Very Near From Kodumudi---- Thiruchi Ranganatha Swamy..

Description: This is the foremost of the 108 shrines glorified by the Alwars; all of the Alwars with the exception of Madhurakavi Alwar have sung of its glory. It is the one of the greatest centers of the Sri Vaishnava religion and among the most visited pilgrimage centers in India.

Undoubtedly the largest temple in India, and one among the grandest, it is a treasure house of art freezing various architectural styles over a period of time. It boasts of the tallest temple tower in India. Referred to as heaven on earth it is an ancient center of worship - vibrant with tradition and festivals. The Pancharanga Kshetrams along the course of the Kaveri are Srirangapatnam (Karnataka), Srirangam, Koyiladi (Anbil) and Kumbhakonam and Indalur (Mayiladuturai).

Srirangam is very closely associated with Ramanujacharya, the beacon of the Sri Vaishnava tradition of Hinduism. Tiruvanaikka or Jambukeswaram, one of the Pancha Bhoota Stalams (associated with the primary element water) of Shiva, is located in the vicinity. Srirangam is located near Tiruchirappalli in Tamilnadu.

Deities: Ranganathar is enshrined in a reclining posture (facing the South); while Namperumaal the festival deity in a standing posture is also housed in the main sanctum. There is a shrine in the fourth prakaram, housing Ranganayaki Taayaar.

Traditions: Araiyar Sevai, one of the ancient devotional art traditions of Tamilnadu, involving the expressive recitation of the Divya Prabandams, using movement, music originated here under the auspices of Nadamuni (10th century CE). Araiyar sevai is performed also at Srivilliputtur, Alwar Tirunagari and Melkote (Karnataka). The famous tamil literary work Kamba Ramayanam premiered here at Srirangam.

The Temple: This temple enshrines Ranganathar in the central sanctum, crowned with a gold plated Pranava Vimanam or Paravasudeva Vimanam. A total of 7 concentric prakarams surround this shrine, housing several mandapams, tanks and shrines. The area enclosed by the outermost wall is over a hundred ares. Gopurams on the south and east of the 4th prakaram are the most impressive. A total of 21 towers adorn the temple.

The Srirangam temple tradition is an ancient one. The Silappadikaaram of the Sangam period refers to Srirangam. All of the Alwars (with the exception of Madhurakavi) have sung in praise of Srirangam. The first (surviving ) stone inscription dates back to the period of Parantaka Chola (924 CE).

The pillars here go back to the Chola period (13th century CE). The 1000 pillared hall is also the product of the late chola period, and is also in the 4th prakaram; its entrance is in the south. It is here where the adhyayanotsavam (involving the recitation of the Tamil Prabandam hymns) is held. At the southern edge of the huge open courtyard, the Vijayanagara rulers added the hall with 8 pillars with huge horses. The Krishna Venugopala shrine on the southern side is also of great beauty. The Garuda mandapam s located in the third prakaram.. Its pillars go back to the Nayaks of 17th century Madurai. The Chandra and Surya Pushkarini tanks are located in the 3rd prakaram.

Legends: Legend has it that the image of Ranganatha worshipped here, was originally worshipped by the clan of the Ishwakus, and it passed on to Rama. Rama upon his victorious return from Lanka, handed over this image to Vibhishana, who proceded to Lanka with the image. Circumstances caused him to place this image on the banks of the Kaveri, where Srirangam now is. (see Ucchi Pillaiyaar Koyil ) A disappointed Vibhishana returned to SriLanka with the consolation that the image of Ranganatha at SriRangam would face South - in the direction of Lanka. A Chola monarch by name Dharmavaraman is said to have created a temple here.

Legend also has it that the original temple was flooded by the Kaveri and was rediscovered by a later Chola emperor.

History: Temple life at Srirangam evolved after Nadamuni (923 - 1023 CE) compiled the hymns of the Alwars and gave them a musical form. During Ramanuja’s time (12th century CE), Srirangam was a well established institution. The Pandya rulers, from the 13th century onwards gave the temple, immeasurable support; the gold plating of the vimanam being first of their endowments. The Hoysala kings, who set up a military base outside Srirangam also made contributions. The temple was desecrated by the Delhi armies in 1313, and was closed for 60 years. From the end of the 14th century, the temple came back to life, and much of what is seen today is a result of the rebuilding activity which heppened during the time of the Vijayanagar rulers.

Festivals: An elaborate protocol of worship services is offered here throughout the day. On about 120 days, the Utsavamurthy is taken out in procession out of the inner sanctum. Aadi bhrammotsavam is celebrated in Panguni. The grand Adhyayanotsavam is celebrated in the month of Margazhi, involving the recitation of the Prabandham hymns or Alwar Pasurams in the thousand pillared hall.

Also in Srirangam is the Dasavataram temple, the only one of its kind, enshrining the ten incarnations of Vishnu along with Lakshmi Narasimhar and Vishwaksenar. This temple was built by Tirumangaialwar and is now under the administration of the Ahobila Mutt.. The Tirumangaimannan festival is celebrated here.

Very Near Marutha Malai Temple In Coimbatore

Coimbatore - A World Truly Amazing

Coimbatore is an important industrial town in Tamil Nadu and is better known as 'Manchester of South India' among the western tourists. Coimbatore is the hub of textile manufacturing and is also known for the manufacture of motor pump sets and varied handloom products. Coimbatore is the second largest city of Tamil Nadu after Chennai. Located on the foot of Western Ghats, at an altitude of 430 m above sea level, and situated on the extreme west of the state, Coimbatore shares one of its boundaries with the natural wonder Kerala. Also one of the most advanced cities of Tamil Nadu, the city is rich in culture and is home to many religions. The chief language spoken here is Tamil but English and Hindi is also widely used. The city is the highest producer of textile in the whole country due to its rich black soil cover that helps the growth of cotton. Shop for the cotton textiles as here you can fetch the best bargain. Coimbatore has transformed itself into a happening tourist spot by wholeheartedly maintaining the natural gifts and all the historical monuments that were passed on to them from their great ancestors. Temples like Perur Temple and Marudhamalai Temple which are a good blend of history and culture, and sceneries like Siruvani Waterfalls make Coimbatore a must visit destination for all tourist.

Attractions - Keep Your Eyes Wide Open

Coimbatore earlier was not as popular a tourist destinations as other parts of Tamil Nadu. But with time, Coimbatore has reinvented itself to such an extent that now it attracts almost the same number of tourist as any other famous tourist hot spot. The options which you can choose, range from historical temples, the most advanced theme parks to the natural splendors like waterfalls and wildlife parks.

Perur Temple

Situated in the town of Perur, it is just 6 km west from Coimbatore. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and was built by King Karikala Cholan in the 17th century. Perur Temple was constructed by Cholas in collaboration with Hoysala and Vijayanagara rulers. It attracts a large number of tourists who get mesmerized by just a glimpse of 'Kanaka Sabha', the golden hall which is studded with a gold plated statue of Nataraja. This temple also is a classic example of Dravidian architecture.

Marudhamalai Temple

Marudhamalai Temple which is dedicated to Lord Subramanya, is an important pilgrim destination for Hindus. It is also one of the most visited temples in Tamil Nadu. This temple situated on a hilltop became famous as the site where the residing deity Dandyuthapani performed several miracles. The temple comes alive during Thai Possam and Thirukarthigai festival as these occasions are celebrated with much enthusiasm and devotion in the temple.

Siruvani Waterfalls

Located some 37 km west of Coimbatore, Siruvani Waterfalls and Dam offer breathtaking views of natural splendors. The water of this fall is known to be quite rich in mineral content and the taste of the water is also very sweet and pleasing to the tongue. According to information this is the second tastiest water in the world.

Black Thunder Amusement Park

Black Thunder is considered to be the best amusement park in the whole of Asia. It is situated some 40 km from Coimbatore, this is a place amidst the best natural sceneries that you ever wish to see. The park is full of rides that are designed to enthrall you to your soul. So if you are looking for a time out from your mundane chores, Black Thunder can very well fit the bill as your first choice.

Where To Put Up

Coimbatore is a major city for Tamil Nadu in all contexts. So you will find ample good hotels in the city ranging from world class to plain basic. For a simple and pleasant stay you have few options to choose from like Hotel City tower and Hotel Alankar Grande. And if you wish for a luxurious and pampered stay, Hotel Heritage Inn, The Residency, and Santhosh Shanker Hotel will ensure that your wish is fulfilled.

Getting There

By Air

Coimbatore has an airport which is 12 km from the heart of city. It is frequented by flights from Mumbai, Chennai, and Kozhikode. International flight to Sharjah in the Gulf is also operating from this airport.

By Rail

The city has two rail heads. Coimbatore Junction and Coimbatore North Railway Station, although the former is the busier one. Both these stations are well connected to all major cities of India.

By Road

Being a major city in Tamil Nadu, Coimbatore is well connected by road to all parts of the state. Apart from state buses of Tamil Nadu, adjoining states of Kerala and Karnataka also have their state transport buses running in and out of the city.

Local Transport

Getting around in the city is not a problem as transport buses, auto rickshaws, and taxis are present in good numbers. Though it is advisable that a taxi be taken for moving in the city to ascertain a pleasant and a comfortable journey.

From Kodumudi The Great Temple Madurai Meenakshi Amman

The Divine Path to Attain Nirvana

Tamil Nadu is called the land of Temples and Tamils, the greatest temple builders. And after you complete a tour through Tamil Nadu, you will say, for quite obvious reasons. The state of Tamil Nadu is dotted with more than a thousand temples and each a wonder in itself. There are temples that date back to pre-Christian era and there are temples that are as recent as twentieth century but all of them reflect the same gracefulness and wizardry of hands. Almost all temples of the past are build of brick and mortar. Tamil Nadu has been ruled by different dynasties and it is visible in the different monuments and temples. Some of the important temples in Tamil Nadu include Meenakshi temple, Ranganathaswamy temple, and Shore temple. Come and explore these wonders of time and experience the feeling of a walk through the bygone era.

Meenakshi Temple

If you are anywhere near Madurai and do not visit Meenakshi temple, consider your tour incomplete. We can safely affirm that this temple is the most important and most beautiful of all that are there in Tamil Nadu. This temple is more than 2000 years and you will see amalgamation of many styles of architecture of different dynasties that once ruled this part of the country. The moment you enter this temple from any of the four massive gopurams, you will be left speechless by the first glimpse itself of the exceptional carvings, art and sculptures that are sprinkled throughout the premises. Do not forget to explore the thousand-pillared hall which is one of the biggest in India. You can visit this temple between 4.30 am to 12.30 pm and 4.00 pm to 9.30 pm on any day.

Ranganathaswamy Temple

This temple is the most important temple in India for all Lord Vishnu devotees. The temple is located in Tiruchirapalli on the banks of river Kaveri. This temple is considered to be the largest temple in the entire India, which makes it an important tourist destination as well. You will be awe struck by the sheer size of its premises and the exemplary work of carvings which you will find in almost all nook and corners of the temple. Also find magnificent paintings kept inside the many halls inside the temple.

Kapaleeswarar Temple

An epitome of Dravidian culture and their mastery is how this temple can be described. This 350 year old temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is situated in Mylapore in Chennai Suburbs. This is the biggets temple in Chennai and also the most visited. Here you will be astonished to see the remarkable carvings that are done inside the temple, which depicts tale from Indian mythology and 13th century inscriptions. The Teppam festival (float festival) which is held every year and the Paradosham festival which is celebrated every two weeks, are a real treat for eyes and are spiritually very uplifting.

Shore Temple

This 8th century temple is considered to be one of the most beautiful temples in the entire country. More than its architectural brilliance, perhaps its the location of the temple that attracts such large number of tourists. It is located on the Mahabalipuram beach right adjacent to Bay of Bengal. Try to visit this temple at dusk when it is resplendently lit up and stay till late in the evening because on a full moon day, the sight of this Shore temple is as breathtaking as a glimpse into paradise.

Small IntroDuction Of Our Temple

This temple is a Thrimoorthi Temple and so containing the deities of Brahma, Vishnu, Siva The name of Lord Sivaperuman in this temple is Magudeshwara, the Goddess part is Soundhranayaki. Lord Brahma of this temple has no goddess part. The name of Mahavishnu in this temple is Veeranarayanaperumal with the Goddess part Thirumangai Nachiyar. Lord Sivaperuman of destructive duty, Vishnu of Protective duty and Brahma of creative duty are the trinity of Hindu spirituality system. This sthalam is fullfilled with three main features.
Moorthy - This defines the thrimoorthi system
Theertham - This defines the holy river Kaviri and other Holy water origins inside the temple, i.e. Bharadhwaja Theertham, Brahma Theertham, Deva Theertham viz.
Sthalam - The over all divine qualities of this religious spot.
Lord Magudeswara is called in various names as Paandi Kodumudi Nathar, Malaikozhundheesar etc.,
Transport facilities
This sthala is situated in the main route of Erode-Trichy, Madurai highways and with source of confluent Train facilities. And so Trains from Erode towards Trichy, Madurai, Kaniyakumari, Thirunelveli, Tuticorin are at the benefit for the devotees. Erode District Headquarters is situated at 38 km from Kodumudi. Karur District Headquarters s situated at 26 km destnations. Both Train and Bus facilities are available to reach Kodumudi.

Air Services

Chennai to Trichy Airport - Karur - Kodumudi, Chennai to Coimbatore Airport - Erode - Kodumudi Distance between Trichy- Kodumudi is 100 km Distance between Coimbatore to Kodumudi is 120 km.

unique pilgrim center
Individuality
1. The Holy and Mystic Vanni Tree without Flourishing and ripening is the Miraculous event of this temple.
2. The last week of Aavani Tamil Month and 1st week of Panguni Tamil Month are the days of Special Dharsan During this periods the sunlight enters through the apeture of the Rajagopuram (Entrance Tower) and reaches the Swayambulingam i.e. the Lord Surya who mingles with Lord Magudeshwara. So this event happens two times, and Lord Magudeshwara blesses the Surya.
3. Kodumudi is the place of Kaviri Mother. She turns from South towards East. River Kaviri with this divine personality forms a fulfillment in devotion and makes a satisfaction in the life. So the devotees can approach this sthala to receive the bless and bliss for the fruitful life by means of Thirumoorthi's grace.

Hopes and Realities
Obligations for marriages, child birth, covers a maximum part of prarthana, nexly people those suffering from physical and mental diseases are strongly believing this sthala for their remedy. There are different type of rituals, poojas are conducted by the Thirukovil for the benefit of devotees. Lot of devotees succeeded and attained their goals by the strong hope and prarthana on Lord Magudeshwara. This sthala is famous for Navagraha Shanthi Homam and poojas relating the Navagraha moorthis. Devotees showing their gratitude to the temple by means of offering donations

holy water points
Theertham - This defines the holy river Kaviri and other Holy water origins inside the temple, i.e. Bharadhwaja Theertham, Brahma Theertham, Deva Theertham viz.
Sacred Tree
Vanni Tree (The tree is a 3000 year old living tree.)

Pooja Schedule

Sivan Temple
POOJATIMINGS
Ushakkala Pooja (Sun Rise Pooja)
6.00 A.M.
Kaalasandhi Pooja
7.00 A.M.
Uchikkala Poojaa (Noon Pooja)
12.00 Noon
Saayaraksha Pooja (Sunset Pooja)
6..00 P.M.
Ardhajama Pooja (Night Pooja)
8.00 P.M.
So the five Kala Pooja are conducted according to the 'Kaarana Nagama' Pooja system.

Vishnu Temple

POOJATIMINGS
Kalasandhi Pooja
7.00 A.M.
Saayaraksha Pooja
6.00 P.M.
This two kala pooja's are conducted according to the Pancharathra Aagamma Pooja system. Thrumanchanam is a process of taking the Kaviri water from the river for the Abishekam ritual to the Siva, Vishnu, Deities every day.

Near By Places in Kodumudi..,

Coimbatore is one of the most industrialized cities in the state. Popularly known as "The Textile Capital of South India" or "The Manchester of the South", the city is situated on the banks of the river Noyyal. Located in the shadow of the Western Ghats, Coimbatore enjoys a very pleasant climate the year round, aided by the fresh breeze that flows in through the 25-km long Palakkad gap. The Textile Industry Of Coimbatore: The rich black soil of the region has contributed to Coimbatore's flourishing agriculture industry and, it is in fact that the successful growth of cotton that served as a foundation for the establishment of its famous textile industry. The first textile mills came up as far back as 1888 but there are now over a hundred mills. The result has been a strong economy and a reputation as one of the greatest industrial cities in South India. Coimbatore serves as an entry and exit point to neighboring Kerala and the ever-popular hill station of Udagamandalam (Ooty). It is the disembarking point for those who want to take the Mountain train that runs from Mettupalayam, just 35 km from Coimbatore.
Location: In Coimbatore District, Tamil NaduKnown As: The Textile Capital of South India or The Manchester of the South One Have the: Most Industrialized City in the StateServes As: The Entry and Exit Point to Neighboring Kerala and Ooty
NEARBY CITIESBannari: 83-km Bhavani: 121-km Cochin: 163-km Coonoor: 85-kmKodumudi: 105-km Palani: 105-kmPRIME ATTRACTIONSAnamalai Wildlife Sanctuary: Anamalai wildlife sanctuary is about 90-km from Coimbatore and is situated at an altitude of 1,400 meters in the Western Ghats near Pollachi. The area of the sanctuary is 958-sq-kms. An ecological paradise, this sanctuary encompasses a National Park. It has just recently been renamed Indira Gandhi wildlife sanctuary. Black Thunder Amusement Park:Black Thunder, water sports and amusement park is situated about 40-km from Coimbatore on the Ooty main Road. When you need time off from the rest of the world, time to be with your family, time to share moments of adventure and fun with friends, time for children to experience fun and joy, time to take a break- Black Thunder is your destination. Topslip: It is a picturesque locale in the Anamalai Hills. It is about 37-km. from Pollachi. This small town is an ideal picnic spot. Thiruppur:An important textile center in Coimbatore district, it is also famous for hosiery products. Thiruppur is also closely associated with ' Thiruppur Kumaran ' one of the valiant freedom fighters. It is 50-km from Coimbatore. Parambikulam-Aliyar Multipurpose Project:Parambikulam-Aliyar Multipurpose Project consists of a series of dams interconnected by tunnels and canals for harnessing waters of the Parambikulam, Aliyar, Nirar, Sholiyar, Thunakadavu, Thekkadi and Palar rivers, lying at various elevations, for irrigation and power generation. The scheme is an outstanding example of engineering skill. It is located in the Anamalai range. V O C Park:Named after the freedom fighter V.O.Chidambaram, the VOC Park is the most appropriate place to go with children. The Coimbatore Corporation maintains the park. The Park houses a mini Zoo, models of prehistoric dinosaurs, Children' Train, Swing, Slider, Seesaw and other play equipment and are more like an amusement park for the children. The park has a stretch of grass patch conveniently mowed to sit on. PLACES OF WORSHIPThirumoorthy Temple:Thirumoorthy Temple is situated at the foot of Thirumoorthy Hills adjoining the Thirumoorthy Dam. This is about 20 km from Udumalpet on the Highway from Palani to Coimbatore. A perennial stream flows by the side of the Sri Amalingeswarar temple and nearby there is a waterfall. The Crocodile Farm at Amaravati Dam is just 25-km from here. This place is being developed as a District Excursion Center. Regular buses are available from Udumalpet. Perur Patteeswaraswamy Temple:Perur Patteeswaraswamy temple built by Karikala Cholan is located 7-km west of Coimbatore near river Noyyal. Coimbatore has many temples out of which the Perur Patteeswara Swami temple is the most popular one. The temple upholds huge statues. The significance of Perur temple in earlier days is unfolded in the poetic creations of Arunagiri Nather and Kachiappa Munivar. Marudamalai Temple: About 12-km away from Coimbatore railway station is the Marudhamalai temple of Lord Muruga. The temple is situated on the Marudamalai (Marudai is the colloquial form of Marunthu, which means medicine and Malai means mountain) mountain and is one of the most visited temples in the region, the reason being that the presiding deity, known as "Dandayuthapani" is believed to have performed several miracles here. Khadi Gandhi Gallery: The Government set the Khadi Gandhi gallery up in Coimbatore on 15th of July 1970. The gallery displays pictures of Gandhi right from his birth to his death. Separate cubicles are arranged for each phase in Gandhi' life, which pictures all major events that occurred in his life. There are interesting collections of rare photographs titled 'Journey through Harijan Life', 'Family', 'Friends', 'Independence Struggle', 'Jail Life' and "Peace Talks'. Gandhi Jayanti is celebrated with grandeur in this gallery and the collector visits the gallery during 'Gandhi Jayanti' and participates in the function followed by bhajans. Forest College Museum:The Forest College is one of the oldest of its kind in the country. The Forest College is situated 3.5 km north of the railway station of Coimbatore. The college museum is worth a visit. The museum preserves the fossils of plants and animals. The museum also has dead specimen of plants and animals of rare variety. The museum also has a special advisory counter offering service to promote businesses related to plant husbandry. Government Museum:The government initiated the museum in 1989. The museum is situated in VOC Park Road, which bears the remnants of various tribes of the place. The museum is compartmentalized into 5 sections. The museum bears fossil remains and age-old tools. The megalithic burial materials, treasure trove materials, ancient coins and decorative artifacts are few among the rare items that are displayed. There is a separate section for old rocks, minerals and wood fossils and tribal medicinal plants. The Siruvani Waterfalls and Dam:The Siruvani waterfalls and the dam are located at a distance of 37-km west of Coimbatore. The water of Siruvani is known for its minerals and taste. The panoramic view of the dam and the falls are of enchanting beauty. Sengupathi waterfalls: Sengupathi waterfalls are situated 35-km from Coimbatore on the Coimbatore - Siruvani main Road. Monkey Falls:65-km from Coimbatore and 27-km from Pollachi on Coimbatore-Pollachi-Valparai Highways are the Monkey Falls, a famous picnic spot. Vaideki waterfalls:Located 30-km from Coimbatore via. Narasipuram village is the Vaideki Falls. It is a fine picnic spot for trekkers. HOW TO GET THEREAir: Peelamedu airport is 10-km from the city, which operates regular flights to Bangalore, Mumbai, Chennai, Kochi and Madurai. Rail: Coimbatore is a major railway junction on the Southern Railways and has trains to Chennai, Rameswaram, Madurai, Bangalore, Mumbai, Kanyakumari, Kozhikode, Mettupalayam, Kochi and Delhi. Road: Coimbatore is connected by road with all major places in South India. For local transportation, city buses, taxis and auto rickshaws are available. State Transport Corporation plies mini luxury coaches between various points in the city and airport. GENERAL INFORMATIONArea: 23.5-sq-kmPopulation: 7,04,514 (1991 Census) Latitude N: 10° 10' and 11° 30'Longitude: E 76° 40' and 77° 30'Altitude: 43.2 mClothing: Light CottonsLanguage Spoken: Tamil, English, Telugu and MalayalamClimate: TropicalTemperature Range (deg C): Summer: Max 39.4ºC, Min 23.3ºC Winter: Max 32.8ºC, Min 20.7ºC Rainfall: 92.2 mm

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How To Reach Kodumudi From Anywhere of TamilNadu!!!!

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Stop `n' go
Kodumudi: because it's there, says SUBHA J RAO

FOR THOSE who travel on the Erode-Karur Road regularly, Kodumudi is just another stop. But stop and take in the surroundings. The air is heady with the scent of turmeric. Crops of golden yellow paddy wave in the wind ready for harvest and waif-like betel vines snake up stiff agathi keerai trees.
The Cauvery gurgles past the 7th Century AD periya kovil on its idol-rich bank. Looking skyward to propitiate the gods, devotees and locals take a quick dip in knee-deep water before heading for the temple. The water has now receded but during the days when the gates of the Mettur dam are open, it swells to cover some of the newly built concrete steps on the bank.
Devotees grateful that their wishes are granted by the Trinity (Shiva, Brahma and Vishnu) return to leave a stone idol on the muddy bank. Over the years, the Gods seem to have smiled on quite a few people. You can't walk more than 10 feet without stumbling upon an idol.
Perfectly sculpted Ganeshas, Nandis, Nagarajas and a host of other nameless gods in the Hindu pantheon sit benignly waiting for new companions.
For local anglers
The new idols smothered with soggy marigold garlands stand out in contrast with others, which have had their sharp edges softened by years of lapping waves. Other deities lie half-buried in the wet sand, missing a hand or leg or a nose. The sculptures get a scrubbing only when water is released from the dam. Then, they go underwater and resurface only when the level decreases in summer. This is also the time for local anglers. Using nothing more than a length of string and a ripe banana, they hook a variety of eels and other kinds of fish.
The coracle owners here are a friendly lot and help you find the best places to fish. Park your vehicle near the temple and wade down till you are waist deep in water. A local boy flings a fruit-laden string into the water and waits for some fish to fall for his bait. When his neighbour hooks an eel, he looks with yearning and moves away to deeper waters. While he is trying his luck, a foot-long nandi, its nose above water, keeps me company.
Soon, it's time to take the ride on the bamboo-lined coracle. The boatman plunges a bamboo pole into the water to make it glide across the Cauvery. A few minutes later, at the cost of a few rupees, you are on the other bank and in a different district, Namakkal. On this side lies the Agasthiar Paarai, the stone on which the saint believed to have brought forth the Cauvery, is said to have done penance. When the river is in full spate, the coracle can go right up to it.
How to go there: Kodumudi is 105 km from Coimbatore. If you're driving down, take a diversion near Kangeyam. There are not many eateries out there. But the famous Kodumudi cucumber is available in plenty in the temple complex.
When the sun turns up its heat, this is the only salvation around.

Entry Point of Our Temple