Kasi Viswanathar temple, Sivakasi

Kasi Viswanathar temple is a Hindu shrine in Sivakasi featuring a three-tiered tower and granite walls enclosing multiple sacred spaces, with intricate stone carvings adorning every surface. The layout follows Dravidian design principles with carved pillars and detailed wall panels throughout the complex.

The temple was built in the 16th century under the Pandya ruler Harikesari Parakkirama Pandian and later expanded by the Madurai Nayak dynasty. These construction phases shaped the structure visitors see today and reflect its importance across multiple periods.

The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, worshipped here as Kasi Viswanathar, alongside his consort Parvathi as Visalakshi. Daily rituals shape the spiritual life of the community and give visitors a sense of the active worship taking place.

The shrine is generally open from 6 AM to noon and from 4 PM to 8:30 PM, with extended access during new moon days when it stays open throughout the day. Visiting hours may shift during major festivals and religious observances.

In 1899, the temple became central to social upheaval when disputes over access rights sparked the Sivakasi riots. This incident marked a turning point in discussions about who could enter religious spaces.