Located about 80 km from Madurai, Srivilliputhur is a renowned temple town and one of the 108 Divya Desams dedicated to Lord Vishnu. For devotees and followers of Vaishnavism, Srivilliputhur holds special importance as the sacred land associated with Lord Vishnu, Periyalvar, and Andal. The town is deeply rooted in spiritual tradition and is celebrated for its religious, literary, and cultural contributions.
The temple complex is known for its stunning sculptures and ancient murals, which reflect the artistic excellence of early Tamil craftsmen. Srivilliputhur is especially revered as the birthplace of two monumental works of Tamil devotional literature—“Tiruppavai”, composed by Andal, and “Tirupallandu”, composed by Periyalvar. These hymns, often referred to as part of the Tamil Vedas (Alwar Pasurams), are recited daily during temple rituals. Notably, the state emblem of Tamil Nadu is inspired by the iconic gopuram of this temple.
About the Temple
The Srivilliputhur Andal Temple stands at the heart of Virudhunagar district and is a center of profound spirituality, historical significance, and architectural beauty. Dedicated to Goddess Andal, the revered saint-poetess of the Vaishnava tradition, the temple is one of the most prominent pilgrimage destinations in South India.
The temple is especially famous for its vibrant festivals, with Andal Thiruvadipooram being the most significant, attracting thousands of devotees every year. Architecturally, the temple exemplifies classic Dravidian style, featuring towering gopurams and finely detailed sculptures that highlight the craftsmanship of ancient Tamil artisans.
Beyond its religious importance, the temple serves as a cultural hub, offering insights into traditional rituals, community life, and the spiritual heritage of South India. A visit to Srivilliputhur Andal Temple provides both a deeply devotional experience and an enriching journey through Tamil history and culture.
Temple Information
Entry Fee:
There is no entry fee for visitors.
Darshan Timings:
- Morning: 6:30 AM – 1:00 PM
- Evening: 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM
(Open on all days)
Best Time to Visit:
The most suitable time to visit is from November to February. The temple is also particularly lively during July and August due to major festivals.
Dress Code:
Visitors are advised to wear modest and traditional attire.
- Women: Sarees or kurtis
- Men: Dhotis and shirts
How to Reach Srivilliputhur Andal Temple
By Air:
The nearest airport is Madurai Airport, located approximately 75 km away. From there, taxis and app-based cab services are available.
By Train:
Srivilliputhur Railway Station is about 5 km from the temple. Auto-rickshaws, taxis, and local buses provide easy connectivity.
By Road:
Frequent bus services operate from major towns such as Madurai and Virudhunagar to Srivilliputhur. From the bus stand, local transport can be used to reach the temple.