Kothandaramaswamy Temple of Vaduvur is a sacred temple and an important pilgrimage site devoted to Lord Rama, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. This temple is referred to as one among the 108 Abhimana Kshethrams of the Vaishnavate sect and has been praised by Maharshi Valmiki. The idol of this temple is known as Kothandaramar. He is seated along with Sita, Lakshmana, and Hanuman. Within this temple complex, the Ashtakshara moorthy of Rama is widely famous for its elegance. The temple is built in Dravidian style and is filled with several carvings and sculptures.
Quick Facts
Kothandaramaswamy Temple Address: Vaduvur, Thiruvarur, Tamil Nadu, 610106
Kothandaramaswamy Temple Timings: 6 AM – 12 PM; 4 PM – 8 PM
Entry Fees: N/A
How To Reach: Bus, taxi, and autorickshaw
Nearest Airport: Tiruchirappalli International Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Thiruvarur Railway Station
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Location
Photo: RAJUKHAN SR RAJESH / Wikimedia Commons
Located in the village of Vaduvur, Tamil Nadu, the temple fits perfectly with the green fields and calm surroundings. It is situated on Sannathi Street, connected to Thanjavur-Mannagudi Road and Ammapettai-Vauvur Road. The village is known for its quiet setting, rich culture, and traditional Tamil buildings. You can see local craftspeople selling their work through the village streets.
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How To Reach
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By Air: The nearest airport is Tiruchirappalli International Airport, which is about 83 km. People can hire a taxi or bus from the airport to go to the village.
By Railway: The nearest railway station to the temple is Thiruvarur Railway Station. It is 44 km from the temple. Autorickshaws and taxis are available in plenty from the station.
By Road: It is possible to reach Vaduvur by road, as frequent buses leave from the cities of Thiruvarur and Kumbakonam.
Places To Visit Near Kothandaramaswamy Temple
1. Thiruvarur Temple
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It is also known as the Thyagaraja Temple. The temple honours Lord Shiva and attracts many visitors. Beautiful sculptures on its walls are decorated by creating images and narrating myths through various deities in the Hindu traditions. The temple hosts yearly festivals, with the Thyagaraja Aradhana being the biggest one, paying tribute to the saint composer Thyagaraja from the elaborate processions to the traditional music and dance performances. During festivals, there are parades, music, and dance performances.
Timings: 6 AM – 12 PM; 4 PM – 8 PM
Distance From The Temple: 44 km
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2. Kumbakonam
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Kumbakonam is commonly described as the Temple Town of Tamil Nadu. It is in strong demand among both pilgrimage and tourist groups as the town is scattered with numerous temples. This place lets people immerse themselves in the local culture as they visit grand temples like Adi Kumbeswarar Temple and Mahamaham Tank, where the festival of Mahamaham occurs once every 12 years. Kumbakonam is also renowned for mouth-watering local food consisting of idli, dosa, and filter coffee.
Distance From The Temple: 39 km
3. Nageswaran Temple
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Nageswaran Temple in Kumbakonam is famous for Lord Shiva’s worship and beautiful design. It has a tall tower and well-carved pillars showing old artistic skills. It also has a sacred tank called Surya Theertham. The temple is peaceful, making it perfect for prayer and thinking. But the most glorified event of the temple is Naga Panchami when thousands of pilgrims attend to pay obeisance to the deity snake called Naga. During this time, the temple becomes lively with special prayers and ceremonies.
Timings: 6 AM – 12 PM; 4 PM – 8 PM
Distance From The Temple: 40 km
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4. Airavatesvara Temple
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The Airavatesvara Temple is a special Shiva temple and a UNESCO World Heritage site in Darasuram. It is famously known for beautiful stone carvings prepared by skilled artists during the Chola period. The detailed stonework tells old Hindu stories and helps visitors understand the temple’s rich culture and religious meaning. Its gopuram majestically epitomises architectural brilliance, along with fine mandapams and the representation of the celestial elephant Airavata, which worshipped Lord Shiva here.
Timings: 6 AM -12 PM; 4 PM – 8 PM
Distance From The Temple: 35 km
5. Patteswaram
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Patteeswaram is a small village near Kumbakonam, with ancient temples and history attached to it. A peaceful, secluded area for those who wish to see beautiful ancient temples and learn about local history. It has the architectural designs of Tamil Nadu from the past. Other tourist attractions that are frequently visited include Patteeswaram Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Patteeswaram Temple has different sculptures and carvings of mythology. You can buy local handicrafts and souvenirs from the local rural markets.
Distance From The Temple: 31 km
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Where To Stay
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Vaduvur and the surrounding areas offer numerous choices, including budget lodges to comfortable hotels. Hotel Saravana Bhavan is one of the budget hotels most in demand in this district, with spotlessly clean and well-kept rooms and basic facilities for a comfortable stay. It is near the temple and is good for religious people. Hotel Vishnu Priya is also nice, with better rooms and service, and is suitable for people visiting the temples. With luxury stays, budget guest houses, and easy access to all types of temples and attractions, Kumbakonam Hotels ensures a great stay in this culturally evocative region.
Where To Eat
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Saravana Bhavan, a popular local restaurant, serves fresh vegetarian dishes like idlis, dosas, and thalis. People love the food’s authentic flavours and friendly service. Another great option is Adyar Ananda Bhavan, a restaurant chain that earned its name with an extensive menu of South Indian delicacies. The bistro encourages the patrons to have their meals in lively surroundings. Apart from all these tourist points, there are a few local eating houses in Vaduvur that serve authentic Tamil Nadu cuisine at pocket-friendly rates.
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Best Time To Visit
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The best time to visit the temple is from October to March. It’s cool and pleasant here, with temperatures that help balance up the rigours of temple visits and activities undertaken under the open sky. That creates a subtropical climate wherein tourists can easily experience their spiritual dimension without too much heat. The temple especially organises special events during this festive season.
Other Factors To Consider
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Tips For Travellers
- Dress according to the temple environment.
- The temple is less crowded on weekdays, and it is recommended to visit in the early morning to avoid crowds.
- Carry loose change and cash for temple offerings and donations.
The Kothandaramaswamy Temple in Vaduvur is a peaceful holy place that welcomes all visitors. Many people visit the temple during festivals, making it lively and joyful. It is also renowned for its annual festivals and rituals. People come to find shelter, spiritual solitude, and comfort. Whether you are a devotee or a visitor, once you come into this temple. Plan a trip with TripXL and explore the religious side of the state.
Cover Photo: RAJUKHAN SR RAJESH / Wikimedia Commons