Amritaghateswarar-Abirami Temple,Thirukkadaiyur

Amritaghateswarar-Abirami Temple is a Hindu temple in Thirukkadaiyur, Nagapattinam district, Tamil Nadu, India. The complex includes two gateway towers with carved figures and halls of dark stone arranged around several inner shrines.

The oldest parts date from the 9th century when Chola rulers controlled southern India. Later kings added new halls and towers during the 16th and 17th centuries.

The name Amritaghateswarar means "Lord who brought the nectar of immortality," while Abirami refers to a devoted poet who saw the goddess here. Pilgrims walk through the halls and pause before the shrines, offering flowers and coconut while priests chant in Sanskrit.

The entrance is on the eastern side, where visitors remove shoes before stepping onto the stone floors. Clothing should cover shoulders and knees, and morning or evening hours offer cooler temperatures for walking through.

Markandeya was a boy prophesied to die at age 16, but his devotion convinced Shiva to rescue him. Many families come here to perform rituals for long life, especially when children reach their 16th or 60th year.

Location: Nagapattinam district

GPS coordinates: 11.07750,79.81833

Latest update: December 17, 2025 10:07