It is one of the biggest temples and most important religious sites dedicated to Shiva but the most famous deity in this temple is Goddess Durga, a guardian deity of this temple. The temple is famous for many mythological stories.
According to legend, the divine cow Kamadhenu’s daughter Patti is said to have worshipped Lord Shiva here. Sage Viswamitra got the title of Brahma Rishi at this place. Sri Rama is said to have worshipped Shiva here to absolve himself from sins.
It is said that God Shiva asked Nandi to move aside so that he can see Sambandar when he comes to this temple. This is why Nandi is not seen in a straight line facing the sanctum sanctorum.
The well called Koti Theertham was created by Lord Rama and is considered to be equivalent to Dhanushkodi near Rameswaram. This temple attracts devotees who have Rahu and Kethu dosh.
The annual ten-day festival held in December-January, Vaikasi festival, Navarathri and Muthu Pandal Festival are the important festivals celebrated at this temple.