Thirukkoodal Sri Koodalazhagar Temple, Madurai

Address

Thirukkoodal Sri Koodalazhagar Temple, Madurai District- – 625 001, Phone : 91- 452 2338542

Deity

Koodal Azhagar Amman: Maragatha Valli

Introduction

• Koodal Alagar Temple is located in the heart of Madurai city, Tamil Nadu.
• It is one of the 108 Divya Desams dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
• The temple follows the Vaikhanasa Agama tradition and is renowned for its Ashtanga Vimanam.
• Lord Vishnu is worshipped here in three forms: sitting, standing, and reclining.
• The temple also features a Navagraha Sannidhi.
• It is near two other famous temples: Meenakshi Amman Temple and Thiruparankundram Subramanya Swamy Temple.

Puranic Significance

• Madurai, historically known as Koodal or Alavai, was the capital of the ancient Pandya Kingdom.
• The temple is associated with the third Tamil Sangam, where Tamil scholars gathered.
• The presiding deity, Koodal Alagar, is worshipped by Alwars like Periyalwar, Thirumangai Alwar, and Thirumalisai Alwar.
• Periyalwar sang “Thiruppallandu” here, establishing Lord Vishnu’s supremacy before the Pandya king Vallaba Thevan.
• The temple’s history is detailed in the Brahmanda Purana and Khatli Vana Setra Mahatmya.
• The Ashtanga Vimanam symbolizes the eight-syllable mantra “Om Namo Narayanaya.”

Beliefs

• Devotees visit the temple to seek blessings for marriage, children, and education.
• A unique offering is made by presenting milk to the presiding goddess (Thayar) and fulfilling vows.

Special Features

• Madurai is home to Koodal Alagar, one of the 108 Divya Desams of Lord Vishnu.
• The temple’s Ashtanga Vimanam is 125 feet high and is one of only two such structures in the 108 Divya Desams.
• The Vimanam rises in eight parts and is designed to symbolize the eight-letter mantra “Om Namo Narayanaya.”
• The temple has shrines for Andal, Chakratahlvar, Navagraha, Alwars, Acharyas, Manavala Mamunis, Vishwakshenar, and other deities.
• A model sculpture of the solar chariot is carved on the perimeter wall.

Festivals

• Vaikunda Ekadasi
• Navratri

Century/Period/Age

1000-2000 years old

Managed By

Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HRCE)

Nearest Bus Station

Thirukkoodal

Nearest Railway Station

Madurai

Nearest Airport

Madurai

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