Ottiampakkam Sri Otteeswarar Temple, Kanchipuram

Address

Ottiampakkam,

Kanchipuram District,

Tamil Nadu – 600130.

Moolavar

Otteeswarar

Amman

Mangalambikai

Introduction

The Otteeswarar Temple is a significant Shiva temple located at Ottiampakkam, in the Kanchipuram District of Tamil Nadu. The presiding deity is Lord Otteeswarar, a grand lingam that exudes divine charm, while the goddess is Mangalambikai, who faces south in a standing posture. The temple also houses a Kubera Lingam, which also faces south, adding to its spiritual significance.

Features of the Temple

The temple is home to several Parivara Devathas (supporting deities), each contributing to the spiritual vibrancy of the temple.
The Moolavar Vimanam (the main tower above the sanctum) is of the Gajabrushta type, symbolizing an elephant’s back, a unique architectural feature in many ancient temples.
In the Koshtam (outer sanctum), you’ll find the idols of various deities such as:
- Narthana Vinayagar
- Dhakshinamoorthy
- Lingothbhavar
- Brahma
- Durgai
Additional shrines in the temple include:
- Ganapathy
- Valli Devasena Sametha Siva Subramaniyar
- Nagars
- Kubera Lingam
- Kaalabairavar
- Navagrahas (the nine planets)

The temple is well-maintained, with a neat temple pond and regular poojas conducted for the benefit of the devotees. Although there are no Tamil inscriptions to indicate the exact age of the temple, it is believed to be an ancient place of worship.

Accessibility

The Otteeswarar Temple is conveniently located near the Ottiampakkam bus terminus and is easily accessible by public transport. The temple is situated close to the Thalambur four-way junction, where the OMR – Thalambur Road and Siruseri – Medavakkam Road intersect. The temple can be reached via Medavakkam and Sithalapakkam, with town buses from the 51 series, passing through Velachery.