Bangaru Kamakshi Temple, Thanjavur - Timings, History, Darshan, Pooja Timings

At a distance of 2 km from Thanjavur Junction Railway Station, Sri Bangaru Kamakshi Amman Temple is a Hindu Temple in Thanjavur City, Tamil Nadu. Located at the West Main Street, it is one of the famous places to visit in Thanjavur.

Sri Bangaru Kamakshi Amman Temple is dedicated to Goddess Kamakshi. The term 'Bangaru' translates to 'gold', signifying the deity's golden body. However, visitors to the temple will notice that the goddess's face is black. According to local legend, when the idol was relocated from Kanchipuram to Thanjavur to protect it from invaders, a black substance known as 'punugu' was applied to the goddess's face. This practice has been preserved by the temple authorities and has become an integral aspect of the temple's heritage.

Constructed in the 1760s during the reign of Maratha ruler Pratap Singh Bhonsle of Thanjavur, the temple features a rajagopura, mukha mandapa, sanctum sanctorum, and vimana. At the temple's entrance stands a large statue of Lord Ganesha, referred to as 'Varada Maha Ganapati'. The principal deity is recognized as Bangaru Kamakshi Amman, depicted in a standing posture, holding a parrot in her right arm. The idol is indeed golden in hue, though it is traditionally coated with punugu as part of ongoing rituals. Adjacent to the sanctum sanctorum lies the shrine of Kamakodi Amman.

Timings: 6 AM - 12 PM & 4 PM - 8 PM

Entry: Free