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Pasupatheeswarar Temple

The Pasupatheeswarar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is located in the village of Avoor and is renowned for its rich historical significance. Built during the 2nd century by the Chola king Kochengat Chola, it is one of the 70 madakoil (temples) constructed during that period. A unique feature of this temple is the presence of Pancha Bairavar, the five images of Bhairava, which attracts many devotees. The temple is celebrated in the verses of the Tevaram, a 7th-century Tamil Saiva canon composed by Thirugnana Sambandar. As one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams, it holds great importance, being the 21st Shiva Sthalam on the southern bank of the Cauvery River in Chozha Nadu (Thenkarai). The Shiva Linga in this temple is revered as a Swayambhu Murti, or self-manifested form of Lord Shiva. Known as “Then Kayilayam,” the temple is considered as auspicious as Mount Kailash, drawing countless pilgrims seeking blessings and spiritual fulfilment.

Timings

Morning: 6:00 AM to 11:00 AM & Evening: 4:00 PM to 8:30 PM

Entry Fee

Free of charge

Mother Parvathi descended to Earth and chose this location to perform penance. The Devas, from the celestial world, came here in the form of plants and trees to worship the Goddess, as the area was a dense jungle at that time. Pleased with her devotion, Lord Shiva appeared before her, adorned with His Jadamudi (long hair styled as a crown), and thus earned the name Kavardesswarar. Patti, the calf of the divine cow Kamadenu, recognized the sanctity of this place, created a Linga, performed abhishekam (ritual bathing) with its milk, and prayed for Lord Shiva to remain there. As the Lord was worshipped by a cow, He was named Pasupatheeswarar.

The divine cow Kamadenu visited the shrine seeking relief from the curse of Sage Vasishta. In Sanskrit, cows are referred to as "Go," which led to the place being known as Govandhakudi (the palace where the cow came). The abhishekam performed by Kamadenu is depicted on the temple's flagpole.

The area is also known as Manikudam and Aswathavanam. According to scriptures, one of the two stones brought by Vayudeva in a competition with Adisesha is located here, while the other stone is at Nallur.

Do's and Don'ts

  1. Pray to Your Ishta Devata: Before embarking on your pilgrimage to the temple, take a moment to offer prayers to your personal deity.
  2. Contact the Temple Devasthanam Information Centre: For any inquiries regarding temple information, rituals, and pooja details, reach out to the temple's information centre.
  3. Reserve Travel and Accommodation: Ensure that your travel and accommodation arrangements are made well in advance to facilitate a smooth visit.
  4. Bathe and Wear Clean Clothes: Before entering the temple, take a bath and wear clean attire as a mark of respect.
  5. Concentrate on the Deities: Focus your thoughts and intentions on the God and Goddess enshrined within the temple.
  6. Maintain Silence: Keep the atmosphere peaceful by remaining silent and reciting your Ishta Mantra quietly to yourself while inside the temple.
  7. Observe Customs and Traditions: Respect and follow the ancient customs and traditions upheld in the temple.
  8. Respect Religious Sentiments: Show respect for the beliefs and sentiments of fellow devotees during your visit.
  9. Deposit Offerings in the Hundi: Ensure that your offerings are deposited in the designated hundi only.
  1. Avoid Non-Worship Activities: Do not visit the temple for purposes other than worshipping the God and Goddess.
  2. No Smoking: Smoking is strictly prohibited within temple premises.
  3. No Alcohol Consumption: Refrain from consuming alcoholic beverages while at the temple.
  4. No Non-Vegetarian Food: Do not bring or consume non-vegetarian food within the temple.
  5. Do Not Approach Mediators: Avoid seeking assistance from mediators for quick darshan, as this may inconvenience other devotees.
  6. No Weapons: Carrying any weapons inside the temple is prohibited.
  7. No Headgear: Do not wear headgear such as helmets, caps, turbans, or hats within the temple premises.
  8. Avoid Sastanga Pranama in the Sanctum Sanctorum: Do not perform the full prostration (Sastanga Pranama) inside the sanctum sanctorum.
  9. Limit Time During Sparsa Darshan: Be considerate and do not take excessive time while performing Sparsa Darshan in the Garbhagriha (inner sanctum).
  10. Avoid Spurious Prasadams: Do not purchase prasadam’s from unauthorised street vendors.
  11. Do Not Encourage Beggars: Avoid giving alms to beggars at the temple to maintain decorum.
  12. No Spitting or Nuisance: Do not spit or create any nuisance within the temple premises.

Dress Code

For Men: Men are encouraged to wear traditional attire such as dhotis or kurta-pyjamas. If not, clean and modest pants with a shirt are acceptable.

For Women: Women should opt for traditional garments like sarees or salwar kameez. Modest dresses or skirts with blouses are also appropriate, ensuring that shoulders and knees are covered.

How to reach

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By Bus: The nearest bus station is Thanjavur Bus Stand.

By Train: The closest railway station is Thanjavur RailwayJunction. From Papanasam, you can take a taxi or local transport to reach Aavoor, which is approximately a short drive away.

By Air: The nearest airport is Trichy (Tiruchirappalli International Airport). From Trichy, you can hire a taxi or use public transport to reach Aavoor, which is about an hour's drive from the airport.

Nearby Cities and Rivers

Rivers :

  1. Cauvery River: The temple is situated near the sacred Cauvery River, which is considered one of the holiest rivers in South India. It plays a significant role in the rituals and festivals of the temple, with many devotees performing water-related ceremonies.


Cities :

  1. Thanjavur City: Located approximately 20 kilometres away, Thanjavur is the nearest major city and is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, including the famous Brihadeeswarar Temple. Thanjavur serves as an important hub for pilgrims visiting various temples in the region.
  2. Thiruvisanallur: Situated nearby, Thiruvisanallur is another important town known for its temples, particularly those dedicated to Lord Shiva. This town is often visited by pilgrims travelling to the Pasupatheeswarar Temple.
  3. Kottaiyur: This village is also in proximity to the temple and is famous for its own historical temples, including the Kottaiyur Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The connection between these temples enhances the pilgrimage experience in the region.