Kalayar Kovil located 18 km east of Sivaganga and 36 km south-west of Karaikudi, Tamilnadu is famous for the Kaaleeswarar (Siva) temple with a lofty 150 feet tall Rajagopuram.
Sangam literature has reference to the temple and the place Kaanapair, indicating the deity is more than 2000 years old. Saints Gnanasambandar, Sundarar, Appar and Arunagirinathar had sung hymns in praise of deity. Sage Agastya is also said to have visited the place, taking it to ancient times.
The temple complex is elaborate with stone carvings and large praakarams (walkways around), with 3 Siva temples (Someshwarar, Kaaleeswarar, Sundareswarar) and 3 Devi sanniddhis (Swarnambikai, Soundara Nayagi, Meenakshi) inside.
The temple is associated with Muthu Vaduganatha Thevar and Maruthu brothers, who fought the British forces in 1772 CE.
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/Xo2JGnkhcJ5EWbxL9
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