Seerkazhi Tourism, Tamil Nadu India

Located near the banks of the River Kollidam, Seerkazhi is a pilgrimage site of Hindus. It is situated in Nagapattinam District in the state of Tamil Nadu. The history of the region dates back to the Chola period. During the 4th and 5th century, the region was a Buddhist centre. The Portuguese, Dutch and British ruled the region during the 16th, 17th and 18th century respectively. This beautiful city attracts thousands of devotees every year for its Shiva temple. Housing four tall gopurams, the main deities in Seerkazhi Temple are Brahmapureeswarar and Thirumala nayaki. Apart from being a birthplace of famous saint Gnanasambanthar, Thoniappar and Sattainathar are the prominent deities worshiped here. Seerkazhi still preserves its traditional and religious practices, rituals and customs. Seerkazhi is mostly inhabited by Hindus and Brahmotsavam is a famous festival celebrated here. The best time to visit Seerkazhi is during the months of September until February. Tourists can reach Seerkazhi through air, rail and road transport. The closest airport to the destination is Tiruchirapalli Airport, which serves domestic as well as international flights. Mayiladuturai Junction is the nearest railway station. The station is served by various trains from Chennai, Rameswaram, Coimbatore, Tiruchirapalli and Villupuram. Frequent buses operated by the Tamil Nadu State Road Transport Corporation are available from Chennai, Chidambaram, Nagapattinam and Mayavaram.

There are many mythological stories about Seerkazhi. During a severe flood which submerged almost full earth, Lord Shiva had taken 64 arts with him in a rescue raft in this place. Hence this place has names related with Thoni (boat). It is believed that God Brahma had worshipped Lord Shiva at this hamlet. There are many temples for various forms of Lord Shiva in this place.

There is a famous temple in the heart of the village with four tall gopurams. The temple is believed to be constructed centuries back. The major deities in the Seerkazhi temple are Brahmapureeswarar and Thirumala nayaki. Brahmotsavam is a famous festival in this temple. The temple is open from 6 am to 12 noon and 4 pm to 9 pm everyday.

Sirkali Bhramapureeswarar is a big temple complex containing three Shiva shrines. The Bhramapureeswarar shrine, Periyanakar with Periyanayaki (lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati) temple on a 'Thoni' and Sattainathar/Vatukanathar temple are very attractive in Seerkazhi temple complex.

Seerkazhi is situated in the Tanjore district, in the state of Tamil Nadu. It is located between Chidambaram and Mayiladuthurai and is considered to be a religious site by the Hindus. The place has been described by a number of names in the texts of Hindu mythology and has a serene environment that is suitable for the devotees. The temple located at the centre of this place was built a long time ago and has four tall gopurams. Brahmapureeswarar and Thirumala nayaki are the two major deities of the temple and the Brahmotsavam festival is celebrated with enthusiasm. The temple is opened at particular timings for the followers to bow down in front of their deity. Apart from these Mayiladuthurai attractions, there are many other temples and places to visit in and around this beautiful city.