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Filled with history, heritage and culture, there is much love for the temples of South India. India is known for its rich diversity and cultural history. From beautiful monuments to shrines, Tamil Nadu is also known as the Land of Temples, attracting tourists from all over the world. The magnificent temples of Tamil Nadu reflect a rich history from the time of various dynasties and kingdoms. For an experience like never before, these temples in Tamil Nadu are a must-visit. After taking the trip, you won't be the same person you were before!
Seven Temples to visit in Tamil Nadu
1. Kanchi Kailasanathar Temple
Located along the banks of the Vedavathi river, the Kanchi Kailasanathar Temple in Kanchipuram is an important religious site in Tamil Nadu. With a history of over 1600 years, it is one of the oldest temples in India. The temple holds great significance for Hindu devotees and is visited by a number of tourists during the time of Mahashivratri. The temple also represents beautiful Pallava architecture, paying tribute to Lord Shiva and Vishnu, along with Goddesses Laxmi and Saraswati. There are also intricate epitomes of Goddess Kamakshi. Occupying almost 5 acres of land, the Kanchi Kailasanathar Temple is an important pilgrimage site.
Location: Pillaiyarpalayam, Kanchipuram
Timings: 5:30 am to 12:00 pm, 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm
2. Meenakshi Amman Temple
The Meenakshi Amman Temple, also known as Meenakshi Temple is a historic temple located along the banks of river Vaigai. Dedicated to the warrior Goddess Meenakshi, the temple is almost like an art museum. With stunning architectural design, portraying vibrant wall and ceiling paintings, the inspiration for the temple has been taken from mandala art. Built in the 1st century, the Meenakshi Temple has an ancient significance and great heritage.
Location: Madurai Main, Madurai
Timings: 4:30 am to 12:30 pm, 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm
3. Ramanathaswamy Temple
Portraying the perfect amalgamation of exquisite architecture and spiritual significance, the Ramanathaswamy Temple is located in Rameshwaram in Tamil Nadu. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, it is among the 12 Jyotirlinga temples of India. The temple has the longest corridor in the world and holds great significance in Hindu mythology. The beautiful carvings on the pillars of the temple are a treat for the eyes. Several devotees visit the Ramanathaswamy Temple to complete their Char Dham yatra.
Location: Rameshwaram
Timings: 4:30 am to 1:00 pm, 3:00 pm to 8:30 pm
4. Brihadeeswarar Temple
The Brihadeeswarar Temple in the Thanjavur region of Tamil Nadu is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Also known as Periya Kovil and Rajarajeswara Temple, it is an example of India’s rich temple architecture. It is one of the largest temples in India and is also among the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The entire temple structure is made of granite and is among the oldest temples having a history of over 100 years. It is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Tamil Nadu.
Location: Membalam Road, Balaganapathy Nagar, Thanjavur
Timings: 6:00 am to 12:30 pm, 4:00 pm to 8:30 pm
5. Airavatesvara Temple
The Airavatesvara Temple is located in the town of Darasuram, near Kumbakonam in Tamil Nadu. Built in the 12th century, and dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple is among the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The temple is named after Airavata, the white elephant of Lord Indra who worshipped Lord Shiva. The Airavatesvara Temple is constructed in the structure of a chariot, built in stone, consisting of smaller shrines dedicated to the Vedic and Puranic deities. Known for its intricate stone carvings, the Airavatesvara Temple is a must-visit.
Location: Thanjuvar Darasuram, Kumbakonam
Timings: 8:00 am to 12:00 pm, 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm
6. Arunachaleswarar Temple
The Arunachaleswarar Temple at Annamalai Hill, Tiruvannamalai expands over an area of 25 acres and is one of the largest temples in India. The temple was built in the 17th century and is one of the Paanch Bhoota Sthalas where Lord Shiva is worshipped in the form of fire. It is an important Hindu pilgrimage site, with a spectacular view from Mount Arunachala.
Location: Pavazhakundur, Tiruvanamallai, Annamalai R.F.
Timings: 5:00 am to 8:30 pm
7. Kapaleeswarar Temple
The Kapaleeswarar Temple in Mylapore, Chennai is one the most significant temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. The Shiva Lingam worshipped in this temple is a Swayambhu Lingam, which means that it is a self-manifested lingam. It is one of the 64 Swayambhu Lingams in the world. There is also another small shrine in the courtyard of the temple depicting Goddess Uma in the form of a peahen worshipping Lord Shiva. There are a number of legends associated with the temple which are upheld by the authorities through scriptures and inscriptions. A visit to the Kapaleeswarar Temple is sure to be an enriching experience.
Location: Ramakrishna Mutt Road, Vinayaka Nagar Colony, Mylapore, Chennai
Timings: 5:00 am to 12:30 pm, 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm
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