The Nellaiappar Temple, located in the spiritual city of Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu, is a revered Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva (worshipped as Nellaiappar or Venuvannanathar) and his divine consort Goddess Parvati (as Kanthimathi Amman). Notably, Lord Vishnu is also worshipped here, as per legend, he was the witness to their celestial wedding.
Renowned for its ancient history, the temple showcases classic Tamil architecture, constructed initially by the Pandyas and expanded by the Cholas, Pallavas, Cheras, and Madurai Nayaks. It was completed in 700 CE and is one of the largest temple complexes in Tamil Nadu, sprawling across 5.9 hectares (14.5 acres).
Nellaiappar Temple – Key Highlights
-
Temple Name: Arulmigu Nellaiappar Swamy Temple
-
Location: Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu
-
Main Deities: Nellaiappar (Shiva) & Kanthimathi Amman (Parvati)
-
Architecture Style: Tamil Dravidian
-
Significance: One of the oldest temples; also considered an Abhimana Kshetram of Vaishnavism
-
Managed By: HR & CE Department, Government of Tamil Nadu
-
Booking Mode: Online & Offline
-
Timings: 05:30 AM to 09:00 PM
-
Time Required for Visit: Approx. 3 Hours
-
Major Festivals Celebrated: Arudra Darisanam, Brahmotsavam, Thiru Kalyanam, Navaratri, Thaipoosam, Pradosham, Masi Magam, Chitra Pournami
Darshan & Pooja Timings
| Activity | Timings |
|---|---|
| Temple Opens | 05:30 AM |
| Thiruvananthal Pooja | 06:30 AM – 07:00 AM |
| Darshan | 07:00 AM – 07:30 AM |
| Vilapooja | 07:30 AM – 08:00 AM |
| Darshan | 08:00 AM – 08:30 AM |
| Sirukala Sandhi Pooja | 08:30 AM – 09:00 AM |
| Darshan | 09:00 AM – 09:30 AM |
| Kala Sandhi Pooja | 09:30 AM – 10:00 AM |
| Darshan | 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM |
| Uchikalam Pooja | 12:00 PM – 12:30 PM |
| Temple Break (Closed) | 12:30 PM – 04:00 PM |
| Temple Reopens | 04:00 PM |
| Darshan | 04:00 PM – 06:00 PM |
| Sayaratchai Pooja | 06:00 PM – 06:30 PM |
| Darshan | 06:30 PM – 08:30 PM |
| Ardhajama Pooja | 08:30 PM – 09:00 PM |
| Temple Closes | 09:00 PM |
Nellaiappar Temple Sevas and Charges
There is free general entry into the temple. However, special poojas and offerings are available at minimal charges:
| Seva / Offering | Price (INR) |
|---|---|
| Archanai | ₹3/- |
| Ghee Deepam | ₹3/- |
| Milk Abhishekam | ₹5/- |
| Vibhuti Alankaram | ₹20/- |
| Panchamitra Abhishekam | ₹50/- |
| Thanga Kavasam Sathuthal | ₹200/- |
Online Booking Process for Darshan & Pooja
To make it more convenient for devotees, the Tamil Nadu HR & CE Department has facilitated online bookings for Nellaiappar Temple services. Here’s how you can book:
-
Visit the Official Website: Go to the official Tamil Nadu HR&CE portal or directly search for Nellaiappar Temple online booking.
-
Select Online Services: Click on “Online Booking Services” on the homepage.
-
e-Ticket Verification: Click on the e-Ticket Verification option.
-
Choose Service Type: Select between Paid or Free Services.
-
Enter Details: Submit your mobile number, email ID, and captcha code.
-
Select Slot: Choose your preferred date and time for the darshan or seva.
-
Make Payment: If applicable, complete the payment process online.
-
Download Ticket: A confirmation SMS/email and a downloadable ticket will be provided.
💡 You may also book special poojas at the on-site temple counter.
Contact Details
-
Temple Name: Arulmigu Nellaiappar Swamy Temple
-
Location: Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu – 627001
-
Phone Number: Available via official HR&CE department contacts
-
Website for Booking: tnhrce.gov.in or visit the HR&CE online portal
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What are the general darshan hours at Nellaiappar Temple?
The temple is open for darshan from 05:30 AM to 09:00 PM, with a break between 12:30 PM and 4:00 PM.
Q: Is there an entry fee to visit Nellaiappar Temple?
No, general darshan is free for all visitors. Charges apply only for special poojas or sevas.
Q: How do I book a special pooja or darshan online?
Visit the Tamil Nadu HR & CE Department’s official website, navigate to online services, and follow the booking procedure.
Q: What are the major festivals celebrated at the temple?
Key festivals include Arudra Darisanam, Brahmotsavam, Navaratri, Thiru Kalyanam, Thaipoosam, and more.
Q: Can tourists visit the temple?
Yes, the temple is open to all and is also a popular cultural and historical attraction in Tamil Nadu.