Updated for 2026 Pilgrimage Season

Introduction & Spiritual Essence

The Keezhaiyur Kadaimudinathar Temple, located in the heart of the Nagapattinam district, stands as a monumental testament to Tamil Saivism. This is not merely a site of worship; it is one of the revered 275 Paadal Petra Sthalams—holy abodes of Lord Shiva glorified by the cosmic hymns of the Tamil Nayanar saints, specifically Thirugnana Sambandar.

Primary Deity: The presiding deity is Kadaimudinathar (a form of Lord Shiva), manifesting as a Swayambhu Lingam (self-manifested). His consort, Abhirami Amman, is enshrined with grace and power.

Phalaśruti: The Spiritual Benefit

Why do devotees undertake this pilgrimage? The temple is steeped in the legend of Lord Brahma, who, after incurring a curse, performed severe penance here to appease Shiva. Consequently, the primary spiritual benefit of worshipping here is the cleansing of ancestral karma and the removal of celestial curses. Devotees believe that worshipping Kadaimudinathar grants:

Wealth Accumulation: The Lingam features 16 stripes (Sodasa Linga), representing 16 categories of wealth.
Marital Harmony: A unique tradition exists for women seeking marriage; they tie a Mangalsutra to Goddess Abhirami, removing it only when their union is finalized.
Salvation: Sage Kanva is believed to have attained liberation (Moksha) at this very spot.

See also Arupadai Veedu Temple Tiruchendur: History, Timings & Palani Guide

Historical Origins & Scriptural Legend

The history of Keezhaiyur is a blend of inscriptions and oral tradition. The location was historically known as Ezhur, signifying the presence of seven ancient villages.

Scriptural Legend

According to the Sthala Purana, Lord Brahma, humbled by Shiva’s wrath, sought redemption. He performed Shiva Puja beneath a sacred Kiluvai (Venhai) tree at this location. Pleased, Shiva granted darshan as Kadaimudinathar—the Lord who protects beings at the Kadai (end) of time during the Maha Pralaya (great deluge).

Historical Records

Temple records and epigraphy reveal deep royal patronage. Inscriptions from the period of Vikrama Chola refer to the deity as Tiruchchadaimudi Udaiya Mahadevar. Furthermore, stones from the era of Nandivarman Pallava III and Parantaka I have been identified on-site. An image of Ardhanareeswarar discovered here, believed to date back to the time of Aditya Chola I, is now preserved in the Chennai Government Museum.

Architectural Marvels

The temple exemplifies classic Dravidian architecture with specific distinctives that set it apart in the Cauvery Delta region.

Vastu Shastra & Layout

Uniquely, the temple is oriented West-facing, a rare alignment in South Indian temple Vastu. Adding to this anomaly is the flow of the river Kaveri, which runs north and then turns west in this vicinity, creating a rare confluence of energy.

Sculptural Details

The Swayambhu Lingam: The main deity features 16 distinct stripes, known as Sodasa Linga.
Unique Iconography: The Nandhi (bull) faces the Swayambhu Lingam, while Lord Dakshinamurthy and Lord Bhairava are depicted with a striking artistic choice—a ring in only one ear, the other being plain.
Navagraha Shrine: The celestial bodies are arranged on a hexagonal Avudaiyar seat. Unlike typical linear arrangements, the planets here face front and back to each other, symbolizing cosmic interplay.
Kiluvai Tree: The Adhi Murthy (original form) of the temple, Lord Kiluvai Nathar, is enshrined beneath this ancient tree within the Prakara (circumambulatory path).

Darshan & Ritual Logistics

The temple follows traditional Agamic rituals with four worship services daily. To assist your 2026 planning, the following schedule has been updated.

See also Kattala Mahadevar Temple: History, Darshan Timings & Guide

Daily Timings

Session	Timing
Morning Darshan	06:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Afternoon Recess	12:00 PM – 04:00 PM
Evening Darshan	04:00 PM – 08:00 PM

Key Sevas & Booking

Note: Online booking availability for specific Sevas at Keezhaiyur Kadaimudinathar Temple is managed via the HR&CE Department, Tamil Nadu. While general darshan is open to all, specialized Sevas often require physical presence or prior coordination via the temple office.

Abhishekam: Performed to the Swayambhu Lingam and Abhirami Amman.
Archana: Special Atma Archana is recommended for those seeking ancestral karma cleansing.
Online Booking: Visit the official Tamil Nadu Temple Portal (temple.tamilnadutourism.tn.gov.in) to check real-time availability for 2026.

2026 Festival Calendar

Plan your visit around these major events:

Maha Shivaratri: February/March 2026 (Grand evening processions and Abhishekam).
Tirukarthikai: November/December 2026 (Deepa Darshanam).
Aipasi Annabishekam: October/November 2026 (Milk and Honey Abhishekam).
Arudra Dharisanam: December 2026 (Celebrating the cosmic dance of Nataraja).

Practical Visitor Guidance

Dress Code & Etiquette

As a Paadal Petra Sthalam, strict adherence to traditional attire is expected. Men must wear Veshti (dhoti) or formal trousers with a shirt; women are required to wear Saree, Salwar Kameez, or traditional half-saree. Synthetic shorts and t-shirts are prohibited.

Facilities

Photography: Strictly prohibited inside the Sanctum Sanctorum and the inner Prakara.
Mobile Lockers: Available near the entrance for electronics, as smart devices are not permitted during Darshan.
Accessibility: The temple features stone flooring. While not fully wheelchair accessible due to ancient steps, assistance is usually available from the temple staff.

Crowd Management & Seasonal Advice

Best Hours: Visit between 8:00 AM and 10:00 AM for a peaceful Darshan.
May (Summer): Nagapattinam experiences high humidity. Carry a water bottle and an umbrella.
Monsoon (Oct-Dec): Be prepared for sudden showers; the Cauvery flow increases, enhancing the scenic beauty but requiring caution on roads.

Pilgrimage Connectivity

How to Reach

The temple is situated in Keezhaiyur, on the Mayiladuthurai-Poompuhar route.

Nearest Airport: Tiruchirappalli (Trichy) International Airport (approx. 140 km).
Nearest Railway Station: Mayiladuthurai Junction (approx. 12 km). Frequent trains from Chennai, Trichy, and Tirupati.
By Road: Located 2 km from the Keezhaiyur bus stop. From Mayiladuthurai, take the state highway towards Poompuhar. Buses are available at specific intervals.

See also Kalyanasundareswarar Temple History & Darshan Timings: A 2026 Guide

Nearby Sacred Sites (Pilgrimage Circuit)

Enhance your spiritual journey by visiting these nearby Paadal Petra Sthalams:

Semponarkoil (Sri Prathivadhi Bhayankaram Venkatesa Perumal Temple): Located just 2 km away, famous for the legend of the Golden Ant.
Tiruninriyur (Sri Ninra Narayana Perumal Temple): 5 km away, a Vishnu temple where the deity stands erect while Lakshmi sits.
Tirukkannapuram (Sri Sowriraja Perumal Temple): 10 km away, known for the unique practice of the deity offering medical treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Is there a VIP Darshan entry at Keezhaiyur Kadaimudinathar Temple?

As a smaller Paadal Petra Sthalam compared to major centers like Madurai or Rameswaram, there is no formal “VIP Ticket” system. Darshan is generally accessible to all devotees. However, donors to the temple trust may receive special assistance from the Executive Officer.

2. Can I book accommodation near the temple?

There are no hotels directly in Keezhaiyur. It is recommended to stay in Mayiladuthurai, which offers various lodges and guest houses. The TTDC (Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation) hotel in Mayiladuthurai is a reliable option.

3. What is the significance of the Sodasa Linga?

The term “Sodasa” refers to 16. These stripes on the Lingam represent the 16 stages of wealth (Sodasha Upacharas). Devotees believe worshipping this form resolves financial instability.

4. Is the temple open during eclipses?

No, like most ancient Shiva temples, Keezhaiyur Kadaimudinathar Temple remains closed during solar and lunar eclipses to protect the Swayambhu Lingam’s energy.

5. What is the contact number for the temple office?

You can reach the temple administration at:
Landline: +91 – 4364 – 283 261 / 283 360
Mobile: +91 – 94427 79580 / 9095120653

Photo Gallery

**kn0183, Keezhaiyur Kadaimudinathar Temple, Nagapattinam**

**kn0182, Keezhaiyur Kadaimudinathar Temple, Nagapattinam**

**DSCN1560, Keezhaiyur Kadaimudinathar Temple, Nagapattinam**

**DSCN1559, Keezhaiyur Kadaimudinathar Temple, Nagapattinam**

**DSCN1562, Keezhaiyur Kadaimudinathar Temple, Nagapattinam**

**kn0184, Keezhaiyur Kadaimudinathar Temple, Nagapattinam**

**Keezhaiyur_kadaimudinathar, Keezhaiyur Kadaimudinathar Temple, Nagapattinam**

Original Source: Tamil Nadu Fav Tourism Blog

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