71-putheri-yogeeswarar-00, Yogeeswarar Temple, Putheri, Nagercoil, Kanyakumari
71-putheri-yogeeswarar-00, Yogeeswarar Temple, Putheri, Nagercoil, Kanyakumari

Yogeeswarar Temple, Putheri: A Definitive Pilgrimage Guide

Yogeeswarar Temple, Putheri, Nagercoil, Kanyakumari

Date built:
Deity:Yogeeswarar
Architectural style:Dravidian architecture
Major festivals
Locale:Putheri, Nagercoil
District::Kanyakumari
Address:Yogeeswarar Temple,Putheri, Nagercoil,Kanyakumari District
Phone+ 91 4652 275 230
Yogeeswarar Temple is a Hindu Temple located at Putheri Village near Nagercoil in Kanyakumari District of Tamilnadu. The Temple is believed to be 500 years old.

1. Introduction & Spiritual Essence

Nestled in the serene village of Putheri, just outside the bustling town of Nagercoil, the Yogeeswarar Temple stands as a testament to faith that transcends physical form. Unlike conventional temples adorned with towering gopurams, this shrine is defined by its profound spiritual simplicity and unique origin story.

Primary Deity & Form:
The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, revered here as Yogeeswarar (The Lord of Yogis). The Murti (idol) is a Swayambhu (self-manifested) form. Interestingly, the primary shrine does not feature a traditional stone lingam but rather a distinct form emerging from the northern wall of the sanctum.

Phalaśruti (Spiritual Benefits): Devotees visit this temple seeking blessings for fertility and the removal of Pitru Dosha (ancestral afflictions). According to local faith, the sand from the temple walls, offered as Prasadam, is believed to bless childless couples with progeny. The temple is also highly regarded for attaining spiritual wisdom (Jnana) and salvation (Samadhi), resonating with the deity’s name as the Lord of Yogis.

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2. Historical Origins & Scriptural Legend

The history of the Yogeeswarar Temple is a blend of documented heritage and vibrant oral tradition.

The Sthala Purana (Local Legend)

Tradition holds that in ancient times, Sastha (Lord Ayyappa) resided at this location under a Poolathi tree, guarding the village as a guardian deity. Locals worshipped him as Poola Udaya Kandan Sastha. Over time, a Yogi (saint) arrived at the spot, worshipped the deity, and entered Samadhi (salvation) on the site. Miraculously, an ant-hill (Puttru) formed over his tomb.

Devotees began worshipping the ant-hill, eventually erecting a tall wall around it. As the devotees meditated, they perceived a powerful Shiva aspect radiating from the wall. Consequently, the deity was named Yogeeswarar. The village derived its name from the ant-hill (PuttruPuttrurPutheri).

Archaeological Age

While specific dynastic records are scarce, temple records and local historians estimate the structure to be approximately 500 years old. The architectural style aligns with the typical Dravidian temple structures prevalent in the Kanyakumari region during the 16th and 17th centuries.

3. Architectural Marvels

The Yogeeswarar Temple is an architectural outlier that challenges the standard definitions of Dravidian temple architecture.

Unique Structural Layout

Standard features of a Hindu temple, such as the Rajagopuram (towering entrance) and Dwajasthambam (flag post), are conspicuously absent here. The temple complex covers an area of about one acre and is defined by a massive 22-foot tall wall surrounding the sanctum.

The Iconography

  • The Northern Wall: The focal point of the temple is the northern wall itself. The stucco work atop this wall depicts the figure of a Yogi in a reclining posture, representing the saint who attained Samadhi here.
  • Shrines: Besides Yogeeswarar, the complex houses shrines for Nayinar, Poola Udaya Kandan Sastha, and Bhoothathan (associated with Lord Ayyappa).
  • Sastha Shrine: In a separate shrine, the deity is unique—it is represented as a Peeta (seat) with the idol positioned behind it, distinct from the standing or seated forms seen elsewhere.

4. Darshan & Ritual Logistics

Visitors are advised to plan their Darshan (viewing of the deity) around the specific opening hours. Unlike larger temples, this shrine has limited open hours for the sanctum but allows for worship from the exterior during other times.

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Daily Timings

SessionTiming
Morning Darshan6:30 AM – 7:30 AM
Evening Darshan6:30 PM – 8:30 PM

Note: During non-opening hours, devotees can view the deity from outside the sanctum.

Key Sevas & Offerings

  • Vazhipadu (Offerings): Rice (Arisi) is the primary offering to Lord Yogeeswarar.
  • Mambal Prasadam: On special occasions, a unique offering called Mambal—prepared from raw mango milk, raw rice, and sugar—is presented to the deity.
  • Bhajanai: Regular devotional singing (Bhajanai) is held every Saturday in the Vazhipadu hall.

Online Seva Booking

Currently, the Yogeeswarar Temple in Putheri operates largely through traditional in-person bookings at the temple counter. For specific Vazhipadu or Abhishekam bookings, visitors are encouraged to contact the temple administration directly at + 91 4652 275 230 prior to visiting.

2026 Festival Calendar

Mark your calendars for these auspicious dates in 2026:

  • Chithirai New Year (Tamil): April 14, 2026
  • Yogeeswara Guru Pooja: Dates vary by Tamil calendar (check with temple).
  • Vaikasi Visagam: May 28, 2026 (Major festival with special Abhishekam and Mambal offering).
  • Panguni Uthiram: March 21, 2026 (Includes the Kan Thirappu—Opening of Eyes—ceremony and horse procession).

5. Practical Visitor Guidance

Dress Code & Etiquette

Modesty is strictly enforced. Men should wear Dhoti or trousers with a shirt; women should wear Saree, Salwar Kameez, or other traditional attire. Avoid shorts and sleeveless tops.

Photography & Mobiles

Photography inside the sanctum is strictly prohibited. Visitors are advised to switch off mobile phones during Darshan. There are no formal mobile lockers available, so it is best to travel light.

Accessibility

The temple floor is level. However, as it is an older structure without modern ramp installations, wheelchair access might be limited to the outer praharam (circumambulation path). The presence of a 22-foot wall suggests a climb may be required for full external views, but the main shrine is accessible.

Crowd Management

  • Best Time to Visit: Weekday mornings (6:30 AM) are the quietest.
  • Seasonal Advice: Kanyakumari can be humid. In May and June, carry water. The evening Darshan is pleasant due to the coastal breeze.

6. Pilgrimage Connectivity

How to Reach Yogeeswarar Temple

The temple is strategically located for pilgrims exploring the Kanyakumari district.

  • By Air: The nearest airport is Trivandrum International Airport (TRV), located approximately 77 km away (approx. 1.5 hours by road via NH66).
  • By Rail: The nearest railway station is Nagercoil Junction, approximately 5 km from the temple (a 15-minute drive).
  • By Road: The temple is located in Putheri village, accessible via the Kanyakumari – Nagercoil Highway. It is just 7 km from Nagercoil town and 25 km from Kanyakumari.
See also  Hariharapakkam Shiva Temple History and Darshan Timings | Kanchipuram

Nearby Sacred Sites

Extend your pilgrimage with these nearby attractions:

  1. Nagercoil Nellaiappar Temple: A grand temple dedicated to Lord Shiva in Nagercoil (approx. 6 km).
  2. Kumarakovil Temple: A hilltop temple dedicated to Lord Murugan, known for its beauty and serenity (approx. 15 km).
  3. Kanyakumari Bhagavathy Amman Temple: The southernmost shrine of the Goddess at the confluence of three oceans (approx. 25 km).

7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is there a VIP darshan entry?

Due to the small scale of the temple and limited crowd, there is no formal VIP ticket system. Darshan is generally swift and accessible to all devotees.

What is the significance of the sand (Prasad) here?

The sand from the temple walls is considered highly sacred. It is believed that consuming a small amount of this sand with water can bless devotees with children. This belief leads many childless couples to visit the temple.

Does the temple have a Rajagopuram (main tower)?

No, the Yogeeswarar Temple is unique because it lacks a Rajagopuram or Dwajasthambam. The deity is accessed through a simple structure surrounded by the high perimeter wall.

What are the contact details for urgent inquiries?

You can reach the temple administration at:
Phone: +91 4652 275 230
Mobile: +91 94871 01770

Are there accommodation facilities nearby?

Basic lodging is available in Nagercoil town, just 7 km away. Putheri village is primarily a residential area; pilgrims usually stay in Nagercoil or Kanyakumari.

Photo Gallery

 

How to Reach:

The Temple is located at about 7 Kms from Nagercoil, 5 Kms from Nagercoil Bus Stand, 5 Kms from Nagercoil Railway Station, 25 Kms from Kanyakumari and 77 Kms from Thiruvananthapuram. The Temple is located at a walkable distance from the Bus Stop. Nearest Railway Station is located at Nagercoil and Nearest Airport is located at Thiruvananthapuram.

Contact Details

Yogeeswarar Temple,Putheri, Nagercoil,Kanyakumari District
Phone: + 91 4652 275 230
Mobile: +91 94871 01770.

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