Sri Bangaru Kamakshi Amman Temple is a famous Hindu temple located in Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu. Dedicated to Goddess Kamakshi, a form of Parvati, this temple is known for its unique idol made of gold, giving it the name “Bangaru” (meaning gold in Telugu). The temple has historical significance, as it is believed that the idol was originally from Kanchipuram and was moved to Thanjavur during invasions to protect it. Devotees visit the temple to seek the goddess’s blessings for prosperity and well-being. The temple follows traditional Tamil rituals and is an important spiritual site in Thanjavur.
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- History/Legend of the Temple Sri Bangaru Kamakshi Amman Temple, located in Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, is a revered Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Kamakshi, an incarnation of Parvati. The temple has a rich historical and spiritual significance, tracing its origins to the Vijayanagara period. It is believed that the idol of Bangaru Kamakshi (meaning "Golden Kamakshi") was originally enshrined in Kanchipuram. During the Muslim invasions in the 16th century, the idol was secretly moved to Udayarpalayam, a small town near Ariyalur, to protect it from destruction. Later, in the 18th century, under the patronage of the Maratha rulers of Thanjavur, particularly Pratapasimha, the idol was installed in its current location. The temple is known for its unique rituals and traditions, with the goddess worshipped as a form of Shakti. Devotees believe that seeking the blessings of Sri Bangaru Kamakshi brings prosperity, peace, and fulfillment of desires. The temple continues to be an important pilgrimage site, attracting worshippers from all over Tamil Nadu.
- Name of the Deities Sri Bangaru Kamakshi Amman (Goddess Parvati).
- Nearby Cities and Distance Kumbakonam (40.4 km). Trichy (66.4 km). Mayiladuthurai (75.6 km).
- Mode of Transport(from the nearest city) Bus. Car. Train. Auto. Bike.
- Duration (from the nearest city) Kumbakonam 49 min.
- Estimated cost of the travel (from the nearest city) car,auto,bus... Bus - Rs.30 to Rs.70. Car - Rs.1000 to Rs.2000. Train - Rs.20 to Rs.100. Auto - Rs.700 to Rs.1000.
- Temple Instructions Men: Dhoti or veshti with an angavastram (shawl). Avoid shirts inside the sanctum. Women: Saree or salwar kameez with a dupatta. Avoid western outfits. Photography and videography are strictly prohibited inside the temple. Keep mobile phones on silent mode to avoid disturbances. Maintain silence and respect the sanctity of the temple.
- Special Days and Special Happenings Navaratri (September - October). Aadi Month Celebrations (July - August). Thai Poosam (January - February). Panguni Uthiram (March - April). Chitra Pournami (April - May). Deepavali (October - November). Karthigai Deepam (November - December). Vaikasi Visakam (May - June).
- Rituals Available No
- Offerings Offerings typically include fresh flowers, turmeric, Kumkum (vermilion), coconut, fruits, and traditional sweets like Pongal and Payasam and also perform archanas (special prayers), abhishekams (ritual bathing of the deity), and offer gold or silk sarees.
- Prasadham Prasadam to devotees, typically including Puliyodarai (Tamarind Rice), Chakkarai Pongal (Sweet Pongal), and Sundal (seasoned lentils).
- Benefits of Visiting Devotees believe that seeking the blessings of Bangaru Kamakshi (Golden Kamakshi) brings prosperity, peace, and protection from hardships.
- Is this temple a Paadal Petra Sthalam? No
- Who Sang | Song and its Meaning | Year No
- Other things to do / places of interest Thanjavur Art Gallery Saraswathi Mahal Library (1.4 km) Royal Palace Museum (1.2 km). Thanjavur Maratha Palace (1.5 km). Sivaganga Park (1.0 km).
- Nearby Temples Brihadeeswarar Temple (Big Temple). Punnai Nallur Mariamman Temple. Rajarajeshwari Temple. Thirukandiyur Brahma Temple. Thiruvaiyaru Panchanatheeswarar Temple.
- Nearby Eateries Sree Ariya Bhavan. Nandhis Homely Restaurant. Vasantha Bhavan. Sathars Restaurant. Chellammal's Manpaanai Samayal.
- Hotels / Home stays: Barnabas Homestay. Sagar Homestay. Rams Inn. MPK Villa Homestay. Hotel Royal Stay.
- Standard Weather Tropical climate with hot summers, moderate monsoons, and mild winters.
- For the best experience / Must know The temple holds great historical and spiritual significance, especially for followers of the Shankaracharya tradition. Originally, the deity of Bangaru Kamakshi (Golden Kamakshi) was worshiped in Kanchipuram. However, during the Muslim invasions, the idol was moved to Thanjavur for protection by the devoted saint Shri Shyama Sastri's ancestors. Since then, Thanjavur has been the permanent abode of the goddess. It is also closely associated with Shyama Sastri, one of the Trinity of Carnatic music, who composed many devotional songs in praise of the goddess.
- Not to miss The temple is known for its unique idol of Kamakshi, made of pure gold, unlike the traditional stone idols. This temple, known for its stunning Dravidian architecture and spiritual ambiance, houses a golden idol of the goddess, which is believed to have been brought from Kanchipuram. The temple's serene atmosphere, intricate sculptures, and vibrant festivals make it a must-visit destination for pilgrims and history enthusiasts alike.
- Note for Travelers Travelers can reach the temple easily via multiple modes of transport. The nearest railway station is Thanjavur Junction, approximately 2 km away, with regular trains connecting major cities like Chennai, Trichy, and Madurai. The closest airport is Tiruchirappalli International Airport, about 60 km from Thanjavur, with taxi and bus services available for onward travel. For road travelers, Thanjavur is well-connected by national and state highways, with frequent buses and private cabs from nearby cities. Once in Thanjavur, local auto-rickshaws and taxis can take you directly to the temple.
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FAQ's
Where is Sri Bangaru Kamakshi Amman Temple located?
The temple is located in Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, India. It is dedicated to Goddess Kamakshi, a form of Goddess Parvati.
What is the significance of the temple?
Sri Bangaru Kamakshi Amman Temple is known for housing a unique idol of Goddess Kamakshi made of gold ("Bangaru" means gold in Telugu). The temple is associated with the Kanchipuram Kamakshi Amman Temple and has historical importance.
Who built the temple?
The temple is believed to have been established during the rule of the Nayak kings, who relocated the Bangaru Kamakshi idol from Kanchipuram to Thanjavur to protect it from invaders.
What is special about the temple's deity?
The deity is made of gold and is depicted in a unique seated posture. The idol is adorned with exquisite jewelry and is worshiped as an incarnation of Goddess Shakti.
Are there any special poojas or rituals?
Yes, the temple conducts: Abhishekam (sacred bath) Alankaram (decoration) Deeparadhana (lamp worship) Sahasranama Archana (recitation of 1000 names of the Goddess)
How can I reach the temple?
By Road: Thanjavur is well-connected by road to major cities like Chennai, Trichy, and Madurai. By Train: Thanjavur Railway Station is the nearest railhead, about 3 km away. By Air: The nearest airport is Tiruchirappalli International Airport (around 60 km away).
Is there an entry fee?
No, there is no entry fee to visit the temple.
Why is the face of the Goddess black?
When the idol was shifted from Kanchipuram to Thanjavur, it was smeared with "Punugu" (a secretion of the civet cat) and covered in cloth to disguise it. Even today, the idol continues to be smeared with Punugu, giving its face a distinct black color.
