Adi Kumbeshwarar Temple / Kudamukku Temple – The largest & Oldest Shiva temple in Kumbakonam & The 26th Paadal Petra Sthalam revered in the verses of Shaiva Nayanars – Visit, Temple Timings, History, Contact Number, Travel Guide (Updated)

– shiva temple representing the grand chola architecture

Adi Kumbeshwarar / Kumbeswarar Temple is the largest Shiva temple of Kumbakonam in Thanjavur District. This temple has a 9-storeyed rajagopuram, soaring 125 feet high, and is gracefully spread across a vast expanse of 4 acres in the heart of the town. This temple is believed to have a history dating back 1200 years, dedicated to Lord Shiva. The city of Kumbakkonam derives its name from the principal deity of this temple, Adi Kumbeshwar.

Lord Shiva at this temple is called Adi Kumbeswara. “Adi” signifies ‘first and foremost,’ while “Kumbam” alludes to ‘pot.’ It is in this temple that the first pot, the very foundation of human existence, was created. Notably, the Linga within the temple takes on the shape of a cone. The divine consort of Lord Shiva in this sacred abode is Mangalambigai. Recognized as a “Paadal Petra Sthalam,” – the Tevara Sthalam this temple holds a special place among the 276 Lord Shiva temples where the Shaiva Nayanmars, ardent devotees of Lord Shiva, have sung praises of its divine essence. The temple’s magnetic aura draws in devotees who can sense the divine presence of Lord Shiva.

Within the Adi Kumbeswarar temple precincts, we will find an exquisite representation of Lord Shiva’s consort, Parvati, in the form of Mangalambigai Amman. The temple complex features three concentric compounds, elegantly aligned along an east-west axis and adorned with a trio of majestic gopurams.

The sanctum, constructed from enduring granite, is believed to have been built during the reign of Kulothunga Chola in the 7th century. Later, during the Naik period, a prominent figure named Govinda Dikshidar, the chief minister of Achyuthappa Naika of Thanjavur, undertook an extensive renovation of the temple. He enriched the temple with the splendid Naik period Mandapams, intricate sculptures, and the majestic Rajagopuram. Serving as the chief minister under three successive Naik rulers, Govinda Dikshidar played a pivotal role in various construction and religious activities in this sacred place.

History of Adi Kumbeshwarar Temple

During a great deluge, Lord Brahma chose this city to safeguard a pot of “Amrita,” the elixir and divine nectar from which the cycle of Creation could begin anew. Originally, Lord Shiva had selected the Meru hill for this purpose. Shiva, assuming the form of a hunter, pierced the pot with an arrow, causing the nectar to flow in all directions. The drops of nectar gave rise to Shiva Lingas at different locations, and this shrine is where God performed the miraculous “Thiruvilayadal,” descending to Earth to aid humanity. Thus, the Adi Kumbeshwarar Temple is regarded as the cradle of the human race and a revered shrine of the Shaiva sect.

Architectural of Adi Kumbeshwarar Temple

Spanning an expansive area of 30,181 square feet, the temple complex extends over four sprawling acres, encompassed by stunning Gopurams or temple towers on all sides. The nine-storeyed Rajagopuram stands as a magnificent testament to Lord Shiva. The temple boasts several corridors adorned with intricately carved pillars. Its carvings, statues, and murals are exquisite, bearing intricate designs. A temple tank provides the sacred water required for rituals. Within the temple’s precincts, you’ll discover shrines dedicated to Lord Ganesha, Lord Muruga, Goddess Saraswati, and Goddess Lakshmi. One of the architectural highlights is a single stone sculpture featuring the 27 stars and 12 zodiac signs.

Festivals at Adi Kumbeshwarar Temple:

The Adi Kumbeshwarar Temple hosts a variety of vibrant festivals that resonate with devout worshippers. The Mahamaham festival celebrated once every 12 years, is a grand spectacle that draws devotees from across the world. Other significant celebrations include Shiva Ratri, Chithirai Brahmotsavam, and the Butter Pot festival in February-March. Adipooram, Masi Magham, and Thai Poosam Star float festivals are also celebrated with great enthusiasm. The temple reverberates with the joy of Deepavali, Pongal, Arudra Darshan, and Navaratri.

Benefits of Worshipping at Adi Kumbeshwarar Temple

This temple, intimately connected with the origin of life, is believed to hold profound cosmic power and the ability to rejuvenate humanity. Devotees seek Lord Shiva’s blessings for spiritual strength to navigate life’s challenges. Those grappling with health issues and various fears believe that the Almighty’s grace can help them overcome their difficulties.

Travel Tips for Adi Kumbeshwarar Temple in Kumbakonam

Address of Adi Kumbeshwarar Temple in Kumbakonam Temple,
Sri Kumbeswarar Temple (Tirukudamookku), Kumbakonam, Thanjavur.
Phone: +91 435 242 0276
Entry Fee: Free
Temple Timings of Adi Kumbeshwarar Temple: 6.00 AM to 12.30 noon – 4.00 PM to 9.30 PM

Year: 1200 years old Temple

How to reach Adi Kumbeshwarar Temple in Kumbakonam

On Road: SAdi Kumbeshwarar Temple, Kumbakonam Temple is at the center of the town Kumbakonam, and the town is well connected by road networks. There are regular bus services from many important cities in south India Chennai, Coimbatore, Tiruchirapalli, Karaikal, Pudukkottai, Madurai, Tirunelveli, Mayiladudhurai, Pattukkottai, Bangalore, Ernakulam, Ooty, and Mysore.
On Flight: The nearest airport is Tiruchirappalli International Airport (TRZ) which is 100 Km away from the temple.
By Train: The nearest railway station is the Kumbakonam railway station ( station code – KMU) at a distance of 2 km.

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