Shri Periyanayagi Ambal Sametha Shri Nagabaraneshwarar Shiva Temple is a revered Hindu temple located in Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, who is worshipped here as Shri Nagabaraneshwarar, the temple is known for its spiritual significance and rich heritage. The presiding goddess, Shri Periyanayagi Ambal, is venerated as the divine consort of Lord Shiva. The temple is believed to have historical and mythological importance, attracting devotees seeking blessings for prosperity and well-being. With traditional Dravidian architecture and sacred rituals, this temple stands as a symbol of devotion and cultural heritage in the region.
Maps
Hightlight
-
Bus Facility
-
Car Parking
More Information
- History/Legend of the Temple The Shri Periyanayagi Ambal Sametha Shri Nagabaraneshwarar Shiva Temple is a revered Hindu temple located in Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, worshipped here as Shri Nagabaraneshwarar, and his divine consort Shri Periyanayagi Ambal, the temple holds great religious and historical significance. Believed to be several centuries old, it was possibly built during the reign of the Chola or Pallava dynasties, as Kanchipuram, known as the City of Temples, has long been a center of spiritual and Shaiva worship. The temple’s name, Nagabaraneshwarar, meaning "Lord Shiva adorned with serpents," suggests a divine connection to protection against serpent-related afflictions like Rahu-Ketu dosha, making it a sacred site for devotees seeking relief from such astrological influences. Goddess Periyanayagi Ambal, representing Shakti, is worshipped here for prosperity, marital harmony, and overall well-being. As part of Kanchipuram’s religious landscape, one of the seven Moksha-puris (sacred cities for liberation), the temple follows Shaiva Siddhanta traditions and is possibly linked to the devotional hymns of Tamil saints known as Nayanmars. Architecturally, it features Dravidian-style design, a towering gopuram (entrance tower), intricate sculptures, and a sacred pond (theertham). The temple hosts regular Shiva pujas, abhishekams, and special homams, particularly during Pradosham, Maha Shivaratri, and Navaratri. Worship at this temple is believed to remove sarpa dosha (afflictions related to serpents), grant peace, good health, and success, and deepen one’s spiritual connection to Lord Shiva. Drawing countless pilgrims, the Shri Periyanayagi Ambal Sametha Shri Nagabaraneshwarar Temple remains a site of profound devotion, divine grace, and spiritual upliftment.
- Name of the Deities Nagabaraneshwarar(Lord Shiva). Periyanayagi Ambal(Goddess Parvati).
- Nearby Cities and Distance Chennai (Tambaram) (30.3 km). Vandavasi (80.7 km). Vellore (127.8 km).
- Mode of Transport(from the nearest city) Car. Bus. Train. Bike.
- Duration (from the nearest city) Chennai (Tambaram) 48 min.
- Estimated cost of the travel (from the nearest city) car,auto,bus... Car - Rs.1500 to Rs.2500. Bus - Rs.50 to Rs.150. Train - Rs.50 to Rs.120.
- Temple Instructions Wear traditional attire (men—dhoti & angavastram | women—saree/salwar kameez). Walk around the sanctum in a clockwise direction. Maintain personal hygiene before entering the temple premises.
- Special Days and Special Happenings Pradosham – A significant occasion dedicated to Lord Shiva, observed twice a month. Maha Shivaratri – Celebrated with special poojas and rituals dedicated to Lord Shiva. Kiruthigai and Sashti – Important days associated with Lord Murugan. Pournami (Full Moon Days) – Special prayers and rituals are conducted. These events ensure that at least one major festival is observed every month in the temple. Rahu-Ketu puja is performed to alleviate Sarpa Dosha.
- Rituals Available Weddings: Traditional Hindu marriage ceremonies are conducted in the temple premises with blessings from the deity. Rahu-Ketu puja and Nagaprathishta (the installation of serpent idols) are done to relieve Sarpa Dosha.
- Offerings Devotees light oil lamps for blessings and heavenly grace. Offering silk or cotton clothing to the goddesses. Chanting Lord Shiva's names using flowers and precious artifacts.
- Prasadham Prasadham like Puliyodarai (tamarind rice), Sakkarai Pongal (Sweet pongal), or prasadam made of coconut and jaggery during special poojas and festivals like Pradosham and Maha Shivaratri
- Benefits of Visiting Devotees are blessed by Lord Shiva (Nagabaraneshwarar) and Goddess Periyanayagi Ambal, who are thought to grant desires and shield people from evil forces.
- Is this temple a Paadal Petra Sthalam? Yes
- Who Sang | Song and its Meaning | Year Thirugnanasambandar | Tevaram | 7th and 9th centuries CE
- Other things to do / places of interest Kanchipuram Silk Weaving Centres. Kanchi Kudil. Shakuntala Jagannathan Museum. Kanchi Kamakoti Peedam.
- Nearby Temples Mukthishwarar Temple. Sri Thiruvaleeswarar Temple. Sri Perumaleeswarar Temple. Kailasanathar Temple. Ekambaranathar Temple
- Nearby Eateries Nithya Amirtham - Kanchipuram. Udupi Sri Krishna. Upashana Hotel. Hotel Sakthi Ganapathi. KANCHI KITCHEN RESTAURANT.
- Hotels / Home stays: Hotel Aalayam Kancheepuram (Yatri Nivas). Mayura Homestay. Om Muruga Home Stay. Linga Homestay. Happy Home Stay.
- Standard Weather Kanchipuram, in Tamil Nadu, India, has a tropical Kanchipuram, in Tamil Nadu, India, has a tropical climate characterized by scorching summers, temperate winters, and seasonal monsoons.
- For the best experience / Must know Shri Periyanayagi Ambal Sametha Shri Nagabaraneshwarar Temple is a revered Shiva temple located in Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu. This ancient temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, worshipped here as Shri Nagabaraneshwarar, and Goddess Parvati, revered as Shri Periyanayagi Ambal. The temple is known for its unique significance, particularly its association with serpents (Nagas), as "Nagabaraneshwarar" translates to "Lord adorned with serpents." Devotees believe that worshipping here grants relief from Naga Dosha (afflictions related to serpents) and brings prosperity. The temple follows traditional Shiva worship rituals and hosts grand celebrations during Maha Shivaratri and other Hindu festivals. With its historical and spiritual importance, the temple attracts numerous devotees seeking divine blessings, peace, and well-being.
- Not to miss Don't miss visiting Shri Periyanayagi Ambal Sametha Shri Nagabaraneshwarar Shivan Kovil in Kanchipuram. This sacred temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, known here as Nagabaraneshwarar, and Goddess Parvati as Periyanayagi Ambal. The temple is renowned for its spiritual significance, intricate architecture, and divine ambiance. Devotees believe that worshiping here brings blessings for prosperity and well-being. A must-visit for those seeking peace and divine grace in the historic city of Kanchipuram.
- Note for Travelers Chennai International Airport (around 75 km). Kanchipuram Railway Station (Well connected to Chennai and adjacent places) Accessible by NH48, with buses and taxis available from Chennai and the surrounding towns. The best time to visit the temple is early mornings or evenings, ideally during temple festivals.
Opening Hours
Monday:
6:00 AM - 12:00 PM & 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Tuesday:
6:00 AM - 12:00 PM & 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Wednesday:
6:00 AM - 12:00 PM & 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Thursday:
6:00 AM - 12:00 PM & 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Closed
Friday:
6:00 AM - 12:00 PM & 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Saturday:
6:00 AM - 12:00 PM & 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Sunday:
6:00 AM - 12:00 PM & 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM
FAQ's
Which deity is worshipped in this temple?
The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, worshipped as Shri Nagabaraneshwarar, along with Goddess Parvati, worshipped as Shri Periyanayagi Ambal.
What is the significance of the name
The name Nagabaraneshwarar means "Shiva adorned with serpents (Nāga)." The temple is believed to have a strong connection with snake worship and protection from Sarpa Dosha (afflictions related to snakes in astrology).
Is there a special puja for Sarpa Dosha Nivarana (remedy for serpent afflictions)?
Yes, special Nagaprathishta (installation of serpent idols) and Rahu-Ketu puja are performed to alleviate Sarpa Dosha.
How to reach the temple?
By Road: Easily accessible from Kanchipuram town, with good road connectivity. By Rail: Kanchipuram Railway Station is the nearest railway station. By Air: Chennai International Airport (around 70 km away) is the closest airport.
Can devotees perform archana and abhishekam?
Yes, devotees can offer archana (prayers with offerings) and abhishekam (ritual bathing of the deity) with prior booking at the temple office.
What is the Sthala Vruksham (sacred tree) and Theertham (temple pond)?
The Sthala Vruksham (sacred tree) is Vanni, and the temple's Theertham (holy water source) is Saravana Poigai.
