Papanasam Agasthiyar Munivar Temple – Thirunelveli

Address

Papanasam Agasthiyar Munivar Temple – Thirunelveli

Agasthiyar Falls, Papanasam,

Thirunelveli district,

Tamil Nadu – 627425

Moolavar

Agasthiyar Munivar

Introduction

• Location: Near Agasthiyar Falls in Papanasam, Tirunelveli District, Tamil Nadu.
• Setting: Attached to the rocky mountain walls above the waterfalls.
• Deity: Saint Agasthiyar Munivar.
• Significance: Agasthiyar meditated here during Lord Shiva and Parvati’s wedding to balance the world.
• Distance: 4 km from Papanasam on a hilly terrain near the falls.

Puranic Significance

• Sage Agasthiyar: Known as Kurumuni, a Saptharishi, and a significant contributor to Nadi Jodhidam and Siddha traditions.
• Legend of Balance:
  • The celestial wedding of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati caused a shift in balance as everyone gathered in the North.
  • Lord Shiva directed Sage Agasthiyar to move to the South to restore balance.
  • Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati blessed the sage at this spot.
• Devotee Beliefs:
  • Bathing in the falls and worshipping here absolves sins.

Special Features

• Age: Temple is over 1500 years old.
• Trek: Accessible via a trek from Agasthiyar or Papanasam Falls; trekking is restricted during high water flow.
• Flood Damage: Temple washed away in the 1980s flood; only the base remains now.
• Attractions:
  • Statues of Agasthiyar and his wife Lopamudra installed on a rock near the stream.
  • Proximity to Kalyani Theertham, enhancing its spiritual significance.

References

https://tamilnadu-favtourism.blogspot.com/2017/05/agasthiyar-munivar-temple-agasthiyar.html

Century/Period

1500 years old.

Managed By

Hindu Religious & Charitable Endowments Department (HR&CE)

Nearest Bus Station

Agasthiyar falls

Nearest Railway Station

Ambasamudram

Nearest Airport

Madurai and Thiruvananthapuram.

Location on Map

lightuptemple