Overview: The Sri Vaikuntanatha Perumal Temple, also known as Thiru Vaikuntam, is one of the 108 Divya Desams, which are the holy abodes of Lord Vishnu mentioned in the early medieval Tamil canon of the Alvars. The temple is located in the small town of Thiru Vaikuntam in the Thoothukudi district of Tamil Nadu, India. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the temple holds significant religious importance and is known for its unique architecture and historical significance.
Historical Significance:
- The temple is believed to have been built during the early Pandya period, with contributions from later Chola and Vijayanagara rulers.
- The Alvar saints, particularly Nammalvar, have sung praises of the deity in their hymns, elevating the temple’s status as a Divya Desam.
- The temple has been associated with various legends, particularly one where Lord Vishnu is said to have appeared as Vaikuntanatha to protect his devotee from the evil king Virochana.
Architecture:
- The temple exhibits Dravidian architecture with a towering Rajagopuram (main gateway tower) at the entrance.
- The sanctum houses the main deity, Vaikuntanatha Perumal (a form of Lord Vishnu), in a standing posture facing east.
- The temple complex includes a series of mandapams (pillared halls) and smaller shrines dedicated to various deities, including Lord Rama, Lord Krishna, and Goddess Lakshmi.
- The temple tank, known as the Vaikunta Theertham, is located within the complex and is considered sacred by devotees.
Deity:
- The presiding deity of the temple is Sri Vaikuntanatha Perumal, who is worshipped in the form of Vishnu. The deity is depicted in a standing posture, holding a conch (shankha) and discus (chakra) in his hands.
- The goddess worshipped here is Vaikuntavalli Thayar, the consort of Lord Vishnu.
Festivals:
- Vaikunta Ekadasi: This is the most significant festival celebrated at the temple. It is believed that on this day, the gateway to the divine abode of Vishnu, Vaikunta, is opened. Devotees flock to the temple to pass through the “Sorgavasal” (Heaven’s Gates) for divine blessings.
- Brahmotsavam: An annual festival celebrated with grandeur, involving various processions, rituals, and cultural events.
Legends and Beliefs:
- According to legend, the temple is where Lord Vishnu appeared to his devotee, the saint Nammazhwar, as Vaikuntanatha to protect him from the evil king Virochana. The temple is said to have been established at this spot to commemorate this divine event.
- Another legend narrates that the temple served as a sanctuary for the Pandavas during their exile.
Visiting the Temple:
- Location: Thiru Vaikuntam is approximately 30 kilometers from Tirunelveli and about 110 kilometers from Thoothukudi.
- Timings: The temple is open to devotees from 6:30 AM to 12:00 PM and from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM.
- Dress Code: Traditional attire is recommended for visiting the temple. Men are expected to wear dhotis, and women should wear sarees or salwar kameez.
- Best Time to Visit: The ideal time to visit is during the Vaikunta Ekadasi festival or the winter months, from November to February, to avoid the scorching summer heat.
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Tuticorin Airport, which is about 60 kilometers away. Madurai Airport, approximately 170 kilometers away, is another option with better connectivity.
- By Train: The nearest railway station is Thiru Vaikuntam, which is well-connected to major cities like Chennai, Madurai, and Tirunelveli.
- By Road: The temple is accessible by road, with regular bus services and taxis available from nearby cities like Tirunelveli and Thoothukudi.
Nearby Attractions:
- Nava Tirupati Temples: Thiru Vaikuntam is one of the nine Vishnu temples located along the banks of the Thamirabarani River, collectively known as the Nava Tirupati temples. Visiting all nine temples is considered highly auspicious.
- Tirunelveli: A historic city known for its temples, waterfalls, and rich cultural heritage, located about 30 kilometers from Thiru Vaikuntam.
Sri Vaikuntanatha Perumal Temple at Thiru Vaikuntam is not just a spiritual destination but also a place of historical and architectural importance, offering devotees and visitors a glimpse into the rich religious traditions of Tamil Nadu.