Kumbakonam is a heritage town in the Thanjavur district of the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. With a fascinating cultural and architectural essence, Kumbakonam is a place of spiritual importance visited by pilgrims and tourists from all parts of the country and the world. Located at a distance of around 40 kms from Thanjavur and at a distance of 273 kms from Chennai, the state capital, it is well connected with major cities of the state. The town is known for its famous temples, all of which bear carvings and beautiful Dravidian style of architecture as well there are many amazing hotels in Kumbakonam. Other than its religious feature, Kumbakonam has a connection with the Mahamaham festival, which happens after every 12 years and is visited by millions of devotees. Whether you are a history buff or a spiritual traveller, Kumbakonam offers something special to every tourist.
Location Of Kumbakonam
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Kumbakonam is located strategically in the Cauvery Delta region, often known as the Rice Bowl of Tamil Nadu. It is a piece of land that lies between the river Cauvery and its tributary Arasalar River, which makes the place mostly lush green here. This adds to its scenic beauty and also supports agriculture growth in this town.
Must Read: Places To Visit In Kumbakonam
Climate Of Kumbakonam
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The town of Kumbakonam enjoys a tropical climatic zone, with weather generally divided into three specific seasons: Summer, Monsoons, and Winter.
Summer (March to June): Summer is hot and relatively dry.
Monsoon (July to September): The monsoon brings modest to quite heavy showers, reducing the temperature substantially. The town becomes exceedingly green and fresh.
Winter (October to February): The winter season is the most enjoyable period for Kumbakonam; temperatures fluctuate, and the city is at its coolest for tourist travel, for sightseeing and exploring the attractions.
Top Hotels In Kumbakonam
Get a lavish stay and perfect hospitality to unwind from the hectic day in Tamil Nadu. read the information below to check out the top hotels in Kumbakonam and make your trip memorable.
1. Mantra Koodam – CGH Earth
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This is a heritage property offering traditional Tamil Nadu architecture with modern amenities. Set in a serene and natural environment, the hotel provides guest cottages. It is one of the best hotels in Kumbakonam.
Facilities: Outdoor pool, spa, Ayurvedic treatments, multi-cuisine restaurant, and free Wi-Fi.
Price range: Rs 8000 onwards
Location: 3 kms from the city centre
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2. Paradise Resort
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This lush green property is a complete combination of traditional architecture with modern amenities. It is an ideal place for people who want to relax and enjoy nature. Whether you are here for a holiday or a business trip, you can easily find a comfortable room in Paradise Resort, one of the most convenient hotels in Kumbakonam. The rooms are neat and clean and are furnished well, too. The rooms offer all the necessary amenities to make your stay pleasant. Also, the hotel offers free parking and 24/7 reception.
Facilities: swimming pool, spa, multi-cuisine restaurant, free Wi-Fi, Ayurvedic treatments.
Price range: Rs 5000 onwards
Location: It is located on the outskirts of Kumbakonam, providing a tranquil retreat.
3. INDeco Hotels Swamimalai
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A heritage property with modern facilities, this hotel provides a unique cultural experience by taking tourists back in time with antique-themed decor designs. The rooms are nicely decorated and equipped with modern amenities to make your stay pleasant. You can access complimentary wi-fi to stay connected with the outside world or browse your favourite OTT shows. The hotel has an in-house restaurant where you can try the regional South Indian delicacies. It is one of the best hotels in Kumbakonam.
Facilities: Swimming pool, restaurant, free Wi-Fi, cultural activities, Ayurvedic spa.
Price range: Rs 3000 onwards
Location: About 6 kms from Kumbakonam, near Swamimalai.
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4. Sara Regency
It is one of the modern-day hotels of the contemporary category, offering comfortable rooms and many other facilities and services for a perfect stay. The rooms here are relaxed, neat and clean. The hotel provides in-room dining, on-demand room service, on-demand laundry service, complimentary wi-fi, toiletries in the bathroom and more. You can enjoy the regional dishes in the in-house restaurant of the hotel or can order in and enjoy them in your room. The hotel is conveniently located in the city. With our guided tours, you will not face any problems going around the town.
Facilities: in-house restaurant, bar, fitness centre, free Wi-Fi, conference halls.
Price range: Rs 4000 onwards
Location: Easily accessible at the heart of Kumbakonam, providing access to major attractions.
5. Quality Inn Viha
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It is a modern hotel with well-furnished rooms and excellent service, ideal for business and leisure travellers. The hotel has nicely decorated and neat rooms and is well-equipped with amenities like free wi-fi, in-room service, toiletries in the bathroom, packaged water, and more. You can taste the regional flavour in the hotel, which offers traditional dishes. You can either have them in the hotel’s dining area or enjoy them in your room at the hotel. The hotel offers free self or valet car parking and a 24/7 reception to serve its guests. It is one of the best hotels in Kumbakonam.
Facilities: Multi-cuisine restaurant, fitness centre, spa, free Wi-Fi, conference rooms.
Price range: Rs 3000 onwards
Location: Conveniently located near Kumbakonam Railway Station.
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Major Attractions In Kumbakonam
Kumbakonam boasts various temples and other historic sites that speak volumes about its rich cultural heritage. Some of the major attractions in the pioneering town include the following:
1. Adi Kumbeswarar Temple
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The Adi Kumbeswarar Temple is a distinguished and age-old temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. This great shrine is famous for its majestic architecture, intricate carvings, and grand festivals, such as Mahamaham. Dipping in the water here is believed to clean one of their sins and connect them with Lord Shiva. The temple is famous worldwide for the annual celebration of the Mahamaham festival.
Timings: Between 6 AM to 12.30 PM and 4 PM to 9:30 PM
Address: Sri Kumbeswarar Temple (Tirukudamookku), Kumbakonam, Thanjavur.
2. Sarangapani Temple
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One of the enormous and principal shrines in Kumbakonam, the Sarangapani temple is regarded as one of the main Vishnu temples of the town. The temple has a stunning 12-tiered Rajagopuram (temple tower) and exquisite stone sculptures representing various legends.
Timings: Between 7 AM to 12 PM and 5 PM to 9 PM
Address: Valayapettai Agraharam, Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu 612001
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3. Airavatesvara Temple
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The Airavatesvara Temple is a fantastic example of 12th-century Chola architecture in Darasuram, Kumbakonam’s suburb. This stone temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is announced as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Not only is it famous for its numerous exquisite stone carvings and sculptures, but
Timings: Between 7 AM to 12 PM and 5 PM to 9 PM
Address: Gurunathan Pillai Colony, Dharasuram, Kumbakonam, Valayapettai, Tamil Nadu 612702
4. Mahamaham Tank
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This large sacred tank in the town is associated with the festival of Mahamaham, which happens once in 12 years. According to the town’s locals, taking a holy dip in this tank during the festival is considered pious. The legend says that Mahamaham Tank emerged from the pot of nectar that came out of the ocean during its churning by the Gods and Demons.
Timings: From 5 AM to 6 PM
Address: Kanmani Devi Nagar, Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu 612001
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5. Nageswaran Temple
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Also called the Naganathaswamy temple, is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is a wonderful place to be due to its remarkable architectural precision meant for alignment with the sun’s rays during solstices. The temple is a stunning masterpiece of Chola dynasty architecture. Interestingly, the temple is created to let in the sunlight only in March and April.
Timings: Between 7 AM to 12 PM and 5 PM to 9 PM
Address: Nageswaran N St, Gandhi Adigal Salai, Valayapettai Agraharam, Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu 612001
6. Ramaswamy Temple
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The temple is explicitly related to Lord Rama and is adorned with beautiful murals narrating incidents from the epic Ramayana. It is one of the prominent temples of the area dedicated to Lord Ram. The architecture of the temple is unique as there is intricate work on the pillars of the temple. One can see Rmyana depicted in a pictorial format in the temple.
Timings: Between 7 AM to 12 PM and 5 PM to 9 PM
Address: 104 & 105 T.S.R. Big Street, Kumbakonam – 612 001. TamilNadu.
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7. Kasi Viswanathar Temple
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A Shiva temple, it is another important Kumbakonam sanctuary, with a peaceful atmosphere and amazing architecture. It is located close to Mahamaham Tank. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple is about 2 acres in size. Here, Lord Shiva is worshiped as Kasi Vishwanatha, and his consort Goddess Parvati is worshiped as Goddess Visalakshi.
Timings: Between 7 AM to 12 PM and 4 PM to 8 PM
Address: LBS Rd, Anna Nagar, Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu 612001
Things To Do In Kumbakonam
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There are more than a hundred temples in and around Kumbakonam. Each temple is unique in its style of architecture and religious significance.
- Besides visiting temples, there are other heritage sites in Kumbakonam, such as the Darasuram Temple and other structures built during the Chola era.
- The local markets in Kumbakonam are vibrant. One can shop for various traditional artifacts, brasware, bronze sculptures, and silk sarees.
- Among other things, one can also spend time exploring the local markets to experience the town’s daily life.
- Moreover, Kumbakonam is the site of some grand and some not-so-grand festivals.
- Mahamaham is the most popular one among them. Other festivals such as Panguni Uthiram, Navaratri, and Deepavali, are also celebrated with a lot of enthusiasm.
- You can experience the beauty of the surrounding landscape while enjoying a slow boat ride on the Cauvery River.
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Best Time To Visit Kumbakonam
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The best time to plan a visit to Kumbakonam is October and March. The weather remains pretty pleasant during this time of the year, making it ideal for visiting the region’s outdoor tourist spots and temples. Also, the onset of winter increases the festivity and cultural events taking place in and around the region, making visiting a more scenic and happening affair.
Easiest Ways To Reach Kumbakonam
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Since it is well connected to cities and towns of Tamil Nadu, reaching Kumbakonam is quite easy either by air, train, or road.
By Air: The closest airport to Kumbakonam is Tiruchirappalli International Airport, located 91 km away. The airport is well-connected to major Indian cities like Bangalore, Mumbai, and Chennai, as well as international destinations. Once at the airport, one can easily get a taxi or take a bus to reach Kumbakonam.
By Train: Kumbakonam is directly linked to the Southern Railway mainline and is a special rail-equipped station. This station is well-connected to all major cities across destinations, including Chennai, Bangalore, and Tiruchirappalli (Trichy). Many express and passenger trains commute to this town, making train travel convenient.
By Road: Kumbakonam has smooth and well-maintained roadways that connect it with other cities and towns in Tamil Nadu. The Tamil Nadu State Transport Corporation (TNSTC) operates regular bus services between Kumbakonam and cities like Chennai, Trichy, and Madurai. Taxis and rental cars are also available for a more convenient journey.
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Tips For Tourists
Dress Modestly: When visiting temples, it’s important to dress conservatively, covering shoulders and knees .
Stay Hydrated: The weather can be hot and humid, so carry water and stay hydrated.
Respect Local Customs: Remove your footwear before entering temples, and be mindful of local customs and traditions.
Plan: If you plan to visit during the Mahamaham festival or any other major events, plan your stay in advance. Hotels and shelters are full to the rim during these times.
Carry Some Cash: Though big establishments and service providers accept credit cards, smaller shops and eateries would expect cash for payments.
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By following these tips, you will have an all-rounded and pleasant visit to stay in wonderful hotels in Kumbakonam, soaking up its holy charisma, brilliant architectural heritage, and affluence of cultural heritage. You are going to miss this place once you come back home. A trip to this place will be an unforgettable experience for you and your loved ones! So, what are you waiting for? Book a trip to Tamil Nadu right now!
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Frequently Asked Questions About Hotels In Kumbakonam
What are the special things about Kumbakonam?
Kumbakonam speaks about its rich cultural heritage, numerous temples, and Mahamaham festival, a major religious event celebrated once every 12 years.
Do people understand English Kumbakonam hotels and tourist spots?
Though Tamil is the primary language, most people speak and understand English in hotels, restaurants and tourist places.
Do they have any particular visiting hours for the temples?
Most of the temples open early in the morning until noon and reopen in the late afternoons until evening. It would be better to cross-check the specific timings for each temple.
Can we take photographs inside the temple?
Mostly, photography inside the temple is restricted. It would be better to take permission wherever necessary.
What are some good souvenirs from this place?
Some of the great souvenirs from this place include brass and bronze artifacts, traditional silk sarees, and local handicrafts.
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