Key Takeaways
- Thirukadaiyur Temple is open every day. You can visit from 6:00 AM to 1:00 PM and then from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
- It’s 44 km away from Chidambaram and 21 km from Mayiladuthurai.
- The temple is famous because it’s where Lord Shiva saved the sage Markandeya.
- They hold special ceremonies like Ayush Homam and Shastiapthapoorthi, celebrating significant birthdays.
- You can quickly get there by bus or taxi from nearby cities.
Thirukadaiyur Temple, located in Tamil Nadu, is a critical spiritual site. It’s also known as Shri Amrutghateshwar Abhirami Temple and honors Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. The temple has a story tied to divine nectar and has been a center for pilgrims since the Chola dynasty, especially during the reign of Rajaraja Chola I.
Here’s the thing: This temple isn’t just a building; it’s a place where history and spirituality come alive. It’s where countless devotees gather to soak in the stories and the sacred atmosphere. Whether you’re deeply religious or just love history, Thirukadaiyur offers a glimpse into ancient traditions and divine tales.
See Also – Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga Temple – Timings, History, Pooja & More
Thirukadaiyur Temple Timings and Distance
Opening and closing timings (6:00 AM – 1:00 PM, 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM)
The temple is open every day from 6:00 AM to 1:00 PM and again from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM. During these hours, you can join in the rituals and receive blessings.
| Days | Morning Timings | Evening Timings |
|---|---|---|
| Monday | 06:00 AM to 01:00 PM | 04:00 PM to 09:00 PM |
| Tuesday | 06:00 AM to 01:00 PM | 04:00 PM to 09:00 PM |
| Wednesday | 06:00 AM to 01:00 PM | 04:00 PM to 09:00 PM |
| Thursday | 06:00 AM to 01:00 PM | 04:00 PM to 09:00 PM |
| Friday | 06:00 AM to 01:00 PM | 04:00 PM to 09:00 PM |
| Saturday | 06:00 AM to 01:00 PM | 04:00 PM to 09:00 PM |
| Sunday | 06:00 AM to 01:00 PM | 04:00 PM to 09:00 PM |
The opening times are set so you can enjoy the peaceful setting and spiritual events in the morning or evening, whatever best suits your schedule.
Thirukadaiyur Temple Sevas
| Types of Seva | Timings |
|---|---|
| Ushakalam | 05:30 AM |
| Kalasanthi | 08:00 AM |
| Uchikalam | 10:00 AM |
| Sayarakshai | 06:00 PM |
| Irandam Kalam | 08:00 PM |
| Ardha Jamam | 10:00 PM |
Distance from Chidambaram (44 kms)
- Thirukadaiyur Temple is about 44 kilometers from Chidamarbam. You can get there by road.
- From Mayiladuthurai, it’s 21 kilometers, which takes about 30 minutes.
- It’s 114 kilometers from Puducherry, and the trip takes roughly 2 and a half hours.
- From Trichy, the distance is 165 kilometers, and it will take you about 3 and a half hours to drive there.
| City | Distance (in km) |
|---|---|
| Chennai | 280 km |
| Trichy (Tiruchirappalli) | 145 km |
| Thanjavur | 105 km |
| Kumbakonam | 50 km |
| Mayiladuthurai | 20 km |
| Karaikal | 20 km |
| Nagapattinam | 55 km |
| Chidambaram | 40 km |
| Pondicherry | 125 km |
Transportation options (bus/cab)
You have two good options to get to Thirukadaiyur Temple: buses or cabs. Buses are frequent from Mayiladuthurai, which is only 21 km away. This makes it pretty straightforward to reach the temple.
You can always hire a cab if you prefer a more comfortable ride. The bus stand in Mayiladuthurai and plenty of local transport make it easy for anyone visiting the temple, whether you’re a pilgrim or just touring.
Read Also – Srisailam Temple Distance: A Comprehensive Guide For Travelers
History and Pooja at Thirukadaiyur Temple
The legend of Markandeya Rishi
Markandeya Rishi’s story is vital to Thirukadaiyur Temple’s spiritual history. He was born to Mrikandu and Mardumati, who were very religious.
Markandeya was supposed to die at 16, but he loved Lord Shiva deeply and prayed to him a lot. Because of his devotion, Lord Shiva saved him from death when Yamaraj, the god of death, came for him. This act showed that even death could be overcome.
Thirukadaiyur Temple Puja Prices
| Seva | Pooja Time | Prices (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Ugaradhashanthi | 1 | 7001 |
| – | 2 | 12001 |
| Shastiapthapoorthi | 1 | 7001 |
| – | 2 | 12001 |
| Bheema Ratha Shanti | 1 | 7001 |
| – | 2 | 12001 |
| Sadhabhishegam | 1 | 7001 |
| – | 2 | 12001 |
| Pooranbhishegam | 1 | 7001 |
| – | 2 | 12001 |
| Ayush Homam | – | 6001 |
Types of Poojas and Homams performed
At Thirukadaiyur Temple, they perform several essential poojas and homams that help people celebrate significant life events. These rituals include the Ayush Homam, Ugaradhashanthi, Shastiapthapoorthi, Bheema Ratha Shanti, and Sadhabhishegam.
Each marks significant age milestones, such as 60, 70, and 80 years. They focus on wishing for a long and prosperous life, which is a big part of the temple’s tradition of supporting life’s significant moments.
Conclusion
Thirukadaiyur Temple stands out as a critical spiritual site that blends deep history with active religious events. It’s easy to get to, and it’s open long hours, which lets many people come to seek blessings through special ceremonies like Poojas and Homams.
The temple is tied to the story of Markandeya Rishi, highlighting its role in Hindu stories, making it a go-to place for those looking to mark important life events or find peace in its holy space.
Deepak Sharma is a passionate writer and avid traveler who specializes in uncovering the beauty and history of India’s attractions and temples. A graduate of Delhi University, Deepak has a deep-rooted love for his country and its rich cultural heritage.