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Sri Thirumeni Azhagar Temple

Thirumeni Azhagar Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, located in Mahendrapalli Village, Sirkazhi Taluk, Mayiladuthurai District, Tamil Nadu. The presiding deity is known as Thirumeni Azhagar or Soma Sundareswarar, and the goddess is Vadivambigai. The temple is situated on the southern banks of the Kollidam River. Historically, Mahendrapalli was also known as Mayendirapalli and Koyiladippalayam.

Timings

From 10:00 AM to 12:00 Noon and from 06:00 PM to 07:30 PM.

Entry Fee

Free of cost

Origin/History :-


The Thirumeni Azhagar Temple is believed to have been originally constructed in the 6th century CE. It was later reconstructed by the Cholas in the 10th century CE and underwent extensive renovations by the Pandyas and Marathas. The last consecration ceremony was held on January 22, 1999, and an arch was built to commemorate this event.

Historically, it is said that Robert Clive, the first British Governor of the Bengal Presidency, destroyed the fort of a local king (Pichavaram Jamin, a descendant of the Cholas) near the temple. The site where the fort once stood is known as Theevu Kottai to this day. A bronze idol of Nataraja, excavated from Theevu Kottai, is now housed in the temple.


Puranic Significance :-



Indira, having harboured a wrongful desire for Akalika, the wife of Maharshi Gautama, was cursed by the sage to have eyes throughout his body. Seeking relief from this curse, Indira came to Earth and prayed to Lord Shiva at various locations. One such place was where the Thirumeni Azhagar Temple stands today. As Indira, also known as Maha Indira, worshipped here, the place became known as Mahendirapalli. Later, a temple was erected at this site.

Do's and Don'ts

  1. Keep the Temple Clean: Use waste bins and avoid littering.
  2. Dress Appropriately: Wear traditional attire (white for the Lord, yellow for the Goddess).
  3. Participate Respectfully: Engage in rituals like Surya Pooja with devotion.
  4. Take a Holy Dip: Use the Mahendra Pushkarni for ritual purification.
  5. Maintain Silence: Be respectful and quiet in the temple.
  6. Follow Ritual Protocols: Adhere to the temple’s rules and consult priests if needed.
  7. Contribute: Support temple preservation through donations or volunteering.


  1. No Mobile Phones: Avoid using phones or taking photos inside.
  2. Inappropriate Attire: Avoid casual or revealing clothing.
  3. No Smoking or Alcohol: Strictly prohibited.
  4. Avoid Loud Behaviour: Keep conversations quiet and respectful.
  5. Don't Touch Idols: Refrain from touching deities unless allowed.
  6. No Non-Vegetarian Food: Don’t bring non-vegetarian items inside.
  7. Respect Property: Avoid damaging or defacing temple structures.


Dress Code

For Men:

  1. Traditional Attire: Men are encouraged to wear dhoti or veshti.
  2. Shirts or Upper Garments: It is common to avoid wearing shirts inside the temple, but a shawl or angavastram can be used. In some temples, covering the upper body is optional, depending on the customs.

For Women:

  1. Saree or Half-Saree: Women are recommended to wear sarees, half-sarees, or salwar kameez.
  2. Modest Clothing: Ensure that attire is modest, covering shoulders and legs fully. Avoid tight or revealing clothing.

How to reach

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Best season to visit :-


The best season to visit the Thirumeni Azhagar Temple is during the winter months from November to February.


How to reach :-


  1. By Air: Puducherry International Airport is the closest airport, approximately 130 km away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or use public transport to travel to Sirkazhi and then proceed to Mahendrapalli.
  2. By Rail: Sirkazhi Railway Station is the closest major station, about 12 km away. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach the temple.
  3. By Road: From Sirkazhi: The temple is approximately 12 km from Sirkazhi. You can take a local bus or hire a taxi from Sirkazhi to Mahendrapalli.

Nearby Cities and Rivers

The Thirumeni Azhagar Temple is situated near the Kollidam River, which flows to the south of the temple.


Nearby cities and towns include:

  1. Sirkazhi: A prominent town located about 12 km away.
  2. Mayiladuthurai: Another key town, approximately 20 km from the temple.
  3. Chidambaram: A well-known temple city, located around 35 km from Mahendrapalli.