Sundhareswarar Temple, Kovur - budhan Sthalam, Chennai navagraha sthalam — Attraction in Tamil Nadu

Mythology

Constructed in about 965 CE, the presiding deity of the temple is Sundareswarar, a form of Shiva and the presiding goddess is Soundarambikai.

According to legend, Goddess Kamakshi was performing thapas (penance) on Panchagni (fire) in Maangaadu praying to Lord Shiva to marry Her. Her penance was so intense that the whole surroundings became very hot and all living beings started to suffer because of this enormous heat. However, since Lord Shiva was deeply meditating with His eyes closed, He did not perceive this. Therefore, all Sages and Devas prayed to Lord Vishnu to save the world from the heat of the penance. Lord Vishnu directed Sri Mahalakshmi to save the world.

Goddess Sri Mahalakshmi came down here to this place in the form of a cow and worshipped Lord Shiva to request Him to open His eyes, so that the world could be saved. Pleased with Her prayers, Lord Shiva opened His eyes, after which the heat of the place subsided and became cooler. As Sri Mahalakshmi worshipped here in the form of a cow, the place came to be known as Kopuri (In Thamizh, Ko means cow) and later corrupted to...

This is an ancient Sivan temple with a deep sense of history and spirituality. Recently renovated just a few months ago, the temple now blends its centuries-old charm with a fresh, well-maintained look.

The atmosphere inside is peaceful and truly divine. From the moment you step through the entrance, you can feel a powerful presence that makes it a perfect place for prayer and quiet reflection. The sanctum and surrounding structures showcase traditional architecture, and the recent restoration work has brought out the intricate details even more beautifully. Located in Kovur, this temple is still relatively underrated—many people in the city and nearby areas aren’t fully aware of its significance. It deserves far more recognition for its history, spiritual energy, and the serenity it offers.

Whether you are a devotee of Lord Shiva or simply someone seeking a calm and uplifting experience, this temple is well worth a visit. It’s an ideal spot for families, spiritual seekers, and anyone interested in exploring the rich heritage of Tamil Nadu’s...

HISTORY AND INSCRIPTIONS

As per Kanchipuram Mavatta Tholliyal Kaiyedu, Rajaraja Chozha-I’s 9th reign year inscription on a pillar in the inner prahara records the endowment of conducting daily poojas by a lady of this Village. For the same she had purchased a land by paying Gold and gifted to this temple. The inscription mentions Shiva’s name as "Rajarajeswaramudaya nayanar", in the name of the King.

Another inscription records the endowment of burning a lamp by Kaman Perungattu Pillai. For the same he had deposited 10 panam with the temple’s Perumal Bhattan. In the Inscription Kaman Perungattu Pillai, mentions that he was one of the 70 families and belongs to Thirumyalapore Elelasinga’s parambara family, who are made to settle by Karikalan at Kanchi Ramathevachery.

Another Vijayakanda Gopalan’s 5th reign year ( 1253 CE ) inscription is on the south side of the Temple, which indicates that the temple was reconstructed during...