Sri Sankaranarayana Swamy Temple – Sankarankovil

Travel for 56 km from Tirunelveli, to reach the famous Hindu Sri Sankaranarayana Swamy Temple. The temple worships Lord Sankaranarayanar, a combined manifestation of Shiva and Vishnu. The temple teaches the oneness of the god. The temple is also popularly known by the name Avudaiamman Kovil or Davasu Kovil. The construction of the temple is believed to be in the 11th century AD by Ukkira Pandiya Thevar. There are various religious stories tied with the temple. The temple is huge spreading in 4.5 acres of area. The Rajagopuram of 135 feet height with nine tiers, is worth admiring. The beautifully constructed temple has a stunning idol of the deity as well. Idol of Lord Sri Sankaranarayana depicts two gods sharing half-half portion of the body. The right portion with a cobra around neck & moon above head depicts Lord Shiva, while the left side with Sankhu in hand depicts Lord Vishnu. Sri Sankaralinga Swamy also makes his important place in the temple. The temple sees a unique phenomenon during March and September months when the rays of Sun directly falls on Sankaralingam for three days from 21st of the respective months. The temple also worships Arulmigu Gomathi Amman and Lord Sarpa Vinayaka. The temple sees extreme faith of the devotees suffering from reptile or insect poisoning. Festivals- The temple commences annual gathering on Aadi Thapasu in July-August, 10-day Brahmmotsavam in Panguni-Chithirai in April, Aipasi wedding festival in October-November and Thai float festival in January- February.