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Sarkunalingeswarar Temple

Sargunalingeswarar Temple, located in Karukudi, Thanjavur district, Tamil Nadu, India, has a historical name of Marudhanallur. The presiding deity is Lord Shiva, referred to as Sargunalingeswarar, while His consort is known as Advaita Nayaki. The temple is also recognized by other names such as Karukudi Nathar and Brahmapureeswarar for the deity, and Kalyani Nayagi or Sarvalankara Nayaki for the goddess. This temple is noted as a Parihara sthalam for issues related to Vastu. It is one of the 276 Paadal Petra Sthalams celebrated in the early mediaeval Thevaram poems by the Tamil Saivite Nayanar Thirugnana Sambandar. Specifically, it is considered the 186th Devaram Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalam and the 69th sthalam located on the southern side of the Cauvery River in Chozha Nadu. The temple is maintained and administered by the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Department of the Government of Tamil Nadu.

Timings

Morning: 07:30 AM to 09:00 AM & Evening: 05:30 PM to 07:00 PM

Entry Fee

Free of charge

It is believed that Lord Sri Rama worshipped at this temple before proceeding to Lanka. Due to a delay in receiving a Linga from Hanuman, Sri Rama is said to have made a Linga from sand, known as the Prithvi Linga, to keep the puja schedule. The Linga brought by Hanuman is also present in the temple, referred to as Hanumantha Linga.

One notable story involves a trader named Dananjayan, who incurred leprosy after unknowingly having an intimate relationship with his stepmother. He was cured through his sincere prayers to the Lord.


Administration History :



The temple has a long history of administration, beginning with its original construction before the 7th century, as it was sung by Thirugnanasambandar. It was later reconstructed during the Chola period and further extended during the Thanjavur Nayak period. The Nattukottai Nagarathars maintained the temple, and it is currently under the control of the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Department (HR&CE) of the Tamil Nadu government.

Do's and Don'ts

  1. Pray to Your Ishta Devata: Always begin your pilgrimage by offering prayers to your chosen deity.
  2. Contact the Temple Information Centre: For inquiries about the temple, pooja details, and other information, reach out to the Devasthanam information centre.
  3. Reserve Travel and Accommodation: Make your travel and accommodation arrangements well in advance to ensure a smooth visit.
  4. Maintain Personal Hygiene: Bathe and wear clean clothes before entering the temple to show respect for the sacred space.
  5. Focus on the Deities: Concentrate your thoughts on the God and Goddess while inside the temple.
  6. Practice Silence and Mantra Recitation: Maintain silence and softly recite "Om Namah Shivaya" or your Ishta Mantra to yourself.
  7. Observe Customs and Traditions: Respect and adhere to ancient customs and traditions while in the temple.
  8. Respect Religious Sentiments: Be mindful and respectful of the beliefs and practices of others in the temple.
  9. Deposit Offerings Appropriately: Make sure to deposit your offerings only in the designated hundi.
  1. Worship Only: Do not visit the temple for any purpose other than worshipping the deities.
  2. No Smoking: Smoking is strictly prohibited within the temple premises.
  3. No Alcohol: Consumption of alcoholic beverages is not allowed in the temple.
  4. Avoid Non-Vegetarian Food: Do not bring or consume non-vegetarian food in the temple area.
  5. Avoid Mediators: Do not approach mediators for quick darshan, as it may inconvenience others.
  6. No Weapons: Carrying any weapons into the temple is forbidden.
  7. Headgear Restrictions: Do not wear helmets, caps, turbans, or hats inside the temple premises.
  8. Avoid Sastanga Pranama in the Sanctum: Refrain from performing Sastanga Pranama (prostration) inside the sanctum sanctorum.
  9. Be Concise in Darshan: Do not take excessive time during your sparsa darshan (touching the deity) in the Garbhagriha (sanctum).
  10. Beware of Spurious Prasadams: Do not purchase prasadam’s from unauthorised street vendors.
  11. Do Not Encourage Beggars: Avoid giving alms to beggars within the temple area.
  12. Maintain Cleanliness: Do not spit or create any nuisance on temple premises.

Dress Code

For Men: Men are advised to wear traditional attire, such as dhoti or kurta, preferably in light colours. Shirts and pants are acceptable, but they should be modest and clean, avoiding any offensive graphics.

For Women: Women should wear traditional clothing like sarees or salwar kameez, ensuring they are modest and respectful. Western attire is permissible but should cover the shoulders and knees, avoiding tight-fitting or revealing clothing.

How to reach

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By Air: The nearest airport is Trichy Airport, located approximately 102 km from the temple. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or use public transportation to reach the temple.

By Rail: The closest railway station is Kumbakonam Railway Station, situated about 4.9 km from the temple. From the station, you can take a taxi or an auto-rickshaw to reach your destination.

By Road: The temple is 4.8 km from the Kumbakonam Bus Stand. You can easily reach the temple via local transportation or by private vehicle.

Nearby Cities and Rivers

Rivers :

  1. Vadavaaru River: This river flows near the temple and is significant for its association with local rituals and festivals. It contributes to the temple’s scenic beauty and provides a natural resource for the surrounding community.
  2. Kollidam River: Another river nearby, the Kollidam is known for its historical and cultural relevance. Its proximity adds to the geographical significance of the temple and supports agricultural activities in the region.
  3. Arasalaru River: Located close to the temple, this river further enhances the natural landscape and offers additional resources for the local population.


Cities :

  1. Karukudi: The temple is located in Karukudi, a town that serves as a centre for religious activities and local commerce. The town is known for its vibrant community and cultural heritage.
  2. Thanjavur: Situated a short distance from the temple, Thanjavur is a historically rich city known for its grand temples, art, and music. It was once the capital of the Chola dynasty and remains a significant cultural hub.
  3. Madurai: Located further south, Madurai is famous for its Meenakshi Temple and rich history. It is a major urban centre that draws many pilgrims and tourists to its temples.
  4. Trichy (Tiruchirappalli): Another nearby city, Trichy is known for its historical temples and is an important educational and cultural centre in TamilNadu.