Sri Prasanna Venkateswara
Perumal Temple – Thirupparkadal
The Sri Prasanna
Venkateswara Perumal Temple at Thirupparkadal, Vellore district, Tamil
Nadu, is one of the revered 108 Abhimana Kshetrams of Lord Vishnu.
This temple is steeped in legends, unique traditions, and rare architectural
features, making it a significant pilgrimage site for Vaishnavites.
Legends & Beliefs
- Vishnu’s Divine Rest:
Tradition holds that Lord Vishnu rested atop Adishesha here to
prevent the torrential Saraswati (Vegavati) river from disturbing
Brahma’s yagna at Kanchipuram.
- Three Sacred Sites:
Vishnu is believed to rest on Adishesha at Pallikonda (Uthara
Ranganathar), Thirupparkadal, and Kanchipuram (Tiruvekka –
Yathothrakari).
- Pundarika’s Vision:
A Vaishnava devotee, Pundarika, was blessed when Vishnu appeared as an old
man, guided him to the sanctum, and revealed Himself as Sri Prasanna
Venkatesa Perumal, standing on a Shiva lingam in abhayamudra.
- Unique Sanctum:
The presiding deity stands on Avudaiyar (Shiva lingam), symbolizing
harmony between Shaivism and Vaishnavism.
Temple Architecture &
Features
- Rajagopuram:
Currently in a dilapidated state.
- Sacred Tank:
Known as Pundarika Pushkarini.
- Mandapam Shrines:
Dedicated to Alvars – Thumbikkai Alvar, Nammalvar, Madurakavi Alvar,
Thirumangai Alvar, and Bhoothath Alvar.
- Other Deities:
Alamelumangai Thayar, Lord Hanuman, Garudalwar, Rukmini, and Satyabhama.
Festivals & Rituals
- Vaikunta Ekadasi:
Celebrated annually in December–January with grandeur.
- Pradosham Days:
Observed on the 13th day of both new and full moon cycles.
- Daily Pujas:
Conducted as per Vaishnava traditions.
Temple Timings
- Morning:
7:30 AM – 12:00 PM
- Evening:
4:30 PM – 7:30 PM
Getting Here
- Location:
Thirupparkadal, Vellore district, Tamil Nadu.
- Distance:
~42 km from Vellore.
- By Road:
Accessible via buses and taxis from Vellore and Kanchipuram.
- By Rail:
Nearest railway station – Vellore.
- By Air:
Chennai International Airport (~120 km).
Tips for Devotees
- Visit during Vaikunta Ekadasi
for the most vibrant celebrations.
- Respect temple traditions and dress
modestly.
- Explore nearby temples in Vellore and
Kanchipuram for a complete spiritual circuit.
- Carry light offerings and participate
in Pradosham pujas for blessings.
Why Visit Sri Prasanna
Venkateswara Perumal Temple?
- One of the 108 Abhimana Kshetrams
of Vishnu.
- Unique sanctum where Vishnu stands on
a Shiva lingam.
- Rich legends connecting the temple to
Brahma’s yagna and Pundarika’s vision.
- Serene atmosphere with sacred tank
and Alvar shrines.