Alwarkurichi Kulasekhara Alwar Temple – Thirunelveli

Address

Alwarkurichi Kulasekhara Alwar Temple – Thirunelveli

Alwarkurichi,

Thirunelveli District,

Tamil Nadu 627412

Moolavar

Kulasekhara Alwar

Introduction

1. Location:
   • Situated in Alwarkurichi Village, near Tenkasi town, Thirunelveli District, Tamil Nadu.
   • The village is named after Kulasekhara Alwar, who spent his last years in this area.
2. Accessibility:
   • Located about 14 km from Ambasamudram.
   • Nearest railway stations: Tenkasi, Veeravanallur, Ambasamudram.
   • Nearest airports: Madurai and Thiruvananthapuram.
3. Historical Significance:
   • Kulasekhara Alwar was one of the twelve Alwars and a king who ruled parts of modern-day Kerala.
   • He is believed to have lived in the 9th century CE and was a great devotee of Lord Vishnu.
4. Temple Features:
   • The temple is believed to be over 1500 years old.
   • Main shrine dedicated to Kulasekhara Alwar.
   • Small sub-shrine with an idol of Garuda, facing the main shrine.
   • The temple does not have a tower (gopuram), making it simpler compared to many other temples.
5. Puranic Significance:
   • Kulasekhara Alwar is credited with composing hymns in praise of Lord Vishnu, including the famous Mukunda Mala.
   • The temple marks the spot where he spent his final years and attained spiritual liberation.
   • The nearby Mannar Kovil is where Kulasekhara Alwar attained Samadhi.
6. Current Status:
   • The temple is relatively unknown and rarely visited, despite its historical and spiritual significance.

References

https://tamilnadu-favtourism.blogspot.com/2017/03/kulasekhara-alwar-temple-alwarkurichi.html

Century/Period

1500 years old

Managed By

Hindu Religious & Charitable Endowments Department (HR&CE)

Nearest Bus Station

Alwarkurichi

Nearest Railway Station

Tenkasi, Veeravanallur and Ambasamudram.

Nearest Airport

Madurai and Thiruvananthapuram.

Location on Map

lightuptemple