- Month
- August
- Duration
- About a week
- Deity
- Sengazhuneer Amman
- Venue
- Veerampattinam, near Puducherry
When it happens
The festival takes place in August and lasts around six days to a week, running from one Friday to the next. The chariot procession is the high point, and the dates shift slightly each year with the Tamil calendar, so check before you plan.
How it is celebrated
The Lieutenant Governor of Puducherry traditionally opens the car festival, after which devotees take hold of the thick ropes and haul the chariot carrying the goddess. Over the festival days there are processions, padayatras by pilgrims walking to the temple, and devotees carrying pots of milk as offerings.
Many Puducherry families regard Sengazhuneer Amman as their family deity, and they bring sweet pongal and rice payasam to offer at the shrine. Fishing families from the village play a central role in organising the events, and for many of them it is the most important week of the year, when relatives who have moved away return home.
Tips for your visit
The chariot day is very crowded, so keep valuables secure and plan for slow traffic on the approach roads. Dress modestly, carry water, and be ready to leave footwear outside the temple. A quieter visit on one of the other days lets you see the rituals up close.
How to reach
Veerampattinam is a short drive from central Puducherry. Buses from towns across Tamil Nadu run to Puducherry, and from the bus stand or railway station you can take a local bus, auto or taxi to the village. Chennai has the nearest major airport. We can arrange transport from Virudhachalam, Cuddalore or Chennai.
Where to experience it
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