About Gangai Varaha Natheeswarar Temple
Gangai Varaha Natheeswarar Temple is an ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located in Thirukanchi village, Villianur Commune, Puducherry. The presiding deity is worshipped as Gangai Varaha Natheeswarar with consort Kokilambigai. Notable for its Dravidian architecture, sacred temple tank and Chola-period origins, it is one of the oldest and most revered Shiva temples in the Puducherry region.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a traditional South Indian Shiva temple complex with an east-facing sanctum, pillared mandapams, Nandi statue, shrine for Goddess Kokilambigai, and a temple tank. The surroundings are quiet and village-like, with stone inscriptions and Dravidian architectural details. Visitors can observe daily poojas, explore the courtyard and outer prakaram, and experience a calm devotional atmosphere.
Key highlights
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Ancient Shiva temple in Thirukanchi near Villianur, Puducherry
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Presiding deity Gangai Varaha Natheeswarar with Goddess Kokilambigai (Gangai Amman)
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Dravidian architecture with east-facing sanctum, mandapams and temple tank
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Associated with legend of Varaha avatar bringing Ganga water to worship Shiva
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Believed to date to the Chola period (10th-11th century) with later additions