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The Arulmigu Kaasi Viswanathar Temple, or Kasi Viswanathar Tenkasi Temple, is located in the historical town of Tenkasi, Tamil Nadu, India. This is one of the many temples that was built in Southern India and has a striking architectural design. This temple was built in honour of Lord Shiva, and it is a devotion of millions. The Temple attracts many Hindus who are seeking a holy place to worship; it is often referred to as “The Varanasi of the South.” Tenkasi is a popular destination for both devotees as well as tourists for peace and blessing purposes.
Quick Details
Location: E Car St, Tenkasi, Tamil Nadu
Timings: 6 AM – 12 PM; 4 – 8:30 PM
Best Time To Visit: October-March
Nearest Airport: Tuticorin Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Tenkasi Junction
Important Festivals:Masi Magam, Tirukalyanam, Moola, Navarathri, Kartikai Festival
About
Photo: Vinayaraj / Wikimedia Commons
This temple was constructed by Pandya King Parakrama in the early 13th century. True to its name, this temple shares striking similarities in terms of reverence and sacredness with the Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi. The main temple has many remarkable features, one of which is a seven-tiered Gopuram and concentric granite walls that enshrine all the shrines. The temple walls are said to be covered by voices that seek forgiveness and the blessings of the Lord. Lord Shiva is worshipped here as Kasi Viswanthar in his self-incarnated form (Swayambhu)and his consort Goddess Parvati as Ulagamman.
How To Reach
Photo: Sid Balachandran / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
By Air: Tuticorin Airport is the nearest airport, situated about 98 km from Tenkasi. Another option is Madurai Airport, located about 158 km away.
By Train: The Tenkasi Junction, located about a km away, is the closest railway station, well connected to all major cities.
By Road: Tenkasi is well connected by roads, and nearby towns like Madurai are 160 km away. State and local buses are easily found on this route.
Things To Do
1. Seek Blessings At The Kaasi Viswanathar Temple
Photo: Luca Galuzzi / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
This temple is an important place to visit if you’re interested in seeing beautiful pieces of architecture in South India and getting blessings from the deity. You can participate in the regular poojas conducted in the temple or any ceremony that is done at the temple.
2. Perform Meditation In The Tenkasi Temple
Photo: JD Mason / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
The peaceful environment of this temple is perfect for mediation. Locate a quiet spot and sit down to channel your energy and form a better spiritual connection with God. The gentle ringing of the bells in the background allows you time for self-reflection and spiritual bonding.
Places To Visit Near Arulmigu Kaasi Viswanathar Temple
1. Agasthiyar Falls
Photo: Basile Morin / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Agasthiyar Falls also known as Papanasam Falls, located on the western Ghats is a captivating sight with its lush greenery surrounding the area. It’s a place where you can enjoy nature and click pictures. Coming here won’t disappoint you as you will enjoy the clean waters and the peaceful atmosphere. A legend is also connected to this place where Sage Agasthya got to see Lord Shiva in his marriage costume.
Distance From Temple: About 36 km
Things To Do: Attend the annual festival Chittirai Vishu Festival, enjoy the serene environment, relaxation
2. Coutrallam Waterfalls
Photo: Abhijith VG / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Coutrallam Waterfalls is also known as the ” Medical Spa of South India” due to the medical aroma coming from the water and is located in the western Ghats of the Chittar River. This waterfall is believed to have therapeutic properties which attract travellers for a cool dip and the chance to bask in the great views. They are a cluster of 9 falls here. If you visit during any festival, you can also take part in various competitions organised like Swimming, Pedal Boating, Row Boating, and others.
Distance From Temple: About 10 km
Things To Do: Take part in a competition, experience the medicinal properties of fall by taking a dip
3. Manimuthar Dam
Photo: Rahuljeswin / Wikimedia Commons
This dam is located in the foothills of Podhigai Hills and was built on the Thamirabarani River. It is a perfect picnic spot offering peaceful, breathtaking views of nature with picturesque surroundings that make it a potent focus area if you are interested in photography. This location scores highly in terms of beauty and is the biggest reservoir in the Tirunelveli district.
Distance From Temple: About 46 km
Things To Do: Enjoy serene views, soak in the beauty of nature
4. Kalakkad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve
Photo: Davidvraju / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
This sanctuary has hundreds of species of flora and fauna, including leopards, Tigers, Wild Boars, and several bird and fish species. Its perfect features excite nature and wildlife lovers and are a wonderful addition to their list of places to visit nearby Arulmigu Kaasi Viswanathar Temple. It is the second-largest protected area in Tamil Nadu and is part of the Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve.
Distance From Temple: About 46 km
Where To Stay
Photo: Vecislavas Popa / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Tenkasi has all kinds of accommodation catering from budget-friendly hotels to luxury stays. Such include Hotel Southaryaa, Kings Palace, and Hotel Anandha Classic which ensure a clean, pleasant rest close to the temple. Try Hotel Mount View Castle for a great mountain view with rooftop and balcony-like amenities. In addition, those willing to stay in nearby towns can also find options in the city’s outskirts of Tirunelveli.
Where To Eat
Photo: Robin Stickel / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Tenkasi is popularly appreciated for its South Indian Cuisine. South Indian Tamil food can be found in towns such as Sri Madhuram Pure Vegetarian Restaurant and Greens Land Restaurant, where you can enjoy the authentic flavours of Dosas and Idlis. You can also visit Chilly Restaurant and Foody Hub to try other cuisines.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Thought Catalog / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Tips For Travellers
- Dress Code: You must dress appropriately to respect the people’s customs. For example, men are recommended to wear dhotis and traditional clothing, while women can wear sarees and salwar kameez.
- Temple Etiquettes: It is important to observe the temple’s practices. Do not attempt to touch the statues, speak loudly or at all, and take pictures in the non-permitted zones.
- Cultural Differences And Language Barriers: Tamil is the local language, but some of the temple priests, attendants, and employees know some English.
Admittedly, the Arulmigu Kasi Viswanathar Temple, Tenkasi, with its beautiful architecture, sound temple ambience, and natural beauty, adds to the charm of the place and attracts a lot of pilgrimages every now and then. Along with its deep spiritual appeal, this Tenkasi temple also boasts of cultural charm within Tamil Nadu. Plan a trip with TripXL and have a memorable and worth-mentioning experience to a fulfilling and meaningful pilgrimage in Tamil Nadu.
Cover Photo: Vinayaraj / Wikimedia Commons
