Namakkal - A wonderful city

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Is Namakkal a historical city? The grand fort atop the hill suggests so.

Or is it an architectural marvel? The stunning cave temples with intricate sculptures point in that direction.

Perhaps it’s a religious city? The powerful presence of Namakkal Hanuman certainly makes it feel that way.

So, what kind of city is Namakkal? It is a blend of all these elements—a place rich in history, culture, and religious significance, with artistically magnificent cave temples. When you visit these temples, it's hard to believe they were built around 1,500 years ago. The craftsmanship displayed in these rock-cut marvels is astounding, especially considering they were created at a time when science and technology were far less advanced.


Namakkal, once known as Namagiri, is home to four important temples. The Hanuman Temple, despite its modest size, has become the most famous among them, attracting the majority of visitors. However, the true architectural landmarks of Namakkal are the ancient Narasimha and Namagiri Thayar Cave Temples, which date back 1,500 years. Another significant site is the Ranganatha Cave Temple, which houses intricately carved sculptures and breathtaking artistry. Even those who may not believe in divinity should visit these temples to appreciate their artistic and historical value.


One unfortunate reality in Namakkal is the lack of awareness about its rich heritage among locals. Most people can guide you to the Hanuman Temple but may not even know about the Narasimha Temple. Even shopkeepers near the Ranganatha Cave Temple are often unaware of its existence. The temple remains open only for a short duration, which may explain why the lesser-known hilltop Varadar Temple is even more obscure.

 Happy travelling.



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Comments

  1. P.N. SubramanianThursday, September 22, 2011

    Good info. Pallavas and in particularduring Mahendravarmans time, the artisans had the expertise to carve out solid rocks to make out temples and sculptures. There are many more like this.

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