Ucchi Pillayar Temple, Rockfort, Tiruchirappalli

The temple is tied to a well-known legend of the Srirangam Ranganatha image. As Wikipedia retells it from the Sri Ranga Mahatmya, Rama gave Vibhishana an image of Ranganatha to take to Lanka, warning that it could not be moved once set on the ground. The devas did not want it to leave, so when Vibhishana stopped to bathe in the Kaveri he handed it to a young boy, who set it down and ran up the nearby rock. Vibhishana chased the boy and struck him on the forehead, and the boy revealed himself as Ganesha, who told Vibhishana that the image was destined to remain at Srirangam.

Devotees therefore regard the hilltop shrine as the place where Ganesha took refuge after the episode. Wikipedia notes the custom of first worshipping Manicka Vinayagar, the Ganesha shrine at the foot of the rock, before climbing to Ucchi Pillayar.

The shrine is especially busy at Vinayaka Chaturthi. Tamil Nadu Tourism describes the festival as the temple's most important event, and DT Next reported in 2023 that for more than three decades a giant kozhukattai (modak) of about 150 kg has been offered to Ucchi Pillayar and Manicka Vinayagar and then shared among devotees.

The climb is long and steep, so allow time and carry water, especially in the heat of the day; elderly visitors may find it hard. The temple is crowded during Vinayaka Chaturthi. Confirm current timings and any rules on footwear, photography and dress with the temple administration (HR&CE) before visiting.

Timings and arrangements change with seasons and festivals. Confirm current details with Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Department, Tamil Nadu (per Wikipedia) before travelling. Last reviewed 1 November 2026.