Arulmigu Adi Kumbeswarar Temple

Arulmigu Adi Kumbeswarar Temple, Kumbakonam

Temple Details

Presiding Deity Lord Shiva as Sri Adi Kumbeswarar (Adi Kumbeshwarar)
Goddess Sri Mangalambigai (Manthrapeeteswari Mangalambika)
Temple Type Paadal Petra Sthalam and one of the most important Shiva temples of Tamil Nadu
Location Kumbakonam, Thanjavur District, Tamil Nadu – 612001.

Historical Significance

  • The temple is believed to be over 1,300 years old, with the original structure dating to the Chola period (9th century CE). It was later expanded and renovated by the Thanjavur Nayak rulers during the 16th century.
  • According to Hindu tradition, Lord Shiva manifested here as Adi Kumbeswarar from the divine pot (Amrita Kumbha) containing the seeds of creation after the cosmic deluge (Pralaya). This sacred legend gave the town its name, Kumbakonam.
  • The temple features a magnificent nine-tiered Rajagopuram, standing about 128 feet high, and is regarded as the largest and oldest Shiva temple in Kumbakonam.

Religious Importance

  • The temple is one of the 275 Paadal Petra Sthalams, glorified in the Tevaram hymns of Tirugnana Sambandar, Appar, and Sundarar.
  • It is the principal Shiva temple associated with the world-famous Mahamaham Festival, celebrated once every twelve years, when millions of devotees gather to take a holy dip in the Mahamaham Tank before worshipping Lord Adi Kumbeswarar.
  • Devotees believe that worshipping Lord Adi Kumbeswarar grants prosperity, spiritual upliftment, and relief from sins and obstacles.

Temple Timings

Morning 6:00 AM – 12:30 PM
Evening 4:30 PM – 9:00 PM

Contact

Phone : +91 435 242 0276