Introduction :
The Agastheeswarar Temple is a sacred Hindu shrine located in Ambasamudram, Tirunelveli district, Tamil Nadu. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple is named after the revered sage Agasthya, who is believed to have installed the Shiva Lingam here. The temple holds great spiritual and historical significance, attracting devotees from all over India.
Temple History & Legends :
According to Hindu mythology, during the celestial wedding of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati at Mount Kailash, the balance of the earth shifted as all deities gathered in the northern hemisphere. Lord Shiva instructed Sage Agasthya to travel south to restore equilibrium. On his journey, Agasthya installed and worshipped several Shiva Lingams, one of which is the Agastheeswarar Lingam at this temple.
The temple is believed to be a place where devotees can seek divine blessings for marriage, prosperity, and spiritual enlightenment.
Deities and Sanctums :
- Main Deity (Moolavar): Lord Agastheeswarar (Shiva)
- Goddess (Amman/Thayar): Lopamudra
- Utsavar (Processional Deity): Sage Agasthya
- Other Shrines: Lord Nataraja, revered Saivite saints (Nalvar), Sani Bhagwan (Saturn), Bhairava
Festivals Celebrated :
The temple hosts grand celebrations throughout the year, including:
- Brahmotsavam (Panguni – March-April)
- Varushabishekam (Aani – June-July)
- Navaratri (September-October)
- Thirukarthigai (November-December)
- Thiruvathirai (December-January)
- Shivaratri (February-March)
During these festivals, special poojas, abhishekams (ritual bathing), and processions are performed, attracting thousands of devotees.
Temple Timings :
The temple follows the following schedule for devotees:
- Morning: 6:00 AM – 10:30 AM
- Evening: 5:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Special Features :
- The sanctum of Sage Agasthya features him in a standing posture, holding a Rudraksha mala and palm leaves.
- A sacred Nandi (bull) is positioned in front of his shrine.
- Devotees believe that worshiping here can help in removing obstacles in marriage and achieving success in life.
- The temple houses a shrine for Lord Nataraja and revered Saivite saints, making it a spiritually enriching pilgrimage site.
How to Reach :
- Location: Ambasamudram, Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu
- Nearest Railway Station: Ambasamudram
- Nearest Airport: Tuticorin Airport (~80 km away)
- By Road: Well connected via state highways with regular bus services from Tirunelveli and nearby towns.
Devotee Experiences :
Many devotees have shared their divine experiences and miracles after visiting this temple. Testimonials from visitors reflect the temple’s spiritual power in granting blessings.