Sri Nisumbasuthani VadaBhadrakali Amman Kovil, also known as Vada Bhadra Kali Amman Temple, is a significant temple in Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu. It is dedicated to Goddess Kali, an incarnation of Shakti known for her fierce and protective nature. The temple is located in Sannapuram and is revered for its spiritual importance and traditional worship practices.
The temple has a rich historical and cultural background, with devotees believing that prayers here bring protection and blessings. It is especially crowded during festivals, particularly Navaratri, when special rituals and celebrations take place.
The architecture of the temple is traditional Dravidian, featuring beautifully sculpted idols and intricate carvings. The main deity, Vada Bhadra Kali, is worshipped with great devotion, and rituals include special pujas and offerings to seek divine grace.
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- History/Legend of the Temple Sri Nisumbasuthani Vada Bhadrakali Amman Kovil is a historic Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Bhadrakali, a fierce form of Goddess Durga. Located in Tamil Nadu, India, the temple has deep roots in mythology and tradition. The name Nisumbasuthani refers to the goddess as the slayer of the demon Nisumbha, a tale from Hindu scriptures where she protects the universe by vanquishing evil forces. The temple is renowned for its grand festivals, particularly during Navaratri and annual fire-walking rituals, attracting devotees seeking divine blessings and protection. Its Dravidian-style architecture, adorned with intricate sculptures and vibrant depictions of deities, reflects the rich cultural heritage of Tamil Nadu. Over the centuries, the temple has served as a significant spiritual center, preserving ancient traditions and continuing to inspire devotion among followers of Goddess Bhadrakali.
- Name of the Deities Sri Nisumbasuthani Amman (Goddess Durga). Sri Vada Bhadrakali Amman (Goddess Kali).
- Nearby Cities and Distance Kumbakonam (39.1 km). Trichy (70.6 km). Mayiladuthurai (74.9 km).
- Mode of Transport(from the nearest city) Bus. Car. Train. Auto. Bike.
- Duration (from the nearest city) Kumbakonam 48 min.
- Estimated cost of the travel (from the nearest city) car,auto,bus... Bus - Rs.30 to Rs.80. Car - Rs,600 to Rs.1200. Train - Rs.20 to Rs.100. Auto - Rs.400 to Rs.600.
- Temple Instructions Devotees are expected to wear traditional attire. Maintain silence and follow the queue system. Photography and videography inside the sanctum are usually restricted. Mobile phones should be kept on silent mode or switched off inside the temple.
- Special Days and Special Happenings Amavasya (New Moon Day). Navaratri Festival. Aadi Month (July–August). Tamil New Year (Chithirai Month – April). Purattasi Month (September–October). Maha Shivaratri.
- Rituals Available Special homams (fire rituals) are conducted, especially on Amavasya (New Moon Days) to eliminate negative energies.
- Offerings Offerings typically include fresh flowers, coconuts, fruits, and sweet prasadams like pongal and payasam, symbolizing purity and auspiciousness. Devotees often light ghee lamps and break coconuts as a gesture of removing obstacles.
- Prasadham Prasadham like Puliyodarai (Tamarind Rice) and Sakkarai Pongal (Sweet Pongal).
- Benefits of Visiting Devotees who visit the temple often experience a deep sense of peace and divine blessings, as the goddess is believed to remove obstacles, protect from negative forces, and bestow prosperity.
- Is this temple a Paadal Petra Sthalam? No
- Who Sang | Song and its Meaning | Year No
- Other things to do / places of interest Royal Palace Museum (1.1 km). Thanjavur Palace & Art Gallery (1.7 km). Thanjavur Maratha Palace (1.7 km). Saraswathi Mahal Library (1.3 km). Sivaganga Park (2.3 km).
- Nearby Temples Brihadeeswarar Temple. Thanjai Mamani Temple. Bangaru Kamakshi Amman Temple. Punnainallur Mariamman Temple. Kodi Amman Temple.
- Nearby Eateries Sree Ariya Bhavan. Sathars Restaurant. Nandhis Homely Restaurant. Hotel Gnanam. Vasantha Bhavan.
- Hotels / Home stays: Barnabas Homestay. TANJORE HOME STAY. Lakshana Service Apartment. ABM HOMESTAY THANJAVUR. Hotel Sri Shanmuga.
- Standard Weather The area experiences a tropical climate with hot summers, moderate monsoons, and mild winters.
- For the best experience / Must know This temple holds great significance for devotees seeking divine protection, strength, and blessings. The temple is known for its grand festivals, especially during Navaratri and Chithirai festivals, attracting a large number of devotees. Many worshippers visit this temple to offer prayers for prosperity, health, and success, believing in the goddess's power to remove obstacles and grant wishes.
- Not to miss One unique feature of this temple is the Sri Chakra installed beneath the goddess's idol, enhancing its spiritual energy and significance. Devotees believe that prayers offered here bring immense protection, courage, and prosperity. The temple is also famous for its special fire rituals (Homams) and unique Alangaram (decorations) of the deity, which attract devotees seeking blessings for success and the removal of obstacles. Don't miss experiencing the divine aura and sacred vibrations of this powerful shrine when visiting Thanjavur!
- Note for Travelers Travelers can reach the temple easily via various modes of transportation. The nearest railway station is Thanjavur Junction, about 5 km away, with frequent trains connecting major cities like Chennai and Trichy. For air travel, the nearest airport is Tiruchirapalli International Airport (TRZ), approximately 60 km from Thanjavur. From there, taxis and buses are available to reach the temple. Those traveling by road can take buses or private vehicles via NH83 or NH32, which connect Thanjavur to other parts of Tamil Nadu. Local auto-rickshaws and taxis are also convenient options to reach the temple from within the city.
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FAQ's
Where is Sri Nisumbasuthani Vada Bhadrakali Amman Kovil located?
It is located in Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, India.
What is the historical significance of the temple?
Sri Nisumbasuthani Amman Temple is dedicated to Goddess Nisumbasuthani, a fierce form of Goddess Durga. She is believed to have been worshiped by Chola kings before battles and is considered a powerful protector deity. The temple is historically significant, dating back to the time of Vijayalaya Chola, who built it after his victory over the Pandya kings.
What are the main festivals celebrated at the temple?
Navaratri – A grand 9-day festival with special pujas and cultural events. Panguni Uthiram – Celebrated with processions and special rituals. Aadi Month Celebrations – Special pujas conducted throughout the Tamil month of Aadi (July–August). Full Moon & New Moon Pujas – Devotees perform special prayers on these days.
How can I reach the temple?
By Road: The temple is well connected by road, and buses and taxis are available from major cities. By Train: Thanjavur Railway Station is the nearest railway station. By Air: The nearest airport is Trichy International Airport, about 60 km away.
What is the story behind the deity?
Goddess Nisumbasuthani is a powerful form of Shakti who destroyed the demons Sumbha and Nisumbha, who were troubling the celestial beings. She is often depicted with eight arms and a fierce expression, symbolizing her strength. The temple is sometimes referred to as "Vada Bhadra Kali" or "Ragukala Kali Kovil"
What rituals and worships are performed here?
The Kumbhabhishekham (temple consecration ceremony) was held on June 23, 2016. Devotees worship Goddess following strict spiritual disciplines under the guidance of priests trained in Yantra, Tantra, and Mantra.
