Nageswaraswamy Temple, Kumbakonam
Also known as: நாகேஸ்வரன் கோயில் (கும்பகோணம்) · కుంభకోణం నాగేశ్వరస్వామి ఆలయం · कुंभकोणम नागेश्वर स्वामी मंदिर
Tamil Nadu Shiva
An early Chola Shiva temple where, in the first days of Chithirai, sunlight falls on the lingam.
- Deity
- Nageswarar (Shiva), Periyanayagi (Parvati)
- Tradition
- Shiva
- Place
- Kumbakonam, Thanjavur
- State
- Tamil Nadu
- Sacred tank / theertham
- Naga Theertham (listed as Surya Theertham)
- Era
- Built by Aditya Chola in the 9th century. Gopurams added by the Thanjavur Nayaks (16th century).
Sthala Puranam
Adisesha did penance at Kuvivanam, feeling the weight of the earth, and Parvati blessed him with strength.
The serpents Dakshan and Karkotakan worshipped Shiva here. King Nala also worshipped here, as he did at Thirunallar.
Speciality
- In the first three days of Chithirai (April–May) sunlight falls directly on the base of the deity in the sanctum.
- There are shrines for Rahu, and Rahu-related worship is part of the place's tradition.
- One of the twelve Shiva temples connected with the Mahamaham festival.
Festivals
- Maha Shivaratri (February–March)
- Panguni Brahmotsavam, the main festival
- Pradosham and Pournami worship
How to reach
By airTiruchirappalli Airport, about 90–100 km.
By trainKumbakonam Junction, about 2 km.
By roadIn Kumbakonam town; autos from the bus stand.
Location is approximate.
Before you go
- Dress modestly. Leave footwear outside the temple.
- Timings, ticket rules and dress codes change. Check the temple's own notice or website before you travel.
- Book darshan, rooms and special poojas only at the official counter or website, not through agents.
- The sunlight festival days in early Chithirai are the best time to see the lingam lit; check dates locally.
Prayers for this temple
Sources
Facts on this page were checked against the sources listed above. If you find a mistake, please tell us.