I had heard about Thirukadaiyur Temple (Amirdha Kadeswarar Temple) earlier, the place where elderly couples celebrate their 60th, 70th, and 80th marriage, praying for a longer, happier life together.
I started early around 5 am on the Mysore Express from Thanjavur via train and reached Mayiladuthurai, the nearest railway station. From there, the temple is about 21 kilometers. The local bus ride felt slow, the roads narrow, so I decided to take an auto.
Historic Story Behind Thirukadaiyur Temple
“This temple is tied to the story of Markandeya. He was destined to live only 16 years. When Yama, the god of death, came to claim him, the boy strongly held on to Lord Shiva’s Lingam here. Shiva struck Yama, saving Markandeya. That is why this place is believed to grant long life.”
The shrine of Abirami Amman was equally respected here as the main God. “She gives blessings to couples, to families. That is why so many people come here for marriages and renewal rituals.”
The temple is maintained by Dharmapuram Adheenam and it is 1000 to 2000 years old.
Thirukadaiyur temple rituals
A couple, both in their 60s with their wedding attire, sat on decorated seats as a marriage ritual. Relatives surrounded them, clapping softly as priests guided the rituals. This was the famous Shastipoorthi puja, also called the 60th marriage ceremony.
Garlands were exchanged again, turmeric water was sprinkled, and the couple looked as if they were starting their journey fresh. It was touching to watch.
Someone whispered near me that the Thirukadaiyur Temple 60th marriage price depends on the ritual package. A simple version with Ayush Homam costs around ₹8,500 to ₹30,000, while the full set with Kalasa Abhishekam costs more. Many families book in advance on the Thirukadaiyur temple official website.
Apart from 60th marriage (Shastipoorthi), the temple also performs 70th marriage (Bheema Ratha Shanthi) and 80th marriage (Sathabhishekam) ceremonies for couples crossing these milestones.
Service Fee Details (Sevai Kattana Vivaram) for the Sri Abirami Amman Sametha Amirthaghateswarar Swamy Temple in Thirukkadaiyur
| Service Description | Fee (₹) |
| Archana Fee (Per Ticket) | 5 |
| Garland Exchange (Maalai Maatrukkal) | 100 |
| Saree/Dhoti Offering (Vastram) | 100 |
| Child Adoption Ritual (Kulandhai Thathu) | 100 |
| New Jewelry Puja & Offering | 100 |
| Tonsuring (Hair Offering) / Ear Piercing | 300 |
| Thiruvadi Marriage (Garland exchange at Goddess’s feet) | 300 |
| Kattalai Archana (For 12 months) | 700 |
| First Marriage (Mudhal Thirumanam) | 1,001 |
| Pearl Armor (Muthu Angi) for Goddess | 1,000 |
| Navaratna Armor (Navaratna Angi) for Goddess | 2,000 |
| Silver Chariot Procession (Velli Ratha Purappadu) | 2,000 |
| 60th, 70th, & 80th Birthday Marriages (Temple Fee) | 2,001 |
| Abishekam (Swamy & Ambal) including Archana | 2,000 |
| Annadhanam (For 100 people) | 3,500 |
Thirukadaiyur Temple (Shastiapthapoorthi) 60th Wedding Rituals & Costs
| Package | Cost | What’s Included | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full Wedding | ₹15,000 to 70,000 | 3 priests, homam, kalasam ritual, mangalsutra tying, archanai, darshan at main shrine, melam, maalai, puja items. | Family must bring varisai thattu (your choice), sari, vesti, and shirt for the couple. |
| Simple Wedding | ₹8,500 to 30,000 | Mangalsutra tying in front of deity, archanai. | Basic rituals. |
Note: Price can vary according to the rituals done.
Extra Expenses (beyond package cost)
- Priests: ₹600 (₹200 each)
- Kalasam bath: ₹200 dropped in sieve
- Cleaning ladies (wet clothes): ₹100
- Cow and elephant puja: ₹100 each
- Framed photo and coconuts: ₹200
- Helper near Muneeswaran statue: asks for dakshina
- Coordinator (guides during rituals): ₹200
Total extra: around ₹1,600
Photography
- Local photographers charge about ₹2,500 for 2 hours
- Deliver 30 to 40 photos
Tips for Travelers
- Travel Route Option: The temple is in Nagapattinam district, Tamil Nadu. Nearest railway station is Mayiladuthurai Junction (21 km). If you are coming from Chidambaram it is (48 km), Tiruvannamalai(207 km). Local Buses, Autos and taxis are easily available.
- Temple Timings: Morning Opening time is 6 AM to 1 PM, 1 PM to 4 PM(Closing Time) evening opening time is 4 PM to 9 PM. Special days may have extended hours.
- Nearby Spots: Tirumanancheri temple (for marriage blessings), Chidambaram temple (Nataraja), Mayiladuthurai town, Keelaperumpallam, Thiruvengadu, and Thirunallar.
Final Thoughts
I arrived curious, expecting only to see rituals. I left carrying stories. The priest’s voice when he told me about Markandeya. The man at the tank speaking of lightness. The flower seller who had watched love renew itself countless times.
If someone asks, “What is the significance of Thirukadaiyur Temple?” I would say it is not only about defeating Yama or celebrating milestones. It is about hope. A place where people pause, breathe, and feel like life can be stretched a little longer.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much time is required for Ayusha Homam?
2 to 3 hours to perform complete rituals.
Who is the main God in Thirukkadaiyur Temple?
Amirdha Kadeswarar is Moolavar.
How old is Thirukkadaiyur Temple?
1000 to 2000 years old.
What is the cost of Ayushya Homa Thirukkadaiyur Temple?
15,000 INR to 50,000 INR.
How much time is required for Ayusha Homam?
2 to 3 hours to perform complete rituals.
Who is the main God in Thirukkadaiyur Temple?
Amirdha Kadeswarar is Moolavar.
How old is Thirukkadaiyur Temple?
1000 to 2000 years old.
What is the cost of Ayushya Homa Thirukkadaiyur Temple?
15,000 INR to 50,000 INR.
What is Shastiapthapoorthi?
Shastiapthapoorthi is a special marriage ceremony when a man turns 60. The couple celebrates their marriage again and prays for good health, long life, and happiness.
