Located in Nanguneri, Tirunelveli district, the Thothathrinathan Perumal Temple is one of the 108 Divya Desams dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It holds immense significance as it has been glorified in the hymns of the Azhwars. The temple is renowned for its spiritual significance, ancient history, and remarkable architectural features, making it a revered pilgrimage site for Vaishnavites and devotees alike.
Temple History and Mythological Legends :
Legend of Thothathrinathan Perumal :
According to legends, Lord Vishnu manifested in this sacred place as Thothathrinathan, blessing his devotees. The term “Thothathri” translates to “a place where divine wisdom is attained.” Hence, this temple is revered as a Moksha (liberation) granting shrine. Additionally, as Periya Perumal (Vishnu) and Thayar (Lakshmi Devi) reside here, devotees believe that they receive divine protection and blessings.
Contributions of Pandya Kings and Temple Development :
The temple received immense patronage from the Pandya Kings, who took special care in its maintenance and expansion. Later, Raja Raja Chola and the Nayak rulers further enhanced its grandeur and architectural beauty.
Temple Architecture :
The Thothathrinathan Perumal Temple is a remarkable example of Dravidian architecture, adorned with intricate sculptures and artistic grandeur.
Key Architectural Features :
- Magnificent Rajagopuram: The temple’s seven-tiered towering gateway is adorned with exquisite carvings.
- Sanctum Sanctorum: Thothathrinathan Perumal enshrined in a standing posture, blessing devotees.
- Sacred Theertham (Temple Tank): The temple has a Pushkarani (sacred pond) believed to have divine healing properties, purifying devotees of their sins and ailments.
Deities and Their Locations:
- Thothathrinathan Perumal (Main Deity) – Enshrined in the Garbhagriha (sanctum sanctorum) in a standing posture.
- Maha Lakshmi Thayar – Housed in a separate shrine within the temple complex.
- Garuda (Vahana of Lord Vishnu) – Positioned near the entrance to protect devotees.
- Anjaneya (Hanuman) – Placed in a small shrine near the temple corridor.
- Vishwaksena (Commander of Vishnu’s army) – Located near the sanctum.
- Navagrahas (Nine Planets) – Positioned in a dedicated mandapam within the premises.
Major Festivals :
The Thothathrinathan Perumal Temple celebrates various grand festivals throughout the year:
- Vaikunta Ekadasi: Devotees pass through the “Swarga Vasal” (Gateway to Heaven) to receive divine blessings.
- Purattasi Saturdays: Special prayers and rituals dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
- Panguni Utsavam: The grand procession of the beautifully adorned deity.
- Garuda Seva: Lord Vishnu is carried in a majestic procession on Garuda Vahana.
Temple Timings :
- Morning: 6:00 AM – 12:00 PM
- Evening: 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Unique Features of the Temple :
- One of the 108 Divya Desams: A highly revered Vaishnavite pilgrimage site.
- Sacred Temple Tank: Believed to have spiritual and healing significance.
- Azhwar Connection: The temple has been glorified in the hymns of the Azhwars.
- Serene Spiritual Atmosphere: Provides divine tranquility and solace to devotees.
How to Reach the Temple?
- Location: Nanguneri, Tirunelveli district, Tamil Nadu
- Nearest Railway Station: Nanguneri Railway Station (~2 km)
- Nearest Airport: Tuticorin Airport (~40 km)
- By Road: Well connected by buses and private vehicles from Tirunelveli, Madurai, and Kanyakumari.
Devotees’ Experiences :
Visitors to this temple often share divine spiritual experiences, relief from hardships, and a sense of peace. Devotees believe that seeking the blessings of Thothathrinathan Perumal helps remove obstacles and brings prosperity.
Contact Information :
- Address: Sri Thothathrinathan Perumal Temple, Nanguneri, Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu