Kokileswarar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is located in Thirukkozhambam within the Thanjavur district of Tamil Nadu, India. This temple is administered by the Thiruvavaduthurai Adheenam and holds significance as the 35th Tevara Stalam in the Chola kingdom, situated south of the Kaveri River.
Timings
From 09.00 AM to 12.00 Noon and from 04.00 PM to 06.00 PM.
Entry Fee
Free of cost
Origin/History :-
Kokileswarar Temple is believed to have been constructed by Queen Chembian Maadevi, the wife of Chola King Kandarathithan. The temple is currently under the administrative control of the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Department of the Government of Tamil Nadu (HR&CE).
Constructed By: Queen Chembian Maadevi.
Associated Ruler: Chola King Kandarathithan.
Administration: Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Department, Tamil Nadu.
The Scar Impression of a cow's leg, representing Sri Parvati in the form of a cow, is found on the Avudayar at Therazhundur. According to legend, Lord Shiva cursed Ma Parvati to become a cow, and Maha Vishnu took on the role of a shepherd. At Thirukozhambam, Ma Parvati worshipped Lord Shiva to be freed from this curse as a cow. She also worshipped him in this form at Thiruvaduthurai. Consequently, Lord Shiva is referred to as Kokileswarar.
At Thiruthuruthi, Ma Parvati emerged from a yagna conducted by Sage Bharatha, who raised her. At Ethirkolpadi, Lord Shiva was welcomed as a bridegroom by Sage Bharatha, and the marriage between Lord Shiva and Parvati took place at Thiruvelvikudi. The divine marriage was subsequently celebrated at Thirumananjeri, where a darshan was granted to all.
In another legend, a contest arose between Maha Vishnu and Brahma regarding who was greater. It was decided that the one who could find the beginning or end of Lord Shiva would be deemed the greatest. In response, Lord Shiva manifested as a column of light (jothi) extending from the earth to the sky.
Maha Vishnu transformed into Varaha (the boar) and delved into the earth to locate the star of Lord Shiva, while Brahma took the form of a swan (Anna bird) and flew upwards. During his ascent, Brahma noticed a Thazhampoo flower falling from Lord Shiva’s head. He requested the flower to lie, claiming he had plucked it from Lord Shiva’s head.
However, Brahma's deceit led to his curse that no temple would be built in his honour. To atone for this curse, Brahma visited this temple and worshipped Lord Shiva.
According to another legend, a person named Santhan from Indra Loka was cursed by Indra to become a Kuyil (Asian Koel). Despite visiting many Shiva temples and worshipping diligently, he could not rid himself of the curse. Eventually, he came to this temple and worshipped Lord Shiva, which led to his liberation from the curse. As a result, Lord Shiva is revered as “Sri Kokileswarar.”
Do's and Don'ts
Dress modestly, maintain silence during prayers, and show respect to the deities and rituals.
Avoid taking photographs in prohibited areas, do not wear footwear inside the temple, and refrain from using loud voices or engaging in disruptive behaviour.
Dress Code
For Men:
Traditional Attire: Dhoti, kurta, or lungi is preferred.
Modest Clothing: Shirts should have sleeves, and T-shirts should be simple without offensive graphics or texts.
For Women:
Traditional Attire: Sarees, salwar kameez, or long skirts are recommended.
Modest Clothing: Blouses should have sleeves, and dresses should be knee-length or longer.
The best season to visit Kokileswarar Temple is during the winter months, from November to February. During this time, the weather is generally cooler and more pleasant, making it comfortable for devotees and tourists to explore the temple and participate in rituals.
How to reach :-
By Air: Tiruchirappalli International Airport (TRZ) is the closest major airport, located about 110 km away. You can hire a taxi or take a bus to Thanjavur and then proceed to the temple.
By Train: Aduthurai Railway Station is the closest, about 8 km from the temple. From the station, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach the temple.
By Road:
From Aduthurai: The temple is approximately 15 km away. You can take a taxi or drive via the NH36 road, following signs to Thirukkozhambam.
From Kumbakonam: The temple is around 25 km away. You can take a local bus or hire a taxi, following the route via Kumbakonam-Thirukkozhambam Road.
Nearby Cities and Rivers
Rivers:
Kaveri River: A major river in Tamil Nadu, located close to the temple, offering significant cultural and religious importance.
Vaigai River: Another important river in the region, contributing to the local ecology and agriculture.
Cities:
Thanjavur: The nearest major city, known for its rich cultural heritage and historical temples.
Kumbakonam: Located nearby, famous for its numerous temples and festivals.
Tiruvarur: A historic town known for its temples and musical heritage, situated a short distance away.
Tiruchirapalli: A larger city further away, known for its temples and educational institutions.
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