Login
Facebook
YouTube
WhatsApp
Twitter
Konerirajapuram Temple, or Uma Maheswarar Temple, is in Konerirajapuram village of Tamil Nadu. This historic temple is devoted to Lord Uma Maheswarar, Shiva, and Mangala Nayaki, Parvati. The temple is said to have been around for 1000 and 2000 years. It was built during the Cholas’ time, and it was later modified during the rule of the Madurai Nayaks and the Vijayanagara Empire. It is presumed that the major complex inside the temple had been constructed in the 8th century AD, during the reign of the Chola kings.
Quick Facts
Konerirajapuram Temple Address: Uma Maheswarar Temple, Konerirajapuram, Tamil Nadu
Konerirajapuram Temple Timings: 6 AM – 12:30 PM, 4 PM – 8:30 PM
Entry Fees: N/A
How To Reach: By bus, taxi, and auto-rickshaw
Nearest Airport: Tiruchirapalli International Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Mayiladuthurai Junction
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Location
Photo: Ssriram mt / Wikimedia Commons
The Uma Maheswarar Temple of Konerirajapuram is situated in the Nagapattinam District of Tamil Nadu. The road leading to the temple is the Sembiyankudi-Konerirajapuram Road, which is off the SH-22 road and connects Kumbakonam and Karaikal.
Suggested Read: New Year Parties In Trichy
How To Reach
Photo: Amol.Gaitonde / Wikimedia Commons
By Air: The nearest airport is Tiruchirapalli International Airport, 120 km away. From the airport, there are taxis and buses available to reach Konerirajapuram.
By Train: The nearest train station is Mayiladuthurai Junction, 20 km away. You can hire a taxi or an autorickshaw from there to reach the temple.
By Road: The village can be accessed by bus and taxi from Kumbakonam, 25 km away, and also from Mayiladuthurai.
Things To Do
1. Attend Rituals And Festivals
Photo: Prasanjeet Shyam / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
It is a peaceful holy site with daily rituals and special poojas for Lord Shiva and Parvati. You can attend the six rituals that temple priests of the Shaivaite community conduct every day. They are Ushathkalam, Kalasanthi, Uchikalam, Sayarakshai, Irandamkalam, and Ardha Jamam. Each ritual comprises abhisheka, alangaram, neivethanam, and deepa aradanai. Devotees can further enjoy weekly, fortnightly, and monthly ceremonies that include Pradosham and Amavasai.
Suggested Read: Art Galleries In Pondicherry
2. Explore The Chola Architecture
Photo: Ssriram mt / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
You can explore the temple, which exhibits the magnificence of Chola architecture. One of the highlights is the bronze statue of Nataraja, which measures six feet in height and was cast using the lost waxing method. The stunning details, ranging from the face of Lord Shiva to the posture of the Lord in his dance, conveying the cosmic rhythm, are incredible.
Places To Visit Near Konerirajapuram Temple
1. Thirukadaiyur Brahmapureeswarar Temple
Photo: Ssriram mt / Wikimedia Commons
One of the ancient temples dedicated to Lord Shiva happens to be one of the shrines where he is worshipped as Brahmapureeswarar, the God of Longevity. A legend is associated with the god Yama, who chases the sage Markandeya, but he succeeds in escaping and is gifted with eternal life by the grace of Lord Shiva at this sacred spot. People throng to this temple for sashtiapthapoorthi (60th birthday) and sathabhishekam (80th birthday) ceremonies. Devotees worship for long lives and good health.
Timings: 6 AM – 1 PM, 4 PM – 9 PM
Distance From The Temple: 45 km
Suggested Read: New Year Parties In Salem To Elevate Your New Year In Style
2. Sarangapani Temple
Photo: Adam Jones / Wikimedia Commons
The Sarangapani Temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, one of the 108 Divya Desams, sacred abodes of Vishnu in Vaishnavism. The large temple is ornamented by an imposing 12-tiered gopuram standing with a fine array of sculptures, which proves stunning masterpieces of the Dravidian style of architecture. Numerous ornate pillars and corridors grace the temple complex, and inside the shrine is the form of a chariot, underlining spiritual and architectural importance.
Timings: 6 AM – 12:30 PM, 4 PM – 8:30 PM
Distance From The Temple: 20 km
3. Navagraha Temples
Photo: Ssriram mt / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
There is a very special collection of nine temples spread all over the towns of Kumbakonam and Mayiladuthurai dedicated to each one of the nine planetary deities in Hindu astrology. People worship at these places, seeking favours from planets that help in health, prosperity, and personal wellness. All these temples have unique architectures and rituals according to the traits of the planet they represent. The temples attract devotees and visitors interested in both spirituality and astrology and offer a deep dive into the rich cultural heritage of Tamil Nadu, linking the spiritual dimensions of astrology.
Distance From The Temple: 30 km
Suggested Read: Varahi Amman Temples In Vellore
4. Thiruvenkadu Temple
Photo: Ssriram mt / Wikimedia Commons
Thiruvenkadu Temple is famous for its unique and rare pictures of Shiva in the dancing posture. It is a temple dedicated to Budhan or Mercury and is one of the Navagraha temples holding reverence for those visiting for the blessings of Mercury related to intellect and communication. The Thiruvenkadu Temple is a magnificent temple complex with great examples of Dravidian architecture, intricate carvings and peaceful sanctums.
Timings: 6 AM – 12 PM, 4 PM – 8:30 PM
Distance From The Temple: 50 km
5. Mahalingeswarar Temple
Photo: Vinayaraj / Wikimedia Commons
Mahalingeswarar Temple, Thiruvidaimaruthur, is one of the important Shiva temples in Tamil Nadu and is known as a Maha Sthala, or “great temple.” The temple is devoted to Mahalingeswarar, a grand and powerful manifestation of Lord Shiva. Lush gardens surround the sprawling campus of this temple, and it houses several smaller shrines within its vast complex. On Mahashivaratri, the temple is thronged by multiple devotees holding all-night vigils and many rituals.
Timings: 6 AM – 12:30 PM, 4 PM – 9 PM
Distance From The Temple: 15 km
Suggested Read: Best Street Food In Kodaikanal
Where To Stay
Photo: toufeeq hussain / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Hotel Pams Residency at Mayiladuthurai is available for a pocket-friendly budget mid-range with clean, well-kept rooms, good ambience, and equipped with all the facilities that are required. The INDeco Hotel in Swamimalai is another great choice with all its heritage charms. This hotel offers traditional Tamil architecture with the element of comfort. For those who want to stay closer to Kumbakonam, the Hotel Raya is another great accommodation at a 25 km distance from the temple.
What To Eat
Photo: Udaykumar236 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Near the temple, Mayiladuthurai, and Kumbakonam, food is offered at different places that exemplify the flavours of Tamil Nadu. Murugan Idli Shop is one to try for its soft idlis accompanied by a choice of chutneys and is a favourite breakfast place for locals and tourists. Another favourite in the region is Aachi Mess, a place that delivers a variety of South Indian thalis comprising several rich and authentic dishes like sambar, rasam, or poriyal. Always try to indulge in local specialities like Kumbakonam filter coffee and spicy Chettinad dishes.
Suggested Read: Dinosaur Museum Chennai
Best Time To Visit
Photo: Pratik Tibrewal / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Plan a visit to the temple between October and March, when the weather cools down and is pleasant for temple visits and sightseeing around. The festive season peaks in these months and is coloured with celebrations like Maha Shivaratri in February or March with a huge crowd.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: ian dooley / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Average Cost Of The Trip
The total expenses for the weekend trip to Konerirajapuram in terms of travel, lodging, and food can vary between ₹2,000 to ₹8,000. This includes budget stays, local meals, and public transportation.
Tips For Tourists
If visiting the temple, dress modestly and comply with temple requirements to maintain respect for the local people. Bring bottled drinking water to the temple in case it is not sold on the premises. It is more comfortable to plan your visit when it is relatively quiet, usually in the morning or the evening.
This historical treasure of Tamil Nadu is filled with history, religious faith, and cultural traditions. A visit to Konerirajapuram temple allows you to see the artistry of the Chola period firsthand and experience the journey through India’s architectural and spiritual past. For history and architecture buffs, Tamil Nadu’s rich heritage is something that one has to see. Plan a trip with TripXL and explore the sacred place.
Cover Photo: Ssriram mt / Wikimedia Commons
