Nellaiappar Temple, Hindu temple in Tirunelveli, India
Nellaiappar Temple is a large Hindu temple in Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu, stretching 756 feet from north to south and 378 feet from east to west. The site contains several tall gopurams with elaborate carvings, wide courtyards, and a central hall supported by granite pillars.
The temple is mentioned in texts dating before the 7th century, including hymns by saint Thirugnanasambandar. Over the centuries, various south Indian dynasties expanded the site, adding gateways and halls.
The complex is divided into two equal sections honoring Nellaiappar and Kanthimathi Amman, each with its own shrine and courtyard. Worshippers move between both areas during their visit, offering flowers and incense at each main altar.
The site sits near Tirunelveli Junction railway station, which connects to Madurai in the north, Nagercoil in the south, and Kollam in the west. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes, as the courtyards are wide and footwear must be removed before entering the shrines.
Inside stands a Nandi statue roughly 10 feet tall, among the larger ones in Tamil Nadu. During certain festivals, a symbolic wedding ceremony takes place where the processional images of both deities are brought together in a formal ritual.
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