Karaikal Somanatha Shiva Temple

Address

Karaikal Somanatha Shiva Temple

Kariakal circle, Karaikal District,

Tamil Nadu

 609607      

Moolavar

Somanatha

Amman

Anandavalli

Introduction

• Location: Karaikal circle, Karaikal district, Tamil Nadu, India
• Deities:
  • Lord Shiva as Somanathar
  • Goddess as Anandavalli
• Facing Direction: East
• Temple Layout:
  • Vinayagar Temple at the front.
  • Karaikal Ammaiyar Temple located at the back.

Puranic Significance

• The temple is believed to be over 1500 years old, highlighting its historical and spiritual importance.
• The Arthamandapam (inner hall) leading to the Lord’s sanctum features a southward slope, a unique architectural detail.
• Vinayagar Sanctum:
  • Situated in the prakaram, it is adorned with a Gajaprishta Vimana (resembling the shape of an elephant’s back).
• Other Shrines:
  • Valli-Theivanai-Sametha Murugan
  • Mahalakshmi sanctum
  • Another Vinayagar shrine is located near the northwest gate, behind the sanctum sanctorum.
• Sacred Tree: A large bow tree stands in the northern area of the temple, adding to the temple’s sanctity.
• Karurai Deities: The Karurai section includes:
  • Thenmugan
  • Lingotpavar
  • Brahman
  • Durga

Special Festivals and Rituals

• The temple is famous for the Mangani Uthathal festival, a grand event celebrated annually.
• Married women pray to Goddess Anandavalli for blessings of prosperity and harmony in their married lives.

Highlights

• Architectural Heritage: The temple features a blend of ancient Tamil temple architecture with unique elements like the Gajaprishta Vimana.
• Divine Blessings: The presiding deities, Lord Somanathar and Goddess Anandavalli, are revered for granting prosperity and fulfilling prayers related to family and marital life.
• Cultural Importance: The Mangani Uthathal festival draws devotees from all over, showcasing the temple’s vibrant cultural significance.

Century/Period

1500 years old

Nearest Bus Station

Karaikal

Nearest Railway Station

Karaikal

Nearest Airport

Puducherry

Location on Map

lightuptemple