The historic town of Mannargudi in Tamil Nadu, the Sri Rajagopalaswamy Temple stands as a splendid symbol of devotion, art, and architecture. Revered as the Dakshina Dwaraka (Southern Dwaraka), this temple is dedicated to Lord Rajagopalaswamy, a form of Lord Krishna. With its towering gopuram, vast temple complex, and intricate carvings, the temple attracts thousands of devotees and tourists alike every year. A visit to this temple not only offers spiritual solace but also a rich experience of Tamil Nadu's cultural and religious heritage.
Temple About The Rajagopalaswamy Temple, also known as Mannargudi Rajagopalaswamy Temple, is a grand Vishnu temple located in Mannargudi, Tamil Nadu. It is dedicated to Sri Rajagopalaswamy, a form of Lord Krishna.
Temple Description
This temple was originally built by the Chola dynasty and later greatly expanded under the Vijayanagara kings. It spans over 23 acres, making it one of the largest temple complexes in South India. The majestic 11-tiered Rajagopuram stands at 154 feet. The sanctum houses Lord Rajagopalaswamy with his consorts Rukmini and Satyabhama. The temple’s elaborate mandapams, stone pillars, and sacred tanks are architectural marvels.
Temple Speciality
Known as Dakshina Dwaraka (Southern Dwaraka)
Features one of the largest temple cars (rathas) in Tamil Nadu
Grand celebration of Panguni Brahmotsavam
Famous for the deity's charming smile and royal ornaments
Houses the beautiful Thiruvengadamudayan Mandapam
Temple Address & Location
Sri Rajagopalaswamy Temple, East Street, Mannargudi, Tiruvarur District, Tamil Nadu – 614001, India
Location Coordinates: 10.6741° N, 79.4505° E
Temple Timings
Morning: 6:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Evening: 4:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Temple Sevas
Daily Archana, Abhishekam, and Sahasranama Archana
Thirumanjanam and special poojas during festivals
Annadanam (free meals) on select days
Utsavams during Panguni Brahmotsavam and other Vaishnavite festivals
Traveling Facilities
Well-connected by road, rail, and nearby airport
Town transport: Auto-rickshaws, taxis, and local buses available
Food Facilities
Prasadam served at the temple
Many vegetarian hotels nearby
Traditional Tamil Nadu-style meals easily available
Stay Facilities
Budget hotels, lodges, and temple guest houses in Mannargudi
Additional options in Tiruvarur, Thanjavur, and Kumbakonam
Nearby Railway Station
Mannargudi Railway Station – approx. 1.5 km
Nearby Airport
Tiruchirappalli International Airport (TRZ) – approx. 97 km
Nearby Bus Station
Mannargudi Central Bus Stand – approx. 1 km
Bus Routes to Temple
Direct buses from Chennai, Trichy, Thanjavur, Kumbakonam, Tiruvarur, Nagapattinam
Train Routes to Temple
Direct trains from Chennai Egmore, Thanjavur, Trichy, Mayiladuthurai, Kumbakonam
Airways to Temple
Fly to Tiruchirappalli Airport, then travel by taxi or bus to Mannargudi (approx. 2–2.5 hrs)
Nearby Cities to Temple
Tiruvarur (20 km)
Thanjavur (40 km)
Kumbakonam (55 km)
Nagapattinam (60 km)
Tiruchirappalli (97 km)
Nearby Visiting Temples & Attractions
Thyagaraja Temple, Tiruvarur
Brihadeeswarar Temple, Thanjavur
Sarangapani Temple, Kumbakonam
Oppiliappan Temple, Thirunageswaram
Velankanni Church, Nagapattinam
Navagraha Temples around Kumbakonam
Best Time to Visit
November to March (pleasant climate)
Panguni month (March–April) for Brahmotsavam
Avoid peak summer (April–June) due to high temperatures
Shopping – Famous For
Bronze idols and temple handicrafts
Traditional sweets and savories
Handloom products and Koorainadu sarees
Local herbal and ayurvedic products
The Rajagopalaswamy Temple in Mannargudi is more than a sacred shrine—it's a living monument to centuries of devotional fervor, royal patronage, and artistic excellence. Whether you're a pilgrim, a history enthusiast, or a traveler seeking divine peace, this temple offers an unforgettable journey. With easy accessibility, nearby facilities, and a deeply rooted cultural significance, it remains one of the must-visit spiritual destinations in South India. A visit here is not just a darshan, but a divine experience etched in timeless tradition.
