Near the capital of the erstwhile Travancore kingdom is the tenth temple of Sivalaya ottam, the Thiruvithamkode Mahadevar temple. The temple is believed to have received various donations for the rulers of the Travancore dynasty. The rulers were described as being regular visitors to this shrine for worshipping the divinity of the Lord. It is among the oldest temples of the area.

Location TamilNadu, Kanyakumari, Chennai

Legend

The idol of Shivalingam is bigger than the entrance to the sanctum in this shrine of Thiruvithamkode. Legend says that the lingam was carved without breaking the natural rock formation.

This temple is part of the famous Shivalaya Ottam.

Architecture

The temple situated in the erstwhile capital of the Travancore dynasty has several carvings and sculptures dating back to the period. Pillars with sculpted figures holding lamps adorn the shrine. The temple is made of stone. The entrance to the sanctum or sreekovil is smaller than the Lingam idol. There are two separate kodimaram(flag poles), one for Shiva shrine and one for Vishnu shrine.

Culture

Kanyakumari district is the southernmost tip of the Indian peninsula. The traditions and customs of the people are similar to those of the people of Kerala. The area was an important centre during the rule of Travancore kings. There are many famed mosques in Thirvithamkode area.

Darsan Info

Sree Neelakanda Swamy Temple timings :5.00 AM to 11.00 AM and 5.00 PM to 8.00 PM.The temple is a part of the famed Shivalaya ottam conducted during Shivratri. It is the tenth temple in the run sequence.

Darsan Dresscode

Devotees are advised to wear clean and traditional clothing. Western attire are not allowed in the temples of Tamil Nadu

Famous Festival

March - Sivrathri, Sivalaya ottam(Feb/Mar)

December - Thiruvathira, annual temple festival

Temple Rituals

The priests perform daily rituals and puja to the diety 

Special Rituals

There are special pujas on the stars of Thiruvathira, thiruvonam and aayilayam every month.

Additional Info

 

Small eateries are there near the temple.

Restaurants are available at Thuckalay or Nagercoil