Sirkazhi

In the South Indian state of Tamil nadu, there lies a municipal town called Sirkazhi. This town belongs to the Nagapattinam district and is located about 250 km from the capital city Chennai. Sirkazhi is believed to be the birth place of the renowned sage Gnanasambanthar. There are several names given to Sirkazhi in the Hindu mythology. Age old traditions, cultures and rituals are still preserved in this town. Hindus and Brahmotsavam comprise majority of the population in Sirkazhi.

PLACES WORTH VISITING:

Sirkazhi is a pilgrimage site for Hindus across the Indian subcontinent. This place houses several temples that allures many pilgrims. The Shiva temple of Sirkazhi is very famous and is visited by the ardent devotees of Lord Shiva who come here to offer prayers. This place also houses several temples where deities of Brahmapureeswarar, Thirunilai Nayaki, and Sattainathar are worshipped. One can visit Velankani which has been declared as the Holy City by Pope. It houses the famous Basilica known as Our lady of Good Health church. Hindus often visit the Shani temple of Nagapattinam where the presiding deity is Lord Shani. Pilgrims come here to offer prayers and to get rid of their sins. People interested in poetry can visit Koothanur as it is associatd with the life of the famous Tamil poet Ottakkoothar. There is an old Murugan temple in Ettukkudi which is also visited by several tourists. Ettukkudi has been mentioned in the hymns of Saint Arunagirinathar. People visit Sirkazhi for Brahma Tirtha which is considered to be the place where Lord Brahma used to worship Lord Shiva. There is another temple called the Sattanathaswamy Temple which houses an idol of Lord Shiva in the form of Bhairava.

HOW TO REACH:

Air: The nearest airport is in Trichi. One can board the planes from Trichy airport to reach Sirkazhi.

Bus: One can avail the local buses from Chidambaram, Mayavaram and Kumbakonam. As the roads are well-developed it becomes easier for the travelers to reach this place.

Train: The nearest railway station is at Mayavaram which is about 20 km away from Seerkazhi. This station is well connected to other major cities by rail.