Ramalingaswami famous Shivatemple Tamilnadu, with 108 Lingas located in the Thanjavur district of Tamilnadu, Lord Rama erected the temple in papanasam, which means the destruction of sins. The temple honors the god Shiva. 

This temple is of tremendous rarity and pleasantness, with 108 Shiva Lingas gracing the sanctum sanctorum as presiding deities. Ramalingaswamy’s vimana is based on the Rameswaram pattern, and Hanumantha Linga is based on the Kasi Viswanatha temple pattern.

Main Deities: Ramalingaswami, Parvadhavardhini

Location: Papanasam city, Thanjavur District, Tamilnadu

Timings of Ramalingaswami famous Shivatemple Tamilnadu India

Morning: 6:30 AM – 12:30 PM

Evening: 4:00 PM – 8:30 PM

Introduction to Ramalingaswami famous Shivatemple Tamilnadu India

The location of the temple is Papanasam. It destroys the Papas (sins, Nasam-destroying) that Lord Rama, Sri Anjaneya, and Sri Sugriva incurred by killing Ravana and others during the Lanka war.

East Rameswaram another name for this location.

The Sri Ramalingeswarar temple not only faces west, but all 108 Shiva Lingas do as well, so, naturally, the temple’s power is very powerful to benefit the devotees. The main shrine contains Lord Ramalingaswami.

A hall contains 106 Shiva Lingas arranged in three rows. Outside of the temple is the Hanumantha Linga shrine. The lingam brought by Hanuman from Kasi is believed to be kept on the southern side. Lord installed 107 Lingas.

Except for the Linga in the Sanctum sanctorum, devotees can offer flowers and prayers directly to the Linga. On the pradhosham days (the 13th day after the new moon), special poojas are performed for 107 Lingas.

Papanasam (Sri Ramalingeswarar Temple/108 Shiva Linga Temple) – “Destruction of Sins” in Tamil. Worshiping Lord Shiva in this temple is said to cleanse one of all sins.

Lord Rama erected this temple and installed the 108 Shiva lingams. Another significance of the temple is that Kamadenu, the divine cow, shares space with Nandhi, Lord Shriva’s bull vehicle, before His shrine.

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Another significance of the temple is that Kamadenu, the divine cow, shares a place with Nandi, Lord Shriva’s bull vehicle, in front of His shrine.

Lord Rama worshipped Kamadenu as advised by Maharshi Agasthya, and it is also said that the Rishi himself worshipped the divine cow, which is still done in Pradosham days.

The Kamadenu idol is stunning, with ornaments around its neck.

Because the temple is associated with the Ramayana story, there are sculptures of Lord Rama, Sri Lakshmana, Mother Sita, Sri Anjaneya, and Sri Sugriva worshipping Lord Shiva.

Lord Muruga has a shrine with His consorts Valli and Deivanai, Kasi Visalakshi, and Annapoorani in a single shrine, and Khala Bhairava, Sani Bhagwan, and Sun God are all nearby.

History of Ramalingaswami famous Shivatemple Tamilnadu India

The history of Sri Ramalingaswamy Temple in Papanasam, Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, is rooted in the ancient tradition of Shaivism, a Hindu sect that worships Lord Shiva as the supreme deity. 

The temple is one of the oldest and most revered Shiva temples in Tamil Nadu, and it is thought to have been built during the Chola dynasty.

The Lord erected 107 Shivalingas and asked Sri Anjaneya to bring one from Kasi, bringing the total to 108.

After rescuing Sita, Lord Rama performed Shiva Puja in Rameswaram to atone for the sins committed during the war killings.

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Lord Rama felt that the sins of killing Kara and Dooshana in Janasthanam followed Him as He returned to Ayodhya.

The main Linga was named Ramalingaswami, and Sri Anjaneya brought Hanumantha Linga. Mother Parvadhavardhini later had a shrine built for her.

Various rulers and devotees have renovated and expanded the temple over the centuries. The temple’s architectural style is a blend of Chola, Pandya, and Nayaka styles, and its walls and pillars are adorned with intricate carvings depicting scenes from Hindu mythology.

During the British Raj, the temple was taken over by British authorities and converted into a treasury. However, after India gained independence, it returned the temple to the Hindu community.

The Sri Ramalingaswamy Temple is known for its vibrant festivals, such as Maha Shivaratri, Karthigai Deepam, and Thai Poosam celebrated with great zeal and devotion.

Devotees can also participate in various pujas and rituals at the temple, such as daily abhishekas and annadhanam.

Today, the Sri Ramalingaswamy Temple is an important pilgrimage site for Shaivites, attracting thousands of devotees nationwide yearly.

It is a testament to Tamil Nadu’s rich cultural and religious heritage and an essential historical landmark in South India.

Legends associated with the temple

Story of Lord Shiva and Parvathi:

According to legend, Lord Shiva and Parvathi visited the region where the Sri Ramalingaswamy 108 Shiva Temple is located.

Parvathi was struck by the beauty of the place and decided to make it her abode. Pleased with her decision, Lord Shiva chose to stay with her and took the form of a lingam in the temple, now worshipped as Lord Ramalingaswami.

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Sage Agastya and Lord Shiva: 

Another legend associated with the temple involves Sage Agastya, an ancient sage and spiritual leader in Tamil Nadu.

It is said that Sage Agastya was on a pilgrimage to the temple when he encountered Lord Shiva in the form of a lingam.

The sage was deeply moved by the presence of the divine and decided to stay in the region, where he meditated and performed penance.

Legend of the Papanasam Falls:

According to local legend, the Papanasam Falls, located near the Sri Ramalingaswamy 108 Shiva Temple, are believed to have the power to cleanse sins.

The name Papanasam translates to “destroyer of sins” in Tamil. It is believed that Lord Shiva himself blessed the falls with the power to wash away sins, and devotees visit the falls to take a holy dip in the river and seek absolution for their sins.

According to another legend, Sage Gautama performed penance where the temple now stands, and Lord Shiva appeared before him as a lingam, which is now housed in the temple.

The temple’s main deity, Ramalingaswamy, is thought to be a manifestation of Lord Shiva, and the lingam is said to have been consecrated by Lord Rama during his exile in the forest.

Significance of Ramalingaswami famous Shivatemple Tamilnadu India

The Sri Ramalingaswamy 108 Shiva Temple in Papanasam, Tamil Nadu, is significant for several reasons.

The temple is considered one of the oldest Shiva temples in Tamil Nadu, dating back several centuries. The temple’s architecture is a fusion of styles, reflecting the region’s cultural and religious diversity.

Second, the temple is a revered pilgrimage site for Shaivites and Lord Shiva devotees. Visiting the temple brings devotees blessings, good fortune, and spiritual liberation.

Thirdly, the temple is known for its vibrant festivals, celebrated devotionally. These festivals allow devotees to express their dedication and seek blessings from the deities.

Fourthly, the temple offers various pujas and rituals to devotees, including daily abhishekas and annadhanam.

These rituals allow devotees to connect with the divine and seek blessings for themselves and their loved ones.

Finally, the temple is an essential landmark in the history of South India and is a testament to the rich cultural and religious heritage of Tamil Nadu.

The temple’s legends and stories have contributed to its popularity and importance, making it a significant site for pilgrims and tourists.

The architecture of Ramalingaswami famous Shivatemple Tamilnadu India

The Sri Ramalingaswamy 108 Shiva Temple in Papanasam, Tamil Nadu, is renowned for its unique architectural style.

The temple’s architecture is a blend of Chola, Pandya, and Nayaka styles, reflecting the cultural and religious diversity of the region.

The temple complex is spread over 14 acres of land and comprises several mandapams, shrines, and gopurams.

The entrance to the temple is through a towering gopuram, which is adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures depicting scenes from Hindu mythology.

The temple’s walls and pillars are adorned with intricate carvings, a testament to the skill and craftsmanship of the artisans who built the temple.

The carvings depict various scenes from Hindu mythology, including the ten incarnations of Lord Vishnu, the life of Lord Shiva, and the stories of other deities.

The temple’s main deity, Ramalingaswamy, is enshrined in the sanctum sanctorum, adorned with gold and silver.

The lingam is said to have been consecrated by Lord Rama during his exile in the forest, adding to its religious significance.

The temple also has a large tank and a Siddhar cave, which adds to its religious and historical significance.

The Siddhar cave is believed to be where Siddhar saints meditate and attain spiritual liberation.

Overall, the Sri Ramalingaswamy 108 Shiva Temple in Papanasam is an architectural marvel, reflecting the rich cultural and religious heritage of Tamil Nadu.

Its intricate carvings, towering gopurams, and unique blend of architectural styles make it a must-visit destination for tourists and devotees alike.

Entrance: 

The Sri Ramalingaswamy 108 Shiva Temple in Papanasam is accessed via a grand entrance archway that leads to the temple complex.

The entrance is a well-defined and well-kept area that gives visitors a sense of reverence as they enter.

Gopuram:

One of the temple’s most striking features is its towering gopuram. It is a massive, multi-tiered structure that towers over the entrance.

The gopuram is adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures depicting Hindu mythology scenes. The gopuram is a prominent feature of the temple that can be seen from afar.

Mandapam:

The temple complex has several mandapams or pavilions that serve various functions. The mandapams are open-air halls used for various rituals and ceremonies.

They offer devotees a place to sit and meditate or pray. The mandapams are adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures, adding to the temple’s beauty and grandeur.

Sanctum Sanctorum: 

The sanctum sanctorum is an essential part of the temple. It is the innermost chamber where the main deity, Ramalingaswamy, is enshrined.

The sanctum sanctorum is a sacred area that only priests and temple officials can access. The sanctum sanctorum is typically a small, dark room adorned with gold and silver.

It is considered the holiest part of the temple and a place of great spiritual significance.

Main Deities at Ramalingaswami Shiva temple Tamilnadu India

Lord Ramalingaswami: 

Lord Ramalingaswami is the main deity of the Sri Ramalingaswamy 108 Shiva Temple in Papanasam. He is a manifestation of Lord Shiva, worshipped as a lingam.

Lord Rama is said to have consecrated the lingam during his exile in the forest, which adds to its religious significance.

Lord Ramalingaswami is revered as a powerful deity who bestows prosperity, happiness, and spiritual liberation on his devotees.

Goddess Parvathi: 

The temple also honors Goddess Parvathi, Lord Shiva’s consort. She is thought to be the manifestation of shakti or divine feminine energy.

She is revered as a representation of purity, strength, and devotion. Devotees offer prayers and seek blessings at the temple’s separate shrine dedicated to Goddess Parvathi.

Other deities worshipped in the temple: Besides Lord Ramalingaswami and Goddess Parvathi, several other Gods are honored.

The temple complex includes shrines to Lord Vinayaka, Lord Subramanya, and the Navagrahas. There is also a shrine dedicated to Lord Nataraja, the cosmic dancer revered as the embodiment of beauty, grace, and creativity.

Devotees worship these deities for various reasons, including academic, professional, and personal success.

Festivals at Ramalingaswami Shiva temple Tamilnadu India

Maha Shivaratri: 

Maha Shivaratri is one of the most important festivals celebrated at the Sri Ramalingaswamy 108 Shiva Temple in Papanasam.

It is a Hindu festival held in honor of Lord Shiva on the 14th night of the new moon in the Hindu month of Phalguna. On this day, devotees fast, pray, and offer milk, flowers, and fruits to Lord Shiva.

The temple celebrates the festival with great zeal, and thousands of devotees flock there to seek Lord Ramalingaswami’s blessings.

aipasi annabhishekam festival details

Annabhishekam is a ceremonial offering of cooked rice to the deity and is considered a form of worship.

Aipasi is the Tamil month that usually falls in October-November, and Annabhishekam is an important festival celebrated during this month in many Shiva temples in Tamil Nadu.

During the festival, the deity is bathed in a mixture of milk, honey, and other sacred substances, then offered cooked rice to the Creator.

The rice is then distributed as prasad to devotees. The festival is believed to bestow blessings, prosperity, and good fortune on the devotees who participate in it.

margazhi tiruvadhirai festival

Margazhi Tiruvadhirai, also known as Arudhra Darshan, is a famous festival celebrated in South India, especially in Tamil Nadu, in the Tamil month of Margazhi (December-January).

The festival is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is celebrated on the day of the Tiruvadhirai nakshatra, considered auspicious.

During the festival, devotees visit Shiva temples and offer special prayers and pujas to Lord Shiva.

The festival’s highlight is the Arudhra Darshan, which involves a special abhishekam (ritualistic bathing) of the Shiva lingam with various sacred substances like milk, honey, and sandalwood paste.

The deity is then adorned with new clothes and jewelry, and devotees offer flowers, fruits, and other offerings to seek the blessings of the divine.

Margazhi Tiruvadhirai is also associated with the legend of the cosmic dance of Lord Shiva, known as Nataraja.

It is believed that on this day, Lord Shiva performed his Ananda Tandavam, the dance of bliss, at the Chidambaram temple in Tamil Nadu.

The festival is celebrated with great devotion and enthusiasm in Shiva temples across Tamil Nadu. It is believed that participating in the festival can bestow blessings, prosperity, and spiritual enlightenment.

Rituals and Pujas at Ramalingaswami Shiva temple Tamilnadu India

 Daily Pujas:

The Sri Ramalingaswamy 108 Shiva Temple in Papanasam offers daily pujas to the deities. The temple has a strict worship routine, including abhisheka, alankaram, and arati.

The priests perform the pujas at specific times throughout the day, beginning with the early morning puja and ending with the night puja.

Annadhanam: 

Annadhanam is the practice of offering food to devotees. Devotees are served free meals daily at the Sri Ramalingaswamy 108 Shiva Temple in Papanasam.

The temple serves various vegetarian dishes such as rice, sambar, and curries. In Hinduism, annadhanam is considered a sacred duty that earns spiritual merit.

The temple provides this service to fulfill its social responsibility and promote the community’s welfare.

Other attractions at Ramalingaswami famous Shivatemple Tamilnadu India

Temple Tank: 

Ramalingaswami108 famous Shivatemple in Tamilnadu in Papanasam has a temple tank called Sivaganga Theertham.

The tank is considered sacred and is thought to have healing properties. Before entering the temple, devotees take a holy dip in the tank, believed to cleanse the body and soul.

The temple tank is also used for rituals and pujas, particularly during the Thai Poosam festival.

Siddhar Cave: 

The temple also has a Siddhar Cave, which is located near the Papanasam Falls. The cave is believed to have been the dwelling place of Siddhar Agathiyar, an ancient sage and spiritual leader in Tamil Nadu.

Devotees visit the cave to seek the blessings of the Siddhar and to meditate in the peaceful surroundings.

Papanasam Falls: 

Sri Ramalingaswami108 famous Shivatemple in Tamilnadu in Papanasam is located near Papanasam Falls, a natural waterfall on the Tamiraparani River.

Lush green forests and popular tourist destinations surround the falls. Devotees visit the falls to take a holy dip in the river and seek the blessings of the divine.

The falls are also an excellent spot for picnics and trekking.

How to reach Ramalingaswami Shiva temple Tamilnadu India

The temple is well-connected by road and can be easily reached by various modes of transportation.

By Air: The nearest airport to Papanasam is the Tiruchirappalli International Airport, which is located approximately 65 km away. You can hire a taxi or take a bus from the airport to Papanasam.

By Train: The nearest railway station to Papanasam is the Kumbakonam Railway Station, which is located approximately 21 km away. You can take a taxi or bus from the railway station to the temple.

By Bus: Papanasam is well-connected by road and is accessible by bus from various cities in Tamil Nadu. You can take a bus from Chennai, Tiruchirappalli, Thanjavur, and other major cities to reach Papanasam.

Once you reach Papanasam, the temple is located in the heart of the town and can be easily reached by foot, taxi, or auto-rickshaw.

Accommodation

The temple is located in a small village with no hotels or lodges nearby. However, some budget and mid-range accommodation options are available in Papanasam town, located about 4 km from the temple. 

It’s advisable to check the availability and book accommodation in advance, especially during peak seasons.

Nearby temples at Ramalingaswami famous Shivatemple Tamilnadu India

• Sri Kalyanasundareswarar Temple 
• Sri Rajagopala Swamy Temple
• Sri Saneeswara Baghawan Temple
• Sri Varadaraja Perumal Temple
• Sri Prasanna Venkatesa Perumal Temple

These temples are located within a few kilometers of each other and can be easily visited by foot, taxi, or auto-rickshaw.

Conclusion

As soon as you enter the temple complex, you are immediately enveloped in peace and serenity. The atmosphere is filled with the sound of temple bells, the fragrance of flowers, and the chanting of mantras, creating a profoundly spiritual ambiance.

The presence of other ancient temples in Papanasam, such as Sri Kalyanasundareswarar Temple and Sri Varadaraja Perumal Temple, make it an ideal destination for spiritual seekers. Overall,Ramalingaswami famous Shivatemple Tamilnadu is a testament to the enduring legacy of Hinduism in Tamil Nadu and a reminder of the rich cultural heritage of India.

Frequently Asked Questions

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