Thirupapuliyur Arulmigu Periyanayagi Udanurai Padaleeswarar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is a historic Hindu shrine in Thirupathiripuliyur, Cuddalore. Built during the Pallava and Medieval Chola periods, this temple is one of the 275 Paadal Petra Sthalams. The Saivite saint Appar is believed to have adopted Saivism here. Legend has it that worshipping Shiva at this temple once is equivalent to worshipping Shiva multiple times in prominent holy sites like Kasi, Thiruvannamalai, and Chidambaram.
The temple is also one of the nine Nava Puliyur Temples, venerated by the sages Patanjali and Vyaghrapada. It is named after the Pathiri Tree and the saint Puliyur, who is believed to have received absolution here. The temple is renowned for its large temple car, Theeruvadaichan, along with its silver and golden chariots used during special occasions.
Architecturally, the temple follows the Dravidian style, featuring a unique classification as Gnazhar Koil, where the main deity is placed under Gnazhar trees (Senna sophera). Temples built with wood from these trees are also classified under this style. The Saivite saint Tirugnanasambandar refers to this temple as Gnazhar Koil in his literary works, emphasizing its significance in Shaiva traditions.
Located at the center of Cuddalore, the temple is easily accessible from Thirupathiripuliyur Railway Station and the Cuddalore Main Bus Stand. Appar’s conversion from Jainism to Shaivism is closely linked to this temple, where he prayed for healing. His transformation inspired the Pallava king to embrace Shaivism, marking the temple's pivotal role in religious history.