Kanyakumari Temple

Kanyakumari Temple or the Kanyakumari Bhagavathiamman Temple is a chief attraction of Kanyakumari and is dedicated to the virgin Goddess Kanyakumari, an incarnation of Goddess Parvathi.

Goddess Kanyakumari is the presiding deity of Kanyakumari. As per legends, the marriage between Goddess Kanyakumari and Lord Shiva did not take place, as a result of which the Goddess determined to remain a virgin. It is believed that the rice and cereals which were meant for the marriage were left uncooked and they turned to stones. The stones resembling cereals can be seen even today.

The Kumari Amman Temple of Kanyakumari has a peculiar architectural style which is an amalgamation of the architectural styles of different eras. Kumari Amman Temple was originally built by the kings of the Pandya Dynasty in the 8th century. It was later renovated by the Chola, Vijayanagara and Nayaka rulers.

The Kumari Amman Temple of Kanyakumari has three corridors and a sanctum sanctorum. The Navarathri Mandapam, a famous section of the temple, is situated in the external corridor of the temple. The Navarathri Mandapam is adorned with paintings and carvings which reflect the architectural brilliance of Kumari Amman Temple.

In the sanctum sanctorum of the temple there is the idol of the goddess who faces east. Kumari Amman Temple also encloses an 18th century shrine which worships the footprints of Goddess Kanyakumari.  

The main festivals of the Kumari Amman Temple are the Car Festival and the Navarathri Festival. The Car Festival is held during Vaikasi, i.e. May-June and the Navarathri Festival is held during September – October.

Timing: 4.30 am – 12.15 pm
             4.00 pm – 8.15 pm