The Arulmigu Sri Magudeswarar Temple in Kodumudi, Erode district, Tamil Nadu, is a prominent Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. This sacred site is one of the six temples in the Kongu region praised in the Thevaram hymns. Located on the banks of the Kaveri River, it holds historical significance due to its association with the sage Agastya. The temple is a major pilgrimage destination, easily accessible by road, rail, and nearby airports at Coimbatore and Trichy.
The temple's architecture is grand, stretching 640 feet in length and 484 feet in breadth. Known as Trimurthy Kovil, it houses shrines for Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu, and Lord Brahma. The east-facing temple has three main entrances. Notably, the temple’s central shrine honors Lord Shiva as Kodumudi Nathar and Makuteswarar, while the southern entrance leads to the shrine of Parvathy, known as Panmozhi Nayaki and Soundarambika. The Stala Vriksham is the Vanni tree, and the sacred Kaveri River serves as the temple's Theertham.
The temple's legends are closely tied to sage Agastya. It is believed his fingerprints can be seen on the deity after he stopped the idol from disappearing. Additionally, mythology suggests the temple is linked to the Adiseshan and Vayu’s test of strength, during which precious gems scattered across South India, with a diamond resting here. Agastya's kamandalam is also said to have released the waters that became the Kaveri River, benefiting local farmers.
The Magudeswarar Temple has been patronized by Pandya kings, including Sundarapandiyan Kesari, and it houses several epigraphs documenting royal endowments. Celebrated as one of the 275 Paadal Petra Sthalams, the temple has been praised in the hymns of revered Tamil saints like Sambandar, Appar, and Sundarar. Key festivals include Bhrammotsavam in Chittirai, Aadipperukku, and Thaippoosam, along with special solar illuminations in the sanctum during Panguni and Aavani.