Thiruchendur (Tiruchendur) Murugan Temple: Legend, Festivals and Visit Guide
Thiruchendur, also written Tiruchendur, is the seashore temple of Lord Murugan in Thoothukudi district and the second of the six Arupadai Veedu abodes in the usual order. It is the best-known site of Soorasamharam, the sixth-day victory over Surapadman that Kanda Sashti celebrates every year.
By Dr. Mekhala V Jois · Last updated: 27 October 2026
Thiruchendur at a Glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Position | One of the six Arupadai Veedu, listed number 2 |
| District | Thoothukudi district |
| Deity | Lord Subramanya (Subrahmanyar) |
| Known for | The seashore temple of the Soorasamharam |
| Distinctive feature | The only one of the six abodes on the seashore |
| Major festivals | Kanda Sashti with Soorasamharam; Aadi Krithigai with kavadi |
| Nearest major city | Thoothukudi |
| Also written as | Tiruchendur, Thiruchendhur, Senthil Andavar temple |
| Timings | Confirm with the temple. Timings change in festival weeks |
The Legend of Thiruchendur
Why Thiruchendur is one of the six abodes
Thiruchendur is the place where, in tradition, Murugan camped by the sea and fought Surapadman. It is the only one of the six abodes built on the seashore, and it is where the Soorasamharam is enacted on the sixth day of Kanda Sashti before vast crowds.
The festival has a distinct structure. Devotees fast for six days, and the Soorasamharam takes place at the sea edge. The next day, Thirukalyanam celebrates Murugan’s wedding. Aadi Krithigai is also marked here with kavadi offerings.
Thiruchendur and Skanda Sashti
Thiruchendur is the heart of Kanda Sashti. Very large crowds gather on Soorasamharam day, and the temple opens in the early hours during the festival. Plan well ahead and confirm timings with the temple, because arrangements change each year.
For the 2026 dates and the vratam, see the Skanda Sashti 2026 guide. The wider legend is in the Soorasamharam story.
Planning a Visit to Thiruchendur
Confirm timings first. Darshan timings and special queues change in festival weeks, so check with the temple before you travel.
Dress and footwear. Many Tamil Nadu temples have dress codes. Check before you go and wear modest clothing.
Plan around crowds. Festival days bring very large crowds. Allow extra time, especially in Sashti week.
Combine with nearby temples. See the pilgrimage planner for routes that include Thiruchendur.
Next on the Arupadai Veedu
Previous: Thiruparankundram. Next: Palani. See all six on the Arupadai Veedu guide.
Thiruchendur Murugan Temple: Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Thiruchendur special for Skanda Sashti?
It is the best-known site of Soorasamharam. Tradition places Murugan’s battle with Surapadman here, on the seashore, and the sixth-day ceremony of Kanda Sashti is enacted at the sea edge before very large crowds.
Is Thiruchendur the same as Tiruchendur?
Yes. Thiruchendur and Tiruchendur are two English spellings of the same temple in Thoothukudi district. You will also see Thiruchendhur, and the deity is often called Senthil Andavar in Tamil.
When is Soorasamharam at Thiruchendur in 2026?
Soorasamharam falls on Sunday 15 November 2026, the sixth day of Kanda Sashti, which begins on 10 November. Confirm the ceremony timings and darshan arrangements with the temple before you travel.
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