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Sayavaneswarar Temple

Sayavanam Chayavaneswarar Temple, located in Sayavanam, Nagapattinam district, Tamil Nadu, was historically known as Tiru Chaikadu. Dedicated to Shiva as Chaya Vaneswarar, with Kuyilinum Inia Mozhiyal as his consort, it is one of the 275 Paadal Petra Sthalams celebrated in the Tevaram hymns by Sambandar and Tirunavukkarasar. This temple is the 63rd Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalam and the 9th on the north side of the Cauvery River.

Timings

The temple will be kept open between 07.00 hrs to 12.00 hsr and 16.00 hrs to 19.30 hrs.

Entry Fee

Free of cost

Origin/History :-


The temple dates back to the Medieval Chola period and is one of six temples considered equivalent to the temple in Varanasi. The other five temples in this group are Thiruvenkadu, Mayiladuthurai, Tiruvaiyaru, Tiruvidaimarudur, and Tiruvanchiam.

This temple is also a Maadakovil, constructed by Kochengat Chozhan. The name "Chayavanam" or "Chaikadu" comes from the Tamil word "Chai," which means "Korai" (a type of grass), reflecting the fact that the area was once covered with this grass.


Puranic Significance :-



  1. Lord Vishnu Worshipped Shiva Here: Lord Vishnu once worshipped Shiva at this temple to obtain the famed conch, Panchajanyam. In the same village, there is a notable temple called Thalai Sanga Nanmathiyam, a Divyadesam dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
  2. Lord Shiva’s Thiruvilayadal with Iyarpagayar: In a divine play, Lord Shiva appeared as a devotee and requested Iyarpagayar to send his wife with him. The devotee and his wife compiled without hesitation. Shiva warned that enemies might attack on the way and asked Iyarpagayar to escort him to the border for safety. Iyarpagayar agreed and defended the Lord from any opposition. Upon reaching the border, Shiva revealed his true form with Parvathi and instructed Iyarpagayar to return home with his wife and live happily. This miraculous event is said to have taken place in Chayavanam.
  3. Indra’s Attempt to Relocate the Temple: Indra's mother, Athithi, wished to worship Chayavaneswarar on earth. Upon finding her, Indra tried to transport the temple to Indraloka using his white elephant, Iravadham. However, Mother Parvathi, known as Kuyilinum Inia Mozhiyal for her sweet voice, intervened. She, along with Lord Shiva, advised Indra to continue the worship on earth and be blessed, rather than relocating the temple.
  4. Murugan with Bow & Arrow and Veeragandamani: At this temple, Lord Muruga is depicted with a bow and arrow, ready for battle against Soorapadman, instead of his usual weapon, the Vel. The idol of Muruga was reportedly discovered in the sea and brought to the temple. He is also adorned with the Veeragandamani (anklet) on his right leg, gifted by Lord Shiva. Devotees who fear enemies come to this temple to seek protection and courage, as worshipping Muruga here is believed to empower them to overcome fears and advance in life.

Do's and Don'ts

  1. Respect the Sanctity: Dress modestly, maintain silence, and offer prayers sincerely.
  2. Follow Rituals: Participate in temple rituals and festivals respectfully.
  3. Contribute to Conservation: Donate to upkeep efforts and report damage.
  4. Maintain Cleanliness: Keep the premises clean; use designated areas for waste.
  5. Learn and Share: Understand the temple’s history and share it with others.
  6. Photography: Seek permission for photography, especially in sacred areas.
  1. No Damage: Avoid touching or writing on sculptures or walls.
  2. No Disruption: Don’t talk or use phones during rituals.
  3. No Pollution: Don’t litter or pollute the temple tank or surrounding areas.
  4. No Unauthorised Activities: Don’t sell or film without permission.
  5. No Removal: Don’t take away any religious items.
  6. Avoid Restricted Areas: Stay out of areas not open to the public.

Dress Code

For Men: Traditional Attire: Men are required to wear a dhoti or veshti (white cotton cloth tied around the waist).

For Women: Modest Clothing: Women should wear traditional attire like sarees, half sarees, or salwar kameez. Avoid Western Outfits: Western attire such as jeans, skirts, or sleeveless tops are generally not permitted.

How to reach

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Best season to visit :-


The best season to visit the Chayavaneswarar Temple is during the winter months from November to February. During this time, the weather is pleasant and cool, making it comfortable for temple visits and sightseeing.


How to reach :-



  1. By Air: The nearest airport is Tiruchirappalli International Airport, about 150 km from the temple. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Nagapattinam and then to Sayavanam.
  2. By Train: The nearest railway station is Sirkazhi Railway Station, about 17 km from the temple. Regular trains from major cities like Chennai, Tiruchirappalli, and others stop here. From Sirkazhi, you can take a taxi or local transport to reach the temple.
  3. By Road:
  4. From Nagapattinam: The temple is around 46 km from Nagapattinam. You can take a bus or taxi from Nagapattinam to reach the temple.
  5. From Chennai: The temple is around 265 km from Chennai. You can drive via the East Coast Road (ECR) or take a bus to Nagapattinam, followed by local transport.
  6. From Sirkazhi: Local buses and taxis are available from Sirkazhi to Sayavanam.

Nearby Cities and Rivers

Nearby Rivers:

  1. Kaveri River: Flows near the temple and is a significant water source for rituals and festivals.


Nearby Cities:

  1. Nagapattinam: The temple is situated in the Nagapattinam district, a coastal city known for its rich heritage and temples.
  2. Mayiladuthurai: A prominent city located close to the temple, known for several other famous temples.
  3. Karaikal: A nearby city and a part of the Union Territory of Puducherry, located along the coast.
  4. Poompuhar (Kaveripoompattinam): An ancient historical port city located close to the temple.