Mannarkoil Rajagopala Swamy Temple – Thirunelveli

Address

Mannarkoil Rajagopala Swamy Temple – Thirunelveli

Mannarkoil, Thirunelveli District,

Tamil Nadu- 627413

Phone: +91 4634 252 874 / 318 408

Moolavar

Rajagopala Swamy

Amman

Sri devi, Bhoo devi

Introduction

Location:

• Situated at Mannarkoil near Ambasamudram in Thirunelveli District, Tamil Nadu.
• The temple is on an island bordered by the Thamirabarani River (south) and the Ghatana River (north).

Historical Significance:

• The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is renowned as the Mukthi Sthalam of Sri Kulasekara Azhwar.
• The temple is historically significant for its connection to Rajendra Chola I, who contributed to its construction and renovation.
• The village is called Vedhanarayanpuram due to the constant chanting of Vedic mantras heard in the area.

Kulasekara Azhwar:

• Born in Thiruvanjikalam, Kulasekara Azhwar was a Chera King who later became a devotee of Lord Vishnu.
• He renounced his royal life and dedicated himself to worshipping Lord Rama, settling in Mannarkoil.
• He is known for his hymns in Nalayira Divya Prabhandham, which mention the sacred Shenbaga flowers.
• The temple has a separate shrine dedicated to him.

Sacred Shenbaga Flowers:

• The Shenbaga flower is considered sacred at the temple due to its mention in Kulasekara Azhwar’s hymns.

Avathara Sthalam of Azhagiya Manavala Jeer:

• Mannarkoil is also the birthplace of Vaadhi Kesari Azhagiya Manavala Jeer, who provided detailed explanations of the Divya Prabhandham.

Beliefs:

• Devotees pray for academic success, marital blessings, children’s welfare, and career growth.

Temple Features:

• The temple is east-facing with a single entrance and two prakarams.
• The main deity, Lord Vedanarayana Perumal, is depicted in standing, sitting, and reclining postures.
• There are shrines for Ubhaya Nachiyar (Sri Devi and Bhu Devi), Lord Narasimha, and Visvakshena.
• Women seeking child blessings pass through a hole called “Pillai Thondu”.
• The roof features sculptures of the 12 zodiac signs.

Sacred Trees and Theerthams:

• The temple’s Sthala Vriksham (sacred tree) is a Jack tree.
• Theerthams (holy waters) are the Tamirabarani River, Ghatana River, and Bhrigu Theertham.

Festivals:

• Brahmotsavam (10 days) in Chithirai (April-May).
• Azhvaar Procession in Pushpa Pallakku in Thai (January-February).
• Theppotsavam in Masi (February-March).
• Kaisika Puranam Practice Session for Thirukkurungudi temple.

References

https://tamilnadu-favtourism.blogspot.com

Century/Period

1028- 1043 A.D

Managed By

Hindu Religious & Charitable Endowments Department (HR&CE)

Nearest Bus Station

Mannarkoil

Nearest Railway Station

Thirunelveli and Ambasamudram

Nearest Airport

Madurai and Thiruvananthapuram.

Location on Map

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