Location : Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu
Temple Complex : Collection Of Three Temples
Deity Worshipped : Kangaala Moorthy (Lord Shiva), Goddess Parvati and Lord Vinayaka
Maintained By : Archaeological Survey Of India

The Rock Fort temple complex in Tiruchirappalli is a collection of three temples - the Manikka Vinayaka temple at the foot of the hill, the Uchhi Pillayar Koyil at the top of the hill and the Taayumaanava Koyil (Shivastalam) on the hill. This Shivastalam is a rock cut temple on a hill in the most prominent landmark in Tiruchirappalli (Trichy); reached by a flight of steps on the way to the famous Ucchi Pillaya temple.
About The Temple
This shrine houses Kangaala Moorthy, one of the 64 manifestations of Shiva. The approach to the temple is through a flight of covered stairs. Towards the end of the climb, the Tayumanavar temple is towards the west and the Uchipillayar temple towards the east.

There is a rock cut Pallava temple - Lalitankura Pallaveswaram in this hill temple complex, with several inscriptions here attributed to Mahendravarma Pallavan. In addition the Cholas, the Vijayanagar rulers and the Nayaks of Madurai have made extensive contributions here. The two storeyed Taayumaanava temple, built on (in!) a hill is a masterpiece of construction. The Chittira Mandapam (also spelt as Mandapa) houses a granite chain with nine loops.

History
Tiruchirappalli itself has a long history, going back to the centuries before the Christian era, when it was a Chola citadel. The Pandyas and Pallavas held sway over the region for short periods. In the 12th century, Cholas were subverted by the Vijayanagar kings of Hampi, who proudly withstood the invading Muslims. Less than fifty years later, the Nayaks of Madurai came to power, constructed the Rock Fort, and firmly established Tiruchirappalli as the trading city.

Festivals
Six worship services are offered each day here. This well endowed temple celebrates the annual Brahmotsavam in Chithirai. Aadi Pooram and the float festival in Panguni are also of significance here.

Places to stay in Tamilnadu
Accommodation is available at the star and moderate class hotels, lodges and hostels in Trichy.

How to Get There

Air
The nearest airport from Mahabalipuram is Chennai, located around 60-km away. One can get flights for almost all major destinations in India and abroad.

Rail
The nearest railway station is Chengalpattu, around 29-km away from Mahabalipuram. Trains for Chennai and several other major cities in South India are available from here.

Road
Mahabalipuram is connected by road to Chennai, Tirukkalikundram (Pakshithirtham), Kanchipuram (65-km), and Pondicherry.

Tourist Information about Rock Fort Temple
Timings: 6.00am to 8.00pm