The Pillayarpatti Karpaga Vinayagar Temple is a very old and respected cave-temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha (Vinayagar) located in Pillayarpatti village of Sivaganga district in Tamil Nadu. It is well known especially because Ganesha appears here with two hands rather than the usual four, which is considered special.
This article will explain in simple terms everything you need to know: how to reach, timings, room booking, online services,The temple is more than 1600 years old and has a beautiful rock-cut shrine. It is one of the oldest cave temples in Tamil Nadu and holds immense religious significance. The idol of Lord Ganesha here has a unique appearance with two arms and a trunk bent towards the right. This makes the temple very special among Ganesha temples in India.
TTD Senior Citizen Darshan: Cost, Tickets, Dress Code, Seva Details and Timings
Overview Table
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Temple Name | **Pillayarpatti Karpaga Vinayagar Temple (often called Pillayarpatti Temple) |
| Location | Village: Pillayarpatti, District: Sivaganga, State: Tamil Nadu, PIN 630207 |
| Nearest Railway Station | Karaikudi – approx. 12 km away |
| Nearest Airport | Madurai Airport – approx. 70–71 km away |
| Distance from Karaikudi | ≈ 12 km |
| Distance from Madurai | ≈ 71 km |
| Room Accommodation | 60 rooms maintained by the trust (35 AC + 25 non-AC) |
| Contact Numbers | +91-90420 85871, +91-93844 46285, +91-93844 46284 Also: 04577-264240, 264241, 264182, 264797 |
| Timings (Darshan) | Morning: 6:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Evening: 4:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. |
| Abhishekam / Pooja Timings | • Thiruvanandal 06:00-06:30 a.m. • Kaalasanthi 08:30-09:30 a.m. • Uchikalam 11:30-12:00 p.m. • Maalaisanthi (Sayaratsai) 5:00-6:30 p.m. • Arthajaman 7:45-8:30 p.m. |
| Entry Fee | No specific fee for general darshan mentioned |
Pillayarpatti Karpaga Historical & Religious Significance
The temple is carved out of rock (a cave temple) and belongs to ancient times. According to inscriptions inside the temple, it dates back many centuries.
The presiding deity is called Karpaga Vinayagar, standing about six feet tall and in a “valampuri” posture (i.e., the trunk of the lord bends to the right) which is rare.
The village itself Pillayarpatti derives its name from the temple (“Pillaiyar” means Lord Ganesha). The fact that this temple has a cave structure and is maintained well adds to its prominence as a pilgrimage centre.
Sevas at Pillayarpatti Karpaga
The temple offers many daily and special sevas. Some of the important rituals include Abhishekam to Karpaga Vinayagar, Archana with coconut and flowers, and Homams performed for health, education, and prosperity. Devotees also participate in special pujas during festivals.
Kalyanotsavam and other important rituals are also performed on auspicious days. These sevas are conducted by the temple priests following Agama rules, and the prasadam given afterwards is considered very sacred.
Location & How to Reach Pillayarpatti Karpaga
By Road
Pillayarpatti lies between Thirupattur and Karaikudi on the state highway. It is about 12 km from Karaikudi.
From Madurai the distance is about 70-71 km.
By Rail
The nearest major railway station is Karaikudi, roughly 12 km away.
By Air
The nearest airport is Madurai (≈ 70 km). Another airport at Tiruchirappalli is about 100 km away.
Directions Note
When travelling from Tirupati (your location) you would likely travel by train or bus to Karaikudi or Madurai, then take local transport to Pillayarpatti. Allow extra time if arriving by late evening because local transport may be less frequent.
Temple Timings & Darshan & Pillayarpatti Karpaga
The temple opens early in the morning and has distinct blocks of darshan time:
- Morning session: 6:00 a.m. until about 1:00 p.m.
- Afternoon break: roughly 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
- Evening session: 4:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Good Time for Visit Pillayarpatti Karpaga
To avoid crowd and have peaceful darshan, early morning (just after opening) is best. Crowd builds up later and especially during festivals.
Pillayarpatti Karpaga Abhishekam & Special Poojas
Several key rituals/poojas are conducted every day, known as abhishekams (anointing of the deity). The main times are as follows:
- Thiruvanandal: 06:00-06:30 a.m.
- Kaalasanthi: 08:30-09:30 a.m.
- Uchikalam: 11:30-12:00 p.m.
- Maalaisanthi (Sayaratsai): 5:00-6:30 p.m.
- Arthajaman: 7:45-8:30 p.m.
These rituals are important for devotees who wish to participate or witness them.
Special Darshan Tickets & Online Booking
While general darshan does not appear to have a mandatory ticket fee (entry is free), there may be special darshan / pooja tickets offered for rituals or premium darshan experiences.
For example, the temple’s official site mentions online booking possibilities for room accommodation and possibly poojas.
If you wish special darshan (like being part of abhishekam) it’s best to contact the temple directly for the current cost, procedure & availability.
Room / Accommodation Booking (Devasthanam)
What is available
- The temple trust (PKNK Trust) manages around 60 rooms (35 AC + 25 non-AC) for devotees.
- Another source mentions “around 45 cottages (with AC available)”.
- These rooms are inside or very close to the temple premises, giving devotees convenience for early morning rituals.
Booking process
- Online booking: The official website mentions room booking with contact number.
- Contact phone: 93844 46284 / 46285 etc. for booking ahead.
- Walk-in bookings may be possible but during festival seasons it is advisable to book in advance.
Tips for booking
- Plan early if your visit coincides with festivals (the temple has a major festival around Vinayagar Chaturthi).
- Verify whether AC or non-AC room is available, check for attached bathroom if needed.
- Carry ID proof and confirmation receipt when you check in.
- Note: Some guests have reported that rooms, while decent, may need maintenance.
Contact Details
It’s good to have up-to-date contact information for any queries regarding darshan, poojas, rooms, or other services:
- Phone: +91-90420 85871, +91-93844 46285, +91-93844 46284
- Additional numbers: 04577-264240, 264241, 264182, 264797
- Email: pknkpillaiarpatti@gmail.com
- Address: P.K.N.K. Trust, Pillayarpatti, Sivaganga District, Tamil Nadu, India – PIN 630207
If you’re calling from outside India, include the country code +91 and drop the leading 0.
Today’s Opening Time (Typical Day)
On a regular non-festival day the temple follows the above timing: opens at 6:00 a.m., has morning darshan until about 1:00 p.m., re-opens at 4:00 p.m., and closes around 8:30 p.m.
If you plan to visit today, arrive early (just after 6:00 a.m.) for smooth access before crowds build up.
Distance from Major Cities
- From Madurai: ~ 71 km.
- From Karaikudi: ~ 12 km.
- From Tiruchirappalli (Trichy): about ~100 km.
Thus if you are staying in or passing through any of these cities, you can easily make a short trip to Pillayarpatti.
What to Expect & Practical Tips
- Dress modestly and decently, as it is a holy place. Some sources say a “decent outfit” is required.
- Attend early morning session for a quieter experience.
- Carry a print or digital copy of room booking if staying overnight.
- If you plan for special pooja, clarify cost and availability in advanced.
- Parking: Free parking available in multiple lots within the temple complex.
- For physically challenged devotees: wheelchair assistance is available.
- Festival period gets crowded: especially during the 10-day “Vinayagar Chaturthi” festival celebrated in the Tamil month of Aavani.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Is there an entry fee for darshan at the Pillayarpatti Temple?
A1: No specific entry fee for general darshan is mentioned in the sources.
Q2: Can I book the abhishekam online in advance?
A2: The temple website and other sources mention online booking for some services and accommodation. It is advisable to call the contact numbers and confirm abhishekam booking procedures and cost.
Q3: What are the timings if I want to visit today (regular day)?
A3: Typically the temple is open from 6:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. in the morning, then re-opens 4:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Q4: How many rooms are available for devotees and how to book?
A4: The trust maintains about 60 rooms (35 AC + 25 non-AC) for devotees. Booking can be done via the official website or by contacting the phone numbers given.
Q5: What is the distance from Karaikudi and Madurai to the temple?
A5: From Karaikudi: ~12 km. From Madurai: ~71 km.
Q6: Are there parking and wheelchair facilities?
A6: Yes. Free parking lots are available and ramps + wheelchair assistance are provided for physically challenged persons.