History of Thirumalai Murugan Temple Tenkasi
The history of the Thirumalai Murugan Temple Tenkasi spans several centuries and carries strong spiritual legends. According to local traditions and temple inscriptions, Lord Murugan appeared in the dream of a devoted follower and instructed the devotee to establish the shrine atop the serene Thirumalai hill. Over time, the Pandya rulers and later regional dynasties actively contributed to the temple’s growth and maintenance.
As one of the oldest Murugan temples in the region, the shrine has long served as an important pilgrimage centre. Saints and devotees regularly performed penance here and offered worship to Lord Murugan, who is venerated at this temple as Thirumalai Kumaran.
Architectural Significance of Thirumalai Murugan Temple Tenkasi
The Thirumalai Murugan Temple beautifully reflects traditional Tamil hill-temple architecture. Devotees ascend a flight of steps to reach the sanctum, symbolizing spiritual progress and devotion. The temple features classic Dravidian pillars, well-defined mandapams, and a serene inner sanctum that houses Lord Murugan holding his divine spear, the Vel.
In addition, the panoramic views of Tenkasi town and the lush greenery surrounding the hill significantly enhance the spiritual experience. As a result, the temple seamlessly blends devotion with the natural beauty of the landscape.
Pooja Details & Daily Rituals at Thirumalai Murugan Temple Tenkasi
The temple strictly follows traditional Murugan worship practices, with trained priests performing daily rituals. Devotees can participate in various poojas conducted throughout the day.
- Ushakkala Pooja – Early Morning
- Kalasanthi Pooja – Morning Ritual
- Uchikala Pooja – Noon Worship
- Sayaratchai Pooja – Evening Ritual
- Arthajama Pooja – Night Worship
Furthermore, the temple conducts special abhishekams on auspicious days such as Tuesdays, Fridays, Karthigai days, and Murugan-related nakshatras, drawing a large number of devotees.
Temple Festivals at Thirumalai Murugan Temple Tenkasi
The Thirumalai Murugan Temple celebrates festivals with great devotion and spiritual fervour, attracting devotees from Tenkasi, Tirunelveli, and surrounding regions.
- Thai Poosam – A major Murugan festival marked by special abhishekams and grand processions.
- Skanda Sashti – Celebrates Lord Murugan’s victory over Surapadman.
- Panguni Uthiram – Commemorates divine celestial marriages.
- Karthigai Deepam – The temple glows with rows of traditional oil lamps.
- Aadi Festival – Features special worship dedicated to Lord Murugan.
Temple Timings of Thirumalai Murugan Temple Tenkasi
Morning Darshan: 6:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Evening Darshan: 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM
During festival days and special occasions, the temple may extend darshan timings for the convenience of devotees.
How to Reach Thirumalai Murugan Temple Tenkasi
The temple is located a few kilometres from Tenkasi town and is easily reachable through local and regional transport.
By Air
Tuticorin Airport (110 km) and Trivandrum International Airport (120 km) are the nearest airports.
By Train
Tenkasi Junction Railway Station is the nearest station with excellent connectivity to Tirunelveli, Madurai, and Kerala.
By Road
Tenkasi is well connected by buses and private transport. Autos and taxis are available to reach the hill base.
Travel Tips for Visiting Thirumalai Murugan Temple Tenkasi
- Wear comfortable footwear for climbing steps.
- Visit early morning to avoid heat and crowds.
- Carry water, especially during summer months.
- Respect temple dress codes and local customs.
- Enjoy the scenic hilltop view — ideal for peaceful meditation.
Thirumalai Murugan Temple Tenkasi – FAQ
Why is Thirumalai Murugan Temple famous?
It is a sacred hill temple dedicated to Lord Murugan, known for its peaceful ambience, divine presence, and beautiful hilltop views.
How many steps are there to reach the temple?
The temple has a moderate number of steps, making it accessible for most devotees without difficulty.
What is the best time to visit?
Early morning and evenings are ideal for pleasant weather and peaceful darshan.
Is parking available near the hill base?
Yes, parking facilities are available for two-wheelers and four-wheelers at the base of the hill.
Tourist Attractions near Tenkasi
Chitra Sabai Sivan Temple, also known as the Hall of Paintings, is located within walking distance from the main waterfalls of Coutrallam in the Tenkasi district of Tamil Nadu. This sacred site stands out as a treasure house of exquisite mural paintings. Therefore, the temple earned the name “Chitra Sabai,” which literally means the Hall of Art. Moreover, Chitra Sabai holds immense spiritual importance as one of the five sacred halls where Lord Shiva is believed to have performed his divine Cosmic Dance.
Pancha Sabhai – The Five Sacred Halls of Lord Shiva
The Pancha Sabhai refers to five temples in Tamil Nadu associated with Lord Shiva’s Cosmic Dance in the form of Lord Nataraja. Each Sabhai represents a unique Thandavam and carries deep symbolic meaning. The five sacred Sabhais are located at Thiruvalangadu (Rathina Sabhai), Chidambaram (Por Sabhai), Madurai (Velli Sabhai), Tirunelveli (Thamira Sabhai), and Coutrallam (Chitra Sabhai). Consequently, Chitra Sabai occupies a significant place among these revered temples.
Legend Behind Chitra Sabai Sivan Temple
According to legend, a great imbalance occurred on Earth due to the massive gathering of celestial beings who assembled to witness the divine wedding of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvathi in the Himalayas. To restore balance, Lord Shiva requested Sage Agastyar to travel southward. Although Sage Agastyar obeyed the command and reached Coutrallam, he felt disappointed about missing the sacred wedding. However, Lord Shiva understood the sage’s devotion and compassionately appeared before him along with Goddess Parvathi. Subsequently, the Lord performed the sacred Thirupura Thandavam at this very place.
Architecture and Structure of the Temple
Chitra Sabai Sivan Temple features a distinctive rectangular structure with a wooden entrance and a pyramid-style roof. Inside the Sabha, the hall is divided into two circular compartments arranged as concentric rings. Furthermore, the walls of these rings display beautifully preserved mural paintings of various sizes. These artworks vividly depict the history of Coutrallam, the celestial wedding of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvathi, Lord Vishnu in Anantha Sayanam posture, and scenes from the Ramayana and Mahabharata. As a result, the temple offers both spiritual enrichment and artistic delight to visitors.
How to reach Chitra Sabai Sivan Temple
Chitra Sabhai Sivan Temple is located at a distance of around 7 kilometres from Tenkasi and around 65 kilometres from Tirunelveli. Tenkasi Railway Junction at a distance of around 7 kilometres connects the temple to all major cities in the State. Madurai Airport is the nearest airport at a distance of 161 kilometres from the temple.
Chitra Sabai Sivan Temple – Kuttralam FAQ
What is Chitra Sabai Sivan Temple famous for?
Chitra Sabai Sivan Temple is famous for its exquisite mural paintings depicting the cosmic dance of Lord Shiva and scenes from Hindu mythology, making it one of the Pancha Sabhai temples.
Where is Chitra Sabai Sivan Temple located?
The temple is located in Courtallam (Kuttralam) near Tirunelveli district, Tamil Nadu, close to the famous Courtallam waterfalls.
What does Chitra Sabai mean?
Chitra Sabai means “Hall of Paintings,” symbolizing the divine space where Lord Shiva performed his dance as beautifully illustrated murals on the temple walls.
Is Chitra Sabai part of the Pancha Sabhai temples?
Yes, Chitra Sabai is one of the five sacred Sabhas (dance halls) of Lord Nataraja, along with Chidambara Sabai, Kanaka Sabai, Rajata Sabai, and Tamra Sabai.
What is the best time to visit Chitra Sabai Sivan Temple?
The ideal time to visit is from June to September during the Courtallam season, when the nearby waterfalls are in full flow and temple visits are most pleasant.
Other Tourist Attractions in Kuttralam:
Sri Kutralanathar Temple, stands majestically beside the Coutrallam Main Falls. As one of the most prominent Shiva temples in Tamil Nadu, it attracts devotees throughout the year. Moreover, Thirukutralam, also called Trikootachalam, represents one of the five Pancha Sabhas of Lord Nataraja. The temple is located about 7 kilometres from Tenkasi in the Tirunelveli district.
Currently, the temple is maintained and administered by the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Department of the Government of Tamil Nadu. Kutralanathar Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, worshipped here as Sri Kutralanathar, and his consort Goddess Parvathi, revered as Kuzhalvoimozhi Amman. Importantly, worship at this sacred shrine is believed to date back to the Sangam period.
Legend Behind the Temple
According to legend, this shrine was originally a Vaishnava temple. However, at the request of Lord Shiva, Sage Agastyar travelled southward to balance the earth when the divine wedding of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvathi caused cosmic imbalance in the Himalayas. Subsequently, Sage Agastyar transformed the Vishnu shrine into a Shiva Lingam, establishing Shaivite worship here.
Furthermore, the temple forms one of the Pancha Sabha Kshetrams of Lord Shiva in his cosmic dancer form, Lord Nataraja. This sacred dance hall is known as the Chitra Sabha. The other four Sabhas are located at Chidambaram, Madurai, Tiruvalangadu, and Tirunelveli. Notably, the Chitra Sabha, situated about 500 metres from the main temple, is adorned with hundreds of exquisite murals.
The Temple Deities
Architecturally, the temple resembles a conch shape and is therefore known as Sangakkovil.
The presiding deity Lord Shiva is worshipped as Kutralanathar, while Goddess Parvathi is worshipped as Kuzhalvoimozhi Amman. Significantly, the Shiva Lingam here is a Swayambumurthi, meaning it is self-manifested.
In addition, the temple complex houses shrines for Lord Vishnu, Kasi Viswanathar, Kasi Visalakshi, Adi Parashakti, Tenkasi Kasi Viswanathar, Nellaiyappar Gandhimathi Ambal, and the Navagrahas. Moreover, Lord Ganesha and Lord Murugan also grace this holy abode.
Reference to Literature
Literary works have richly glorified this sacred temple.
Notably, Thrikooda Rasappa Kavirayar’s Kutrala Kuravanji praises the spiritual grandeur of Thiru Kutralam.
Additionally, the shrine finds mention in two pathigams sung by Saint Tirugnanasambandhar during the 7th century AD. Furthermore, the revered Shaiva saints Appar, Sundarar, Gnanasambandhar, and Manikkavasagar have all sung in praise of this divine temple.
Kutralanathar Temple Timings
The temple remains open from 6:00 AM to 12:00 Noon and from 4:30 PM to 8:00 PM.
Pooja Timings of Kutralanathar
| Pooja Details | Timings |
|---|---|
| Thiruvananthal | 6:00 AM |
| Uthayamarthandam | 7:00 AM |
| Vila Pooja | 8:00 AM |
| Sirukala Sandhi | 9:00 AM |
| Kala Sandhi | 10:00 AM |
| Uchikalam | 12:00 Noon |
| Sayaratchai | 6:00 PM |
| Arthajamam | 8:00 PM |
Kutralanathar Temple Festivals
The major festivals observed in the temple are:
- Vishu Festival – 10 days festival during the Tamil month of Chithirai (April-May)
- Brahmotsavam – 10 days festival during the Tamil month of Aippasi (October-November)
- Thiruvadhirai Festival – 10 days festival during the Tamil month of Margazhi (December-January)
- Navarathri Festival – 9 days festival during the Tamil month of Purattasi (September-October)
Other festivals observed in the temple include Adi Ammavasai, Avani Moolam, Aippasi Thirukalyanam, Kandha Shasti, Karthigai Deepam, Thai Maha Theppam, Maasi Sivarathri and Panguni Uthiram.
How to reach Kutralanathar Temple
Kutralanathar temple is located at a distance of 14 kilometres from Tenkasi bus station and 65 kilometres from Tirunelveli. Tenkasi Railway Junction at a distance of around 16 kilometres connects the temple to all major cities in the State. Madurai Airport is the nearest airport at a distance of 161 kilometres from the temple.
Thirukutralanathar Temple, Kuttralam – FAQ
What is Thirukutralanathar Temple famous for?
Thirukutralanathar Temple is famous for its association with Lord Shiva as Kutralanathar and its unique location near the scenic Courtallam waterfalls, blending spirituality with nature.
Where is Thirukutralanathar Temple located?
The temple is located in Kuttralam (Courtallam) in Tirunelveli district, Tamil Nadu, close to the popular Main Falls.
Who are the presiding deities of the temple?
Lord Shiva is worshipped as Thirukutralanathar, and Goddess Parvati is worshipped as Kuzhalvai Mozhi Amman.
What is the significance of the temple’s history?
According to legend, Sage Agastya transformed a Vishnu temple into a Shiva temple here, making it an important site that reflects both Shaivite and Vaishnavite traditions.
What is the best time to visit Thirukutralanathar Temple?
The best time to visit is during the Courtallam season from June to September, when the waterfalls are in full flow and the temple atmosphere is vibrant.
Other Tourist Attractions near Kuttralam:
Kuttralam lies in the Tenkasi District of Tamil Nadu and people widely recognize it as the “Spa of South India.” This scenic destination attracts visitors with its roaring waterfalls, expansive greenery, and pristine natural surroundings. In addition, Kuttralam features several ancient temples and prominent tourist attractions that enhance its cultural appeal.
Locals and visitors also call Kuttralam the Herbal Hill because water from its waterfalls carries medicinal properties. As a result, many wellness resorts and health clinics operate in and around the town. Several perennial rivers, including the Thamirabarani River, Chittar River, Manimuthar River, and Pachaiyar River, originate in this region of Tirunelveli.
Coutrallam Location
Coutrallam, also known as Kuttralam, functions as a panchayat town located at an elevation of about 160 metres on the Western Ghats. It sits within the Tenkasi District of Tamil Nadu and serves as one of South India’s most visited waterfall destinations.
Reference to Literature
The name Kutralam originates from the term “Kuru Aal,” which means dwarf banyan trees. The region earned this name because forests in the area once flourished with such trees. Renowned poet Thiurkudarasappa Kavirayar vividly praised the beauty and grandeur of this serene town near Tenkasi. Moreover, Sangam literature highlights Kuttralam by comparing its natural charm to the elegance of a woman, emphasizing its literary and cultural importance.
Major Waterfalls in Kuttralam
Kuttralam features nine major waterfalls, each offering a unique bathing experience. Visitors from across the country travel here to rejuvenate themselves in the herb-rich waters that refresh both body and mind.
Coutrallam Main Falls (Peraruvi)
Peraruvi stands as the largest and most prominent waterfall in Kuttralam. At this location, water plunges from a height of nearly 60 metres before slowing down inside a natural crater called Pongumakadal, which measures about 19 metres in depth. The flowing water passes over rocks carved with Shiva Lingams and other deities, creating a deeply spiritual atmosphere. Combined with the healing properties of the water, a bath here delivers a refreshing and divine experience. Visitors often follow the bath with a relaxing body massage. During peak seasons, large crowds gather at the falls, and visitors wait in queues for their turn. Notably, the Main Falls can accommodate nearly 300 people at a time.
Small Falls (Chitraruvi)
Chitraruvi, commonly called the Small Falls, lies adjacent to the Main Falls. From this point, visitors can walk uphill to reach Shenbagadevi Falls and Thenaruvi. Here, the water flows gently, allowing visitors to enjoy a mild shower. Authorities provide separate bathing facilities for men and women.
Shenbagadevi Falls
Visitors reach Shenbagadevi Falls by trekking about 2.5 kilometres through the Chitraruvi forest. The waterfall sits roughly 40 feet above Chitraruvi Falls. The water flows through fragrant Shenbaga trees, enhancing the site’s spiritual atmosphere. A temple dedicated to Shenbagadevi Amman stands nearby and attracts many pilgrims, especially on full moon days.
Thenaruvi (Honey Falls)
Thenaruvi, popularly known as Honey Falls, lies about 3 kilometres from the Main Falls. Water drops from a height of nearly 40 metres between two massive rocks. The falls get their name from honeycombs found on the surrounding hills. Dense forests and steep mountain trails lead to this horseshoe-shaped waterfall. Due to safety risks, authorities restrict public access.
Aintharuvi (Five Falls) in Kuttralam
Aintharuvi, also called Five Falls, lies around 4 kilometres from Kuttralam town. The waterfall splits into five streams before merging into a single flow downhill. Authorities reserve two sections for women and three for men. Visitors can also explore the nearby Eco Park, boating facilities, and several popular temples.
Pazhathotta Aruvi (Orchard Falls)
Pazhathotta Aruvi flows above Aintharuvi through orchards, creating a scenic setting. People once referred to it as the VIP Falls because only politicians and bureaucrats could enter. Currently, authorities restrict entry for all visitors.
Pazhaya Courtalla Aruvi (Old Coutrallam Falls)
Pazhaya Courtalla Aruvi, also known as Shivamathungai Falls, lies about 6 kilometres from the Main Falls. Initially, water flowed into a deep valley between two large rocks. Later, authorities altered the watercourse to allow safe bathing. Workers carved steps into the rocks, and water now cascades from a height of nearly 200 metres. Separate bathing areas and oil massage facilities serve visitors.
Puli Aruvi (Tiger Falls)
Puli Aruvi earned its name because tigers once used it as a watering spot. The mild waterfall lies about 2 kilometres from the Courtallam bus stand on private land. Water collects in a small lake before flowing into irrigation canals. Nearby attractions include the Sastha Temple, a bathing ghat, and an old palace that now remains private property.
The Private Falls
A small waterfall located above Five Falls inside the Government Horticulture Park remains closed to the public. Visitors can reach the Main Falls, Five Falls, and Old Courtallam Falls by road, while Shenbaga Waterfalls and Honey Falls require mountain trekking.
Places to Visit in Coutrallam or Kutralam
Some of the other places of interest that could be visited near Kutralam are:
- Palaruvi (Milk Falls) lies at the Tamil Nadu – Kerala border at the mountain pass named Aryankavu.
- Gundaru Aruvi is Located at a distance of 10 kilometres from Kutralam, near Sengottai. Traveling 2 kilometres inward from the Gundaru Dam will take you to Gundaru Aruvi.
- Kannupuli Mettu is Located at a distance of 5 kilometres to the west Sengottai Taluk Office at the top of Gundaru Reservoir.
- Children’s Park, Aquarium and Snake park near Main Falls, Eco Park near Five Falls, Therkumalai Estate, around one hour travel from Honey Falls, Boat Houses near Five Falls and Old Courtallam Falls, Gundam Dam & Reservoir near Senkottai.
- The Chitra Sabha at Kutralam is one of the five sabhas where Lord Nataraja (a form of Lord Shiva) is said to have performed his divine dance. The historical paintings and other religious events are very significant here.
- The Kutralanathar Temple near to the Main Falls is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is around 2000 years old and Tamil inscriptions of Chola and Pandyan periods can be found here.
- Other temples near Kutralam include
- Thirukutralanathar Temple
- Chitra Sabai Sivan Temple – Kuttralam
- Kasi Viswanathar Temple, Tenkasi (6 kms from Kutralam)
- Thirumalai Temple, Panpoli (8 kms from Kutralam)
- Kumaran Temple, Ilanji (3 kms from Kutralam)
- Dakshinamoorthy Temple, Puliyarai (12 kms from Kutralam)
- Ulagaambigai & Lord Shiva Temple, Papanasam (35 kms to the Southeast of Kutralam)
- Ariyankavau Ayappan Temple (35 kms to the Northwest of Kutralam)
- Sri Siddheswari Peetham, Courtallam
- Papanasam River at a distance of 35 kms from Kutralam
- The Banatheertham Falls and Agasthiyar Falls near Papanasam
- Lower Papanasam Dam, Kaaraiyar Dam, Servalar Dam and Manimuthar Dam near Papanasam
- Kalakaddu – Mundanthurai Tiger Sanctuary near Papanasam
- Kumbavuruti Aruvi – Located at a distance of 32 kms from kutralam, on the way to Achan Koil in Kerala.
Unique Attributes of Coutrallam
- Flora & Fauna – Apart from the rare herbs, Kutralam is rich with diverse flora and fauna found around the place. Around 2000 varieties of flowers and plants have been identified in the hills at Kutralam.
- Tourists savor in the fresh and hot Halwa prepared and sold at shops on the way to Kuttralam Main Falls.
- The aromatic masala milk sold usually in the evenings is very popular among the tourists.
- The towel made up of thin fiber and pure organic cotton, called the Aruvi Thundu, is a unique accessory that dries up very quickly and is very useful for having a bath in various falls. Tourists can get it in the nearby textile shops.
- The famous Border Kadai is at a distance of just 5 minutes from Kutralam. It is well known for its parottas and non-vegetarian cuisine.
- Tourists looking out for an elegant meal can drop at Vinayaga Dosa Kadai, located at Melagaram on the road from Thenkasi to Kutralam. One can relish the several varieties of Dosa available here.
- Courtallam encompasses hotels, lodges, and resorts according to the budget.
Ideal time to visit Kuttralam or Coutrallam
Best time to visit would be from June to December from the onset of South West Monsoons. If due to heavy rains the falls get flooded, people would not be allowed to take bath in the falls.
How to reach Coutrallam Falls?
Senkottai is the nearest bus stand. Frequent buses ply to Coutrallam. The nearest railway hub is at Thenkasi (5kms) and the nearest airport is Thoothukudi Airport and Trivandrum International Airport.
Coutrallam Main Waterfalls – FAQ
Where is Coutrallam Main Waterfalls located?
Coutrallam Main Waterfalls is located in Courtallam (Kuttralam) in Tenkasi district, Tamil Nadu, at the foothills of the Western Ghats.
Why is Coutrallam Main Falls famous?
The falls are famous for their herbal-rich waters that flow through forested hills, earning Courtallam the title “Spa of South India.”
What is the best time to visit Coutrallam Main Falls?
The best time to visit is during the monsoon season from June to September when the waterfalls are in full flow.
Is Coutrallam Main Falls safe for bathing?
Yes, the falls are generally safe for bathing as the water spreads over a wide rock surface, but visitors should follow safety guidelines and official instructions.
Are there facilities available near the waterfall?
Yes, basic amenities such as changing rooms, parking, shops, and eateries are available near the falls for tourists.
Kasi Viswanathar Temple is located in Tenkasi, within the Tirunelveli district of Tamil Nadu. Dedicated to Lord Shiva worshipped as Kasi Viswanathar, the temple also enshrines his divine consort Goddess Parvathi, revered here as Ulagamman. As a result, the shrine attracts devotees seeking the spiritual essence of Kasi without travelling far.
The “South Kasi” (Dakshina Kasi) of Tamil Nadu
Popularly known as Dakshina Kasi, this sacred temple holds immense religious importance in southern India. Moreover, the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Department of the Government of Tamil Nadu administers and maintains the temple, ensuring its rituals and traditions continue uninterrupted.
Legend and History of Kasi Viswanathar Temple
Historically, the Pandyan ruler Parakkirama Pandian built the Kasi Viswanathar Temple during the 13th century. He adopted the classic Dravidian style of architecture, while the Madurai Nayaks later added several structural enhancements.
According to legend, King Parakkirama Pandian longed to worship Lord Kasi Viswanathar at Varanasi. However, before beginning his journey, Lord Shiva appeared in his dream and guided him to follow an army of ants. Consequently, the king constructed the temple at the spot where the ants formed an anthill, marking it as a divinely chosen site.
Architecture of Kasi Viswanathar Temple
The sanctum sanctorum houses Lord Kasi Viswanathar in the form of a Shiva Lingam, which devotees believe to be a Swayambumurthi or self-manifested deity. As you approach the sanctum, idols of Lord Ganesha and Lord Murugan flank the entrance hall, welcoming worshippers.
Furthermore, the temple complex includes smaller shrines dedicated to Dakshinamurthy, Arumugar, Goddess Durga, Navagrahas, and Lord Nataraja. Encircling the main shrine, concentric granite walls enhance both the spiritual aura and architectural grandeur of the temple.
Adding to its visual splendour, the seven-tiered rajagopuram rises to an impressive height of 180 feet. Built in 1990, this towering structure stands as a striking landmark of Tenkasi town.
Festivals Celebrated at Kasi Viswanathar Temple
Among the many festivals observed here, Maasi Magam, celebrated during the Tamil month of Maasi (February–March), remains the most significant. During this time, thousands of devotees gather to seek divine blessings.
In addition, the temple celebrates several other festivals with equal devotion, including Tirukalyanam, Moola Festival, Navratri, Karthigai Deepam, Thiruvathirai, Thaipoosam, Maha Shivaratri, and Panguni Uthiram. Together, these festivals reflect the temple’s vibrant spiritual and cultural traditions.
Temple Timings in Kasi Viswanathar Temple
- Morning Hours – 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM
- Evening Hours – 4:00 PM to 8:30 PM
The temple is open for full day during new moon days (Amavasya)
Pooja Timings in Kasi Viswanathar Temple
| Kalasanthi | 8:30 AM |
| Uchikalam | 11:30 AM |
| Sayarakshai | 5:30 PM |
| Aravanai Pooja | between 8:00 PM to 9:00 PM |
How to reach Kasi Viswanathar Temple
The temple is about 1.5 kilometers away from Tenkasi bus stand. Tenkasi at a distance of about 55 kilometers from Tirunelveli, is the nearest railway station. Thenkasi is well connected to all major cities across South India. Madurai Airport (about 156 kilometres away) and Thiruvananthapuram International Airport (about 124 kilometres away) are the nearest airports.
Tenkasi Kasi Viswanathar Temple – FAQ
Where is Tenkasi Kasi Viswanathar Temple located?
Tenkasi Kasi Viswanathar Temple is located in Tenkasi town, Tamil Nadu, near the foothills of the Western Ghats.
Why is Kasi Viswanathar Temple in Tenkasi famous?
The temple is famous for being modeled after the Kashi Vishwanath Temple of Varanasi and is often called the “Kashi of the South.”
Who built the Tenkasi Kasi Viswanathar Temple?
The temple was built in the 15th century by King Parakrama Pandya of the Pandya dynasty.
Who are the presiding deities of the temple?
Lord Shiva is worshipped as Kasi Viswanathar, and Goddess Parvati is worshipped as Ulagamman.
What is the best time to visit Tenkasi Kasi Viswanathar Temple?
The best time to visit is from October to March when the weather is pleasant, especially during Maha Shivaratri and temple festivals.