Sathyanateswarar Temple

The Sathyanatha Swamy Temple, located in Thirukalimedu, Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu, is an ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is one of the 276 Paadal Petra Sthalams, revered in the early medieval Thevaram hymns, and is the 5th such temple in the Thondai Nadu region. The temple is believed to be older than the famous Sri Ekambaranathar Temple of Kanchipuram. Historically, Kanchipuram was referred to as Athiyur, and the Sathyanatha Swamy Temple was situated on the outskirts of the city during the Chola period. The temple stands on the banks of the Indra Theertham, adding to its sanctity. The presiding deity of the temple is Lord Shiva, known by various names such as Sathyanatha Swamy, Sathyanatheswarar, Satyaviratheswarar, Tirukaleeswarar, and Karaivananathar. The goddess worshipped here is Brahmarambigai. The temple holds great significance due to its connection with the Tamil Saivite poet Thirugnana Sambandar, who venerated the deity in one of his hymns, thus immortalizing it in the Thevaram. This temple is an important part of Kanchipuram's religious heritage, revered by devotees for its spiritual importance and historical value.

Timings

Morning: 07.00 am – 01.00 pm. Evening: 04.00 pm – 07.00 pm.

Entry Fee

No Entry Fee

The Sathyanatheswarar Temple, believed to have been built during the 5th century CE, is thought to be one of the earliest temples established by the Pallavas. This ancient temple predates both the Ekambaranathar Temple and Kailasanathar Temple in Kanchipuram.

The temple holds historical and religious significance, as it was venerated by the 7th-century Tamil Saivite poet Thirugnana Sambandar in one of his hymns in the Thevaram. During the Chola period, the temple and its surrounding locality were highly revered. An inscription of the Chola Emperor Rajendra Chola I refers to the place as Thiru Neri Karaikadu, a locality in Kachi Pedu.

According to inscriptions found within the temple, Lord Shiva was worshipped here as Thirukaraikadudaya Mahadevar, and the region was part of Jayamkonda Chozha Mandalathu Eyir Kottathu Kanchipuram. This highlights the temple's prominence during the Chola era and its connection to Kanchipuram's rich cultural and historical legacy.

PURANIC SIGNIFICANCE:

Worship by Indra and Budhan

Indra, the king of the Devas, and Budhan (Mercury) are believed to have worshipped Lord Shiva at this temple. The temple lies in a forest called Kaaraivanam, and hence the presiding deity is called Karaivananathar (Sathyanatheswarar).

Birth of Planet Budha

Chandra’s Misconduct: Chandra (the Moon) was a disciple of his Guru, Jupiter (Guru). He developed a desire for Dhara, the wife of his Guru.

The Yagna: Chandra conducted a Yagna dedicated to Lord Vishnu. As part of his Guru’s duties, Jupiter attended the Yagna with Dhara. During this event, Chandra enticed Dhara and convinces her to stay with him.

Budha’s Birth: Budha (Mercury) was born as a result of the union between Chandra and Dhara.

Guru’s Prayer to Shiva: Upon learning of this, Jupiter prayed to Lord Shiva and reclaimed Dhara.

Budha’s Penance: Brought up by Chandra, Budha grew up and felt deep pain upon learning about the circumstances of his birth. Seeking redemption, Budha performed penance at this temple and begged Lord Satyanatha Swami for a place among the Navagrahas (nine planets).

Shiva’s Boon: Lord Shiva appeared before Budha and assured him that he would be given a position among the Navagrahas at an appropriate time. A shrine for Budha is situated to the south of the Sanctum in the temple’s prakara.

Karaivananathar

Indra’s Desire: According to legend, Indra, the king of the Devas, was captivated by the beauty of Ahalya, the wife of Sage Gautama.

Deception by Indra: Indra disguised himself as a rooster and crowed early in the morning, causing the sage to leave for his daily bath at the river. In the sage’s absence, Indra entered the house to approach Ahalya.

The Sage’s Return: Sage Gautama sensed something was amiss and returned to the hermitage unexpectedly. He caught sight of Indra fleeing in the guise of a cat.

The Curse: Furious, the sage cursed Indra to have eyes all over his body.

Relief from the Curse: Indra wandered across the earth, praying to Lord Shiva for relief. At this temple, he saw Lord Shiva among the Karai bushes and worshipped him. Moved by Indra’s sincere devotion, Lord Shiva relieved him of the curse. From this event, Lord Shiva came to be known as Karaivananathar.

Kachinerikkaraikkadu

In ancient times, travelers used the Thirukalimedu path to reach Kanchipuram. This path was filled with spiny plants, earning the place the name Kachinerikkaraikkadu.

Other Names

The sacred site has been referred to by various names throughout history:

Karai Tirunagar

Sathyaviratha Kshetram

Sathya Viratha Natham

Indrapuri

Indiresam

Kachinerikkaraikkadu

ADMINISTRATION:

The temple is maintained and administered by the Hindu Religious and Endowment Board of the Government of Tamil Nadu.

Do's and Don'ts

Maintain Silence: Speak softly and maintain a quiet, reverent atmosphere.
Respect the Deities: Show reverence while approaching the deity and during prayers.
Remove Footwear: Ensure you remove your footwear before entering the temple premises.
Make Offerings: You can offer flowers, fruits, or other customary offerings to the deity.
Keep the Temple Clean: Dispose of waste properly and avoid littering in the temple surroundings.

Avoid Loud Conversations: Refrain from talking loudly or causing disruptions.
Don't Touch Deities: Do not touch the idols or altar unless specifically permitted.
Avoid Photography: Photography might be restricted in certain areas, so respect temple guidelines.
Don’t Disturb Others: Avoid disturbing fellow devotees who are engaged in prayers or rituals.
Don’t Bring Leather Items: Leather goods such as bags, belts, or wallets are not allowed inside the temple.
Avoid Eating Inside: Do not eat or drink in the temple premises unless part of a ritual or offering.

Dress Code

Dress Code for Men:

Traditional wear: Dhoti, or any respectful attire like a shirt with trousers.
Modesty: Should cover the upper body and legs appropriately.

Dress Code for Women:

Traditional wear: Saree, salwar kameez, or modest dress with a dupatta.
Modesty: Should cover shoulders and legs appropriately, avoiding revealing clothing.

How to reach

Open in Google Maps ↗

BEST TIME TO VISIT:

The best season to visit the Sathyanatheswarar Temple in Kanchipuram is during the winter months, from November to February.

By Air:

The nearest airport is Chennai International Airport (about 72 km away from Kanchipuram).
From Chennai, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Kanchipuram.

By Road:

By Car: Kanchipuram is well connected by road, with frequent buses and taxis available from Chennai (about 1.5 hours drive).
By Bus: Regular government and private buses run between Chennai and Kanchipuram. The Kanchipuram bus stand is about 3 km from the temple.

By Train:

The nearest railway station is Kanchipuram Railway Station, located around 2 km from the temple.

Nearby Cities and Rivers

Palar River:

The Palar River is the most significant river flowing near Kanchipuram. It runs through the district and is an essential water source for the region.

Kaveri River:

Although the Kaveri River is not directly in Kanchipuram, it is relatively close, flowing through the nearby region and playing a significant role in the region's agriculture and spirituality.

Cities Near Kanchipuram:

Chennai: Approximately 72 kilometers northeast of Kanchipuram, Chennai is the capital city of Tamil Nadu and a major metropolitan hub.
Vellore: Located around 125 kilometers to the west of Kanchipuram, Vellore is known for its historical landmarks and the famous Vellore Fort.
Arakkonam: About 42 kilometers southwest of Kanchipuram, Arakkonam is a small town and a railway junction.
Pondicherry: Situated approximately 150 kilometers southeast, Pondicherry is a coastal city with French colonial heritage and is a popular tourist destination.