The Adikesava Perumal Temple in Thiruvattar, Tamil Nadu, is one of the oldest and most sacred Vaishnavite temples in South India. Celebrated as one of the 108 Divya Desams (holy abodes of Lord Vishnu), the temple is steeped in spiritual significance, architectural brilliance, and historical legacy. Situated in a serene location where three rivers converge, the temple attracts pilgrims, heritage lovers, and travelers alike. This guide provides a complete overview of the temple, including its history, visiting details, travel options, and nearby attractions to help plan your visit meaningfully.
Temple About
Adikesava Perumal Temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and revered in the hymns of the Alwars. Located in Thiruvattar, Kanyakumari district, it holds great spiritual value in the Vaishnavite tradition.
Temple Description
The temple showcases early Dravidian architecture with a sanctum facing west. Lord Vishnu is seen in a grand Anantha Sayanam (reclining) posture. The idol is made using 16,008 Salagrama stones. The temple also features a large corridor, intricate wooden ceilings, and scenes from epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata.
Temple Speciality
One of the earliest temples dedicated to Vishnu in South India
Lord Vishnu in reclining posture similar to Padmanabhaswamy of Thiruvananthapuram
Surrounded on three sides by rivers Kothai, Parali, and Thamirabarani
Exquisite wooden ceiling carvings and stone sculptures
Entry to sanctum limited to Hindus, but others may enter outer corridors
Temple Address
Adikesava Perumal Temple,Thiruvattar,Kanyakumari District,Tamil Nadu – 629177, India.
Temple Location (Latitude & Longitude)
8.3067° N, 77.3243° E
Temple Timings
Morning: 6:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Evening: 5:00 PM – 7:30 PM
Temple Sevas
Archana and Abhishekam for the main deity
Alankaram, Deepa Aradhana, and Sahasranama Archana
Special poojas on Vaikunta Ekadasi, Panguni Uthiram, and festive days
Prasadam distribution available
Traveling Facilities
Accessible via road from Nagercoil, Trivandrum, and Marthandam
Local autos and jeeps available from Kuzhithurai and Marthandam
Well-connected by train and bus routes
Food Facilities
Local vegetarian eateries and tea shops available
Temple offers prasadam on special occasions
Restaurants in Nagercoil and Marthandam for wider options
Stay Facilities
Budget lodges and basic accommodations near Thiruvattar
Comfortable hotels in Nagercoil (20 km) and Thiruvananthapuram (50 km)
Nearby Railway Stations
Kuzhithurai Railway Station – 3.5 km
Nagercoil Junction – 20 km
Nearby Airport
Trivandrum International Airport – 50 km away
Nearby Bus Station
Thiruvattar Bus Stop – walkable distance from the temple
Buses from nearby towns run frequently
Bus Routes to Temple
From Nagercoil → Thiruvattar
From Thiruvananthapuram → Marthandam → Thiruvattar
From Kuzhithurai → Thiruvattar
Train Routes to Temple
Trains from Chennai, Madurai, Trivandrum to Kuzhithurai or Nagercoil
Autos or buses to the temple from stations
Airways to Temple
Fly to Trivandrum International Airport
Take a taxi or direct bus to Thiruvattar (approx. 1.5 hours)
Nearby Cities
Nagercoil – 20 km
Marthandam – 10 km
Thiruvananthapuram – 50 km
Nearby Visiting Temples & Places
Padmanabhapuram Palace – 6 km
Thirparappu Falls – 10 km
Mathur Hanging Bridge – 12 km
Suchindram Temple – 25 km
Kanyakumari (Sunrise point, Vivekananda Rock) – 35 km
Preferable Visiting Season
October to March – Pleasant and ideal for pilgrimage
Shopping Famous For
Wooden handicrafts, religious souvenirs
Banana chips, spices, and coir products from the Kerala border region
Local textiles and herbal items
A visit to Adikesava Perumal Temple offers a unique blend of divinity, tradition, and serenity. With its rich heritage, serene setting amidst rivers, and proximity to many cultural and natural sites, Thiruvattar is more than just a pilgrimage it's an enriching spiritual journey. Whether you're a devout pilgrim or a heritage traveler, this ancient temple stands as a testament to South India's timeless devotion and temple architecture. Make sure to plan your visit during the cooler months and soak in the divinity, heritage, and warmth of this sacred destination.
