- Deity
- Lord Shiva (swayambhu lingam, facing west)
- Timings
- 10 am to 11 am, 4 pm to 5 pm
- Distance from Mayiladuthurai
- About 8 km
- Nearest railway station
- Mayiladuthurai
- Nearest airport
- Tiruchirappalli
Legend
Local tradition says the sages here were harassed by the asuras Padmasura and Simhamukha and asked Parvati for help. When she approached Shiva, he was deep in meditation. Disturbed, he opened his eyes and six sparks flew out, which joined to become Karthikeya, or Murugan, who went on to defeat the asuras. Kanjanagaram is therefore revered as a birthplace of Murugan, and of the Karthigai maidens who raised him.
Worship
Because of this link, devotees born under the Karthigai (Krittika) star come here to pray. On Pradosham days they light lamps before the shrine and offer special pujas. People also pray here for relief from illness, for delays in marriage or childbirth to be resolved, and to ease difficult planetary periods. Fridays and Karthigai star days see the most devotees.
Timings and dress
The temple has short opening hours, one hour in the morning (10 to 11 am) and one in the evening (4 to 5 pm), so plan your arrival carefully and check locally before you travel. Wear modest clothes that cover the shoulders and knees. As this is a village temple, there are few shops or eateries nearby, so it is best to base yourself in Mayiladuthurai, which has hotels and restaurants, and visit on a half-day trip. Mornings are cooler and calmer.
How to reach
Buses run from the Mayiladuthurai bus stand, and taxis make the short trip easily. Mayiladuthurai is also the nearest railway station. Tiruchirappalli has the most convenient airport. The temple fits well into a Navagraha or Kaveri delta temple circuit, which we can plan and drive for you.
Also nearby
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