Sivagurunathaswamy Temple

Sivagurunathaswamy Temple is a Hindu shrine with two entrance gateway towers, the eastern one rising through five distinct levels above the surrounding area. The site contains multiple chambers and courtyards that serve different aspects of worship and ritual practice.

The temple was originally built during the Chola era and underwent major modifications in the 16th century under Nayak rule. Stone inscriptions from both periods remain visible throughout the sanctuary, marking its long history of development.

The temple appears in ancient Tamil devotional literature and serves as a landmark for pilgrims following traditional routes of worship. The stories of its deities are visible in the stone carvings and temple sculptures that line the passages.

The temple is open daily with separate morning and evening hours dedicated to prayers and ritual activities. Visitors should wear simple and appropriate clothing when entering and follow the guidance of the temple staff.

Devotees perform an unusual practice here where they roll their bodies around the temple grounds, a method of worship typically found at shrines dedicated to different deities. This action demonstrates how traditional religious customs vary across different sacred places.

Location: Sivapuram, Tamil Nadu

Architectural style: Dravidian architecture

GPS coordinates: 10.93333,79.41667

Latest update: December 13, 2025 11:47