Nilatingaltunda-Perumal Temple

Explore the Nilatingaltunda-Perumal Temple, a Divya Desam shrine nestled within the Ekamresvara temple complex in Kanchipuram. Learn about its historical significance, the worship practices according to Shaivagamas, and the fascinating legends surrounding Lord Vishnu’s nomenclature as Nilatingaltunda Perumal.

THE SACRED STORY

Why This Site Is Important

A Symbol of Religious Harmony

Nilatingaltunda Perumal Temple is one of Kanchipuram's most remarkable examples of the harmonious coexistence of Shaiva and Vaishnava traditions. Situated within the Ekambareswarar Temple, Lord Vishnu is worshipped here according to Shaivagama traditions by Shivacharyas, reflecting centuries of shared religious practice.

The Lord Cooled by the Moon

According to temple tradition, the intense heat generated by the Halahala poison during the churning of the Ocean of Milk affected Lord Vishnu. The soothing rays of the moon cooled him, giving rise to the name Nilatingaltunda Perumal, where 'Nila' signifies the moon.

Guardian of Parvati's Penance

Another sacred legend recounts how Goddess Parvati performed penance in Kanchipuram. When Lord Shiva released the sacred Ganga to test her devotion, Lord Vishnu assumed his magnificent Visvarupa to shield the worship altar, while the moon's rays illuminated his divine form.

A Living Divya Desam

Despite being housed within one of South India's greatest Shaiva temples, Nilatingaltunda Perumal continues to preserve its independent identity as a Divya Desam, welcoming devotees who seek divine grace, harmony, and spiritual unity.

WHY VISIT THIS TEMPLE

The shrine forms part of the historic Ekambareswarar Temple complex and reflects the gradual assimilation of smaller shrines into larger temple complexes.
Classical Dravidian architecture integrated within the Ekambareswarar Temple complex.
Not individually inscribed; forms part of Kanchipuram's remarkable sacred heritage.
One of the 108 Divya Desams where Lord Vishnu is worshipped within a major Shaiva temple, symbolizing religious harmony.
Vaikuntha Ekadashi and important Vaishnava observances, alongside the festivals of Ekambareswarar Temple.
October to March offers pleasant weather for pilgrimage and heritage exploration.

Bharat Ke Wow

Episode : 10 Nilatingaltunda-Perumal Temple

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Explore The Temple

The Shrine Within Ekambareswarar Temple

Discover one of the most unique Divya Desams in Bharat, located within the inner prakara of the great Ekambareswarar Temple. The shrine beautifully illustrates the shared sacred landscape of Kanchipuram.

The Legend of the Crescent Moon

Learn how Lord Vishnu came to be known as Nilatingaltunda Perumal after the cooling rays of the moon relieved him from the scorching heat associated with the Halahala poison.

The Visvarupa of the Lord

Explore the legend in which Lord Vishnu assumed his cosmic form to protect Goddess Parvati's worship during her penance when the waters of the Ganga descended from Lord Shiva's matted locks.

A Shrine of Shared Traditions

Witness the rare practice where a Divya Desam is worshipped according to Shaivagama traditions by Shivacharyas, offering a living example of religious harmony.

TEMPLE EXPERIENCE

Enter the Ekambareswarar Temple

Receive Darshan of Nilatingaltunda Perumal

Discover the Legend of the Moon

Explore the Story of Parvati's Penance

A Shrine of Shared Traditions

Explore the legend in which Lord Vishnu assumed his cosmic form to protect Goddess Parvati’s worship during her penance when the waters of the Ganga descended from Lord Shiva’s matted locks.

VISITOR INFORMATION

HERITAGE TIMELINE

Mythological Era

Lord Vishnu is cooled by the rays of the moon after the episode of the Halahala poison, giving rise to the name Nilatingaltunda Perumal.

Mythological Era

Lord Vishnu assumes his Visvarupa to protect Goddess Parvati's penance from the descending Ganga.

Early Medieval Period

The shrine becomes integrated into the Ekambareswarar Temple complex.

Medieval Period

The unique tradition of worship according to Shaivagamas by Shivacharyas continues.

Present Day

Active Divya Desam preserving centuries-old traditions of Shaiva-Vaishnava harmony.

Heritage Conservation Support

Support initiatives focused on preserving the temple’s architecture, inscriptions, rituals, and cultural legacy for future generations.