Pudukkottai was once a princely state under the reign of the Thondaimans, until it merged with India in 1948. Even before the Thondaimans, it is believed that the district witnessed the rule of several dynasties including Cholas, Pallavas, Hoysalas, Naickers, and Pandyas. Each of these rulers made several contributions to the state’s landscape. #Places to Visit in Pudukkottai.

1. www.chidambaravilas.com
Places to See and Visit in Pudukkottai
Pudukkottai was once a princely state under the reign of the Thondaimans, until it
merged with India in 1948. Even before the Thondaimans, it is believed that the
district witnessed the rule of several dynasties including Cholas, Pallavas, Hoysalas,
Naickers, and Pandyas. Each of these rulers made several contributions to the state’s
landscape. They built temples and forts; many of which are a major tourist attraction
for curious heritage tourists

2. www.chidambaravilas.com
Places to See and Visit in Pudukkottai
Some of the places to see in Pudukkottai include:
a) Sri Kokaraneshwara Temple : This temple is believed to be built by Maharaja
Mahendravarma of the Pallava dynasty. This cave temple is cut from rocks and is in
honour of Sri Kokaraneshwar and his consort Brahadambal. The place is famous among
the local Hindu population and by tourists exploring Chettinadu.
b) Thirumayam Fort : This fort was established by Sethupathi Vijaya Ragunatha Thevar,
the Rajah of Ramanathapuram. It is locally called ‘Oomayan Kottai’ or Fort of the dumb,
referring to Oomayan- the younger brother of a local chieftain Veerapandiya
Kattabomman. It is said that Kattabomman and his brother hid inside this fort during the
struggle against the Britishers. The fort is also home to rock cut temples dedicated to Sri
Sathyamurthy-Sri Uyyavanda Nachiar and Sri Sathyagireeswarar-Sri Venuvaneeswari.
c) Viralimalai Peacock Sanctuary : The peacock is said to be the ancient Dravidian God
Muruga’s ‘vahanam’ or mount. Viralimalai is home to a famous Murugan temple where
the presiding deity is seen sitting with his two consorts. The place is also home to
several wild peacocks that roam in and around the temple. The peacock sanctuary was
established to protect these pheasants.

3. www.chidambaravilas.com
Places to See and Visit in Pudukkottai
d) Sittannavasal : This is a famous rock cut cave temple built by Jain monks around the
7th – 9th century AD. The cave temple is home to exquisitely carved sculptures and
paintings made by the Jain monks.
e) Kodumbalur : This place is also known as Moovarkoil- roughly translated as shrines for
three deities. But out of the three temples, only two survive. Kodumbalur was once
home to Irukkuvelirs- relatives of the Chola dynasty. Every sculpture in each of these
existing shrines is priceless because of its unique cut and work. Besides the Moovar Koil,
there’s also the famous Musukundeshwar Temple.
f) Avudayarkoil : This place isn’t exactly in Pudukkottai, but is 50kms from the place. It is
popular for its temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. There’s also a temple dedicated to Saint
Manikkavakar- a popular saint of the Shaivite movement.
The place is also known for its connection with Chettinadu Culture, especially the cuisine
that makes exotic spices and meat.

4. www.chidambaravilas.com
Thank You
Chidambara Vilas – Luxury Heritage Resort
TSK House, Ramachandrapuram
Kadiapatti, Off Thirumayam Fort, Pudukkottai Dist
Tel: +91 – 4333 – 267 070/71
Mobile: +91 95855 56431