Sangameshwarar Temple

The Sangameswarar Temple, also known as Thirunana and Thirukooduthurai, is located in Bhavani, Erode district, Tamil Nadu. This Shiva temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is situated at the confluence of the Kaveri, Bhavani, and the mystic Amutha (Agaya Gangai) rivers. The temple is praised in ancient Tamil literature as Thirunana. The site is also referred to as Dakshina Triveni Sangamam and Kooduthurai, highlighting the confluence of the three rivers. Devotees often perform last rites for their ancestors on the riverbanks and offer prayers at the Sangameswarar Temple.

Timings

Morning: 5:30 AM to 1:00 PM & Evening: 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM

Entry Fee

Free of charge

Kubera, the ruler of the northern direction, wished to visit holy places in the world. He journeyed to many places and finally arrived at this sacred spot. There, he observed yogis, sages, and Gandharvas performing penance. He was astounded to witness that deer, cows, tigers, elephants, lions, dragons, and rats all drank water together peacefully without fighting, allowing the penitents to meditate undisturbed. Realizing the divine power of the place, Kubera also engaged in penance to seek the Lord's grace. Pleased with his devotion, Lord Shiva and Thirumal appeared before Kubera. Lord Shiva manifested as a Swayambu under the Ilantai tree and blessed him.

At that moment, Asariri (a divine voice) spoke, saying, "Kuberan! Ask for a boon." Kubera prayed, "Lord, may this place be known by your name, Alakesan, and may you bless the devotees who seek you." Since then, the place has been known as "Dakshina Alagai." Thirumal, also pleased with Kubera's penance, stands on the left side of Lord Shiva as Adikesavaperumal.

Administration History :

The administration of the temple has a long history, with key figures like Immudi Ketti Mudali and various chieftains contributing to its development over centuries, as evidenced by inscriptions from the 17th to 19th centuries. The temple underwent significant renovations and structural additions during the Mysore Wodeyar and later under local contributors. Inscriptions also highlight donations for temple upkeep and specific rituals. Currently, the temple is maintained by a combination of local trustees, dedicated temple staff, and the efforts of the surrounding community. The temple's day-to-day operations, including rituals, festivals, and administrative tasks, are overseen by a managing committee and supported by regular donations and offerings from devotees.

Do's and Don'ts

Do pray to your Ishta Devata before embarking on your pilgrimage to the temple.
Do contact the Temple Devasthanam information center for inquiries, temple details, and pooja information.
Do reserve your travel and accommodation at the temple well in advance.
Do take a bath and wear clean clothes before entering the temple.
Do concentrate on the God and Goddess inside the temple.
Do maintain silence and recite your Istamantram to yourself inside the temple.
Do observe ancient customs and traditions while in the temple.
Do deposit your offerings in the hundi only.

Do not come to the temple for any purpose other than worshiping God and Goddess.
Do not smoke at the temple.
Do not consume alcoholic drinks at the temple.
Do not eat non-vegetarian food in the Kshetram.
Do not approach mediators for quick darshan. It may cause inconvenience to others.
Do not carry any weapons inside the temple.
Do not wear headguards like helmets, caps, turbans, or hats inside the temple premises.

Dress Code

For Men: Men are required to wear traditional attire such as a dhoti or lungi. Shirts and trousers should be avoided in the temple.

For Women: Women should wear modest attire, preferably sarees or salwar kameez. Western clothes and revealing outfits are not allowed.

How to reach

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By Air: The nearest airport to the Arulmiku Sangameswarar Temple is Trichy International Airport, located approximately 158 km away.

By Rail: The nearest railway station is Erode Railway Station, about 15.8 km from the temple.

By Road: The Bhavani Bus Stand is the closest bus station, and regular buses connect the temple to major cities in the region.

Nearby Cities and Rivers

Rivers :

Cauvery River: The Cauvery River is one of the major rivers flowing near the temple, and it holds significant spiritual and cultural importance. Devotees often perform rituals and take holy dips in its waters, especially during important festivals like Adi Perukku.
Bhavani River: The Bhavani River converges with the Cauvery River at the temple's vicinity, making it a sacred confluence. The junction of these two rivers is considered an auspicious place for performing rituals to ancestors.

Cities :

Bhavani: The temple is located in Bhavani, a small town in Tamil Nadu, which is known for its spiritual significance, particularly related to the confluence of the Cauvery and Bhavani rivers.
Erode: Located around 15 kilometers from Bhavani, Erode is a major city known for its textile industry and is often considered the gateway to the western parts of Tamil Nadu.
Tiruchengode: Situated about 25 kilometers from Bhavani, Tiruchengode is another important town with historical and religious significance, particularly known for the Perumal temple.
Salem: Approximately 50 kilometers from Bhavani, Salem is a major city in Tamil Nadu, known for its steel industry and historical significance in the region.