Why is this temple unique?

Nagaraja Temple is one of the rare temples where a serpent deity is the main idol. It uniquely houses both Shiva and Vishnu alongside Nagaraja. The city Nagercoil derives its name from this temple (Nagar = serpent, coil = temple).

What is Noorum Paalum?

Noorum Paalum (turmeric and milk) is the signature offering at this temple. It is offered to the serpent deity and is considered highly auspicious.

Are there live snakes in the temple?

Yes, the temple grounds are home to live cobras that are considered sacred. They are not dangerous and are well-accustomed to the temple environment.

Why is this temple unique?

Nagaraja Temple is one of the rare temples where a serpent deity is the main idol. It uniquely houses both Shiva and Vishnu alongside Nagaraja. The city Nagercoil derives its name from this temple (Nagar = serpent, coil = temple).

What is Noorum Paalum?

Noorum Paalum (turmeric and milk) is the signature offering at this temple. It is offered to the serpent deity and is considered highly auspicious.

Are there live snakes in the temple?

Yes, the temple grounds are home to live cobras that are considered sacred. They are not dangerous and are well-accustomed to the temple environment.

Nagaraja Temple

Nagercoil, Tamil Nadu

Main God

Lord Shiva

Timings

Check locally

Location

Nagercoil

Type

REGIONAL

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About Nagaraja Temple

Nagaraja Temple in Nagercoil is an ancient temple dedicated to the King of Serpents (Nagaraja). It is one of the few temples where serpent worship is the main deity. The temple is famous for its Aayilyam Pooja and the Nagaraja deity wearing a Jain Thirthankara crown.

Darshan Timings

general5:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Darshan Guide

Temple Entry

Enter the ancient Nagaraja (Serpent King) temple. The city of Nagercoil derives its name from this temple.

Nagaraja Darshan

Take darshan of Lord Nagaraja (five-hooded serpent deity) along with images of Shiva and Vishnu - a rare syncretic temple.

Snake Shrines

Visit the various snake deity shrines. The temple has several live cobras that are considered sacred. The Noorum Paalum offering is unique to this temple.

Location & Directions

Nagercoil, Kanyakumari, Tamil Nadu 629001

Get Directions Open in Maps

How to Reach

By Bus

TNSTC and KSRTC buses from Trivandrum (1.5 hours), Kanyakumari (20 km), Madurai (5 hours). Nagercoil Bus Stand near the temple

By Air

Trivandrum International Airport (TRV) - 65 km (1.5 hours)

By Rail

Nagercoil Junction - 2 km from the temple. Connected to Chennai, Trivandrum, Mumbai, and Delhi

Local Transport

Auto-rickshaws within Nagercoil. The temple is centrally located, walkable from the railway station

About the Main God

Lord Shiva

The destroyer and transformer in the Hindu trinity.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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Nagaraja Temple

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Lord Shiva

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