Shri Kayahorana Swami Neelayathatchi Amman Temple

The Shri Kayarohana Swami Temple stands in the historic town of Nagapattinam and ranks among the prominent Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. Here, devotees worship Lord Shiva as Kayarohana, while Goddess Parvathi is revered in the form of Neelayathakshi. Consequently, the temple attracts both Shaivite devotees and heritage enthusiasts throughout the year.

Significance of the Temple

• The Lakolisa cult, one of the oldest sects of Shaivism originating from Gujarat, built the temple in the 6th century AD. Notably, the only other temple constructed by this sect in Tamil Nadu is located in Kancheepuram. Therefore, this temple holds exceptional historical importance.
• In addition, the temple houses the idol of Thyagaraja, the renowned composer of Carnatic music. Uniquely, artisans crafted this idol using lapis lazuli, a rare deep blue metamorphic rock. Furthermore, the temple occupies a significant place among the 275 Paadal Petra Sthalams.
• Over the centuries, the Pallava and Chola rulers rebuilt and preserved the temple. As a result, they strengthened its architectural grandeur and spiritual legacy.
• Moreover, Kayarohana Swamy Temple represents one of the sacred sites that depict the Saptha Vidangam, or seven classical dance forms of Lord Shiva. Specifically, the temple belongs to the Adhividangar category and is renowned for the Vilathithaanam dance pose, which symbolises the rhythmic waves of the sea.
• Importantly, the temple is also recognised as a Shakti Peetam. Revered saints Sambandar, Appar, and Sundarar have praised it in their sacred Thevaram hymns, thereby elevating its devotional status.

Shri Kayarohana Swami Neelayathatchi Amman Temple Timings

The Shri Kayarohana Swami Neelayathatchi Amman Temple welcomes devotees daily from 6:00 AM to 12:30 PM and again from 5:00 PM to 9:30 PM. Therefore, visitors can conveniently plan their darshan during both morning and evening hours.

Temple Festivals – Shri Kayarohana Swami Neelayathatchi Amman Temple

Throughout the year, the temple celebrates several important festivals, which draw large numbers of devotees from across the region.

• Vaikasi Wedding Festival during the Tamil month of Vaikasi (May–June)
• Aadi Pooram celebrated in the Tamil month of Aadi (July–August)
• Shivarathri observed in the Tamil month of Masi (February–March)
• Annabhishekam conducted in the Tamil month of Aipasi (October–November)
• Tiru Karthigai celebrated during November–December

How to reach Shri Kayarohana Swami Neelayathatchi Amman Temple

Nagapattinam Old Bus Stand lies less than one kilometre from the temple, making it easily accessible by local transport. Similarly, Nagapattinam Railway Junction is just 1 kilometre away from the shrine.

For air travel, Trichy Airport serves as the nearest terminal at approximately 147 kilometres. Alternatively, Chennai International Airport is about 297 kilometres away.

Moreover, Nagapattinam enjoys strong road and railway connectivity with major cities across South India, thereby ensuring convenient travel options for pilgrims and tourists alike.