Back to Results
Temple Image

Neelakandeswarar Temple

Thiruneelakudi Neelakandeswarar Temple is a Hindu temple located at Thanjavur district of Tamil Nadu, India. The historical name of Tiruneelakkudi is Thennalakudi . The presiding deity is Shiva. He is called Neelakandeswarar. His consort is Oppilamulaiyal. It is one of the shrines of the 275 Paadal Petra Sthalams – Shiva Sthalams glorified in the early mediaeval Tevaram poems by Tamil Saivite Nayanar Thirunavukkarasar.

Timings

6.00 a.m. to 11.00 a.m. and from 5.00 p.m. and 8.00 p.m.

Entry Fee

No Entry Fee

  1. Thiruneelakudi Neelakandeswarar Temple is a Hindu temple located at Thanjavur district of Tamil Nadu, India. 
  2. The historical name of Tiruneelakkudi is Thennalakudi . 
  3. The presiding deity is Shiva. He is called Neelakandeswarar. His consort is Oppilamulaiyal.
  4. It is one of the shrines of the 275 Paadal Petra Sthalams – Shiva Sthalams glorified in the early mediaeval Tevaram poems by Tamil Saivite Nayanar Thirunavukkarasar. Praises of the temple have been sung by Sambandar in the Thevaram. The temple is also associated with the life of Thiruneelakanda Nayanar.


Thala Virutcham: Vilwa – leaves having five petals, Jack tree Theertham :Devi, Markandeya and Brahma theerthams.



  1. Lord Shiva came to the temple to see the alcoholic poison that emerged when the devas and the asuras were in the limelight. It was the poison to hold his neck to stay in the neck to prevent him from going to the fire. 
  2. Lord is also known as Neelakandeswarar. The image of lingam is about 2 ft (0.61 m) high and has unusual square projections and a rough surface. The ablution performed during the Chithirai festival with gingelly oil is absorbed by the image.
  3.  The Saiva saint Appar is believed to have worshipped and sung praises of the deity here while he was going to Thyagaraja Swamy Temple, Tiruvarur. 
  4. He describes the tortures he faced from his Jain counterparts.
  5. Sage Mrigandu and his wife used to worship the Lord for a son. For their devotion, the Mechi Lord appeared before them and asked whether they wanted a son full of vices who would live for a thousand years, or whether they wanted a great son who would only live up to 16 years of age.
  6. Markandeyar, who was born by the grace of God to the Mrigandu couple, became a great devotee of Shiva. 
  7. When he turned 16, his parents told Markandeyer that his life span was 16 years as God had told him. 
  8. While Markandeyar was visiting every Sivasthalam that Lord Shiva could save his life, he came to Tiruneelakudy and worshipped Isaan. He comes here and meditates on Lord Shiva day and night.
  9. At last the Lord appeared before him. He asks what boon you want. As soon as Markandeyar expressed his wish, Eason gave Markandeyor the boon to be a Chiranjeevi in ​​this temple. 
  10. Thiruneelakudi is one such privileged place.
  11. Lord Shiva consumed the eternal poison that emerged when the gods and demons begged for nectar from the milky sea. 
  12. The poison stayed on his neck to hold his neck to prevent it from going into the stream. The Lord was also named Neelakandeswarar.
  13. As per Hindu legend, when the celestial deities Devas and demons Asuras were churning the Ocean of Milk for ambrosia, poison emerged first. 
  14. Shiva consumed the poison, but his wife Parvati held his throat as he was consuming it.
  15.  It is believed that Shiva got the name Neelakanta from then on. Parvati anointed Shiva with oil in this place to relieve Neelankata of his pain. 
  16. The practice of anointing the lingam in the temple continues in modern times where the whole oil is consumed by the image. 
  17. The lingam in the front hall of the central shrine is believed to have been worshipped by Brahma, the Hindu god of creation, to relieve him of the sins committed while coalescing with celestial dancer Urvasi. Markendeya is believed to have worshipped the deity by carrying him in a palanquin to attain long life.

Do's and Don'ts

  1. Dress modestly: Opt for clothing that covers your shoulders and knees. This is a sign of respect for the sanctity of the temple.
  2. Remove footwear: Take off your shoes and socks before entering the temple complex.
  3. Be respectful: Maintain a peaceful and respectful demeanour while inside the temple. Avoid loud conversations and boisterous behaviour.
  4. Follow the queue: If there is a queue or line for entering the sanctum sanctorum, politely wait your turn.
  5. Offer prayers: You can offer prayers silently or chant hymns. Offerings like flowers or fruits are also acceptable.
  6. Seek permission: If you wish to take photographs or videos inside the temple, seek permission from the temple authorities first.
  7. Donate: If you're able to, consider making a donation to the temple for its upkeep and maintenance.


  1. Wear revealing clothing: Avoid wearing sleeveless shirts, shorts, or skirts above the knee.
  2. Smoke or chew gum: Smoking, chewing gum, and consuming any kind of intoxicants are strictly prohibited within the temple complex.
  3. Litter: Dispose of any waste materials properly in designated bins.
  4. Touch the idols: Refrain from touching the idols or frescoes within the temple.
  5. Cause disruption: Avoid loud conversations, using mobile phones, or behaving in a way that disrupts the serenity of the temple.
  6. Eat or drink inside: Avoid eating or drinking inside the temple complex. Designated areas might be available outside the temple for this purpose.
  7. Push or shove: Refrain from pushing or shoving through the crowds. Maintain a respectful distance from other devotees.
  8. Light incense or lamps: Unless specifically designated areas are available, avoid lighting incense or lamps inside the temple.
  9. Argue or fight: The temple is a place for peace and reflection. Avoid any arguments or alterations within the temple complex.


Dress Code

For Men: A shirt or kurta can be worn, though it is often preferred to be in traditional attire without a shirt when entering the inner sanctum.

For Women: Women are encouraged to wear a saree or a salwar kameez. These are traditional Indian garments that cover the body modestly.


How to reach

Open in Google Maps ↗

By Air:

  1. Nearest Airport: The closest airport is Tiruchirapalli International Airport (TRZ), which is approximately 120 km from Thiruneelakudi.
  2. From the Airport: You can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Thiruneelakudi.


By Train:

  1. Nearest Railway Station: The nearest railway station is Kumbakonam Railway Station, which is about 12 km from Thiruneelakudi.
  2. From the Railway Station: You can take a taxi, auto-rickshaw, or bus to reach the temple.


By Road:

  1. From Kumbakonam: Thiruneelakudi is well-connected by road to Kumbakonam. You can take a taxi or an auto-rickshaw from Kumbakonam to Thiruneelakudi.
  2. Bus Services: There are frequent bus services from Kumbakonam to Thiruneelakudi. You can take a local bus heading towards Thiruvidaimarudur and get down at Thiruneelakudi.

Nearby Cities and Rivers

Rivers near the Neelakandeswarar Temple:



  1. Veeracholan River: This meandering river, named after the Chola king, is known for its serene beauty and historical significance. It flows near the temple, offering a tranquil setting for reflection and spiritual connection.
  2. Nattaru River: This river, also known as the Nagavali River, is a tributary of the Kaveri River. It is revered for its sacred waters and plays a vital role in the region's agriculture.
  3. Arasalar River: This river, originating from the Eastern Ghats, is known for its scenic landscapes and diverse aquatic life. It provides a habitat for various fish species and supports the livelihoods of local communities.
  4. Keerthimaan Aaru: This river, a tributary of the Kollidam River, is known for its tranquil ambiance and historical significance. It is believed to have played a role in ancient trade routes and cultural exchanges.


Cities near the Neelakandeswarar Temple:


  1. Thiruneelakudi: This town, also known as Thiruvidaimarudur, is home to the Neelakandeswarar Temple and serves as a pilgrimage centre for devotees from across the region. It is steeped in history and culture, offering a glimpse into the rich heritage of Tamil Nadu.
  2. Kumbakonam: This larger city, located about 20 kilometres from Thiruneelakudi, is a renowned temple town and a significant centre for education and culture. It is home to numerous temples, including the Mahamaham Tank and the Adi Kumbeswarar Temple.
  3. Mayiladuthurai: This historic town, situated about 30 kilometres from Thiruneelakudi, is known for its ancient temples and rich cultural heritage. It is home to the Mayura Natha Swamy Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, and the Kapaleeshwarar Temple, renowned for its intricate sculptures.