Pettai Palvanna Nathar Temple

Tirunelveli boasts numerous expansive temples, with many remaining relatively unknown to the wider public. Among these hidden gems is the Palvanna Nathar temple situated in the Pettai locality.

This vast temple is structured into garbha griha, ardha mandapa, maha mandapa, mani mandapa, and mukha mandapa. Despite the absence of a towering gopuram, it stands as one of the largest temples within Tirunelveli city, likely constructed in the 19th century CE. While the temple itself is sizable, the deities within are of diminutive stature.

The sanctum, facing east, houses a small Shiva Linga named Palvanna Nathar. In the south-facing shrine, there is a petite image of the Goddess Oppanambikai.

Encircling the main shrine, the prakara accommodates sub-shrines dedicated to Ganesha, Vishnu-Sri Devi-Bhoo Devi, and Subramanya-Valli-Devasena. A southern niche hosts Dakshinamurti, while Chandikeshwara occupies a small, south-facing sub-shrine in the northern prakara.

Various deities, including Nalvar, Jwaradeva, Sekkizhar, Surya, Chandra, and Navagraha, are scattered throughout the prakara. Additionally, a shrine in the Maha mandapa houses bronze images.

Upon entering the main entrance, the murtis of Ganesha and Murugan are seen on either side.

Happy travelling.