Weather: 18 - 30°C
Label: Top Attraction
Tags: Temple, Spiritual, Art, History, Culture
Category: Religious Site, Heritage, Architecture

Perur Pateeswarar Temple, Coimbatore: A Glimpse of Ancient Spirituality

Situated 9 kilometers from the bustling city of Coimbatore, the Perur Pateeswarar Temple—also known as Arulmigu Patteeswarar Swamy Temple—is an iconic religious and cultural landmark. Dedicated to Lord Patteeswarar (a form of Lord Shiva), this majestic temple attracts devotees and art enthusiasts alike. The temple, revered by millions, is not just a place of worship but a treasure trove of ancient art, historical significance, and traditional architecture.

The temple is widely recognized for its intricate sculptures, paintings, and carvings, making it a must-visit for history buffs and art lovers. It also holds significant religious importance for devotees, as the temple is home to an idol of Lord Nataraja (the cosmic dancer) and an interesting legend about Kamadhenu, the divine cow, which adds to the temple's spiritual allure.

Key Features of Perur Pateeswarar Temple

  • Rich Architecture: The temple is built in the traditional 11th-century style, with grand gateway towers (gopurams), the sanctum sanctorum housing the idol of Lord Nataraja, and multiple pillared halls. The walls and ceilings are adorned with carvings that narrate the various manifestations of Lord Shiva.

  • Stone Chains and Shrines: One of the temple's unique features is its series of stone chains on the ceiling. Inside the temple complex, you'll find shrines dedicated to Lord Ganesh, a Swayambhu Shivalinga (self-manifested Shiva Linga), and statues of deities like Goddess Saraswati and Goddess Veena.

  • Legendary Significance: The temple's history is intertwined with a Hindu legend involving Kamadhenu, the mother of all cows, and the discovery of a Shivalinga by her calf. This event led to the creation of the temple, which was later sanctified by two prominent saints—Saint Sundarar and Saint Appar.

  • Golden Hall of Dance: The Nataraja idol is housed in a hall called the Kanaka Sabhai (Golden Hall of Dance), where the deity is believed to have manifested to the sages, Pattimuni, Gomuni, and others.

How to Reach Perur Pateeswarar Temple

The temple is conveniently located in Perur, just a 9 km drive from the heart of Coimbatore. Visitors can easily access the temple by private vehicle, taxi, or government buses. The Chokkampudur Road connects Coimbatore to the temple, ensuring a smooth and scenic journey.

Timings & Entry Fees

  • Timings:

    • Morning: 5:00 AM - 1:00 PM
    • Evening: 4:00 PM - 9:00 PM

  • Entry Fee:

    • Normal Darshan: Free Entry
    • Special Darshan: INR 20

Cultural and Religious Importance

The Perur Pateeswarar Temple holds a pivotal role in the cultural and spiritual life of Coimbatore. Apart from being a major pilgrimage center, it has influenced local folk art and religious practices. The temple’s association with Thevaram (devotional hymns) and its mention in historical texts adds to its cultural prestige. Inscriptions within the temple offer fascinating insights into the rituals, customs, and the evolution of religious practices since the 11th century.