Sri Gokilambal Thirukameshwara Temple Pondicherry

🛕 Sri Gokilambal Thirukameshwara Temple, Pondicherry

🔖 Quick Facts

  • Temple Type: Ancient Hindu Temple
  • Deity: Lord Shiva (Thirukameshwara), Goddess Parvati (Gokilambal)
  • Location: East Car Street, Villianur, Pondicherry – 605110
  • Timings: 6:00 AM – 12:00 PM & 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM (All Days)
  • Entry Fee: Free
  • Contact Number: 📞 0413 266 6396
  • Rating: ⭐ 4/5 (Based on 46 reviews)

📅 Best Time to Visit

  • November to February – Pleasant weather, ideal for temple exploration
  • May/June – For the spectacular 10-day Villianur Chariot Festival

    🕒 Time Required: 1 – 1.5 hours
    📍 Distance from Pondicherry City: ~8 km

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🌟 Highlights of Gokilambal Thirukameshwara Temple

✔ 1000+ years old Chola-era Shiva temple
✔ Houses rare Prasava Nandi idol – worshipped by pregnant women
✔ Popular for Villianur Chariot Festival – a 10-day celebration in May/June
✔ Lord Shiva (lingam made of mud) covered with brass armour during rituals
✔ Dedicated shrines for Murugan, Brahma, Narasimha, and others

🛐 Things to Do

✔ Witness daily poojas with Abhishekam, Alankaram, Naivethyam, and Deepa Aradhanai
✔ Attend special rituals on Mondays, Fridays, Pradosham, Amavasai & Pournami
✔ Visit the unique Prasava Nandi – believed to bless pregnant women
✔ Explore minor shrines within the temple for other deities like Murugan, Brahma, and Narasimha
✔ Participate in the grand chariot procession during the Villianur Car Festival

🚗 How to Reach

✔ By Taxi/Cab: Hire a cab from any car rental service in Pondicherry (~20-30 mins)
✔ By Auto/Cycle Rickshaw: Widely available; a budget-friendly option
✔ By Bike/Bicycle: Rentable from the city; enjoy a short scenic ride
✔ By Bus: Regular local buses operate between Pondicherry and Villianur
✔ Nearest Railway Station: Villupuram (~40 km)
✔ Nearest Airport: Puducherry Airport (11 km) | Chennai Airport (~150 km)

📜 History

According to legend, a Chola king afflicted by leprosy was cured after worshipping Lord Shiva here. In gratitude, he built this temple and founded the town Vilwanallur (now Villianur), surrounded by sacred Vilwa trees. The temple masonry dates back to the 16th century, with rich historical and spiritual significance.

🧳 Pondicherry Tour Packages

Looking to explore more temples and attractions in Pondicherry?
✅ Book curated Pondicherry tour packages with accommodation, sightseeing & travel assistance included!

📩 Contact Pondicherry Tourism (Holidays DNA) to plan your spiritual getaway!

🕒 Temple Timings

DayMorningEvening
Monday – Sunday6:00 AM – 12:00 PM4:00 PM – 9:00 PM

🧱 Architecture

  • Built in 12th century CE by Chola king; expanded by Vijayanagar rulers
  • Enclosed by concentric granite walls
  • Mandapam with ornate mythological carvings
  • Peaceful pond and garden in temple complex
  • Features Somaskanda style architecture, common in South India

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know before visiting Sri Gokilambal Thirukameshwara Temple Pondicherry

✔ Entry to the temple is completely free for all visitors. No charges are applicable for darshan or entry.
✔ The temple is open every day from 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
✔ The best time to visit is during November to February (winter) for pleasant weather. The Villianur Car Festival in May/June is also a must-see.
✔ Yes, daily rituals like Abhishekam, Alankaram, and Deepa Aradhanai are performed. Special rituals occur on Mondays, Fridays, Pradosham, Amavasai, and Pournami.
✔ The Prasava Nandi is a sacred bull statue believed to bless women with a safe and healthy pregnancy. Many pregnant women offer prayers here.
✔ The temple is located in Villianur, around 8 km from central Pondicherry, and is easily accessible by taxi, bike, or auto.