The Srivilliputhur Andal Temple, located in Srivilliputhur, Tamil Nadu, is a significant Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Andal, an incarnation of Goddess Lakshmi. Renowned for its architectural grandeur, particularly the towering Rajagopuram, this temple is one of the 108 Divya Desams and holds a prominent place in Tamil Nadu's religious and cultural landscape. Celebrated for its unique dedication to Andal and its rich historical heritage, the temple draws thousands of devotees and tourists, especially during the vibrant Aadi Pooram festival.
The Srivilliputhur Andal Temple, dedicated to Goddess Andal (an incarnation of Goddess Lakshmi), is a renowned Hindu temple located in Srivilliputhur, Tamil Nadu. It is one of the 108 Divya Desams, the holy abodes of Vishnu. The temple has a rich history and is known for its architectural grandeur, particularly its Rajagopuram, which stands as one of the tallest temple towers in the world.
Temple Speciality:
The temple is unique as it is dedicated to Andal, a revered saint and poetess of Tamil literature. The Rajagopuram (tower) is an iconic symbol and also part of the Tamil Nadu state emblem. The temple's annual festival, Aadi Pooram, is celebrated with great fervor and attracts thousands of devotees.
Temple Address:
Srivilliputhur Andal Temple, Srivilliputhur, Tamil Nadu 626125, India
Temple Location (Longitude and Latitude):
9.5091° N, 77.6312° E
Temple Timings:
- Morning: 6:30 AM to 12:00 PM
- Evening: 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Temple Sevas:
- Thirumanjanam (Abhishekam)
- Archana
- Sahasranama Archana
- Special Poojas during festivals
- Visesha Alankaram (Special Decoration)
Traveling Facilities:
- By Road: Well-connected by road with frequent bus services from nearby cities and towns.
- By Rail: Srivilliputhur has its own railway station with trains from major cities.
- By Air: The nearest airport is Madurai Airport.
Food Facilities:
- Numerous local restaurants and eateries offering traditional South Indian cuisine.
- Prasadam distribution within the temple premises.
Stay Facilities:
- Various lodges and hotels are available in Srivilliputhur.
- Temple-managed guest houses and dharmashalas are also available for pilgrims.
Nearby Railway Station:
- Srivilliputhur Railway Station (Code: SVPR)
Nearby Airport:
- Madurai Airport (IATA: IXM)
Nearby Bus Station:
Bus Routes to Temple:
- Direct buses from Madurai, Chennai, and other major cities in Tamil Nadu.
Train Routes to Temple:
- Direct trains to Srivilliputhur Railway Station from Chennai, Madurai, and other major railway stations in Tamil Nadu.
Airways to Temple:
- Nearest airport is Madurai Airport. From there, one can take a taxi or bus to reach Srivilliputhur.
Nearby Cities to Temple:
- Madurai
- Virudhunagar
- Tirunelveli
Nearby Visiting Temples and Other Places:
- Thiruvannamalai: Another important Divya Desam temple.
- Madurai Meenakshi Amman Temple: A famous temple in Madurai.
- Kutralam Falls: A popular tourist spot known for its scenic beauty and waterfalls.
Shopping Famous For:
- Traditional South Indian handicrafts
- Temple jewelry
- Silk sarees and textiles
This comprehensive guide should help visitors and devotees plan their trip to the Srivilliputhur Andal Temple efficiently.
In conclusion, the Srivilliputhur Andal Temple stands as a testament to Tamil Nadu's rich spiritual and architectural heritage. With its convenient travel facilities, ample accommodation, and nearby attractions, it offers a fulfilling pilgrimage experience. The temple's vibrant festivals, devotional activities, and the serene environment make it a must-visit for those seeking spiritual solace and cultural enrichment. Whether you're exploring the temple's intricate designs or participating in its sacred rituals, a visit to the Srivilliputhur Andal Temple promises a memorable and enriching journey.