Introduction

About 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) north of the Trichy central bus terminus on the Trichy-Chennai NH 45, the Samayapuram Mariamman temple is one of South India’s most popularly visited shrines. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Mariamman, a manifestation of the goddess of shakti (power), associated with health and prosperity. In the early days, Samayapuram was a local capital of the Vijayanagara kingdom in the vicinity of Tiruchirappalli.

The locals are a staunch believer of Goddess Mariamman, believed to possess powers to cure Small Pox and Chicken Pox among other maladies. Legend has it that when Lord Shiva swallowed the Kaalakoota poison he created from that poison Goddess Kali. And Goddess Mariamman is an incarnation of Kali. It is believed that even King Dashratha, Lord Rama’s father used to worship at the Samayapuram Mariamman temple.

Devotees come here with a wish of getting cured of pox, and after recuperating, they return to the shrine to offer mavilakku mavu – a recipe made of jaggery, rice-flour, lentils and ghee, to the deity. Some even offer their gold jewelry. Thai Poosam is the annual temple festival celebrated in the Tamil months of Pankuni and Chittai. Only a week later, the float festival is celebrated with religious fervor.

Special Attributes

The deity is believed to cure the maladies of her devotees.

Nuisance

The site is very peaceful and free of irritants.

Dressing restrictions

Dress modestly. Avoid wearing short or revealing clothes since it is a religious site.

Connectivity

State bus or taxi

Enjoyed by

People who are religiously inclined

Exposure

You will be indoors.

Avoidable Season

Open through the year

Facilities

Basic, plan accordingly

Things Not Allowed

No such restriction

Tip

An early morning visit to the shrine is preferable, before pilgrims begin to trickle in.

Type of site

Hindu shrine/ temple site