The Splendor of Nellaiyappar Temple's Gopurams

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This article marks the 16th installment of my series on the fascinating Kantimati Sameta Nellaiyappar Temple. As previously mentioned, the temple complex comprises two distinct structures dedicated to Kantimati and Nellaiyappar. In an earlier article, I provided a detailed account of the impressive six-tiered Rajagopuram of Kantimati. Now, let's delve into the enchanting towers of the Nellaiyappar temple.




At the main east-facing entrance, you will find the Raja Gopuram, a majestic six-tiered tower that captures one's imagination. Adorned with vibrant stucco images depicting Shiva and various Shaivite deities and saints, this grand structure was constructed in 1606, two decades before the Amman tower came into existence.



Towards the southern entrance lies another tower connecting the southern prakara with the Sangili mandapa. This tower may not be easily noticeable at first glance, often overlooked by visitors. A beautiful shrine dedicated to Dakshinamurti, adorned with a mandapa featuring intricate wooden carvings, faces this tower.



On the western side, facing the magnificent Ganesha shrine stands a four-tiered tower. Unfortunately, the front-side mandapa of this tower is occupied by shops, somewhat detracting from its beauty.





Moving to the northside, you will encounter a four-tiered Gopuram adorned with numerous exquisite stucco images. At the top portion of the base, one may come across a few erotic stone carvings.

Among all the towers, the east-facing gopuram stands out with its two sub-shrines dedicated to Ganesha and Subramanya on either side, a sight to behold.

Happy travelling.




This article is Part 16 of the series of articles I write about Kantimati Sameta Nellaiyappar Temple. 

The other parts of the series can be accessed through the below-listed links.

Part 1

Part 2

Part 3

Part 4

Part 5

Part 6

Part 7

Part 8

Part 9

Part 10

Part 11

Part 12

Part 13

Part 14

Part 15


Location: Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu, India

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