On the banks of Nandi aaru, in Kanyakumari district, stands the fourth temple in the Sivalayam ottam circuit, the temple of Thirunandikarai Mahadevar. The temple is believed to have been built by King Rajarajachola. The place is called Thirunandikarai in honour of an ascetic named Veeranandi, who carved the rock cut cave temple.

Location TamilNadu, Kanyakumari, Chennai

Legend

There is a statue of Nandi which is placed in front Lord Siva. Local fables describe that the bull came from the rock near the temple and took place in front of the Lord. They believe that the bull is growing as the years pass.

This temple is part of the famous Shivalaya Ottam.

Architecture

On the banks of Nanthuaaru stands the Thirunandikarai Mahadevar temple. The temple stones is entirely built based on Kerala architectural style. The Vimanam(roof) of the sanctum is conical and tiled. There is pond near by the temple and a  garden with varieties vegetation. The ancient rock cut cave temple belonging to Jains, where later a Shivlingeam was installed is next to this 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. Rubber production and tapping is the main source of income.

Darsan Info

Thirunanthikarai Mahadevar 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 fourth 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)

Temple Rituals

The priests perform daily rituals and puja to the diety

Special Rituals

The flag hoisted on the make shift Kodimaram which signals the beginning of the festivities is done when the first participant of the Sivalaya ottam reaches the shrine.

Additional Info

 

Small eateries are there near the temple.

Restaurants are available at Kuleshekaram