- February 13, 2026
| Temple Name | Arulmigu Gokarneswarar Temple |
|---|---|
| Moolavar (Primary Deity) | Gokarneswarar, Magizhavananathar |
| Amman (Goddess) | Pragadambal, Mangalambikai, Araikkasu Amman |
| Sthala Vriksham | Magizha Maram (Spanish Cherry) |
| Theertham | Kapila Theertham, Ganga Theertham, Mangala Theertham |
| Puranic Name | Thirukokarnam |
| Location | Thirukokarnam |
| District | Pudukkottai |
Thennādudaiya Sivanē Pōtri
Ennāttavarkkum Iraivā Pōtri
Located in the heart of the historically significant Pudukkottai city, the Arulmigu Pragadambal Sametha Gokarneswarar Temple is a sacred destination that blends the grandeur of Pallava-era rock-cut architecture with the artistic finesse of the Pandya, Chola, and Thondaiman kings. As this is the site where the divine cow, Kamadhenu, offered her prayers, it is aptly named “Thirukokarnam.”
According to the Puranas, Kamadhenu arrived late to Lord Indra’s court and was cursed to be born as an ordinary cow on Earth. Following the advice of Sage Vashistha, she reached “Vagularanyam” (modern-day Thirukokarnam), a forest dense with Magizha trees. To seek redemption, she brought the holy water of the Ganges in her ears (Karnam) every day to perform Abhishekam for Lord Shiva.
To test her devotion, Lord Shiva appeared in the form of a tiger. Kamadhenu pleaded with the tiger to let her finish her prayers and feed her calf one last time. Keeping her word, she returned to the tiger after her duties. Pleased by her unwavering truthfulness, the Lord appeared on his Rishaba Vahana (bull vehicle) and granted her salvation. Since the cow (Go) worshipped with her ears (Karnam), the place became known as Thirukokarnam.
The most unique feature of this temple is the shrine of “Araikkasu Amman.” Goddess Pragadambal, the tutelary deity of the Pudukkottai Thondaiman kings, is said to be a “speaking deity” who once conversed directly with the king.
Even today, it is a firm belief that if someone loses a valuable item, they can pray to Araikkasu Amman and vow a small offering of jaggery (Vellam). Devotees believe that by making this simple vow, the lost item will be found quickly.
Rock-cut Temple: This is an ancient cave temple carved out of a single rock during the reign of Mahendravarma Pallava.
Sculptural Art: The cave interior houses exquisitely carved idols of Lord Ganesha and Gangadhara.
Adhishthanam: Ancient inscriptions found here highlight the musical and artistic excellence of that era.
Royal History: The coronation ceremonies of the Pudukkottai Thondaiman kings were traditionally held in the presence of Goddess Pragadambal.
Worshipping Lord Gokarneswarar here is believed to remove long-standing curses. Devotees also believe that praying to Goddess Pragadambal removes obstacles to marriage and blesses couples with children.
Arulmigu Gokarneswarar Temple is open from 06:00 AM to 12:00 PM and from 04:00 PM to 08:00 PM.
How to Reach Thirukokarnam Temple?
Thirukokarnam is located about 3 km from the Pudukkottai Bus Stand and Railway Station. It is approximately 50 km away from Tiruchirappalli (Trichy).
Arulmigu Pragadambal Sametha Gokarneswarar Temple,
Thirukokarnam, Pudukkottai – 622 002.
Contact Number: +91-4322 221084
If you found this post helpful, please share it with others! Stay connected with aanmeegam.org for more spiritual insights.
