For residents of urban areas, visiting a village might be something not as considerate as visiting a popular tourist destination. But think about it, why do we travel? To see more of the world, to connect with the lives of the people and to ultimately get memories of a worthwhile life. One sure shot way to experience this is to visit the villages. Ilayathangudi is one option that you may consider for some amazing experiences. The small yet highly cultural village will take you closer to life, giving you a chance to take a break from usual city life.
Overview To Ilayathangudi
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Ilayathangudi is a culture-rich village located In Tamil Nadu’s Sivaganga district, close to Tirupathur. The village is well-known for the Kailasanathar Nithyakalyani Temple, one of the nine temples that the Chettinad Nagarathar community regards with great respect. Additionally, it is home to Pujyasri Sudarsana Mahadevendra Saraswati, the Adhistanam temple of the 65th Shankaracharya of the Kanchi Matha.
Tucked away in the scenic Sivaganga district of Tamil Nadu, close to Tirupathur, Ilayathangudi is a cultural treasure known for its historical allure and spiritual significance. The Kailasanathar Nithyakalyani Temple, one of the nine temples that the Chettinad Nagarathar community holds in high regard, is located in the centre of this village. Tamil defines kudi as any area where people live, aattram as alleviation and ilaippu as fatigue. It was here that the devas found respite from their fatigue, hence the name Ilai-atram-kudi.
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Places To Visit In And Around Ilayathangudi
There are many scenic places to visit in and around the Illayathangudi. We have curated a list of the top ones; let’s have a look:
1. Kailasanathar Temple
Image Credit: Pinakpani for wikimedia commons
The Pandyas dominated the lands of Ilayathangudi and they formed the Kailasanathar Temple in the seventh century. A few decades later, a number of the Nagarathars from the Chola regions of Poompuhar and Chidambaram relocated here. The settlement and the temple were offered to them by the then-Pandya ruler, who acknowledged their presence. Consequently, this was the first of the nine notable Nagarathar temples, which were occupied by the locals in the early eighth century, that is, between 707 and 718 CE. Afterwards, the society expanded throughout the area, founding eight more significant temples that, along with this one, now make up the group of nine principal Nagarathar temples.
It is believed that Ilayathangudi once had nine temples, each of which had a unique Teertham and Vinayakar by the banks of the Teerthams. Shrines honouring Siva and Parvati as Arasa Mangalanathar and Mangaleswari can be found at the temple’s entrance. The temple’s gopuram is adorned with exquisite stucco artwork that portrays scenes from some of Vishnu’s Dasavataram. In order to facilitate marriages, the temple serves as a prarthana sthalam. To this aim, worshippers honour Kailasanathar and Kailasa Vinayakar, whose shrine is situated by the temple tank.
Timings: 6 to 12 & 4.30 to 7.30
Entry Fee: Free
2. Sankara Mutt
The Sankara Mutt in Ilayathangudi is one of the branches of the Sankara Mutt / Kanchi Kamakoti Peetham, which is spread throughout India. This is actually the adishthanam of Sri Sudarsana Mahadevendra Saraswati, who presided over the Kanchi Kamakoti Mutt from 1851 to 1891 and was its 65th pope or peetadhipati. The location is also the saint’s samadhi, where he acquired siddhi. Subsequently, the Nagarathar community honored the saint by erecting a temple on his samadhi and placing a Siva Lingam there.
The shrine dedicated to Siva is quite interesting for travellers. It is consisting of a single chamber mandapam with a garbhagriham facing east. There is a basic Siva Lingam inside the garbhagriham and on either side are bas reliefs of Vinayakar and Murugan. The temple is devoted to His Holiness Pujyasri Sudarsana Mahadevendra Saraswati Shankaracharya Swamiji, popularly known as Ilayathangudi Periyava.
Timings: 12 AM to 12 PM.
Entry Fee: free
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3. Adi Kesava Perumal or Nagarthar Temple
Image Credit: Raji.srinivas for wikimedia commons
This comparatively little Nagarathar temple for Vishnu, locally known as Adi Kesava Perumal is situated quite close to the magnificent Atmanathar temple. The location is directly behind the Ilayathangudi Kailasanathar temple and the Sankara Matham. The current Nagarathar temple was constructed a few centuries ago, however the original temple is thought to be quite old. Its final Ashtabandhana maha kumbhabhishekam took place in 1989.
The moolavar, Adi Kesava Perumal, is portrayed with Bhudevi and Sridevi on either side of him, wearing nindra kolam and holding the abhaya mudra in the temple. For Andal and Parimalavalli Thayar, there is a different sannidhi. Along with Varadaraja Perumal, Chakrathazhwar, Peiazhvar, Nammazhvar, Tirumangaiazhvar and Ramanujar, there are several distinct shrines dedicated to Vishnu. These deities are highly revered by the locals here, making this temple a highly spiritual spot for travellers. The architecture of the temple is equally subtle and elegant in its design, spanning a wide variety of sizes from the extremely enormous to the minute.
Timings: 6 to 12 & 4.30 to 7.30
Entry Fee: Free
4. Atmanathaswami Temple
Image Credit: Ssriram mt for Wikimedia Commons
Atmanathaswami is another beautiful temple in the village of Ilayathangudi. This temple is occasionally misquoted as one of the nine Nagarathar clan temples (which is actually the adjacent Kailasanathar temple) and it is sometimes confused with the Avuidayar Koil Atmanathar temple. It is believed that the temple constructed between two and three centuries ago. The gorgeous sculptures adorn the maha mandapam’s pillars. There is a little elevation between the Amman Sanidhi and the Garbhagriham. On either side of the ardha mandapam are Vinayakar and Murugan. Nandi, another sizable Vinayakar and the Siva Lingam are all housed inside the antarala.
The temple is run by Nagarathar community members and has architecture that reflects all the characteristics of modern Chettinadu temples. A sizable temple tank that is only used for this temple is located just east of the structure. The Adi Kesava Perumal temple and the Kailasanathar temple are served by the Pralaya Oorani. The temple includes a modest raja gopuram with basic images on it, including Murugan with his peacock and Vinayakar on his mount, the mouse. We are taken directly to the maha mandapam and are not shown any dhwajasthambam or bali peetham within.
Timings: 5:00 am – 1:00 pm and 3:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Entry Fee: Free, INR 25 for camera.
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As we draw close to our journey, it is quite clear that Ilayathangudi is not just a village but a cluster of cultural places. The village stands as the true epitome of rural India and how it has prevailed over the years. Plan your trip to Tamil Nadu do not miss visiting this village for an eye-opener experience.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Ilayathangudi
What is the location of the Ilayathangudi?
Ilayathangudi is a village located near Tirupathur in Sivaganga district, Tamil Nadu, India.
What is Ilayathangudi village known for?
Ilayathangudi is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and historical significance. It is particularly famous for the Ilayathangudi Naganathar Temple, an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, which attracts pilgrims and history enthusiasts alike.
How can one reach Ilayathangudi?
Ilayathangudi is accessible by road and is located in the Sivaganga district of Tamil Nadu. The nearest major city is Madurai, which has a well-connected airport and railway station.
What are the main attractions in Ilayathangudi?
The main attractions in Ilayathangudi include the Ilayathangudi Naganathar Temple, with its intricate carvings and Dravidian architecture. Visitors can also explore the picturesque landscapes, traditional homes and local festivals that showcase the vibrant culture of the village. The serene atmosphere and lush greenery make it a perfect destination for a peaceful retreat.
When is the best time to visit Ilayathangudi?
The best time to visit Ilayathangudi is during the winter months, from November to February when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing.
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With a passion for travelling, and carving beautiful stories of stunning locations I chose my profession as a content writer. The unique blend of creativity and strategy ensures that each narrative takes readers on a journey to their desired destination. With distinct locations and unique vibes, I strive to deliver captivating content that speaks to the hearts of readers.
