Sivagangai
How to Reach
Air
Instead of Sivaganga you can a get flight to Madurai Airport on regular basis. Sivaganga 43 km away Madurai Airport (IXM), Madurai, Tamil Nadu. Sivaganga 125 km away Civil Airport (TRZ), Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu
Train
There are regular trains from other major cities of the country to Important Towns of District Sivaganga, Karaikudi and Manamadurai. Important Railway Stations: Sivaganga (SVGA), Karaikudi ( KKDI), Manamadurai (MNM)
Road
National Highway 85 Cochin-Munnar-Bodinayakanur-Theni-Madurai City-Sivagangai-Thondi. National Highway 36 Villupuram- Panruti-Kumbakonam – Thanjavur-Pudukottai-Tirupathur-Sivagangai-Manamadurai. National Highway 87 Thiruppuvanam – Manamadurai – Paramakkudi – Ramanathapuram – Rameswaram – Dhanuskodi, State Highway SH 34 Ramanathapuram-Ilayankudi-Sivagangai-Melur are the major roads passing via Sivaganga
I Square Taxi in Sivagangai
The Kingdom of Ramnad: A Historical Glimpse
At I Square Taxi, we offer our customers One-way Drop Taxi, Drop Taxi, and Round Trip services. This makes it easier to explore destinations across Tamil Nadu. Our service is ideal for travelers interested in Outstation Taxi, Intercity Taxi, and One-way Taxi trips.
A Brief History of the Kingdom of Ramnad
The historic Kingdom of Ramnad once encompassed the current-day regions of Ramnad, Sivaganga, and Pudukottai. It was ruled by several prominent kings. Kilavan Sethupathy, the 7th King of Ramnad, ruled from 1674 to 1710. Known for his appreciation of bravery, he honored Peria Oodaya Thevar of Nalukottai. He rewarded him with land to support 1,000 armed men for his valor.
After Kilavan Sethupathy’s death, Vijaya Regunatha Sethupathy ascended the throne as the 8th King in 1710. He solidified alliances by marrying his daughter Akhilandeswari Nachiar to Sasivarna Thevar, son of Peria Oodaya Thevar. The king gifted Sasivarna Thevar lands and placed him in charge of key fortresses and the Thondi harbor.
In 1726, Bhavani Sankaran, the son of Kilavan Sethupathy, took action. He overthrew the 9th King of Ramnad. This allowed him to seize control of the kingdom. But, his reign was short-lived, lasting only until 1729. Bhavani Sankaran’s conflict with Sasivarna Thevar forced the latter into exile. During his journey through the jungles of Kalayarkoi, Sasivarna Thevar met a sage. The sage’s name was Sattappiah. He inspired Sasivarna Thevar to seek help from the Rajah of Tanjore.
With the help of Kattaya Thevan and the Rajah’s army, Sasivarna Thevar returned to Ramnad. He defeated Bhavani Sankaran at the Battle of Uraiyur in 1730. Sasivarna Thevar restored the rightful rule. Kattaya Thevan was declared the 11th King of Ramnad, marking a significant moment in the region’s history.
You might be traveling to explore historical places. Alternatively, you could be visiting modern attractions. In either case, I Square Taxi ensures a comfortable journey across these culturally rich regions.
Tourism with I Square One Way Drop Taxi in Sivagangai
Explore Sivaganga with I Square Taxi
At I Square Taxi, we specialize in offering One-way Drop Taxi, Drop Taxi, and Round Trip services. These options make travel around Sivaganga and its surrounding areas effortless. Our service is perfect for those looking for Outstation Taxi, Intercity Taxi, or One-way Taxi rides. Discover the cultural and natural beauty of Sivaganga’s most notable attractions.
Must-Visit Places in Sivaganga:
Kanadukathan
This small town in Sivaganga is famous for its magnificent Chettinad-style mansions. The grand homes boast intricate carvings resembling temple gateways, reflecting the architectural heritage of the region. Visitors are captivated by these architectural gems. They are also drawn to the local Chettinad cuisine. The cuisine is renowned for its spicy and flavorful dishes. Kanadukathan is also noteworthy for its innovative water-harvesting techniques, making it a model for sustainable living.
Chettinad Palace
Chettinad Palace is situated about 10 km from Karaikudi. It is a grand example of Chettinad architecture. The palace was built by Dr. Annamalai Chettiyar, founder of Indian Bank and Annamalai University. Completed in 1912, the palace features materials imported from East Asia and Europe. The palace’s spacious verandas and central courtyards highlight the luxurious lifestyle of the Chettinad community. They are adorned with ornate teak, marble, and granite pillars. The palace is open to visitors daily from 9 AM to 5 PM.
Athangudi
The village of Athangudi is located 24 km from Karaikudi. It is famous for its handmade terracotta tiles. Each tile is uniquely designed with patterns and colors. These tiles, crafted from natural materials, are popular for decorating both modern and ancestral homes. The distinct patterns, often featuring floral and fauna designs, can be customized to match the aesthetics of homes and gardens.
Aayiram Jannal Veedu
A true architectural marvel, the Aayiram Jannal Veedu is known as the “House of a Thousand Windows.” This spacious structure was built in 1941 in Karaikudi. Covering 20,000 square feet, the house boasts 25 rooms, five large halls, and 1,000 windows. Though it is not well-maintained today, its grandeur and intricate design still fascinate visitors.
Kaviarasu Kannadasan Manimandapam
This memorial was built in honor of the renowned Tamil poet Kaviarasu Kannadasan. It pays tribute to the poet’s revolutionary contributions to Tamil literature and cinema. The site is located in his birthplace, Sirukoodalpatti. It serves as a reminder of his literary and cultural impact on the Tamil-speaking world.
Vettangudi Bird Sanctuary
Located about 51 km from Madurai, the Vettangudi Bird Sanctuary is a haven for migratory birds. It is also a breeding ground for species like Grey Herons, Spoonbills, and Painted Storks. This 40-hectare sanctuary is best visited between November and February. During this time, thousands of birds flock here. They create a vibrant natural spectacle.
With I Square Taxi, you can explore these gems of Sivaganga with comfort and ease. You might be embarking on an outstation journey. You could also be exploring the rich history and natural beauty of Tamil Nadu. No matter the case, we guarantee a seamless travel experience.
Vettangudi Bird Sanctuary is near Thirupathur and Madurai. The Vettangudi Bird Sanctuary is located 51 kms from Madurai. It is on the Madurai – Melur-Tiruppathur road, in Savaganga District. It is located in Vettangudipatti and Periya Kollukudipatti village of Tiruppathur Taluk, Sivagnaga District. This sanctuary covers an area of 40 hectares and covers the tanks of Vettangudi, Periyakollukudi and Chinna Kollukkudi villages. The Vettangudi Bird sanctuary is the natural habitat of winter migratory birds. It is a breeding habitat for Grey Herons, Darters, Spoonbills, Wite Ibis, Asian Open Bill Stork and Night Herons. It has also attracted Painted stork and Little Cormorant. Little Egret, Intermediate Egret, and Cattle Egret are common. Other birds include Common Teal, Spot Bill Ducks, and Pintail. This is a safe place for roosting, breeding and feeding. There is a considerable diversity in their nesting and feeding behavior. The best time to visit is between November and February. The weather is pleasant, and you get to see thousands of migratory birds.
Karpaga Vinayagar Temple is one of the oldest Cave Temples (Rock Cut) in Tamilnadu. It is situated at Pillayarpatti, which lies between Pudukkottai and Karaikudi. Pillayarpatti is located 71kms from Madurai. It is also 12 kms from Karaikudi on Thirupathur – Karaikudi State Highway. The village gets its name from the temple. Here Lord Vinayaga appears with 2 hands unlike in other places where he is seen with 4 hands. The six feet presiding deity is called as Karpaga Vinayagar [valampuri posture]. Over 15 inscriptions are found within the temple, that help decide the age of the temple. Vinayagar Chathurthi festival during August-September is the main festival of the temple. It is celebrated for 10 days in a grand manner. Sankata Hara Chathurthy every month is also celebrated with a festival look. Unlike other places, three Lingams—Thiruveesar, Marudhesar, and Senchadeswarar—appear together. Three Goddesses—Sivagami amman, Vadamalar Mangaiamman, and Soundara Nayagiamman—also appear at the same place and bless the devotees. Cottages maintained by the trust are also available which can be booked in advance.
Piranmalai Seik Oliyullah Dargah holds religious significance for the Muslims. The dargah is located about 40 km from the town of Karaikudi. Many tourists, regardless of their religion, visit the dargah every year. People believe that worshipping and praying at the dargah fulfills their wishes. Many people also come to the dargah after their wishes have been granted. The dargah is open to all. The local population of Karaikudi and the surrounding areas visit the dargah in large numbers every day. According to local beliefs, if you pray at the dargah diligently, then you can have any wish fulfilled. This includes being blessed with children and getting a job. It could also mean finding a suitable bride or groom. You might even get rid of the negative energy in your life. Many people suffering from various diseases and ill health also pray at the dargah for faster recovery. Many share testimonials. Locals will tell you real stories. They will share stories about real people. These accounts detail blessings of good fortune and health received after visiting the dargah.
Idaikattur is a village in Sivaganga. It is at a distance of 37 kms towards the Madurai on the Madurai – Rameswaram national highway. This unique Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus was built in the Gothic Architectural Style. It was constructed in the year 1894 AD by a French missionary, Fr. Ferdinand Cells SJ. This is a replica of the Rheims Cathedral in France. Since the church was said to be built by angels, Fr.Ferdinand Celle SJ has placed 153 depictions of angels in and around the church. Another powerful source for great divine help in this church is the relics of 40 saints kept on the altar. It is constructed with 200 different types of moulded bricks and tiles in lime marty. They are used for its decoration. The inner gothic arches rest over the columns embedded with ribs, its corner rising up to the vaulted roof. The windows are decorated with small brick pillars. They are adjoined with hollow flower bricks. Stained glass works depict the events of the journey of the cross in a colorful and beautiful way. South India is a tropical country. So, utilizing hollow bricks in construction reduces heat. Additionally, the vacuum gap between the inner vaulted roof creates an air-conditioned system below the shelter of the wall. The stucco figures and the statues of Saint, Angels and the sacred Heart of Jesus, his foster father St.Joseph and the Holy Family Statue with golden gilt. The statues are beautiful. They are a symbol of ancient French artwork.
Kundram means hillock and Kudi means village. Hence this village is called Kundrakudi. This Shanmuganathar Temple is an abode of Lord Murugan called “Shanmuga” with six faces and 12 hands. Kundrakudi is 10 km from Karaikudi and 12 km form Tirupathur. On the western side of the hill are three excavated shrines at the ground level. Later structures have been added to these shrines. All these caves are dedicated to lord Shiva. There are several old inscriptions in this region which attracts research minded historians.
The Main Festivals are:
Thai poosam (Jan-Feb), Panguni Uththiram (Mar-Apr), Visakam in May, Aadi Kirthigai (Jul-Aug), and Karthigai month Skandha Sashti (Oct-Nov). This Temple attracts large number of pilgrims throughout the year. Kundrakudi Adigalar a famous Tamilsaint lived here and served the religion and the society.He attained Samadhi here. The temple is praised in the Tirupugazh hymns of Ssaint Arunagirinadhar. The springs of the temple are Saravana Poigai, Thenaru and Mayil Theertham. The special feature of the temple is that Valli, Deivanai and Lord Muruga grace darshan individually sitting on a peacock.
The temple is open from 6.00am to 11.00am and 4.00 pm to 8.00pm.
Nearby Railway station: Karaikudi
Thirukoshtiyur Sowmya Narayana Perumal Temple is an ancient shrine. It is located about 10 kms from Tiruppathur on the Tirupathur – Sivaganga Road. It is a popular Vaishnavita Temple. It is considered as Badrinath of South India. It is one of the 108 Divya Desams of Lord Vishnu, revered by the tamil hymns of Alwars. Preiazhwar in his work “Periazhwar Thirumozhi” visualizes Thirukoshtiyur as the birth place of Sri Krishna. The vimana in this temple is Ashtanga and it rises to a height of 96 ft. The most noteworthy feature of the shrine is the deity in three postures. These postures are standing, sitting, and sleeping. Lord Brahma, Lord Vishnu, and Lord Shiva came together as a “Koshti.” In tamil, “Koshti” means group. They decided about the Narasimha Avatharam of Lord Vishnu. Thus, the place came to be known as “Thirukoshtiyur.” Here, “Thiru” means three, “Koshti” means group, and “yur” means place. The temple tower is 85 ft tall. The Golden Kalasam is 5ft tall.
The Main Festivals are:
Masi Float Festival in February-March, Vaikunda Ekadasi in December-January and Purattasi Navarathri in September – October
Timings: 6.00 am to 1.00 pm and 5.00 pm to 8.30 pm
Location : Tirupathur is 62 kms from Madurai. Buses are available only at specific hours.
Near By Railway Station: Karaikudi and Madurai.
Venkatamudayan Perumal Temple, also called Then Tirupati, is dedicated to Hindu God Vishnu. It is located at Ariyakudi near Karaikudi in the Sivaganga District of Tamilnadu. Then Tirupati is 500 years old and is considered to be a distinct change from traditional temples. Garuda, the eagle vehicle of Lord Vishnu, is shown with two lions on each side. This temple is especially linked with Garuda. The day in the month of Aadi (July-August) called Maha Swathi is considered the birthday of Garuda.A special pooja is performed on this day. Processional icons of deities used to be supplied by Srirangam temple in Sri Ramanuja’s time. Sevugan Chettiar took special efforts to get Thiruvenkamudayan worshipped by the Ramanuja Acharya for this temple.
This temple is an important abode of Lord Balaji. The Sadari, also known as Padukas or feet of the Lord, were brought from Tirupati. Agni, or fire, came from Thirumayam to commence the temple work. Since then this place came to be known as Ariyakudi (rare land) and Then Tirupathi (Tirupathi of the south).Then Tirupathi temple is considered important next to Srirangam. People who are unable go to Tirupathi to fulfill vows can alternatively visit this shrine or Uppiliappan in Kumbakonam. The 17th Century AD temple has a connection with Three Divya Desams. The idol of Srinivasa Perumal was the Abhisheka idol of Ramanuja at Srirangam. Shataari is from Tirupathi. The Sacred fire (Agni) comes from Thirukoshtiyur. This is the biggest Vishnu Temple in the Chettinad Region with the 7 Tier Raja Gopuram measuring 80ft. It is located about 4 kms South East of Karaikudi Railway Station on a huge 3 ½ acre land.
Kalayarkovil was called as Kaanapair during sangam period. This temple is called as Sorna Kaleeswara Temple. There are three shrines in this temple linked to the three functions of creation, preservation and completion. The shrine is regarded as the 10th of the Tevara Stalams in the Pandya region of Tamilnadu. Kalayarkovil was the strong hold of Sivaganga rulers with a well built extensive fort. It is 15kms from Sivaganga on the Devakottai-Manamadurai road. The village derived its name from Kaleeswaran Temple here. A lofty 150ft Rajagopuram and a grand tank (Teppakkulam) named Aanai Madu are two special features of this temple. Airavatam the elephant of Indra is said to have created this tank. The statues of three Maruthu Brothers are also found in this temple. Saint Gnana Sambhandar, Simdarar, Appar and Arunagirinathar have visited this temple and have sung hymns in praise of the Lord.
Vaikasi Visakam (May-June) and Thaipoosam (Jan-Feb) are the important festivals of this temple. During these festivals, pilgrims in and around converge in thousands to enjoy the festivities.
Samadhi of Marudhu brothers is opposite to the old entrance on the eastern side.
Timings: Morning 6.00 a.m. to 12.00 noon. Evening 4.00 p.m. to 9.00 p.m.
Kalaiyarkovil is well connected by road to major cities.
Nearest Railway Station: Sivaganga Railway Station.
Lord was telling Shiva stories to stage Brungi and Nandi Deva.Kruthika maidens-Nidardani,Aparakendi,Dekanthi,Varthayendhi,Amba and Thula came there and begged Lord that they too may be gifted with the Ashtama Siddhi art. Lord Shiva was Reluctant.Mother Umadevi recommended favouring the Kruthika maidens.But the Maidens did not listen to the teaching,their attention elsewhere,thus lost a golden opportunity of learning this rate art.Angry Shiva cursed them to become rocks in Pattamangalm.The maidens fell at his feet and sought a relief from the curse. Lord said that they would be rocks for 1000 years. He would come there from Madurai. Then He would grant the relief. The relief came in time at pattamangal.Now the place is known as mattamangalam.While cursing the Maidens,Lord also cursed Mother Uma for Her recommendation then to the undeserved.she is gracing in the temple as Navayadi Kali.
After a severe penance,Mother too was relieved of Her curse.she appears now with all smiles.In the inner space behind Lord Shiva in the sanctorum, Lord Muruga stands as Shanmuganatha with five heads. He is accompanied by His consorts Valli and Deivanai and blesses the devotees.
The Village Kandadevi is situated 3 kms away from Devakottai Town. Here the temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and called as Arulmigu Swarna Moortheeswarar alias Siragilinathar. The Amman is called as Periya Nayaki Amman. This is a 350 years old temple. The temple is maintained by Sivaganga Raja. This temple is linked to Ramayana-the kidnapping of Sita by Ravana. Jatayu died in the hands of Rama after narrating the kidnapping of Seethe by Ravana. Lord Rama installed a sivalinga and named “Siragilinathar” meaning the lord without feathers. Hanuman found Seetha at Lanka. He then said “Kanden Deviyai” to Rama. Because of this, the place is called Kandadevi. Bihnd the temple, there is a big tank called the Jatayu Theertham. The tank is so huge and covers a large area. It is said that the temple tank has never dried up even during drought or intense summer seasons. The Aani Urchavam is a very famous festival for this temple. It is celebrated every year in June by the people of 75 Villages. Phone numbers: +9194439 56357. Buses are available from Devakottai Bus stand. Nearest Railway Station: Devakottai is located 10 kms away. Karaikudi Railway Station is 12 kms away.
Kollangudi is a small village 10 kms east of Sivagangaon Madurai-Thondi Road. Kollan in tamil means blacksmith, Kudi means village. This is the village where arms, warfare gear were made for Marudhu, hance derived its name Kollan Kudi. This village is famous for Vettudaiyar Kaliamman Temple. This Vettudaiyar Kali dwells in a small village called Ariyakurichi. It is amidst paddy fields, 13 kms east of Sivaganga. Ariyakurichi is on the way to the coastal town Thoni. Ariyakurichi is 2 kms south from the village Kollangudi. The God, who can be seen through the main tower entrance, is Lord Vettudaya Ayyanar. Diagonally apposite to Ayyanar has the Sanctum sanctorum of Goddess ‘Vettudayar Kali’. The corridor next to sanctum sanctorum features the paintings of Goddess blissful advantures. The temple has the idols of Lord Anjaneya, Solamalaisamy, Lord Meenkshi Sundareshwarar and Lord Thirumal.
The annual festival of this temple falls in the month of Apr-May. Panguni Swathi Festival is celebrated in March-April. Vinayaka Chaturthi takes place in August – September. Aadi Perukku is held in July – August. Navarathri occurs in September – October. Margazhi poojas are celebrated in December – January. Full moon day Poornima Poojas are also celebrated in the temple. The temple remains open between 6.00 am and 6.00 pm.
Nearest Railway Station: Sivagangai – 13kms.
Kannudaya Nayaki Amman temple is situated in Naatarasankottai at about 9 kms from Sivaganga on the Madurai Thondi Road. The temple was constructed in the 18th century by nagarathars. The temple is also efficiently managed by them. The deity, Kannathal alias Kannudaya Nayaki Amman, is famous for her powers. She grants the boon of eyesight to devotees with eye defects and other ailments. There is a big pond at the front of the temple. Goddess Kannathal at this temple is a Swayambumurthi (self-emerged). The Amman is seen in a standing posture with 8 hands. She holds an “udukkai” and a “muvizhai soolam” in these hands. Her left leg stamps the Asura by name Mahishan. The Temple is famous for its architectural beauty and golden kumbhams over the temple tower. Vaikasi visakam festival is celebrated for 10 days in this temple. Several other festivals are held as well. They include “Muzha Kalliatta Thiruvizha” during the Tamil month of Aadi. “Navarathri” takes place during the Tamil month of Purattasi. “Thailakappu Utsavam” is celebrated during the Tamil month of Thai.
The famous poet Kamber wrote Ramayanam in Tamil. He spent his last days in Nattarasankottai. His tomb is located here.
Timings: The temple is open from 6.00 a.m. to 1.00 p.m. and 4.00 p.m. to 8.30 p.m.
Bus services are available from Sivaganga to Nattarasankottai.
Nearest Railway Station: Sivaganga Railway Station.
Madapuram is a small village in Sivaganga District. Madapuram Bathra Kaliamman temple is located at a distance of 25 kms from Madurai. The main deity here is Bathra Kali Amman. This temple is 500 to 1000 years old. The Rajagopuram (the tower) fo Bathirakaliamman temple is of five tiers. The Bathirakaliamman here is considered to be the Goddess of Justice. The Goddess Bathirakaliamman appears to be in a procession. She protects the world by wearing fire as her crown. The goddess stands in an open space on a stone pedestal, under the shelter of a magnificient horse. The main deity Bathirkaliamman idol is thirteen feet and is guarded on both sides by two Boothas (demons). Bathirakaliamman holds a trident and has a crown of fire. She is believed to be fond of lime fruit. The devotees offer her a lime fruit garland made of 100 limes. They prepare a garland of 1000 limes for the horse.
Ayyanar is the custodian deity of the temple. He is known as Adaikalam katha Ayyanar. He gave shelter to Kali and even provided one of his horses to shield her from rough weather. Neem is the Sthala Viruksham or the tree of the land here. Every Friday is a festival in this temple. On the First Tuesday of every month there will be 1008 lamp lighting festival, milk abisheka and lime lamp lighting. The temple is kept open from 6 am to 11 am and 4 pm till 8 pm.
The templeis situated 18 kms away from Madurai on the way to Rameswaram.
Daily buses are available from Madurai Periyar Bus Stand to this temple.
Nearest Railway Station: Sivaganga and Thirubuvanam Railway Station.
Thayamangalam Kovil is a powerful temple. The primary God Muthumari Amman resolves all the problems of people who pray to her. The black stone statue of the Goddess and the temple was built in the year 1914. A big theppakulam is located near the temple. The goddess appeared to a childless man named Muthu Chettiyar. She instructed him to make a deity and worship her. The successors of Muthu Chettiyar are maintaining the temple for the past seven generations.
Kappu Kattudhal is the act of tying a sacred rope around one’s wrist. This may be called an announcing or inauguration of the Temple Festival. Till the conclusion of the festival, the residents should not leave the village. The rituals during “Thiruvizha” include a procession with milk pots, Theerthvari, and Pookuzhi or Fire Pit Festival. Navarathri is celebrated in September-October. Abishekam is celebrated with 108 pots of milk. Special pujas also occur in the Tamil month of Aadi (July-August) and Thai (January-February) in the temple. The Panguni Pongal Festival is celebrated on the 7th day, which is the 22nd day of Panguni, the Tamil Month. Milk pot festival and Flower Pallakku are celebrated on the 23rd day of the Tamil Month. The festival will be completed on 25th day of Panguni after celebrating “Theertha vari” event. Timings: From 7.00 am to 7.00 pm.
Thayamangalam tmple is 25 kms from Sivaganga and 22 kms from Manamadurai and 27 kms from Pramakudi. During festival time Tamilnadu Transport Corporation, Karaikudi operates special buses from various places to Thayamangalam every year. Nearby railway Stations: Paramakudi, Manamadurai and Sivaganga.