The three Shiva temples located near Kulithalai in the Karur district of Tamil Nadu hold great significance. According to tradition, visiting and worshipping at these temples on the same day - in the morning, afternoon, and evening respectively - is considered highly auspicious. The northernmost of the three, Tiru-Eengoi-Malai, sits on the northern bank of the Cauvery River. The other two temples, Tiruvatpokki and Kadambanthurai, are situated on the river's southern bank. The prescribed order of visitation commences with Tirukadambanthurai in the morning, followed by the other two.

The Kadambavaneswarar temple, situated on the banks of the sacred Cauvery River, stands as a unique and remarkable testament to the rich spiritual heritage of the region. Unlike most Shiva temples which traditionally face either east or west, this Temple is oriented towards the north, mirroring the alignment of the renowned Kasi Vishwanath Temple on the banks of the holy Ganges. This distinctive northward orientation sets it apart as the sole temple along the Cauvery to embrace this northerly direction. The temple's architectural grandeur is immediately evident upon approach, with its majestic five-tiered Rajagopuram rising towards the heavens, flanked by an expansive 16-foot mandapam that serves as a grand entrance. As devotees pass through the ornate gopuram gate, they are greeted by a long, inviting mandapam housing the temple's flagpole, altar, and the revered Nandi. Within the outer courtyard, nestled in the north-west corner, lies the sannidhi dedicated to Goddess Mutrila Mulaiammai, her serene countenance facing eastward. Proceeding through the next gate, devotees find themselves in the presence of the sanctum of the presiding deity Kadambavaneswarar. Behind the Linga, are the stone statues of 'Saptha Kanya', a group of seven celestial maidens. It was here the 'Brahmahatti dosha' of these seven maidens were alleviated, and so they take their place behind the deity.

Kadambavaneswarar - Saptha Kanyas at the rear

The inner prakaram of the temple complex is a treasure trove of various sannidhis, dedicated to Vinayaka, Subramanya, Navagraha, Jeshta Devi, the primary four nayanmars, along with stationary and procession idols of all 63 nayanmars. Kasi Viswanath, and Goddess Gajalakshmi, also have their own dedicated spaces within the prakaram. Two striking idols of Somaskandha, depicting Shiva with his consort Parvati and son Skanda, grace the prakaram. Additionally, two captivating Nataraja idols showcase the cosmic dancer in his divine form. Interestingly, one of the Nataraja idols features the demon Muylaka being crushed under the feet, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil, while the other idol does not depict this scene. The sacred Kadamba tree stands as a silent witness to the divine play unfolding within the temple precincts. The Cauvery river is the associated sacred water body, adding to the spiritual aura of the site. This site holds immense significance as it is believed that the presiding deity appeared before the sage Kannuva under the Kadamba tree, granting him a divine vision. The sage Kannuva, along with celestial gods, have worshipped and venerated the deity, seeking blessings and enlightenment. The temple's rich history also includes the worship and veneration by Brahma, Mahavishnu, Muruga, the Saptha Kanyas, and Sage Agasthya. Each of these divine beings and enlightened souls have experienced the grace and benevolence of the presiding deity, adding to the spiritual potency of this ancient temple complex.