कुम्भकोणम्

This is one of the Pancharanga kshetrams. This is also called Bhaskara kshetram.

The presiding deity Aaravamudhan is in the reclining posture, called Udhana Sayanam, as it is believed that He got up at the request of Tirumazhisai Azhwar. Utsavar Sarangapani is depicted with the sarangam bow in His hand. The Thayar is Komalavalli. The Theertham is Hema pushkarini and the Vimanam Vaideeka Vimanam. This Vimanam is considered to be the offshoot of the Srirangam Pranava Vimanam. This temple is given the third place next to Srirangam and Tirupati.

The shrine is constructed in black granite stone in the form of a chariot with wheels drawn by horses and elephants. There are two entrances to the sanctum. One is kept open throughout Uttarayana period and the other during the Dakshinayana period.

The legend has it that Brighu maharshi entered Vaikuntam and not being welcomed by Lord Vishnu, out of arrogance kicked Him on His chest. Enraged by this Lakshmi left for the earth and settled down on the banks of Hemapushkarini. Brugu maharshi was reborn as Hema Rishi and offered penance. Lakshmi was reborn as his daughter in the lotus tank. Hema Rishi offered his daughter in marriage to Sarangapani.

There is a temple dedicated to Chakrapani with Ashtabhuja and He is considered to be the younger brother of Lord Aravamuda.It is at this temple that Nadamuni was inspired to compile the works of Azhwars upon listening to the Tamil hymn "Aravamude" composed by Nammazhwar, and hence the name of Aravamuda Azhwan to the presiding deity.

Chola kings built the super structures of the huge gopuram - 140 feet high - that were completed by the Vijayanagara rulers. This temple has exquisite carvings and there are sculptures in the first tier of the gopuram, depicting the Bharata Natya karanas, as enunciated in the Natya Sastrams. The annual brahmotsavam is celebrated in the Tamil months of Thai and Chitirai, Vasanthotsavam in Vaigasi. There are colourful festive celebrations throughout the year such as Pavithrotsavam, Navarathri, Maasi Makham, and Dolotsavam in Margazhi. The grand float festival in the Hema Pushkarani is a must to be witnessed.