This is a huge temple with a lot of history. Spread over 20 acres, Mahalinga Swamy is the main Shiva idol here. There are five prakarams - each of which is temple complex in itself. Rich history and culture. Take cold water with you after March till
summer is done. The temple is managed by just 11 or 12 archakas and hence they take a break and close the garba gruham.
It is a bit difficult to navigate without a guide. Or a local person. There are specific stones on the wall which sound different - hollow- no one know how. Look up ‘praveen Mohan’ on Google and his reviews on the architectural marvel.
Huge temple. Plan a whole day to visit this temple, oppoliappan, suryan, raghu, ketu, sukran temples.
Take plenty of water. As always, slippers outside.
Entrance is thorough east entrance and exit through west.
The origin of this temple is it recorded, I was told. Mary kings partook in making it huge but the main king, Varaguna Paandian.- The statue of the king is hidden behind the main entrance . See pic.
Architecturally if you take a sky-eye biew of thanjavur district, all the temple COMPLEXES are constructed as per Aagamq and this temple itself is considered the central parikrama. See picture.
Have blessed day.