Sri Someswar Temple is a historic Hindu temple located in Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, who is worshipped here as Someswarar, the temple is renowned for its Dravidian-style architecture, intricate carvings, and spiritual significance. The temple also houses a shrine for Goddess Somakalambikai, the consort of Someswarar. Believed to have been built during the Chola dynasty, the temple attracts devotees and tourists for its religious rituals and festivals, particularly Maha Shivaratri. It is an important landmark in Kumbakonam, known for its rich cultural and religious heritage.
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- History/Legend of the Temple Sri Someswar Temple is a historic Hindu temple located in Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu, dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is believed to have been built during the Chola dynasty, with later renovations by the Nayak kings. The temple is renowned for its Dravidian-style architecture, featuring intricate sculptures and towering gopurams (entrance towers). Lord Shiva is worshipped here as Someswarar, with Goddess Somasundari as his consort. The temple is associated with the legend of the moon god, Chandra, who is said to have worshipped Shiva here to regain his lost radiance. It is an important pilgrimage site, especially during the Mahamaham festival, which occurs once every 12 years in Kumbakonam, attracting thousands of devotees.
- Name of the Deities Someswarar (Lord Shiva). Somasundari (Goddess Parvati).
- Nearby Cities and Distance Thanjavur (38.6 km). Chithambaram (72.3 km). Trichy (101.7 km).
- Mode of Transport(from the nearest city) Car. Bus. Train. Bike.
- Duration (from the nearest city) Thanjavur 45 min (38.6 km).
- Estimated cost of the travel (from the nearest city) car,auto,bus... Bus - Rs.30 to Rs.60. Car - Rs.1000 to Rs.1500. Train - Rs.15 to Rs.100. Auto-Rickshaw - Rs.700 to Rs.1000.
- Temple Instructions Wear traditional attire (men: dhoti/veshti; women: saree or salwar kameez). Avoid shorts and western casual wear. Maintain cleanliness and avoid littering inside the temple. Check with temple authorities before taking photographs, as it may not be allowed in sanctum areas.
- Special Days and Special Happenings Maha Shivaratri – A major festival dedicated to Lord Shiva, observed with night-long prayers, abhishekam, and devotional music. Pradosham – Occurs twice a month (Trayodashi Tithi), considered highly auspicious for Shiva worship with special pujas and rituals. Aani Thirumanjanam (June-July) – Celebrated with sacred bathing rituals (abhishekam) for Lord Shiva. Aadi Perukku (July-August) – A festival linked to the Cauvery River, significant for prosperity and blessings. Navaratri (September-October) – Dedicated to Goddess Durga, with special decorations and poojas. Kartika Deepam (November-December) – The temple is lit up with lamps, symbolizing divine light and knowledge. Margazhi Thiruvadhirai (December-January) – Celebrates Lord Nataraja with special pujas and abhishekams.
- Rituals Available Hosting a function, such as a wedding, in this divine space enhances the sanctity of the occasion. Temple is conducting a wedding or any function at Sri Someswar Temple ensures a divine, serene, and culturally rich experience, making it a memorable occasion filled with spiritual grace.
- Offerings Devotees present abhisheka items, milk, honey, and flowers.
- Prasadham Puliyodarai (Tamarind Rice), Chakkarai Pongal (Sweet Pongal), Laddu or Sweet Prasad, Coconut and Bananas, and Vibhuti (Sacred Ash) are traditional prasadham (holy offerings) presented during important occasions such as weddings. Prasadam offerings can vary depending on temple norms and wedding packages.
- Benefits of Visiting The temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, promotes spiritual growth, calm, and wish fulfillment. The temple is said to bless couples with a happy and prosperous marriage, making it a perfect location for wedding ceremonies and prayers. Worshiping here is thought to lessen the bad effects of planetary placements, particularly for people suffering from Chandra Dosha (Moon ailment).
- Is this temple a Paadal Petra Sthalam? Yes
- Who Sang | Song and its Meaning | Year Nayanmars | Appar, Sundarar, and Thirugnana Samandar | Tevaram | 7th Century.
- Other things to do / places of interest Srinivasa Ramanujan Monument (350.0 m). Mahamaham Tank (1.2 km). Sri Mahalingaswami Kovil (10.8 km). Sri Vittal Rukmini Samsthan (11.8 km).
- Nearby Temples Adi Kumbeswarar Temple. Sarangapani Temple. Nageswaran Temple. Ramaswamy Temple. Kasi Viswanathar Temple
- Nearby Eateries Moshika Bhavan. Mangalambiga Coffee and Tiffin Center. Sri Gowrikrishna Hotel. Sathars Restaurant. Rice n Spice
- Hotels / Home stays: Ramana's Home Stay. Homestay@ Kommiya inn. Viruksham Homestay. THIRUMALAI HOMESTAY. Navagraha Homestay
- Standard Weather Sri Someswar Temple in Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu, experiences a tropical climate with generally warm temperatures throughout the year.
- For the best experience / Must know Sri Someswar Temple in Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu, is a revered Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is known for its stunning Dravidian architecture, intricate carvings, and spiritual significance. The temple is located near the Mahamaham Tank and attracts devotees, especially during the Mahamaham festival.
- Not to miss Sri Someswar Temple in Kumbakonam is a beautiful and ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Known for its stunning Dravidian architecture, intricate carvings, and spiritual significance, it is a must-visit for devotees and history enthusiasts.
- Note for Travelers The nearest airport is Tiruchirapalli (Trichy) Airport (approx. 90 km) Kumbakonam Railway Station (2 km away) is well-connected to major cities. Frequent buses and taxis are available from Chennai, Trichy, and Thanjavur.
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FAQ's
Where is Sri Someswar Temple located?
Sri Someswar Temple is located in Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu, India. It is one of the important Shiva temples in the region.
What is the significance of Sri Someswar Temple?
The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, worshipped here as Someswarar. It is known for its Dravidian architecture, intricate carvings, and spiritual importance. The temple is associated with the Moon God (Chandra), who is believed to have worshipped Lord Shiva here to seek relief from a curse.
What festivals are celebrated in the temple?
Maha Shivaratri – Grand celebrations with special poojas and abhishekams. Margazhi Thiruvadhirai – Devotional music and rituals. Pradosham – Observed twice a month, considered auspicious for Lord Shiva. Navaratri – Dedicated to Goddess Somasundari. Aani Thirumanjanam – Special abhishekam for Lord Shiva.
How to reach Sri Someswar Temple?
By Air: Nearest airport is Trichy (Tiruchirapalli) International Airport (approximately 90 km away). By Train: Kumbakonam Railway Station is about 2 km from the temple. By Road: Well, connected by buses and private vehicles from major cities like Chennai, Trichy, and Thanjavur.
Are there any special poojas performed?
Abhishekam – Ritual bathing of the deity with milk, honey, and sacred water. Archanai – Offering prayers in the devotee’s name. Rudrabhishekam – A powerful pooja for Lord Shiva’s blessings.
Is there an entry fee to visit the temple?
No, entry to the temple is free.
Is there a separate shrine for any other deity?
Yes, the temple has a separate Sannidhi (shrine) for Lord Murugan, who is especially revered here.
