Temple Overview
The Arulmigu Sankara Narayanar Temple is one of the most revered Shiva-Vishnu temples in South Tamil Nadu. This sacred temple stands as a testimony to the spiritual harmony of Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu in the form of Sankara Narayanar. Located in Sankaran Kovil, in the Tirunelveli district, it holds a prominent place among the temples of Tamil Nadu.
Deities
- Moolavar (Main Deity): Sankaralingam (Sankara Narayanar)
- Consort: Goddess Komathi (also known as Auvudai Ambaal)
- Vimana (Temple Tower): Nine-tiered Vimana
Special Features of the Temple:
- Sankara Narayanar is a unique deity here, a combination of Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu, embodying the divine union of both gods.
- The main deity is adorned with elaborate decorations but does not receive abishekam (ritual bath). Instead, Chandramavul Iswarar (a form of Lord Shiva) is offered the Spatik Lingam worship.
- A fascinating spectacle occurs during March and September, when sunlight falls directly on the Sankara Lingam, illuminating the deity for three consecutive days.
- Puthru Manthar (earth prasad), is a unique offering used by devotees for healing, especially for health-related issues.
- The temple hosts a number of significant festivals such as the Brahmotsavam, Thirukkalyanam, and Theppam Utsavam (float festival).
Temple Festivals
- Aadithabasu and Panguni-Siddhirai: A 41-day Brahmotsavam festival.
- Ippasi (November): A Thirukkalyanam (divine wedding ceremony).
- Tai Month: Theppam Utsavam (float festival) celebrated with grandeur.
- Aadithabasu Day: Marks the day when Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu appeared together as Sankara Narayanar.
Historical Significance and Legend
The legend of the Sankara Narayanar Temple traces back to the debate between two kings: Sangan (a Naga king) and Padman (a royal figure), who debated which deity, Lord Shiva or Lord Vishnu, was supreme. Goddess Parvati intervened, performing Thapas (penance), and through her divine grace, both gods manifested together as Sankara Narayanar. This divine union led to the establishment of this sacred temple.
A sacred Lingam worshipped by the Nagas was discovered buried under a Puthru (cocoon-like formation), and when the Pandya kings found it, they built the temple in honor of this divine discovery.
Key Rituals and Special Worships
- Naga Worship: Naga worship holds immense importance here, especially for those affected by Naga Dosham (serpent-related issues).
- Tooth Pain Relief: Yog Narasimhar is worshipped by those seeking relief from tooth pain and related issues.
- Sarp Vinayakar Worship: Devotees with Rahu Ketu Dosham visit this temple to offer prayers for remedies to doshams (planetary afflictions).
- Shri Chakra Healing: The temple enshrines the Aagna Chakra for mental healing, where devotees sit and pray for peace.
Temple Architecture and Divine Imagery
The temple features a towering nine-tiered Gopuram, symbolizing spiritual ascent. The divine presence of Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva is beautifully manifested through intricate carvings, with Lord Vishnu represented by the Navamani Kiritam (nine-gem crown) and Sankha (conch), while Lord Shiva is depicted with Gangai (the river Ganga), Chandra (the moon), and Rudraksha beads.
Location:
- Village: Sankaran Kovil
- District: Tenkasi
- State: Tamil Nadu, India
- Temple Opening Hours:
- Morning: 5:00 AM to 12:30 PM
- Evening: 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Temple Contact Details :
- Address:
Arulmigu Sankara Narayanar Temple
Sankaran Kovil,
Tenkasi District – 627 756, Tamil Nadu, India.
Why Visit This Sacred South Tamil Nadu Temple?
The Arulmigu Sankara Narayanar Temple is a must-visit temple in South Tamil Nadu, offering a divine experience that blends the energies of both Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu. Whether you are seeking spiritual healing or a deep connection with the divine, this temple serves as a sacred sanctuary for all. It holds great importance in the Tirunelveli temples circuit and is revered by devotees who come from across Tamil Nadu and beyond.