sense of serenity and devotion. The atmosphere was peaceful, and the intricate artwork on the pillars and ceilings showcased the craftsmanship of the artisans of the past. What sets the Jaliandeshwar Temple apart is the fact that it is situated within the Vellore Fort, a historical fortress with a rich past. Exploring the fort itself was a fascinating experience, and the temple was a jewel within this historic complex. Overall, the Jaliandeshwar Temple in Vellore Fort is a must-visit for travelers interested in history, culture, and spirituality. Its architectural beauty and the serene atmosphere make it a truly remarkable destination for anyone exploring the region. Whether you're a devotee or a history enthusiast, this temple offers a unique and enriching experience that should not be missed.
Prem MishraPrem Mishra
00
Nearby Attractions Of Jalakandeswarar Temple, Vellore
Vellore Fort, Tamil Nadu
Vellore Fort Park
Periyar Park
Government Museum
Palamathi Temple
Tipu and Haider Mahal
CSI St. John's Church, Vellore
Archaeological Survey of India Museum
Mahalaxmi Temple
Fort Park
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Vellore Fort Park
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Periyar Park
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Government Museum
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Nearby Restaurants Of Jalakandeswarar Temple, Vellore
Amma Briyani Restaurant
Hotel Alankar
Earth Plate
Lalit Vihar
Sri Santhi Bakery
MUBARAK BEEF BIRYANI
ANNAPURNA HOTEL & RESTAURANT
Bandhi Biryani
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Gyan Vaishnav Dhaba
Amma Briyani Restaurant
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Hotel Alankar
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Earth Plate
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Lalit Vihar
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Learn more insights from Wanderboat AIBasic Info
Address
Vellore Fort, Fort Round Rd, Balaji Nagar, Vellore, Tamil Nadu 632004, India
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Phone
+91 94432 30192
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Website
srijalakandeswarartemple.in
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Reviews
Overview
4.6
(3.5K reviews)
Ratings & Description
cultural
family friendly
Description
Jalakandeswarar Temple is a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva which is located in the Vellore Fort, in heart of the Vellore city, in the state of Tamil Nadu, India.
attractions: Vellore Fort, Tamil Nadu, Vellore Fort Park, Periyar Park, Government Museum, Palamathi Temple, Tipu and Haider Mahal, CSI St. John's Church, Vellore, Archaeological Survey of India Museum, Mahalaxmi Temple, Fort Park, restaurants: Amma Briyani Restaurant, Hotel Alankar, Earth Plate, Lalit Vihar, Sri Santhi Bakery, MUBARAK BEEF BIRYANI, ANNAPURNA HOTEL & RESTAURANT, Bandhi Biryani, Aahar Punjabi Dhaba, Gyan Vaishnav Dhaba
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