Kudumiyanmalai – Pudukkottai
Kudumiyanmalai is a historic village located about 20 kilometres from Pudukottai along the Pudukkottai–Kodumbalur road. Most notably, the village is renowned for its ancient rock-cut cave temples, which stand as the main highlight of the region. In addition, Kudumiyanmalai is famous for the hilltop Shikanathar Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and for the Agricultural College that is owned and administered by the Government of Tamil Nadu.
Kudumiyanmalai Rock-Cut Cave Temple
The rock-cut cave temple, excavated on the eastern side of the hillock, dates back to the early seventh century. Consequently, it holds immense historical and architectural significance.
- This monolithic cave temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, worshipped as Shikanatheeswarar, while Goddess Parvathi is revered here as Akhilandeswari.
- The Maha Mandapam, or great assembly hall, features finely carved pillars and ornate sculptures that belong to the Nayaka period, thereby reflecting exquisite craftsmanship.
- Another striking feature is the rock-cut panel depicting the 63 Nayanmars, with figures of Lord Shiva, Goddess Parvathi, and Nandi positioned at the center.
- On the inner wall of the temple, devotees can see the image of Lord Valampuri Ganesha, identified by his trunk curling to the right.
- Furthermore, the cave temple contains around 120 inscriptions that help trace the history of both the temple and the town. Among these, the most significant inscription records grammatical notes of Carnatic music, engraved on the southern side of the mandapam.
- Adjacent to this inscription stands a five-foot-high carved image of Lord Idampuri Ganesha, distinguished by his left-curving trunk.
- Additionally, the temple complex includes subsidiary shrines dedicated to Akhilandeshwari and Soundara Nayaki Amman, enhancing its spiritual importance.
Temple Timings and Festivals:
The temple is open from 6:00 AM to 11:00 AM and from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Maha Shivarathri is the main festival celebrated during the Tamil month of Masi (February-March). Other festivals observed include the Thirukalyanam in the Tamil month of Aippasi (October–November) and Thiru Karthigai in the Tamil month of Karthigai (November-December).
How to reach Kudumiyanmalai
Pudukkottai and Trichy are the nearest towns where one can avail accommodation facilities. The nearest railway station is at Pudukottai (20 kilometres away). The nearest airport is at Tiruchirapalli (around 49 kilometres away).