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The tiny town of Kumbakonam located in the South Indian state of Tamil Nadu is extremely popular as a temple destination. There are many magnificent temples that boast of outstanding architecture and sculptural work. Nestled in-between the two rivers; Kaveri and Araslar, this town is popular for its rice cultivation but even more known for the rich culture and heritage it signifies.
Explore the places to visit in Kumbakonam, also known as the Cambridge of South India. There are many temples in and around the town that attracts both devotees across the country and lovers of Indian culture and heritage from across the world.
Adi Kumbeswarar Temple
Located in the heart of the town is Kumbakonam's most popular temple, the Adi Kumbeswarar. Built for the worship of the Hindu god Shiva, this massive temple spans an area of over 30,000 sq ft. The temple has a Rajagopuram (grand entrance) with 9 storeys on the outside. Inside the temple are famous attractions such as the Navarathiri Mandapam or the hall of constellations and the unique sculpture in stone of the musical instrument called Nagaswaram. This temple is also associated with the famed Mahamaham festival that takes place once every 12 years.
Photo Courtesy: Adam Jones
Nageswaraswamy Temple
The Nageswaraswamy Temple is yet another in Kumbakonam that is dedicated to the worship of Hindu god Shiva. However, this temple worships the form of Shiva that presides in the guise of the serpent King, Nagaraja and hence the temple's name. Built during the reign of Cholas, it is a fine example of architecture. The temple boasts of several sculptures and lotus leaf motifs. A unique aspect of the temple is its construction that allows natural sunlight to brighten its interiors.
Photo Courtesy: Adam Jones
Sarangapani Temple
The Sarangapani Temple in Kumbakonam has its origins during the Chola rule and has seen contributions during the reigns of Vijayanagar empire and the Nayak rule. This temple, built for the worship of Hindu god Vishnu is one of the 108 Vishnu temples mentioned in sacred texts of the Alwars. The temple has a Rajagopuram (grand entrance) at a height of 173 ft. The central shrine of Sarangapani is represented as descending from the heavens to the chariot drawn by elephants and horses. The temple is also popular for its exquisite sculptures that depict many of the classical poses of Bharatanatyam.
Photo Courtesy: Arian Zwegers
Someswarar Temple
Dedicated to the worship of the Hindu god Shiva, Someswarar temple in Kumbakonam is located close to the Sarangapani temple. The main idol of Lord Shiva is represented in the Lingam form. The other attraction is the idol of Hindu god Murugan represented as seated on his 'vahanam' (vehicle), the peacock.
Photo Courtesy: Krishna Kumar
Chakkarapani Temple
Among the biggest temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu in Kumbakonam is the Chakkarapani Temple. This important temple showcases Lord Vishnu in the form of the Chakra defeating Surya. The most outstanding features of the temple include the intricate pillars, the presiding deity of Chakkarapani with eight arms and a five-faced Lord Hanuman or Panchamukha.
Photo Courtesy: Rsmn
Ramaswamy Temple
Among the places to visit in Kumbakonam is the Ramaswamy Temple, which is unique as a place of worship for Lord Rama. Built during the rule of Nayakkar Kings, this temple boasts of lovely architecture, with the pillars depicting the stories of Ramayan. The presiding deity of Lord Rama is found in a seated position with his wife Sita.
Photo Courtesy: Varun Shiv Kapur
Mahamaham Tank
Another popular place in Kumbakonam that attracts tourists is the Mahamaham tank. It is speculated to be one of the oldest and largest tanks in Tamil Nadu. Spanning across an area of more than six acres, the tank consists of 21 wells inside it and is surrounded by 16 shrines. The tank is a popular destination during the Mahamaham festival and sees more than two million people visit the tank.
Photo Courtesy: Melanie M
Mahamaham Festival
The Mahamaham Hindu festival is celebrated once in twelve years in Kumbakonam and was last celebrated in the year 2004. The festival that takes place during the months February-March sees devotees throng the Mahamaham tank to take a dip in its holy waters. On the particular day of the festival, a dip in the tank is considered sacred and the equivalent to taking a dip across all holy rivers of India.
Photo Courtesy: Ssriram mt
Eating at Kumbakonam
Kumbakonam offers authentic South Indian food, both vegetarian and non-vegetarian. If you are a fan of South Indian dishes, try the Mami Mess where food tastes great and is home cooked by the mami herself!
Photo Courtesy: Ryan
How To Reach Kumbakonam
By Road: If you are driving down from Chennai, the closest major city, the distance to Kumbakonam is 285 km. Private and public buses are available from most towns and cities in South India to Kumbakonam.
By Rail: The Kumbakonam railway station has frequent trains to Chennai, Tirupathi and Rameshwaram. Other destinations such as Madurai, Mysore, Trichy, Coimbatore etc in South India can also be reached easily by train.
By Air: The nearest airport is Trichy, situated 96 km away. Only domestic flights are available to most major cities of India. The nearest international airport can be found in Chennai. Taxis are available from both airports.
Photo Courtesy: Ashwin Kumar
