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Thiruneermalai Temple, one of the 108 Divya Desams, is a highly revered Vaishnavite shrine located in the suburbs of Chennai, Tamil Nadu. Known for its scenic hilltop presence and serene tank, this temple is dedicated to Lord Ranganatha (Vishnu) in a unique reclining posture. The divine ambiance, spiritual significance, and ancient architecture make Thiruneermalai a must-visit for devotees and tourists alike.
Location and Significance of Thiruneermalai Temple
Thiruneermalai is situated around 20 km from Chennai in the district of Chengalpattu. This temple is special because it houses four forms of Lord Vishnu — Neervanna Perumal (standing), Ranganatha Perumal (reclining), Trivikrama Perumal (walking), and Narasimha Perumal (sitting) — within a single complex. The temple is divided into two parts — the hill temple and the base temple, each with its own unique deities and rituals.
It is one of the few temples where you can witness Lord Vishnu in multiple forms, and it holds deep mythological roots mentioned in ancient scriptures and hymns by the Alwars.
Thiruneermalai Temple Timings (Updated 2025)
The Thiruneermalai temple timings are strictly followed and divided into morning and evening sessions. Below is the latest daily schedule:
Weekday & Weekend Timings
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Morning Darshan: 7:00 AM to 12:00 PM
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Evening Darshan: 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Note: Devotees are not allowed to enter the hill shrine after 7:45 PM.
Pooja Timings
| Pooja | Timings |
|---|---|
| Vishwaroopa Darshan | 7:00 AM – 7:30 AM |
| Thirumanjanam (Abhishekam) | 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM |
| Uchikala Pooja | 11:00 AM – 11:30 AM |
| Sayaraksha Pooja | 6:00 PM – 6:30 PM |
| Ardha Jaama Pooja |
7:30 PM – 8:00 PM |
Best Time to Visit Thiruneermalai Temple
Ideal Seasons:
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November to February is the most pleasant season, with cool weather ideal for climbing the hill.
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Vaikunta Ekadasi, Brahmotsavam, and Panguni Uthiram are grandly celebrated with massive footfall.
Avoidable Days:
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Peak summer months like April to June, especially during the afternoon, as climbing the hill becomes exhausting.
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Rainy days, since the steps leading up can be slippery.
Temple Structure and Steps to Reach the Hill Shrine
Thiruneermalai temple is divided into:
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Base Temple (Neervanna Perumal and Animamalarmangai Thayar Sannidhi)
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Hill Temple (Lord Ranganatha, Trivikrama, and Narasimha)
To reach the hilltop shrine, one must climb around 250 steps. Elderly devotees are advised to carry water, rest midway, or even consult the temple staff for assistance.
The base temple is easily accessible and suitable for those unable to climb the hill.
Special Sevas and Rituals
The temple is known for its rich Vaishnavite traditions. Devotees can participate in several special sevas including:
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Thirumanjanam: Ceremonial abhishekam with sacred items.
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Archana: Personalized offerings with devotees’ names.
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Vishwaroopa Darshan: The first darshan of the deity during sunrise, considered highly auspicious.
Booking for special poojas can be done on the spot or pre-arranged during festivals.
Festivals Celebrated at Thiruneermalai Temple
This temple hosts numerous Vaishnavite festivals with grandeur:
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Vaikunta Ekadasi (December–January)
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Panguni Brahmotsavam (March–April)
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Sri Rama Navami
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Narasimha Jayanthi
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Purattasi Saturdays
During these days, Thiruneermalai temple timings are extended to accommodate devotees, and elaborate rituals are performed throughout the day.
Dress Code and Visitor Guidelines
To maintain sanctity, the temple follows a traditional dress code:
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Men: Dhoti/veshti preferred (shirt or angavastram allowed)
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Women: Saree, salwar kameez, or long skirts preferred
Mobile phones and photography inside sanctum areas are prohibited.
How to Reach Thiruneermalai Temple?
By Road:
Located just 3 km from Pallavaram, easily accessible via auto, cab, or bus. Parking is available near the base temple.
By Train:
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Nearest Railway Station: Pallavaram (4 km)
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From Pallavaram, local autos or buses can be hired.
By Air:
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Chennai International Airport is just 7 km away.
Nearby Attractions and Temples
After visiting Thiruneermalai, devotees can also explore:
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Kundrathur Murugan Temple
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Pazhanthandalam Anjaneya Temple
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Pallavaram Agatheeswarar Temple
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Little Mount Church & Cave
Tips for Devotees Visiting Thiruneermalai
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Visit early in the morning to avoid crowd and heat.
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Carry a water bottle and wear footwear suitable for climbing.
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Follow temple customs and maintain silence in inner sanctum areas.
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Participate in the Vishwaroopa Darshan for a divine experience.
Spiritual Significance of Thiruneermalai
As per Divya Prabandham, Thiruneermalai is glorified by Thirumangai Alwar, who sang hymns in praise of the Lord here. It is believed that praying to the deities here removes past sins, grants marital bliss, and brings peace and prosperity.
The presence of all four Vishnu avatars in one temple marks Thiruneermalai as a powerful spiritual convergence point for Vaishnavite devotees.
Conclusion
A visit to Thiruneermalai temple offers not just a religious experience but also scenic beauty, peace, and spiritual rejuvenation. By following the proper Thiruneermalai temple timings, devotees can make the most of their visit and witness the powerful darshan of Lord Vishnu in multiple divine forms.
