Jalakandeswarar Temple

Standing in the vast complex of Vellore Fort, Jalakandeswarar Temple is a major tourist attraction in Vellore city. This temple enshrines Lord Shiva along with his consort, Goddess Parvati. In this temple, Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati are worshiped as Jalakandeswarar and Akhilandeswari Amma. According to the legend, a chieftain dreamt of Lord Shiva who ordered him to build a Shivalinga near a huge ant hill. It was removed and Shivalinga was placed. Since it was surrounded by water on all 4 sides, the chieftain gave the name Jalakandeswarar Temple to it.

It Is Known For:-
1) The whole structure of the temple is a remarkable illustration of the amazing Vijayanagar architecture. The pillars, gopuram, and the walls of the temple are carved in an intricate manner
2) The temple complex is surrounded by a water reservoir on all sides. The water is drawn from this reservoir for doing the abhishekam of the Shivalinga
3) The wedding hall of the temple has different pillars that have the carvings of the lion, elephant, and Leo-Griffin
4) Jalakandeswarar Temple is also famous for the grand scale celebrations of the festivals like Maha Shivaratri and Navratri. Countless devotees visit this holy shrine on these two occasions

Best Time To Visit:-
Jalakandeswarar Temple can be visited throughout the year. It welcomes the followers of all faiths. The best time to visit the temple is during the festive season because it is the time when the whole complex is decorated beautifully.

Reaching There:-
To reach Jalakandeswarar Temple, one can hire a car or board the local bus as this temple is connected via all the roads in the city.

Nearest Railway Station- Katpadi Railway Station
Nearest Airport- Vellore Airport