Tirukkadaiyur Amritaghateswarar Temple, also known as Sri Abirami Amman Temple, is a 11th century shrine situated at
Tirukkadaiyur, about 40 km north-east of
Kumbakonam, in
Nagapattinam District of
Tamil Nadu. The temple is about 20 km from
Mayiladuthurai in the
Chidambaram-
Nagapattinam East Coast Road.
Tirukkadaiyur Amritaghateswarar Temple is one of the 8 Veeratta Stalams of Lord Shiva. The presiding deity is Amritaghateswarar along with his consort Abirami. The Shivling here is thought to be the manifestation of the celestial nectar, which was obtained by the Devas and Asuras upon churning the milky ocean, hence the name Amritaghateswarar.
Spread over an area of 11 acres, the temple displays the architecture of the Cholas. The temple is assumed to be built during the period of Raja Raja Cholan. The temple boasts five prakarams, magnificent towers and ornate mandapams. A huge Rajagopuram adorns the entrance of the temple with beautiful stucco images. There are three teerthams called the 'Amrita Pushkarini', 'Kaala Teertham' and 'Maarkandeya Teertham.
Brahmotsavam, in the Tamil month of Chithirai (April-May) and Shankhabishekam, in the month of Kartika (November-December) are the major festivals celebrated here. Navratri and Aadi Pooram Festival are also observed here amid much pomp and splendor.
Tirukkadaiyur Railway Station is the nearest railhead. The temple can be easily reached by bus from Mayiladuthurai and Nagapattinam.
