The Sri Madhangeeswarar Temple is located in Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu, India. This ancient temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, who is worshipped here as Madhangeeswarar, with the goddess Parvati known as Madhangeswari. The temple holds great religious significance in the Shaiva tradition and is one of the prominent temples in the Kanchipuram region, known for its historical and architectural value.
Maps
Hightlight
-
Bus Facility
-
Car Parking
More Information
- History/Legend of the Temple The Sri Madhangeeswarar Temple in Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu, is a historic Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, known here as Madhangeeswarar. Believed to have been constructed by the Pallava dynasty around the late 8th century, the temple showcases distinctive architectural features characteristic of that era. A unique aspect of this temple is its dvarapalas (guardian figures) with four hands, a feature that sets it apart from other temples. According to legend, the temple was worshipped by Madhanga Rishi, a sage who sought to control his five senses. He resided at this location, worshipping the Shiva Linga, and through his devotion, achieved his spiritual goals. The temple's architecture is reminiscent of the Kailasanathar Temple, featuring eight lion pillars, each carved from a single stone (monolith). A prominent Shiva Lingam is enshrined at the center, and elephant statues adorn each corner around the temple. Over the centuries, the Sri Madhangeeswarar Temple has stood as a testament to the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of Kanchipuram, attracting devotees and history enthusiasts alike.
- Name of the Deities Madhangeeswarar (Lord Shiva). Kamakshi (Goddess Parvati).
- Nearby Cities and Distance Chennai (Tambaram) (53.8 km). Vandavasi (41.4 km). Vellore (69.4 km).
- Mode of Transport(from the nearest city) Car. Bus. Train. Bike.
- Duration (from the nearest city) Chennai (Tambaram) 1 hr 9 min.
- Estimated cost of the travel (from the nearest city) car,auto,bus... Car- 2000-2500. Bus- 100-150. Train- 50-100.
- Temple Instructions Photography is generally permitted in the outer courtyards. Always seek permission before photographing individuals engaged in prayer or rituals. Photography is typically prohibited inside the inner sanctum.
- Special Days and Special Happenings Thirukarthikai: Celebrated in November and December. Mahashivaratri: Celebrated in February and March.
- Rituals Available Not available
- Offerings Devotees can offer flowers, fruits, incense, and prayers.
- Prasadham Not Available
- Benefits of Visiting Peace, spiritual sustenance, and a closer relationship with the divine can all be obtained by visiting Sri Madhangeeswarar Temple in Kanchipuram. The temple is a noteworthy historical and architectural example as well.
- Is this temple a Paadal Petra Sthalam? No
- Who Sang | Song and its Meaning | Year No
- Other things to do / places of interest Government Museum (800 m). Sri Sonnavannam Seidha Perumal (1.8 km). Shakunthala Jagannathan Museum (1.9 km) Kanchi Kudil (1.4 km). Sri Vazhakarutheeswarar Temple (1.1 km).
- Nearby Temples Shri Chitragupta Swamy Temple. Sri Ulagalanda Perumal Devasthanam Temple Sri Kachabeswarar Temple. Arulmigu Sri Subramaniya Swami Temple. Sri Kailasanathar Temple.
- Nearby Eateries Nithya Amirtham – Kanchipuram. Sri Saravana Bala. Dakshin Restaurant. Sri Saravana Lunch Home. Upasana Hotel.
- Hotels / Home stays: Sri Rams Residency, Kanchipuram. KNR RESIDENCY. Hotel Classic Kanchipuram. Sri Nalan Hotel. THE PARK RESIDENCY – KANCHIPURAM.
- Standard Weather Wet and dry climate. The weather in Kanchipuram is generally hot and humid.
- For the best experience / Must know The temple houses a powerful Shiva Linga, which is said to have been worshipped by Sage Madhanga Rishi for spiritual enlightenment. It is believed that praying here helps in controlling the five senses and attaining inner peace.
- Not to miss Unlike most Shiva temples, which have only one Nandi, this temple features two Nandis sitting side by side, a rare sight in Shiva temples. This unique placement is said to enhance the spiritual power of prayers. The temple's entrance is supported by eight majestic lion pillars, each carved from a single stone. This architectural style is similar to the Kailasanathar Temple in Kanchipuram, adding to its historical charm. It has four-handed Dvarapalas (guardian figures), a unique feature not commonly found in other Shiva temples.
- Note for Travelers Kanchipuram railway station is the nearest railway station to Madhangeeswarar Lord Shiva Temple. It is nearly 0.33 kilometers away from it.
Opening Hours
FAQ's
Where is the Sri Madhangeeswarar Temple located?
The Sri Madhangeeswarar Temple is situated in Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu, India, which is one of the seven Moksha-puris and a famous pilgrimage site.
What is the significance of the Sri Madhangeeswarar Temple?
The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, known here as Madhangeeswarar. It is said that the temple has special spiritual significance for devotees seeking prosperity, peace, and spiritual upliftment. It is considered one of the key temples in Kanchipuram, a city renowned for its many ancient temples.
What is the temple’s history?
The Sri Madhangeeswarar Temple is believed to have been built centuries ago and has historical significance tied to the Pallava dynasty. It holds importance as one of the oldest temples in Kanchipuram and features beautiful Dravidian-style architecture.
Are there any special festivals celebrated here?
The temple celebrates various Hindu festivals, especially the Shivaratri, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Other key festivals include Tamil New Year, Navaratri, and Deepavali.
How do I reach the Sri Madhangeeswarar Temple?
By Train: Kanchipuram has a well-connected railway station, and you can take a taxi or auto from the station to the temple. By Road: Kanchipuram is easily accessible via road, located approximately 72 km from Chennai. Local buses and taxis are available from Chennai to Kanchipuram. By Air: The nearest airport is Chennai International Airport, from where you can hire a taxi to reach Kanchipuram.
Is there a dress code for visiting the temple?
Yes, it is customary to wear modest and traditional attire while visiting the temple. For men, this typically means wearing dhoti or pants and for women, it could be sarees or salwar kameez.
