Apatsahayesvarar Temple, Alangudi, Hindu temple in Alangudi, Tamil Nadu.

Apatsahayesvarar in Alangudi is a Hindu temple in Tamil Nadu, part of a group of nine shrines linked to planetary worship in the region. The structure follows Dravidian principles with a multi-tiered tower rising above the main shrine, open halls supported by columns, and relief panels on the outer walls depicting divine figures.

The site was built under the rule of Chola kings, who erected numerous religious structures across southern India between the 9th and 13th centuries. Later rulers from the Pandya and Vijayanagar dynasties added expansions and renovations that continued into the 17th century.

The village name Alangudi is linked to a legend that Shiva swallowed the deadly poison here, and the deity is called Apatsahayesvarar, saviour in hard times. The temple is revered as a Guru Sthalam, and on Guru Peyarchi and every Thursday devotees come from across India for abhisheka and worship of Dakshinamurthy. The third Thursday of the Tamil month of Maasi is kept as Maha Guruvaram.

The temple opens twice daily in the morning and late afternoon, giving visitors ample time to explore the grounds. Footwear must be removed before entering, and modest clothing is expected, with shoulders and knees covered.

Dakshinamurthy here is one of the Saptha Vigraha moorthis, the seven prime consorts of Shiva temples in the region, placed at Alangudi while Nataraja stands at Chidambaram and Bhairava at Sirkali. Tamil sources record that Vishvamitra, king Musukunda and Virabhadra worshipped at this shrine.