Sri Somesar temple is located in the village named Keel Pazhayarai Vadadhali in the district of Thanjavur, in the state of Tamil Nadu in South India. The primary deity of this temple is Somesar (Lord Shiva) and his consort is Somakalambikai.
The holy tree of this temple is Gooseberry (Nelli). The holy water of this temple is Soma Theertham and also one created by Garuda, vehicle of Lord Vishnu. The agamam or pooja of this temple is known as Kameeyam. This temple is nearly 1000-2000 years old in this region. The historical name of this place is Pazhayarai Vadadhali.
According to religious experts and pundits, “Praised by saint Tirunavukkarasar in his Thevaram hymns. My hands get life on seeing My blue necked Lord at Pazhayarai Who condemned those goondas Knowing not His Supremacy is supremH This is the 24th temple in the southern bank of Cauvery praised in Thevaram hymns.”
The festivals of this temple are Mahashivarathri in February-March, Tirukarthikai in November-December, Poornima in Aipasi (October-November), Margazhi Tiruvadhirai in December-January that are celebrated in grand manner.
The main deity is Swayambumurthy in the temple. In the shape of a Rath-car, the temple is built. In this temple, Adisesha the snake bed of Lord Vishnu and Garuda the vehicle of Lord Vishnu are worshipped. The temple is open from 6.00 a.m. to 11.00 a.m. and 4.00 p.m. to 8.30 p.m for pilgrims and devotees. In the outer corridor (prakara) of the temple, the Shrine of Goddess is facing towards south. People with devotion and dedication visit this temple from far and near.