Thiruporur Kandaswamy temple

Thiruporur Kandaswamy is a Hindu place of worship in Thiruporur, Tamil Nadu, dedicated to the god Murugan. Its outer walls are covered with figurative reliefs, while the inner courtyard contains several smaller chapels, each with its own entrance and roof shapes.

Local rulers commissioned the building several centuries ago during the reign of Tamil kingdoms to honor Murugan as a principal deity. Later generations added further shrines and expanded the outer towers, altering the appearance over time.

Every Tuesday and Friday, worshippers gather early in the morning to chant prayers together and place flowers before the shrines. Families often bring coconuts that they crack open at the entrance hall before entering the inner areas to show their respect.

The grounds open at daybreak and close after sunset, so visitors can choose dawn or late afternoon for a quieter visit. Footwear must be removed before entering the main hall, and clothing should cover shoulders and knees.

Some pilgrims leave small clay oil lamps in a corner of the inner courtyard, which are lit after evening prayers. This practice is meant to make personal wishes visible and is considered particularly powerful by locals.