Mayuranathaswami Temple, also known as Mayuranathar Temple, is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Mayuranathaswamy, a form of Shiva.
It is located in the town of Mayiladuthurai in Tamil Nadu, India. The temple is one of the 63 Nayanmar temples, temples revered in the Tevaram poems of the Tamil Saivite Nayanmars.
History of Mayuranathaswami Temple
The temple is believed to have been built by the Cholas in the 11th century. The oldest inscriptions on the temple walls date to the time of Kulothunga Chola I. The temple complex is large and covers an area of over 7 acres.
The main entrance to the temple is a nine-storey gopuram (tower gateway). The temple has several other shrines, including shrines to Lord Ganesha, Goddess Parvathi, and Lord Nataraja.
The presiding deity of the temple is a swayambumurthy (self-manifested) lingam. The lingam is said to have been worshipped by Goddess Parvathi in the form of a peacock (mayura). The temple is believed to be one of the most sacred places for Hindus to worship Lord Shiva.
Mayuranathaswami Temple is also known for its beautiful architecture. The temple complex has several sculptures and carvings that are masterpieces of Chola art. The temple is also known for its large collection of ancient inscriptions.
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Quick Facts
- Address: Mayiladuthurai, Tamil Nadu
- District: Mayiladuthurai
- Affiliation: Hinduism
- Deity: Mayuranathaswamy
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timings: 5:30 AM to 8:30 PM
- Visit Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Dress Code: decent outfit recommended
- Festivals: Maha Shivaratri
- Best Time to Visit: October to February
Festivals Celebrated
The Mayuranathaswami Temple is a popular pilgrimage site for Hindus from all over India.
The temple is particularly popular during the month of Shravan (July-August), when the annual Brahmotsavam festival is celebrated. The festival is celebrated for ten days and includes several cultural and religious events.
Legend of the Mayuranathaswami Temple
There is a legend associated with the Mayuranathaswami Temple. According to legend, Goddess Parvathi was cursed by Brahma to be born as a peacock.
To get rid of the curse, Parvathi worshipped Lord Shiva in the form of a peacock at Mayiladuthurai.
Lord Shiva was pleased with Parvathi’s devotion and forgave her. The curse was lifted and Parvathi was restored to her original form.
The Mayuranathaswami Temple is a beautiful and sacred place that is steeped in history and legend. It is a must-visit for anyone interested in Hindu culture and architecture.
How To Reach Mayuranathaswami Temple?
BY AIR
The nearest major airport to Mayiladuthurai is Tiruchirapalli International Airport (IATA: TRZ), which is approximately 150 kilometers away.
From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Mayiladuthurai.
BY TRAIN
Mayiladuthurai Junction is the nearest railway station to Mayuranathaswami Temple. It is well-connected to major cities and towns in Tamil Nadu and other parts of India.
Once you reach Mayiladuthurai Junction, you can hire an auto-rickshaw or a taxi to reach the temple, which is located in the town itself.
BY ROAD
Mayiladuthurai is well-connected by road to various cities and towns in Tamil Nadu. You can take a state-run bus or a private bus to Mayiladuthurai bus station. From there, you can either walk to the temple if it’s nearby or hire a local transportation option.
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