Pyramid Karaneswar Nataraja Temple, Puducherry

Address

Eco Village And Spa, beside Dunes, Gangaiamman Koil St,

Tamil Nadu 605014

Ph. no: + 91 09843567904

Temple timing: Open on all days, from 9 AM to 12 noon and 4 PM to 7 PM

Moolavar

Pyramid Karaneswar

Introduction

The temple is Situated on the East Coast Road, the Sri Karaneswar Nataraja Temple is a dedicated shrine to Lord Shiva and stands out as one of the most distinctive temples globally. Shaped like a pyramid, reminiscent of the Great Pyramid of Egypt, it is also renowned as the Pyramid Nataraja Temple Pondicherry. Nestled at Pudukuppam beach, just a few kilometers from Pondicherry city, this captivating temple with its unique architecture draws visitors from around the world.

Sri Karaneswara Nataraja Temple is in Pudukuppam village, 15 km away from Pondicherry city centre. It is off the scenic East Coast Road. From Puducherry railway station, as well as Puducherry bus stop, the temple is 16 km away. And from Puducherry airport, it’s 15 km away.The nearest major railway station to Pyramid Temple Pondicherry is in Villupuram (about 50 km away). The nearest international airport is in Chennai, 130 km away.

Puranic Significance

Constructed by Dr. Karan Singh of the Auroville Foundation, the initial iteration of Sri Karaneswar Nataraja Temple was established in 2000 but was smaller in scale. Unfortunately, it fell victim to the devastating tsunami of 2004.

In its aftermath, the current Pyramid Temple was erected in 2006, with the assistance of the Auroville Earth Institute. Larger than its predecessor, the new temple maintains its location and draws inspiration for its design concept and proportions from the Great Pyramid of Egypt.

Special features

The temple’s architecture seamlessly integrates elements from Egyptian pyramids and traditional Indian temple architecture styles. Unlike conventional temples, it lacks a kalasam on the top. The entrance faces south, aligning with Lord Shiva’s aspect as Dakshinamurti. The statue is precisely positioned along the central axis, with the third eye exactly one-third from the temple’s base. Featuring three pradakshina paths – encircling the idol, the temple, and the entire complex – the Sri Karaneswar Nataraja Temple is oriented towards magnetic north, believed to enhance spiritual energy within the temple.