The Nava Kailasam temples are nine revered Shiva temples located along the banks of the Thamirabarani River in Tamil Nadu, primarily in the Tirunelveli district. These temples are spread out across different locations, and the journey to visit them is often seen as a spiritual pilgrimage.
Here’s a detailed route map and distance guide for the Nava Kailasam temples starting from Tirunelveli:
Nava Kailasam Temples Route Map and Distance Guide : Overview
1. Papanasam – Kailasanathar Temple
- Location: Papanasam
- Distance from Tirunelveli: 45 km
- Temple Overview: The first of the Nava Kailasam temples, Papanasam is known for the Kailasanathar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is also associated with the sacred Papanasam waterfalls.
2. Cheranmahadevi – Kailasanathar Temple
- Location: Cheranmahadevi
- Distance from Papanasam: 15 km
- Temple Overview: Located on the banks of the Thamirabarani River, Cheranmahadevi’s Kailasanathar Temple is an ancient structure with rich architectural beauty and spiritual significance.
3. Kodaganallur – Kailasanathar Temple
- Location: Kodaganallur
- Distance from Cheranmahadevi: 12 km
- Temple Overview: Kodaganallur Kailasanathar Temple is the third temple on this sacred route. This temple is a peaceful site situated by the river.
4. Kunnathur – Kailasanathar Temple
- Location: Kunnathur
- Distance from Kodaganallur: 8 km
- Temple Overview: The Kunnathur Kailasanathar Temple, another important temple in the Nava Kailasam circuit, is situated close to the river and is known for its serene atmosphere.
5. Murappanadu – Kailasanathar Temple
- Location: Murappanadu
- Distance from Kunnathur: 12 km
- Temple Overview: The Murappanadu Kailasanathar Temple is located slightly further downstream and is the fifth temple in the Nava Kailasam pilgrimage.
6. Sri Vaikundam – Kailasanathar Temple
- Location: Sri Vaikundam
- Distance from Murappanadu: 10 km
- Temple Overview: Though Sri Vaikundam is primarily famous for its Vishnu temple (Vaikundam Vishnu Temple), it is also home to one of the Nava Kailasam temples dedicated to Lord Shiva.
7. Thenthiruperai – Kailasanathar Temple
- Location: Thenthiruperai
- Distance from Sri Vaikundam: 6 km
- Temple Overview: Located on the southern bank of the Thamirabarani River, the Thenthiruperai Kailasanathar Temple is smaller in size but carries great spiritual value.
8. Rajapathy – Kailasanathar Temple
- Location: Rajapathy
- Distance from Thenthiruperai: 5 km
- Temple Overview: Rajapathy’s Kailasanathar Temple is known for its simplicity and peaceful atmosphere. Pilgrims often spend time here in contemplation.
9. Senthapoomangalam (Sevalur) – Kailasanathar Temple
- Location: Sevalur (Senthapoomangalam)
- Distance from Rajapathy: 10 km
- Temple Overview: This is the last of the Nava Kailasam temples. Senthapoomangalam is often referred to as Sevalur and holds the final Kailasanathar Temple on this spiritual journey.
Nava Kailasam Temples Route Overview:
- Starting Point: Tirunelveli
- Ending Point: Senthapoomangalam (Sevalur)
- Total Distance Covered: Approximately 180 km to 200 km depending on the route chosen.
- Best Time for Travel: It is advisable to start early in the morning from Tirunelveli to complete the entire pilgrimage comfortably by evening.
Recommended Route for Nava Kailasam Temples:
- Tirunelveli → Papanasam (45 km)
- The first stop after leaving Tirunelveli. This route takes you along scenic rural roads by the Thamirabarani River.
- Papanasam → Cheranmahadevi (15 km)
- After visiting the first temple at Papanasam, head southeast towards Cheranmahadevi for the second temple.
- Cheranmahadevi → Kodaganallur (12 km)
- A short drive brings you to Kodaganallur, where the third temple is located.
- Kodaganallur → Kunnathur (8 km)
- Continue on to Kunnathur, just a brief drive away.
- Kunnathur → Murappanadu (12 km)
- From Kunnathur, the next stop is Murappanadu, where the fifth temple is located.
- Murappanadu → Sri Vaikundam (10 km)
- After Murappanadu, head towards Sri Vaikundam for the sixth temple in the Nava Kailasam journey.
- Sri Vaikundam → Thenthiruperai (6 km)
- This route will take you closer to the southern banks of the river.
- Thenthiruperai → Rajapathy (5 km)
- After visiting the temple at Thenthiruperai, proceed to Rajapathy.
- Rajapathy → Senthapoomangalam (Sevalur) (10 km)
- Finally, head to Senthapoomangalam (Sevalur), where the last temple is located.
- Return to Tirunelveli (40 km)
Travel Tips for Nava Kailasam Tour:
- Start Early: Begin your journey early in the morning, around 6:00 AM, to ensure you can comfortably visit all nine temples and return by evening.
- Bring Temple Offerings: Many devotees bring offerings like fruits, flowers, and coconuts to each temple.
- Travel Comfortably: The journey covers rural and small-town roads, so it’s important to ensure your vehicle is comfortable, especially if you’re traveling with family.
- Plan for Meals: There are several restaurants along the way, particularly in larger towns like Papanasam and Cheranmahadevi. It’s advisable to have a proper meal break at least once during the journey.
- Check Temple Timings: Most of the Nava Kailasam temples are open early in the morning and late in the evening. However, some temples may close during midday hours (usually from 12 PM to 4 PM), so it’s best to plan your visit accordingly.
- Pack Essentials: Bring water, snacks, and other essentials for the trip, as some temples are located in remote areas with limited facilities.
- Hire a Local Guide or Driver: A local guide can enhance your pilgrimage by providing detailed information on the history, significance, and rituals associated with each temple. Similarly, hiring a local taxi service or driver familiar with the route ensures a hassle-free journey.
The Nava Kailasam temple pilgrimage is a deeply spiritual journey for Shiva devotees, offering an opportunity to explore the cultural and religious significance of these temples. With the help of this route map and distance guide, you can plan an efficient trip to all nine sacred sites, making your pilgrimage both fulfilling and memorable.
Nava Kailasam Temples Route Map and Distance Guide: FAQ
1. What are the Nava Kailasam Temples?
The Nava Kailasam Temples are a group of nine Shiva temples located along the banks of the Thamirabarani River in the Tirunelveli district of Tamil Nadu. Each temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva in his form as Kailasanathar, and the pilgrimage to these temples is considered spiritually significant.
2. Where are the Nava Kailasam temples located?
The Nava Kailasam temples are located in different towns and villages along the Thamirabarani River in the Tirunelveli district. The main locations include Papanasam, Cheranmahadevi, Kodaganallur, Kunnathur, Murappanadu, Sri Vaikundam, Thenthiruperai, Rajapathy, and Senthapoomangalam (Sevalur).
3. What is the total distance covered in a Nava Kailasam temple tour?
The total distance covered in a Nava Kailasam temple tour is approximately 120-150 km. The journey starts from Tirunelveli and follows the route along the river, covering all nine temples.
4. What is the best starting point for the Nava Kailasam tour?
The best starting point for the Nava Kailasam temple tour is Tirunelveli, which is a major town in Tamil Nadu with good transportation options. From Tirunelveli, you can easily visit the first temple at Papanasam and continue on the pilgrimage route.
5. How long does it take to visit all the Nava Kailasam temples?
Typically, it takes one full day to visit all nine temples. Starting early in the morning from Tirunelveli, you can complete the pilgrimage by evening. However, the duration may vary depending on factors like travel speed, temple visit duration, and the number of breaks taken.
6. What are the distances between the Nava Kailasam temples?
- Tirunelveli to Papanasam: 45 km
- Papanasam to Cheranmahadevi: 15 km
- Cheranmahadevi to Kodaganallur: 12 km
- Kodaganallur to Kunnathur: 8 km
- Kunnathur to Murappanadu: 12 km
- Murappanadu to Sri Vaikundam: 10 km
- Sri Vaikundam to Thenthiruperai: 6 km
- Thenthiruperai to Rajapathy: 5 km
- Rajapathy to Senthapoomangalam: 10 km
- Senthapoomangalam to Tirunelveli: 40 km
7. Is there a specific order in which the Nava Kailasam temples should be visited?
Yes, there is a traditional order in which the temples are visited, starting from Papanasam and ending at Senthapoomangalam (Sevalur). Pilgrims usually follow this sequence as it is believed to enhance the spiritual significance of the journey.
8. What is the spiritual significance of visiting all nine Nava Kailasam temples?
Visiting all nine Nava Kailasam temples is considered highly auspicious for devotees of Lord Shiva. Each temple represents one of the nine celestial planets (Navagrahas), and visiting them is believed to bring spiritual benefits, peace, and relief from planetary influences.
9. Are there any entry fees or special arrangements needed to visit these temples?
Most of the Nava Kailasam temples do not charge an entry fee. However, devotees may need to make offerings or arrange for special pujas. It is recommended to carry temple offerings like fruits and flowers, as is customary in South Indian temple visits.
10. What are the best travel options for visiting the Nava Kailasam temples?
- Private Car or Taxi: The most convenient way to visit all nine temples is by hiring a private car or taxi from Tirunelveli. This allows flexibility in the route and time taken.
- Local Bus: For those on a budget, there are local buses that operate between the towns where these temples are located, but this may require more time and planning.
- Guided Tours: Some travel agencies in Tirunelveli offer guided tours specifically for the Nava Kailasam temples.
11. Can I hire a taxi for the Nava Kailasam trip?
Yes, taxis are readily available from Tirunelveli to visit the Nava Kailasam temples. Many local operators offer packages that cover all nine temples in a single day. The rates vary depending on the type of vehicle (Sedan, SUV, Tempo Traveller) and the number of passengers.
12. Are meals and accommodations available along the Nava Kailasam route?
Meals are available at several restaurants and roadside eateries along the route, especially in larger towns like Papanasam and Cheranmahadevi. Accommodations are available in Tirunelveli or nearby towns for pilgrims who wish to stay overnight. However, most people complete the entire pilgrimage in one day.
13. What are the temple timings for Nava Kailasam temples?
Temple timings may vary slightly, but most temples are open from 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM and then reopen from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM. It is recommended to plan your visit during these hours to ensure you can enter all the temples.
14. Is there any special attire required for visiting the Nava Kailasam temples?
Yes, as with most temples in Tamil Nadu, it is advised to wear traditional attire when visiting the Nava Kailasam temples. Men should wear a dhoti or veshti and women should wear a saree or churidar. It is also customary to remove footwear before entering the temple premises.
15. Can children and elderly people undertake the Nava Kailasam pilgrimage?
Yes, the Nava Kailasam pilgrimage is suitable for all age groups. Since the journey involves travel by road and brief visits to the temples, it is generally not physically demanding. However, it’s important to ensure comfortable transportation and make necessary arrangements for elderly pilgrims.
16. Can I combine the Nava Kailasam tour with other nearby attractions?
Yes, you can combine the Nava Kailasam pilgrimage with visits to other nearby temples or tourist attractions in Tirunelveli, such as Agasthiyar Falls, Papanasam Dam, and Courtallam Waterfalls. Additionally, you can visit Tiruchendur Murugan Temple, which is a famous pilgrimage site along the coastal route.
17. Is photography allowed inside the temples?
Photography inside the sanctum sanctorum is generally prohibited. However, you may be allowed to take pictures of the temple’s exterior and surroundings. It’s advisable to check with the temple authorities before taking any photos.
18. Is prior booking required for visiting the Nava Kailasam temples?
No prior booking is required for visiting the Nava Kailasam temples. You can visit these temples directly during the open hours. However, if you are hiring a taxi or taking a guided tour, it is recommended to book in advance to ensure availability.
19. What are some important tips for pilgrims undertaking the Nava Kailasam tour?
- Start early: Begin your journey early in the morning to complete the tour by evening.
- Carry essentials: Bring water, snacks, and temple offerings like flowers, fruits, and coconuts.
- Respect temple customs: Follow the dress code and observe temple etiquette.
- Plan for breaks: Take breaks for meals and rest, especially if traveling with children or elderly persons.
- Check temple timings: Ensure you visit the temples during their open hours to avoid disappointment.
20. How do I access the Nava Kailasam temples route map?
You can access the Nava Kailasam temples route map through online navigation apps like Google Maps by searching for each temple individually. Many tour operators and travel agencies also provide detailed route maps and itineraries for the Nava Kailasam pilgrimage. Alternatively, you can request assistance from local drivers or guides who are familiar with the route.