A town in Tamil Nadu, Sivagangai is the administrative headquarters of the Sivagangai District. Found by Sasivarnana Periya Udaya Thevar, the first king of Sivagangai dynasty, Sivagangai is the capital of Chettinad. It is so because of the predominance of the Nattu Kottai Chettiars of Chettinad who ventured far and wide from here to establish their trade even at the turn of the 20th century.
Tourist attractions in Sivagangai
Some of the famous attractions to visit during a tour to Sivagangai are the
- Kundrakudi Murugan Kovil: Positioned 10 km from Karaikudi, a place near Sivagangai, Arulthiru Shanmuganathan Holy Temple was built around the year 1000 AD, where the presiding deity is Lord Shanmuganathan.
- Pillayar Patti Lord Ganesh Temple: This rock-cut temple located about 12 km from Karaikudi was constructed after hewing a hillock by the early Pandya kings.
- Kandadevi Temple: This 350-year-old temple is maintained by Sivaganga Devasthanam, which is one among 84 temples. The Aanni Urchavam is a popular festival here, celebrated every year in June by the people of 75 villages.
- Thirukostiyur Temple: One of the significant 108 Vaishnava temples, this is famous as South Tirupathi. Every year, Masi Magam Teppamis is celebrated here.
- Thiruvenkadamudaiyan - Then Tirupathi: This 100-year-old vast temple complex, consecrated to Lord Srinivasa Perumal, is also referred to as Then Tirupati and Arulmigu Ariyakkudi Thiruvenkadamudaiyan Temple.
Climate in Sivagangai
A tropical climate prevails in Sivagangai throughout the year. However, the best time to visit Sivagangai is post monsoon between the months of November till March.
How to reach Sivagangai
By Air
The nearest airport is the Madurai Airport (60 km).
By Rail
The main railway station is located at Madurai.
By Road
Sivaganga is 45 km east of Madurai, from where you can avail of frequent Government and Private Buses.
