Sri Seetheswarar Temple is a historic Hindu temple located in Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, who is worshipped here as Seetheswarar, the temple has deep spiritual and architectural significance. The temple is known for its Dravidian-style architecture and serene atmosphere. It also houses a shrine for Goddess Sivakami Amman. Devotees visit this temple to seek blessings for prosperity and well-being. The temple’s history is linked to various legends and is a significant place of worship in Kanchipuram, a city renowned for its temples.
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- History/Legend of the Temple Sri Seetheswarar Temple, located in Thirumayilai, Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu, is an ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple holds significant historical and spiritual importance, with its origins dating back to the Pallava and Chola dynasties. According to legend, Goddess Sita, the consort of Lord Rama, is believed to have worshipped Lord Shiva at this temple, which is why the deity is named Sri Seetheswarar. The temple architecture showcases the Dravidian style, with intricate carvings and a majestic tower (Rajagopuram). Devotees believe that worshipping here brings relief from planetary afflictions and grants prosperity. Over the centuries, the temple has been renovated by various rulers, preserving its rich heritage and spiritual essence. Today, it remains a revered pilgrimage site, attracting devotees and history enthusiasts alike.
- Name of the Deities Sri Seetheswarar (Lord Shiva). Goddess Soundaranayaki (Parvati).
- Nearby Cities and Distance Chennai (Tambaram) (51.4 km). Vandavasi (43.8 km). Vellore (66.6 km).
- Mode of Transport(from the nearest city) Car. Bus. Train. Auto.
- Duration (from the nearest city) Chennai (Tambaram) 1 hr 20 min.
- Estimated cost of the travel (from the nearest city) car,auto,bus... Car - Rs.1200 to Rs.2000. Bus - Rs.50 to Rs.100. Train - Rs.20 to Rs.50. Auto - Rs.50 to Rs.150.
- Temple Instructions Temple are advised to wear traditional attire as a mark of respect and devotion. Men should wear a dhoti or formal pants with a shirt, while women are encouraged to wear a saree or salwar kameez. Shorts, sleeveless tops, or any inappropriate clothing should be avoided to maintain the sanctity of the temple. Additionally, photography and videography inside the sanctum sanctorum are generally not permitted, and mobile phones should be kept on silent mode to ensure a peaceful environment for worship.
- Special Days and Special Happenings Maha Shivaratri (Feb–March). Pradosham (Twice a Month). Karthigai Deepam (Nov–Dec). Arudra Darshan (Thiruvathirai) (Dec–Jan). Aadi Pooram (July–Aug). Navaratri (Sep–Oct). Panguni Uthiram (March–April). Apart from these, monthly Sankatahara Chaturthi, Full Moon (Pournami) Pujas, and Tamil New Year celebrations are also observed with grandeur.
- Rituals Available Marriage (Wedding) Ceremonies: Many devotees believe that praying at the temple, especially to Lord Seetheswarar (Shiva) and Goddess Soundaranayaki (Parvati), can help remove obstacles in marriage. Some couples also choose to get married in the temple premises with the blessings of the deities. Special Kalyana Pooja (Marriage Pooja) is performed for those seeking an early and successful marriage. f you are specifically looking to conduct a wedding at the temple, it is best to contact the temple authorities in advance for arrangements.
- Offerings Offerings include abhishekam (ritual bathing of the deity) with milk, honey, curd, and holy water, along with archana (chanting of sacred names) using flowers, bilva leaves, and fruits. Many also perform deepa aradhana (lighting of lamps) and donate oil for the temple lamps. Devotees offer their heartfelt prayers, seeking blessings for health, prosperity, and spiritual well-being, and some observe special vrathams (fasts) or conduct homams (fire rituals) as acts of devotion.
- Prasadham Sri Seetheswarar Temple in Kanchipuram offers prasadham (sacred food) to devotees, typically including items like puliyodarai (tamarind rice), sakkarai pongal (sweet rice), curd rice, and laddu on special occasions. During important festivals and poojas, the temple may also provide prasadam in the form of panchamirtham (a mixture of bananas, honey, ghee, jaggery, and dates), vada, or coconut-based sweets. The type of prasadham may vary based on the day, festival, and temple traditions. Devotees receive it as a divine blessing after offering prayers.
- Benefits of Visiting The temple is believed to bestow peace, prosperity, and well-being upon devotees. Rich in mythological significance, it is associated with divine penance and blessings. The temple's Dravidian-style architecture, adorned with intricate carvings and sacred inscriptions, showcases the region’s artistic heritage. Its serene atmosphere provides an ideal space for meditation and inner reflection, while the daily poojas, abhishekams, and festivals enhance spiritual devotion. As part of Kanchipuram, a city renowned for its temple heritage, the site holds immense historical and religious importance. Additionally, the temple is believed to radiate positive energy, promoting mental and physical healing.
- Is this temple a Paadal Petra Sthalam? Yes
- Who Sang | Song and its Meaning | Year Appar, Sundarar, and Thirugnanasambandar | Tevaram | 7th to 9th century CE.
- Other things to do / places of interest Shakuntala Jagannathan Museum (750.0 m). Sri Kanchi Kamakoti Peetam (750.0 m). Kanchi Kudil (850.0 m).
- Nearby Temples Ekambareswarar Temple. Kamakshi Amman Temple. Varadaraja Perumal Temple. Kailasanathar Temple. Vaikunta Perumal Temple.
- Nearby Eateries Hotel Sakthi Ganapathi. Adyar Ananda Bhavan (A2B). Saravana Bhavan. Dakshin Restaurant (GRT Regency). Upashana Hotel.
- Hotels / Home stays: Linga Homestay. Grace Homes. Mayura Homestay. Om Muruga Home Stay. Yaathra Home.
- Standard Weather The weather in Kanchipuram is generally hot and humid.
- For the best experience / Must know The presiding deity, Sri Seetheswarar, is worshipped in the form of a Shivalinga, alongside Goddess Sivakami Amman. The temple holds immense historical and spiritual significance, as it is associated with Sage Agastya, who is believed to have worshipped Lord Shiva here and received divine wisdom. The temple features traditional Dravidian-style architecture, adorned with intricate sculptures and inscriptions, adding to its cultural richness. The presence of Theerthams (holy water sources) enhances its sanctity, making it a revered pilgrimage site. Festivals such as Maha Shivaratri and Pradosham are celebrated with great devotion, drawing numerous devotees. With its serene atmosphere and deep spiritual essence, the temple remains a sacred destination for those seeking blessings and inner peace.
- Not to miss Don't miss the Sri Seetheswarar Temple in Kanchipuram, a hidden gem rich in history and spiritual significance. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this ancient temple is known for its serene ambiance and unique architectural beauty. The temple is believed to have been visited by Goddess Sita, giving it the name Seetheswarar. Devotees come here to seek blessings for a harmonious and prosperous life. The intricate carvings, sacred pond, and the peaceful atmosphere make it a must-visit for those exploring Kanchipuram’s spiritual heritage.
- Note for Travelers Sri Seetheswarar Temple is a historic Hindu temple in Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Travelers can reach the temple by various means. The nearest airport is Chennai International Airport (MAA), about 75 km away, from where taxis and buses are available to Kanchipuram. The town also has a railway station with connections to major cities like Chennai, Bangalore, and Vellore. By road, Kanchipuram is approximately 72 km from Chennai and can be accessed via NH48 or state highways, with frequent bus and taxi services. Within Kanchipuram, local transport options such as auto-rickshaws, cabs, and buses make it easy to reach the temple. The best time to visit is during early mornings or evenings for a peaceful darshan, while festivals like Shivaratri and Panguni Uthiram attract many devotees.
Opening Hours
Monday:
7:00 AM - 10:00 AM and 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Tuesday:
7:00 AM - 10:00 AM and 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Wednesday:
7:00 AM - 10:00 AM and 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Thursday:
7:00 AM - 10:00 AM and 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Friday:
7:00 AM - 10:00 AM and 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Open now
Saturday:
7:00 AM - 10:00 AM and 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Sunday:
7:00 AM - 10:00 AM and 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM
FAQ's
Where is Sri Seetheswarar Temple located?
Sri Seetheswarar Temple is located in Thirumukkudal, near Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu, India.
What is the significance of Sri Seetheswarar Temple?
The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, worshipped as Seetheswarar, and Goddess Parvati as Tripurasundari. It is believed to be an ancient temple associated with spiritual significance and healing powers.
What is the history of the temple?
Sri Seetheswarar Temple is said to be centuries old, with historical links to various Tamil kings and saints. It is associated with the legend of Sage Agastya and is believed to have been visited by several Siddhars.
What is the unique feature of this temple?
The temple is believed to have a special healing energy for ailments. It is one of the Padal Petra Sthalams, sacred places praised by Tamil Saivite saints. The temple is located at the confluence of three rivers (Palar, Cheyyar, and Vegavathi), making it spiritually significant.
How to reach the temple?
By Road: The temple is around 15 km from Kanchipuram and well connected by local buses and taxis. By Train: Nearest railway station – Kanchipuram Railway Station (~15 km) By Air: Nearest airport – Chennai International Airport (~80 km)
What is the temple's architectural style?
The temple features Dravidian-style architecture with intricate sculptures. The Gajaprishta Vimana (elephant-back-shaped sanctum) is a unique feature of the temple.
Is there a sacred water body (Theertham) in the temple?
Yes, the temple is near the Sarva Theertham Kulam, a sacred pond known for its spiritual significance.
