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Divya Desam

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The Ranganathaswamy Temple, located in Srirangam, is the first of the Divya Desams.

Divya Desam (Sanskrit: दिव्यदेशम्, Tamil: திவ்ய தேசம்) or Vaishnava Divya Desams[1] are the 108 Vishnu and Lakshmi temples that are mentioned in the works of the Alvars, the poet-saints of the Sri Vaishnava tradition. By comparison, the Paadal Petra Sthalam are the 276 Shiva temples glorified in the works of the Shaiva Nayanars.

Muktinath Temple, Nepal is the only Divya Desam outside India

Of the 108 temples, 105 are in India, one is in Nepal, and the last two are believed to be outside the earth, in Tirupparkatal and Vaikuntham. In India, they are spread across the states of Tamil Nadu (84), Kerala (11), Andhra Pradesh (2), Gujarat (1), Uttar Pradesh (4), and Uttarakhand (3). Muktinath, Saligramam is the only Divya Desam in Nepal. Tamil Nadu is home to the most number of Divya Desams with 25 of them being located in the Chennai Metropolitan Area. The Divya Desams are revered by the 12 Alvars in the Naalayira Divya Prabandham, a collection of 4,000 Tamil verses. The Divya Desams follow either Tenkalai or Vadakalai modes of worship.[2]

Etymology

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In Sanskrit, divya means "divine" and desam indicates "realm" (temple).[3][4] For a temple to be classified as a Divya Desam, the temple's main shrine should be dedicated to Vishnu and an adjoining shrine must be for Goddess Lakshmi, Vishnu's consort. The temples at Guruvayoor, Jagannath-Puri are not Divya Desams despite being the most visited temples in India.

Geography

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The Divya Desams are classified into six regions:

  1. Chera Nadu (western)
  2. Chola Nadu (central)
  3. Pandya Nadu (south)
  4. Pallava Nadu (north)
  5. Vada Nadu (northern India)
  6. Vinnulaga Divya Desams (celestial)

Alvars and Divya Prabandham

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Vishnu and Lakshmi, the revered divine couple venerated in most Divya Desams

The word Alvar in Tamil, means "the immersed", referring to their deep devotion of God. Alvars are considered to be the twelve poet-saints of Vishnu, who were instrumental in popularising Vaishnavism during the 5th-8th centuries CE. The religious works of these saints in Tamil, their hymns of love and devotion, are compiled as the Naalayira Divya Prabandham, containing 4000 verses and the 108 temples revered in their songs are classified as Divya Desams.[5][6] The saints had different origins and belonged to different varnas. According to tradition, the first three Alvars (mudhal alvargal), Poigai, Bhuthathalvar, Peyalvar and Andal were said to be born "out of divinity", Tirumalisai was the son of a sage, Thondaradi, Mathurakavi, Periyalvar were of Brahmin birth, Kulasekhara from the Kshatriya community, Nammalvar was from a cultivator family, Tirupanalvar from the panar community and Tirumangai was from the kalvar community.

The Divya Suri Saritra by Garuda-Vahana Pandita (11th century CE), Guruparamparaprabhavam by Pinbaragiya Perumal Jeeyar, Periya tiru mudi adaivu by Anbillai Kandadiappan, Yatindra Pranava Prabavam by Pillai Lokam Jeeyar, commentaries on the Naalayira Divya Prabandam, Guru Parampara (lineage of Gurus) texts, temple records and inscriptions give a detailed account of the Alvars and their works. According to these texts, the saints are considered to be incarnations of attributes of Vishnu. Poigai is considered to be an incarnation of Panchajanya (Krishna's conch), Bhoothath of Kaumodaki (Vishnu's mace), Peyalvar of Nandaka (Vishnu's sword), Thirumalisai of Sudarshana Chakra (Vishnu's discus), Nammalvar of Vishvaksena (Vishnu's commander), Madhurakavi of Vainatheya (Garuda), Kulasekhara of Kaustubha (Vishnu's gemstone), Periyalvar of Garuda (Vishnu's demigod eagle), Andal of Bhudevi (Vishnu's wife, Lakshmi, in her form as Bhudevi), Thondaradippodi of Vanamalai (Vishnu's garland), Thiruppaan of Srivatsa[7] (An auspicious mark on Vishnu's chest) and Thirumangai of Sharanga (Vishnu's bow). The songs of Prabandham are sung in several Vishnu temples of Tamil Nadu daily and also during festivals.[6][8]

Significance

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In Hindu texts, these temples are often referred to as Bhuloka Vaikuntham, which in Tamil means heavens on earth.[9] Each of the Divya Desam has its own significance related to Sri Vaishnava legend. Almost all of these temples have separate shrines for Vishnu and Lakshmi.[1]

List of Divya Desams

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The 106 earthly Divya Desam temples are spread over the Indian states of Tamil Nadu (84), Kerala (11), Uttar Pradesh (4), Uttarakhand (3), Andhra Pradesh (2) and Gujarat (1), and the country of Nepal (1) (Muktinath). The last two are believed to be outside earthly realms.

Name Location Photo Presiding deities Notes
Ranganathaswamy Temple, Srirangam Srirangam, Trichy district
Tamil Nadu
10°51′45″N 78°41′23″E / 10.8625°N 78.689722°E / 10.8625; 78.689722
Ranganathaswamy Perumal and Ranganayaki Thayar The Srirangam temple is often listed as the largest functioning Hindu temple in the world. The temple occupies an area of 156 acres (631,000 m2) with a perimeter of 4,116m (10,710 feet) making it the largest temple in India and one of the largest religious complexes in the world.[10][11] The annual 21 day festival of Vaikuntha Ekadashi, conducted during the Tamil month of Margaḻi (December–January) attracts 1 million visitors.[12]
Thirukoḻi Uraiyur, Trichy district
Tamil Nadu
10°49′N 78°40′E / 10.82°N 78.67°E / 10.82; 78.67
Kamalavalli Nachiyar and
Aḻagiya Manavala Perumal 		The temple is locally called Nachiyar Koil (to be distinguished from Thirunaraiyur) and is one of the few Divya Desams where the goddess is offered prominence over Vishnu.[13][14] The temple is the birthplace of Thiruppaan Alvar, one of the twelve Alvars. In Srirangam, the yearly birth festival of Thiruppaan Alvar is celebrated with the Vishvarupa Darshanam of Ranganatha at the sanctum on the occasion of his birthday. The utsavar of Tiruppan Alvar is taken from the temple to Srirangam.[15]
Thirukkarambanoor Uthamarkoil, Tiruchirappalli district
Tamil Nadu
10°29′N 78°49′E / 10.49°N 78.81°E / 10.49; 78.81
Purushottama Nayaki and Purushottama Perumal This rare temple is dedicated to the Hindu Trimurti (trinity) namely Vishnu, Shiva, and Brahma. According to Hindu legend, the temple is believed to have been constructed by Janaka, the king of Mithila and the father of Sita from the epic Ramayana. Tirumangai Alvar is believed to have resided in the temple to build the surrounding walls of the Srirangam Ranganathaswamy temple.[16]
Pundarikakshan Perumal Koil Thiruvellarai, Trichy district
Tamil Nadu
10°58′N 78°40′E / 10.96°N 78.67°E / 10.96; 78.67
Pankaja Nayaki and
Pundarikaksha Perumal 		The Pundarikakshan Perumal temple is believed to have been built by the Pallava king Dantivarman (796–847 CE).[17][18] A swastika-shaped temple tank built during 800 CE is present in the south-western corner of the street around the temple. It has four stepped gateways, each having 51 steps. The tank is believed to have been built by Kamban Araiyan during the reign of Dantivarman. In modern times, it is maintained by the Department of Archaeology of the Government of Tamil Nadu. The temple complex covers an area of 2.62 ha (6.5 acres), while the tank covers an area of 0.1256 ha (0.310 acres).[19][20] The chariot festival is unique in the state as a community feast is offered by several individuals and committees, a custom many centuries old.[21][22]
Vadivaḻagiya Nambi Perumal Koil Anbil, Trichy district
Tamil Nadu
10°52′04″N 78°52′56″E / 10.867735°N 78.882171°E / 10.867735; 78.882171
Saundaryavalli and Sundararaja Perumal King Sundara Chola, who ruled the area, was a devotee of the temple, and during each of his innumerable victories in wars, he showered a lot of wealth on this temple. His prime minister Anirudha Brahmarayar is believed to be from Anbil, the village where the temple is located. The copper plates having the records from the Chola period from Anbil indicate generous contribution from the Medieval Cholas indicate various gifts to the temple.[23][24]
Appakkudathaan Perumal Koil Koviladi, Tanjore district
Tamil Nadu
10°50′22″N 78°53′21″E / 10.839307°N 78.889073°E / 10.839307; 78.889073
Indravalli and Appakudatthan Perumal The temple has inscriptions from the 18th year of the reign of Aditya Chola.[25][26] The temple is one of the five Pancharanga Kshetrams, a group of five Hindu temples on the banks of the Kaveri River dedicated to Ranganatha, a form of Vishnu.[27][28]
Hara Saabha Vimocchana Perumal Temple Kandiyur, Thanjavur district
Tamil Nadu
10°51′37″N 79°06′32″E / 10.860255°N 79.108891°E / 10.860255; 79.108891
Kamalavalli and
Hara Saabha Vimochana Perumal 		Since Vishnu relieved (vimochana) the curse (sābha) of Shiva (also called Hara), the temple is called Hara Sābha Vimochana Temple.[29]
Thirukoodalur Aduthurai, Thanjavur district,
Tamil Nadu
10°55′31″N 79°12′13″E / 10.925152°N 79.203532°E / 10.925152; 79.203532
Padmasani and Jagathrakshaga Perumal Kaveri wanted to cleanse herself, and approached the Hindu god Brahma. She is believed to have worshipped Vishnu at this place, and received relief. A parrot that was devoted to Vishnu was shot down in the nearby forest. Vishnu rescued the parrot and apprised him of his previous birth. Thus, it is believed that Vishnu descends here for all forms of life. Vishnu is also believed to have appeared for sage Nandaka.[30]
Thirukavithalam Kabisthalam
, Thanjavur district,
Tamil Nadu
10°56′49″N 79°15′23″E / 10.946890°N 79.256512°E / 10.946890; 79.256512
Ramamanivalli and Gajendra Varadha Perumal Based on Gajendra Moksha, Vishnu is believed to have appeared to Gajendra the elephant also called Indradyumna, the crocodile called Huhu, Sage Parasara and Anjaneya.[31] The temple is one of the Panchakanna (Krishnaranya) Kshetrams, the five holy temples associated with Krishna, an avatar of Vishnu.[32][33]
Thiruppullamboothangudi Pullabhoothangudi
, Thanjavur district,
Tamil Nadu
10°58′18″N 79°18′12″E / 10.971596°N 79.303415°E / 10.971596; 79.303415
Hemambujavalli and Rama Perumal Rama is believed to have appeared for Sita, and the temple is believed to be the place where Rama performed the last rites of the eagle king Jatayu.[34]
Thiruaadhanur Adanur,
Thanjavur district,
Tamil Nadu
10°58′35″N 79°18′48″E / 10.976470°N 79.313454°E / 10.976470; 79.313454
Ranganayaki Thayar and Andalukkum Aiyyan Perumal Andalakkum Aiyyan is believed to have appeared for an affluent devotee trying to save Ranganatha.[35] It is also believed that the presiding deity appeared for Kamadhenu, the divine cow, and also for Tirumangai Alvar, the saint poet of the 8th century.[36]
Thirukudanthai Kumbakonam, Thanjavur district,
Tamil Nadu
10°57′35″N 79°22′30″E / 10.959649°N 79.374999°E / 10.959649; 79.374999
Komalavalli and Aravamuda Perumal The temple is called Ubaya Pradhana Kshetram as the mulavar (presiding deity) and utsavar (festive deity) enjoy the same importance. It is believed that the presiding deity asked Nathamuni to compile the four thousand verses of Naalayira Divya Prabandham at this place.[37] The twin temple chariots weigh 300 t (660,000 lb) each and are next only in size to the ones in Thygaraja temple in Thiruvarur and Andal Temple in Srivilliputhur.[38] This temple is along Kaveri and is one of the Pancharanga Kshetrams.[39]
Thiruvinnagar Tirunageswaram, Thanjavur district,
Tamil Nadu
10°57′42″N 79°25′55″E / 10.961570°N 79.432080°E / 10.961570; 79.432080
Bhumidevi and Uppiliappan Perumal It is believed that Vishnu appeared as Uppiliappan to marry sage Hemarishi's daughter, who was Lakshmi's reincarnation. Since the sage stated that his girl was too young to offer him food with salt, Vishnu agreed to accept an offering without salt.[40]
Thirunaraiyur Nachiyar Kovil, Thiruvarur district,
Tamil Nadu
10°54′57″N 79°26′44″E / 10.915844°N 79.445554°E / 10.915844; 79.445554
Vanchulavalli and Srinivasa Perumal According to local lore, Vishnu was of the view that during Kali Yuga, men would have to listen to women. Hence, he decided that he would first set an example and listen to the goddess here. During all festive occasions, the first rights are reserved for Nachiyar, who moves ahead, while Srinivasa follows her. Even the food is first served to Nachiyar, and then to Srinivasa.[40] The Kal Garuda image in the temple used during the festive occasions is believed to increase in weight seeking 4, 8, 16, 32, 64, and 128 people in succession when the procession comes out of various gates from the sanctum to the main entrance of the temple.[14]
Thirucherai Tirucherai, Thanjavur district,
Tamil Nadu
10°52′45″N 79°27′16″E / 10.879135°N 79.454402°E / 10.879135; 79.454402
Saranayaki and Saranatha Perumal Saranathan is believed to have appeared to river Kaveri, sage Markandeya, and Hindu god Indra. The crown of some of the images from the Chola period show influence of Buddhist tradition in the region.[41] The metal image of Sita is believed to be a classic example of Chola Art during the 9th-10th centuries.[42][43]
Thirunandhipura Vinnagaram Nathan Kovil,
Thiruvarur district,
Tamil Nadu
10°55′19″N 79°22′20″E / 10.922075°N 79.372192°E / 10.922075; 79.372192
Shenbagavalli and Jagannatha Perumal Nandi, the sacred bull of Shiva, is believed to have got his curses relieved by worshipping Vishnu here, and hence the place is called Nandipuram and Nandhipura Vinnagaram.[44] It is also believed that king Sibi worshipped Vishnu at this place.[45]
Thiruvelliyangudi Thiruvelliyangudi,
Thanjavur district,
Tamil Nadu
11°03′24″N 79°26′35″E / 11.056687°N 79.443095°E / 11.056687; 79.443095
Maragadhavalli and Kolavilli Rama Perumal The temple is counted as Vaishnava Sukra Kshetra as Vishnu appeared as a beautiful deity to please his devotee Sukra (Venus).[46] The place derived its name Thiruvelliyangudi hence and the presiding deity is also referred to as Velliyan. It is believed that Vishnu appeared in Kalyana Kolam (marriage posture) to Parasarar, Markendeyar, Mayan, Brahma, Sukran, and Bhudevi. To de-stress or relieve Vishnu, his mount or vahana, the eagle Garuda, holds the conch and the Sudarshana Chakram of Vishnu, making this the only temple where Garuda is depicted in such a posture.[47]
Thirukannamangai Thirukannamangai,
Thiruvarur district,
Tamil Nadu
10°47′58″N 79°35′12″E / 10.799552°N 79.586645°E / 10.799552; 79.586645
Abishekavalli and Bhaktavatsala Perumal The temple is one of the Panchakanna (Krishnaranya) Kshetrams, the five holy temples associated with Krishna, an avatar of Vishnu.[32][33] The temple also has a statue of the Buddha worshipped in the shrine.
Thirukannapuram Tirukannapuram,
Nagapattinam district,
Tamil Nadu
10°52′07″N 79°42′15″E / 10.868499°N 79.704266°E / 10.868499; 79.704266
Kannapura Nayaki and Sowriraja Perumal The idol of Perumal is depicted with silky hair at this locale. Legend has it that he grew the hair to safeguard his devotee's words. The temple is one of the Panchakanna (Krishnaranya) Kshetrams, the five holy temples associated with Krishna, an avatar of Vishnu.[32][33]
Thirukannangudi Tirukannankudi,
Nagapattinam district,
Tamil Nadu
10°45′26″N 79°45′48″E / 10.757222°N 79.763290°E / 10.757222; 79.763290
Loganayaki and Lokanatha Perumal The temple is one of the Panchakanna (Krishnaranya) Kshetrams, the five holy temples associated with Krishna, an avatar of Vishnu.[32][33]
Thirunagai Nagapattinam,
Nagapattinam district,
Tamil Nadu
10°45′35″N 79°50′37″E / 10.759830°N 79.843706°E / 10.759830; 79.843706
Saundaryavalli and Sundararaja Perumal The tributary of river Cauvery, Odambokki, passes close to the temple and the river is also called Virutha Kaveri. This leads to one of the names of presiding deity, "Kaveri Thuraivan". The present day Nagapattinam is believed to have been a forest, historically named Sundararinyam. During the Treta Yuga, a prince, Dhruva, heard about the importance of the forest, and began a penance, wishing to see Vishnu.[48]
Thiruthanjai Mamanikoil Thanjavur,
Thanjavur district,
Tamil Nadu
10°48′56″N 79°08′19″E / 10.815669°N 79.138677°E / 10.815669; 79.138677 		Raktapankajavalli
and Neelamegha Perumal 		Unlike other Divya Desams where a single shrine is referred, this set of temples is referred together in all the pasurams (verses). During the Treta Yuga, there were three demons by the names of Tanchakan, Tantakan, and Kacamukan who were blessed by Shiva, and became very powerful. They grew arrogant and troubled sage Parashara, who was doing penance at this place. Vishnu killed Tanchakan, after whom Thanjavur was named.[49]
Manikundram Thanjavur,
Thanjavur district,
Tamil Nadu
10°49′01″N 79°08′14″E / 10.816923°N 79.137229°E / 10.816923; 79.137229 		Ambujavalli and Manikundra Perumal The temples are located in the banks of the Vennaaru river. Manikundram has a small east facing shrine with the deity and his consort in the same sanctum. All of the pasurams (verses) of Nammalvar and Thirumangai Alvar that mention Thanjai refer to this shrine.[50]
Thanjaiyali Nagar Thanjavur,
Thanjavur district,
Tamil Nadu
10°48′58″N 79°08′21″E / 10.816022°N 79.139155°E / 10.816022; 79.139155 		Thanjanayaki and Narasimha Perumal Thanjiyali Nagar is home to Veera Narasimha Perumal, who has a small east facing shrine with the deity and his consort in the same sanctum. Veera Narasimha Perumal is sculpted in a seated posture, giving darshanam to sage Markandeya. The shrine over the sanctum is called Vedasundara Vimana, and the water body associated with it is called Surya Pushkarani.[50]
Thiruvazhundur Theranzhdur,
Mayiladuthurai district,
Tamil Nadu
11°02′48″N 79°34′46″E / 11.046532°N 79.579468°E / 11.046532; 79.579468
Senkamalavalli and Sri
Devadiraja Perumal 		In a Hindu legend, Brahma, the creator deity, drove away the cattle belonging to Krishna, an avatar of Vishnu. Krishna created another herd. Realising that the herd belonged to Krishna, Brahma apologised, and wished Krishna to set his abode at this place. Since Krishna appeared for the cattle and settled here, the presiding deity is called Amaruviappan (the one who is flanked by cattle). Following the legend, the presiding deity in the sanctum is portrayed with cattle surrounding him.[51]
Thiruchirupuliyur Thirusirupuliyur,
Thiruvarur district,
Tamil Nadu
10°59′28″N 79°40′10″E / 10.991202°N 79.669440°E / 10.991202; 79.669440
Dayanayaki and Krupasamudra Perumal Shiva ordered the sage Vyaghrapada to perform penance at Srirangam, requesting the god Vishnu to give him a place in his abode, Vaikuntha. Vyaghrapada was joined by sage Patanjali in his journey. Because of his poor eyesight, the sages instead went southward, lost their way and reached Krupa Samudram, modern day Tirusirupuliyur. They prayed to Vishnu to come from Srirangam to grant them moksha (divine liberation). Vishnu is also believed to have appeared for sage Vyasa at this place.[52]
Thiruthalaichanga Nanmadiyam Thalachangadu,
Mayiladuthurai district,
Tamil Nadu
11°07′47″N 79°47′07″E / 11.129789°N 79.785252°E / 11.129789; 79.785252
Thalaichanga Nachiyar and Chandrasaabahara Perumal Chandra once conducted a sacrifice called the rajasuya yajna, which was attended by all the celestial deities. Tara, the wife of Brihaspati was attracted by Chandra. Brihaspati appealed to Vishnu on the event and cursed Chandra to have leprosy. Tara bore Budha from Chandra and since his birth had resulted from an illicit relationship, Budha hated his father. To propitiate himself of the curse, Chandra started worshipping Vishnu in this place.[53]
Thiruindalur Indalur,
Mayiladuthurai district,
Tamil Nadu
11°06′35″N 79°38′46″E / 11.109733°N 79.646232°E / 11.109733; 79.646232
Parimala Ranganayaki and Sri
Parimala Ranganatha Perumal 		According to Hindu legend, this site is where the moon god, Chandra is believed to have been relieved of his curse. Indu means moon, and the place Tiruindaloor derives its name from the legend. Chandra, worshipped Vishnu, who appeared to please his devotee.[54]
Thirukazhicheerama Vinnagaram Sirkazhi,
Mayiladuthurai district,
Tamil Nadu
11°14′27″N 79°43′54″E / 11.240964°N 79.731689°E / 11.240964; 79.731689
Lokanayaki and Trivikrama Perumal Thirumangai Aḻvar was requested by the Shaiva Kuravar Sambandar to praise God through pasurams. The deity in the temple is praised as "Man alantha tadalan", meaning the one who measured the land.[55] The name Tadalan is in honour of Tiruvikrama (Vamana) form and the mulavar (central deity) fixed in the central shrine is in this form. The presiding deity, Tiruvikrama, appeared for sage Ashtakoma.[56][57]
Thirukkavalambadi Thirunangur,
Mayiladuthurai district,
Tamil Nadu
11°10′37″N 79°46′57″E / 11.1769°N 79.7824°E / 11.1769; 79.7824
Senkamala Nachiyar and Gopala Krishna Perumal Krishna, the eighth incarnation of Vishnu, and his consort Satyabhama, chose this location for their garden, as it resembled the one in the palace of the king of celestial deities, Indra.[37] Kavalam indicates elephant, and padi indicates place - it is believed that Krishna saved an elephant at this place leading to the name of the temple. The event is described in the verses of Tirumangai Alvar in the Naalayira Divya Prabandham.[58]
Thiruarimeya Vinnagaram Thirunangur,
Mayiladuthurai district,
Tamil Nadu
11°10′40″N 79°46′53″E / 11.17768°N 79.78152°E / 11.17768; 79.78152
Amrudhagadavalli and Kudamudakoothan Perumal The Hindu god Shiva is believed to have started dancing in fury at this place after the death of his consort Sati during the yagna (sacrifice) of Daksha. Each time his lock of hair touched the ground, there were eleven other forms of Shiva who appeared. The celestial deities were worried that if the dance continues, it would result in the decimation of all of creation. They prayed to Vishnu for help, who appeared at this place. On seeing Vishnu, Shiva's anger reduced, and he requested Vishnu to appear in eleven forms like he had. On his request, Vishnu appeared in eleven different forms at Tirunangar. The eleven places where Vishnu appeared are believed to be where the eleven temples in Tirunangar are located.[59]
Thiruvanpurushothamam Thirunangur,
Mayiladuthurai district,
Tamil Nadu
11°10′44″N 79°46′36″E / 11.178783°N 79.776690°E / 11.178783; 79.776690
Purushotthama Nayaki and Purushottama Perumal Same as Thiruarimeya Vinnagaram.
Thirusemponsaikoil Thirunangur,
Mayiladuthurai district,
Tamil Nadu
11°10′42″N 79°46′47″E / 11.178446°N 79.779651°E / 11.178446; 79.779651
Sweda Pushpavalli and Hemaranganatha Perumal Same as Thiruarimeya Vinnagaram.
Thirumanimadakoil Thirunangur,
Mayiladuthurai district,
Tamil Nadu
11°10′26″N 79°46′37″E / 11.173971°N 79.776872°E / 11.173971; 79.776872
Pundareegavalli and Sashvatha Deepaya Narayana Perumal Same as Thiruarimeya Vinnagaram.
Thiruvaikunta Vinnagaram Thirunangur,
Mayiladuthurai district,
Tamil Nadu
11°10′47″N 79°46′42″E / 11.179804°N 79.778267°E / 11.179804; 79.778267
Vaikundavalli and Vaikundanatha Perumal Same as Thiruarimeya Vinnagaram.
Thiruthetriambalam Thirunangur,
Mayiladuthurai district,
Tamil Nadu
11°10′23″N 79°47′42″E / 11.17302°N 79.7951°E / 11.17302; 79.7951
Rakthapankajavalli and Lakshmiranga Perumal Same as Thiruarimeya Vinnagaram.
Thirumanikoodam Thirunangur,
Mayiladuthurai district,
Tamil Nadu
11°10′39″N 79°46′40″E / 11.177415°N 79.777838°E / 11.177415; 79.777838
Boonayagi and Varadharaja Perumal Same as Thiruarimeya Vinnagaram.
Thiruparthanpalli Parthanpalli, Mayiladuthurai district,
Tamil Nadu
11°10′12″N 79°47′51″E / 11.169952°N 79.797515°E / 11.169952; 79.797515
Tamarai Nayagi and Taamaraiyaal Kelvan Perumal Same as Thiruarimeya Vinnagaram, and also a site where Arjuna prayed to Krishna.
Thiruvali Thiruvali, Mayiladuthurai district,
Tamil Nadu
11°12′11″N 79°46′28″E / 11.202979°N 79.774538°E / 11.202979; 79.774538
Amrudhagadavalli and Kedarapathivaraya Perumal Associated with Narasimha's slaying of Hiranyakashipu, and his pacification by Lakshmi sitting on his lap.
Thirunagari Thirunagari, Mayiladuthurai district,
Tamil Nadu
11°13′35″N 79°48′01″E / 11.226354°N 79.800335°E / 11.226354; 79.800335
Amurdha Valli and Devaraja Perumal Regarded to be the site where Ranganatha offered a darshanam to Thirumangai Alvar and his wife.
Thiruthevanarthogai Thirunangur, Mayiladuthurai district,
Tamil Nadu
11°11′49″N 79°46′32″E / 11.196842°N 79.775504°E / 11.196842; 79.775504
Samudradanaya and Devanayaka Perumal Same as Thiruarimeya Vinnagaram.
Thiruvellakulam Thirunangur,
Mayiladuthurai district,
Tamil Nadu
11°11′24″N 79°45′54″E / 11.190106°N 79.764929°E / 11.190106; 79.764929
Padmavathi and Srinivasa Perumal Same as Thiruarimeya Vinnagaram.
Thiruchitrakoodam Chidambaram,
Cuddalore district,
Tamil Nadu11°23′57″N 79°41′36″E / 11.399207°N 79.693364°E / 11.399207; 79.693364
Pundareekavalli and Govindaraja Perumal The shrine has close connections with the Govindaraja temple in Tirupati, dating back to the saint Ramanuja of the 11-12th century. Ramanujar fled to Tirupati with the utsava (festival image) of the temple to escape Shaiva persecution.
Thiruvanthipuram Thiruvanthipuram,
Cuddalore district,
Tamil Nadu11°44′42″N 79°42′34″E / 11.745099°N 79.709351°E / 11.745099; 79.709351
Hemambujavalli and Devanatha Perumal A number of sages bore witness to Mahavishnu in his resplendent form, with his weapons Sudarshana Chakra (discus), Panchajanya (conch) and the Kaumodaki (mace) gracing his arms.
Thirukkoyilur Thirukoyilur,
Kallakurichi district,
Tamil Nadu11°58′01″N 79°12′09″E / 11.967006°N 79.202479°E / 11.967006; 79.202479
Pushpavalli and Trivikrama Perumal The temple is believed to be the place where the first three Alvars, the Vaishnava saints, namely, Poigai Alvar, Bhoothathalvar, and Peyalvar attained salvation. The temple is one of the Panchakanna (Krishnaranya) Kshetrams, the five holy temples associated with Krishna, an avatar of Vishnu.[32][33]
Thirukkachi - Atthigiri Kanchipuram,
Kanchipuram district,
Tamil Nadu12°49′09″N 79°43′29″E / 12.819137°N 79.724646°E / 12.819137; 79.724646
Perundevi Thayar and Varadharaja Perumal One of the greatest Hindu scholars of the Vaishnava Vishishtadvaita philosophy, Ramanuja, is believed to have resided in this temple.[60] The temple, along with Ekambareswarar Temple and Kamakshi Amman Temple in Kanchipuram, is popularly known as Mumurtivasam (abode of the trio),[61] while Srirangam is referred to as ‘The Koil’ (temple) and Tirupati as the ‘Malai’ (hill).
Ashtabujagaram Kanchipuram,
Kanchipuram district,
Tamil Nadu12°49′22″N 79°42′39″E / 12.822736°N 79.710806°E / 12.822736; 79.710806
Padmasani and Ashtabhuja Perumal Also based on the Gajendra Moksha: The elephant Gajendra used to worship Vishnu with the lotus fetched from the temple tank every day. Once, while picking up a lotus, a crocodile caught the leg of Gajendra, who started calling the name of Vishnu for help. Vishnu sent his discus to punish the crocodile, and relieve the elephant. The presiding deity is addressed by various names like Adikesava Perumal, Gajendra Varadhan, and Chakradhar.[62]
Thiruthanka Kanchipuram,
Kanchipuram district,
Tamil Nadu12°49′28″N 79°42′20″E / 12.824382°N 79.705543°E / 12.824382; 79.705543
Maragadhavalli and Deepaprakasa Perumal Vedanta Desika (1268 - 1369 CE) was an ardent devotee of Deepa Prakasa Temple at Thoppul. The devotion of Desika is mentioned in Saranagathi Deepika in 59 verses. He was born in this kshetra. Vedanta Desika also has a shrine inside the temple. A statue of Hayagriva worshipped by him also has a temple nearby to him.[63]
Thiruvelukkai Kanchipuram,
Kanchipuram district,
Tamil Nadu12°49′20″N 79°42′23″E / 12.822197°N 79.706450°E / 12.822197; 79.706450
Amritavalli and Yoga Narasimha Perumal Aḻagiya Singar is believed to have appeared to slay Hiranya, the demon king. Velukkai is derived from Vel (desire) and irukkai (place of stay), meaning the place where Vishnu desired to stay, which became Velukkai from Velirukkai.[64]
Thiruneeragam Kanchipuram,
Kanchipuram district,
Tamil Nadu12°50′21″N 79°42′19″E / 12.839122°N 79.705185°E / 12.839122; 79.705185
Nilamangai Valli and Jagadeesha Perumal The temple has no presiding deity, but just a festive image probably brought from another shrine. The images of the festival deity, Jagadishvara, facing the east and having four arms, is housed in a hall in the second precinct. The water body associated with the temple is Akrura Tirtham and the vimana is Jagadiswara Vimanam. According to Pillai Perumal Aiyangar in his Nurrettrutiruppatiyantati, Vishnu revealed himself to a sage in the form of a child in a banyan leaf.[65]
Thiruppadagam Kanchipuram,
Kanchipuram district,
Tamil Nadu12°50′34″N 79°41′49″E / 12.842726°N 79.696941°E / 12.842726; 79.696941
Rukmini and Pandavadootha Perumal The temple is considered one of three oldest temples in Kanchipuram, and is believed to have been built by the Pallavas of the late 8th century CE, with later contributions from Medieval Cholas and Vijayanagara kings. The temple is associated with a chapter in Mahabharata when Krishna went to the Kauravas as a missive (called Thoota locally) to the Pandavas.[66]
Nilathingal Thundam Kanchipuram,
Kanchipuram district,
Tamil Nadu12°50′51″N 79°41′58″E / 12.847463°N 79.699313°E / 12.847463; 79.699313
Chandrasoodavalli and Chandrasooda Perumal Shiva once attempted to test the devotion of his consort Parvati by setting her aflame while she meditated under the temple's mango tree. When she prayed for Vishnu's intervention, he seized Shiva's crescent, and used its power to douse the divine flame.
Thiruooragam Kanchipuram,
Kanchipuram district,
Tamil Nadu12°50′21″N 79°42′19″E / 12.839122°N 79.705185°E / 12.839122; 79.705185
Amudavalli and Trivikrama Perumal The central shrine of temple is most commonly referred as Peragam, while the smaller shrine where the image of the demigod Adishesha is houses is called Tiruoorgam. According to tradition, Mahabali, at the foot of Vamana, could not view the vishvarupam and requested him to produce a smaller form. Vishnu obliged and appeared as a snake in a smaller shrine. The shrine is frequented by childless couple praying for offspring.[65]
Thiruvekka Kanchipuram,
Kanchipuram district,
Tamil Nadu12°49′27″N 79°42′45″E / 12.824070°N 79.712462°E / 12.824070; 79.712462
Komalavalli and Yathottakari Perumal The goddess Saraswati, angry with Brahma, attempted to disrupt his yajna. Vishnu stopped her in these efforts. Defeated, Saraswati took the form of the Vegavati river. As Vishnu interfered the path of the river, it was termed Vegavani, then as Vegannai, which gradually corrupted to Vekka.
Thirukkaragam Kanchipuram,
Kanchipuram district,
Tamil Nadu12°50′21″N 79°42′19″E / 12.839122°N 79.705185°E / 12.839122; 79.705185
Padmamani and Karunagara Perumal The shrine is located on the third precinct of the temple. According to Hindu legend, sage Garga performed his penance at this temple and obtained knowledge. The place thus derived its name Garagaham, which later became Kaaragam. The presiding deity of the shrine is Karunakara Perumal facing north and seated on Adisesha and his consort Padmamani Nachiar. The temple tank associated with it is called Agraya Tirtha and the vimana is called Vamana Vimanam or Ramaya Vimanam.[65]
Thirukkarvaanam Kanchipuram,
Kanchipuram district,
Tamil Nadu12°50′21″N 79°42′19″E / 12.839122°N 79.705185°E / 12.839122; 79.705185
Kamalavalli and Neelamega Perumal The shrine is located in the second precinct. The presiding deity is called Kalvar and faces north, while his consort is Kamalvalli Thayar. Gauri Tatakam and Taratara Tatakam are the temple tanks associated with the temple and the vimana is called Puskala Vimana.[65][67] There is a separate for Aranavalli Thayar.[65]
Thirukkalvanur Kanchipuram,
Kanchipuram district,
Tamil Nadu12°50′26″N 79°42′12″E / 12.840653°N 79.703250°E / 12.840653; 79.703250
Anjilai Valli and Adi Varaha Perumal The shrine is present inside the Kamakshi Amman temple, and glorifies Vishnu in his form of Varaha.
Thiruppavalavannam Kanchipuram,
Kanchipuram district,
Tamil Nadu12°50′37″N 79°42′27″E / 12.843658°N 79.707604°E / 12.843658; 79.707604
Pavalavalli and Pavalavarna Perumal Associated with the legend that Vishnu purportedly assumes his form in different hues depending on the conduct of humans during a given age.
Thiru Parameswara Vinnagaram Kanchipuram,
Kanchipuram district,
Tamil Nadu12°50′14″N 79°42′34″E / 12.837151°N 79.709482°E / 12.837151; 79.709482
Vaikundavalli and Vaikundanatha Perumal Regarded to be the site where Vishnu appeared before Pallava princes who had performed a yajna for him.
Thiruputkuzhi Thiruputkuzhi,
Kanchipuram district,
Tamil Nadu12°52′22″N 79°37′07″E / 12.872642°N 79.618683°E / 12.872642; 79.618683
Maragadhavalli and Vijayaraghava Perumal The last rites of Jatayu are believed to have been performed here by Rama.
Thirunindravur Thirunindravur,
Chennai, Tiruvallur District,
Tamil Nadu13°06′45″N 80°01′34″E / 13.112501°N 80.026096°E / 13.112501; 80.026096
Sudhavalli and Bhaktavatsala Perumal Regarded to be the site where Varuna worshipped Vishnu.
Thiruvallur Thiruvallur,
Chennai, Tiruvallur district,
Tamil Nadu13°08′36″N 79°54′27″E / 13.143204°N 79.907439°E / 13.143204; 79.907439
Kanakavalli and Vaidya Veeraraghava Perumal Regarded to be the site where Vishnu tested the devotion of a sage by asking him large portions of his food and residence before blessing him.
Thiruvallikeni Chennai,
Chennai district,
Tamil Nadu13°03′14″N 80°16′37″E / 13.053920°N 80.276942°E / 13.053920; 80.276942
Rukmini and Venkatakrishna Perumal The name Parthasarathy, in Tamil, means the 'charioteer of Arjuna', referring to Krishna's role as a charioteer to Arjuna in the epic Mahabharata. It was originally built by the Pallavas in the 8th century and considered the oldest structural in Chennai.[68]
Thiruneermalai, Chennai Kanchipuram,
Kanchipuram district,
Tamil Nadu12°57′50″N 80°06′54″E / 12.963808°N 80.114953°E / 12.963808; 80.114953
Animamalar Mangai and Neervanna Perumal Brahmanda Purana refers this place Toyatri, meaning a mountain surrounded by water. Thiruneermalai, the modern Tamil name also means a sacred mountain surrounded by water. Among the eight sacred Vishnu temples where he manifested himself called "Ashtaswayamvaka Kshetra".[64]
Thiruvidanthai Thiruvidanthai,
Chennai, Kanchipuram district,
Tamil Nadu12°45′48″N 80°14′33″E / 12.763217°N 80.242538°E / 12.763217; 80.242538
Komalavalli and Nityakalyana Perumal The sage Kalava had 360 daughters who wished to wed Varaha, and the site derives its name from the belief that Varaha marries a maiden here everyday.
Thirukkadanmallai Mahabalipuram, Kanchipuram district,
Tamil Nadu12°37′03″N 80°11′36″E / 12.617464°N 80.193303°E / 12.617464; 80.193303
Boosthalamangadevi and Sthalasayana Perumal The temple is believed to be the birthplace of the Vaishnava Alvar saint Bhoothathalvar. Sthalasayana Perumal is believed to have appeared to sage Pundarika. The temple is one of the 32 Group of Monuments at Mahabalipuram that are declared as UN world heritage sites, but unlike others that are maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India, the temple is maintained and administered by the Hindu Religious and Endowment Board of the Government of Tamil Nadu.[69]
Thirukkadigai Sholinghur,
Vellore district,
Tamil Nadu13°05′37″N 79°25′29″E / 13.093698°N 79.424626°E / 13.093698; 79.424626
Amritavalli and Yoga Narasimha Perumal The temple has twin hills, with the one of Yoga Narasimha called the Periya malai (big hill) 750 ft (230 m) tall and occupying an area of 1.25 acres (5,100 m2). The top of the hill is approached through a flight of 1,305 steps. The temple is seen as one of the famous temples of Narasimha and a powerful image of Hanuman.[70] Manavala Mamunigal is believed to have performed enunciation of Thirupavai at this place on the request of his disciple Erumbiappa. The town originally was under the control of Shaivites which is substantiated by the temple ruins near Parappan Kulam, in the valley between two hills. This is where original Sholinghur was situated. Unfinished Nandhis and Sthupas are found in numerous places in Sholinghur.[71]
Thiruvayothi (Ram Janmabhoomi) Ayodhya,
Ayodhya district,
Uttar Pradesh26°42′53″N 82°49′22″E / 26.71481°N 82.82272°E / 26.71481; 82.82272
Ram Temple Ayodhya
 Sita Thayar and Ramachandra Perumal Believed to be the birthplace of Rama, and the shrine is of the infant prince, nicknamed Ram Lalla. The original shrine was demolished in the 16th Century by the Mughals, and replaced with the Babri Masjid, which too was demolished in 1992 by Hindu mobs. A new temple is currently being built on the original site, partially inaugurated in 2024. One of the most famous Vaishnavite pilgrimage sites in India.
Naimisaranyam Misrikh Neemsar,
Uttar Pradesh27°26′11″N 80°34′14″E / 27.43625°N 80.57052°E / 27.43625; 80.57052
Harilakshmi and Devaraja Perumal Regarded to be the site where Vishnu offered counsel to Indra regarding defeating Vritra.
Thirupruthi (Jyothirmath) Shri Narsimmha Mandir/ Parampurusha Perumala Mandir. Jyotirmath,
Chamoli district,
Uttarakhand
29°55′47″N 79°25′21″E / 29.92981°N 79.42245°E / 29.92981; 79.42245
Shri Narsimmha Mandir
Shri Narsimmha Mandir
Parimalavalli and Paramapurusha Perumal A pilgrimage site of the Alvars, who venerated Vishnu as Narasimha.
Thirukkandamenum Kadinagar Devaprayag,
Tehri Garhwal district,
Uttarakhand
30°08′44″N 78°33′52″E / 30.145556°N 78.564444°E / 30.145556; 78.564444
Pundareegavalli and Purushottama Perumal Believed to be the site Rama performed a penance after slaying Ravana, the son of a sage.
Thiruvadari (Badrinath) Badrinath,
Chamoli district,
Uttarakhand
30°44′41″N 79°29′28″E / 30.744695°N 79.491175°E / 30.744695; 79.491175
Aravindhavalli and Badrinarayana Perumal Lakshmi is believed to have protected and massaged Vishnu's feet at this site. One of the most famous Vaishnavite pilgrimage sites in India, this temple is a part of the Char Dham and Chota Char Dham circuits.
Thiru Saligram (Muktinath) Muktinath Valley
Mustang District
Nepal
28°49′00″N 83°52′17″E / 28.816711°N 83.871280°E / 28.816711; 83.871280
Sridevi and Srimurti Perumal Praised by Thirumangai Alvar as a sacred site of Vishnu, possibly owing to its proximity to Shaligram stones.
Thiruvadamadurai (Krishna Janmabhoomi) Mathura,
Mathura district,
Uttar Pradesh
27°30′17″N 77°40′11″E / 27.504756°N 77.669646°E / 27.504756; 77.669646
Satyabama and Govardhanagiridhari Perumal Believed to be the site where Krishna was born. One of the most famous Vaishnavite pilgrimage sites in India.
Thiruvaipadi (Gokula) Gokul,
Mathura district,
Uttar Pradesh
26°57′00″N 80°26′19″E / 26.95009°N 80.43869°E / 26.95009; 80.43869
Rukmini, Sathyabama, and Navamohanakrishna Perumal Regarded to be the site Krishna spent his childhood with his brother Balarama and Radha, Krishna's lover
Thirudwarakai (Dwarakadheesh) Dwarka,
Devbhoomi Dwarka district,
Gujarat
24°00′36″N 73°19′50″E / 24.00995°N 73.33053°E / 24.00995; 73.33053
Rukmini and Dwarakadheesha Perumal Regarded to be the site Krishna's chief wife, Rukmini, was cursed by the sage Durvasa, and was liberated by her husband.
Ahobilam Ahobilam,
Kurnool district,
Andhra Pradesh
15°20′28″N 79°09′12″E / 15.34099°N 79.15329°E / 15.34099; 79.15329
Lakshmi and Prahlada Varada Narasimha swamy This is believed to be the site where Narasimha appeared to protect his devotee Prahlada. The giant massive pillar from which he appeared is called Ugra Stambha, and one can still see it. Here, Narasimha appears in nine different forms; these re collectively called Nava Narasimha.
Thiruvenkadam Tirupati,
Chittoor district,
Andhra Pradesh
13°50′02″N 79°24′31″E / 13.83393°N 79.40872°E / 13.83393; 79.40872
Padmavati and Srinivasa Perumal Vishnu, in his form as Srinivasa, married Padmavati, the mortal princess avatar of Lakshmi, at this temple. One of the most famous Vaishnavite pilgrimage sites in India, this temple is also one of the richest temples in India in terms of wealth.
Thirunavai Tirunavaya,
Mallapuram district,
Kerala
10°21′39″N 76°50′12″E / 10.360704°N 76.83654°E / 10.360704; 76.83654
Malarmangai and Navamukunda Perumal Regarded to be the site Lakshmi and Gajendra offered worship to Vishnu.
Thiruvithuvakodu Thiruvithuvakoodu,
Palakkad district,
Kerala
10°21′39″N 76°50′12″E / 10.36070°N 76.83654°E / 10.36070; 76.83654
Vithuvakoduvalli and Abhayapradhaya Perumal The temple is regarded to have been built by Parashurama for the veneration of Shiva.
Thrikkakara Vamanamoorthy Kshethram (Thirukatkarai) Thrikkakara,
Ernakulam district,
Kerala
10°21′39″N 76°50′12″E / 10.36070°N 76.83654°E / 10.36070; 76.83654
Vathsalyavalli and Katkaraswami Perumal Associated with the Vamana avatar and the humbling of Mahabali.
Thirumoozhikkalam Thirumoozhikulam,
Ernakulam district,
Kerala
10°21′39″N 76°50′11″E / 10.36070°N 76.8365°E / 10.36070; 76.8365
Madhuraveni and Sookthinatha Perumal Rama's brothers Lakshmana and Bharata are believed to have prayed to Vishnu in this temple.
Sree Vallabha Temple (Thiruvallavazh) Thiruvalla,
Pathanamthitta district,
Kerala
9°25′38″N 76°49′02″E / 9.42723°N 76.81732°E / 9.42723; 76.81732
Vathsalyavalli and Vallabhaswami Perumal Lakshmi, the daughter of the sea, is regarded to have prayed to Vishnu for the boon of marrying him in this site.
Thrikodithanam Mahavishnu Temple (Thirukkodithanam) Thrikkodithanam,
Changanassery,
Kottayam District,
Kerala
9°25′38″N 76°49′02″E / 9.42723°N 76.81732°E / 9.42723; 76.81732
Karpagavalli and Amruthanarayana Perumal Believed to be the temple constructed by the Pandava Sahadeva during a pilgrimage, after the coronation of Parikshit.
Thrichittatt Mahavishnu Temple (Thiruchengundrur) Chengannur,
Alappuzha District,
Kerala
9°25′38″N 76°49′02″E / 9.42723°N 76.81732°E / 9.42723; 76.81732
Rakthapankajavalli and Devathideva Perumal It is one of the five ancient shrines in the Chengannur area of Kerala, connected with the legend of Mahabharata, where the five Pandavas are believed to have built one temple each; the temple is believed to have been built by Yudhishthira. The Imayavar (devas) came to this place prior to Yudhishthira, and hence the deity here is referred as Imayavarappar.[72] There is another version that the Pandavas worshipped the idols during their reign, and started installing them in different places during the end of their reign.[73]
Thiruppuliyur Thripuliyur,
Alappuzha District,
Kerala
9°25′38″N 76°49′02″E / 9.42723°N 76.81732°E / 9.42723; 76.81732
Porkodi Nachiyar and Maayapiran Perumal Believed to be the temple constructed by the Pandava prince Bhima during a pilgrimage, after the coronation of his grand-nephew Parikshit.
Aranmula Parthasarathy Temple (Thiruvaranvilai) Aranmula,
Pathanamthitta District,
Kerala
9°21′20″N 76°45′37″E / 9.35542°N 76.76033°E / 9.35542; 76.76033
Padmasani Nachiyar and Kuralappan Perumal Believed to be the temple constructed by the Pandava prince Arjuna during a pilgrimage, after the coronation of his grandson Parikshit.
Thiruvanvandoor Thiruvanvandoor,
Alappuzha District,
Kerala
9°21′20″N 76°45′37″E / 9.35542°N 76.76031°E / 9.35542; 76.76031
Kamalavalli Nachiyar and Paambanaiyappan Perumal It is one of the five ancient shrines in the Chengannur area of Kerala, connected with the legend of Mahabharata, where the five Pandavas are believed to have built one temple each; this temple is believed to have been built by Nakula. Earliest references to this temple appear in the verses and hymns composed by the greatest of Alvar saints – Nammalvar, in circa 800 CE. Stone inscriptions in the temple date it back to the Second Chera Empire (800–1102 CE).[74]
Thiruvananthapuram Thiruvananthapuram,
Thiruvananthapuram District,
Kerala
8°32′02″N 76°55′40″E / 8.53402°N 76.92787°E / 8.53402; 76.92787
Harilakshmi and Ananthapadmanabhaswami Perumal

It is widely regarded to be the richest shrine in India and is the dynastic deity of Travancore.

Thiruvattaru Thiruvattar,
Kanyakumari district,
Tamil Nadu
8°22′08″N 77°14′30″E / 8.36897°N 77.241670°E / 8.36897; 77.241670
Maragadhavalli and Adhikesava Perumal The site is associated with the legend of Krishna slaying the asura Keshi.
Thiruvanparisaram Thiruppathisaram,
Kanyakumari district,
Tamil Nadu8°15′15″N 77°28′13″E / 8.254153°N 77.47032°E / 8.254153; 77.47032
Kamalavalli and Thiruvaḻmarbhan Perumal Kulashekara Alvar is believed to have constructed the temple after bathing in a nearby water tank.
Thirukkurungudi Thirukkurungudi,
Tirunelveli district,
Tamil Nadu8°26′13″N 77°31′33″E / 8.436906°N 77.5259°E / 8.436906; 77.5259
Vamanakshetravalli and Vamanakshetrapoornaya Perumal Vishnu is regarded to have assumed his Varaha avatar and stayed here with his consort, Bhumi, both assuming a small stature.
Thirucheeravaramangai Nanguneri,
Tirunelveli district,
Tamil Nadu8°26′13″N 77°31′33″E / 8.436905°N 77.5259°E / 8.436905; 77.5259
Chireevaramangaivalli and Thothadhrinatha Perumal Lakshmi is believed to have been born here in one of her earthly incarnations.
Thiruvaigundam Srivaikuntam,
Thoothukudi district,
Tamil Nadu8°36′35″N 77°58′34″E / 8.609726°N 77.9760°E / 8.609726; 77.9760
Boonayagi, Vaigundavalli and Vaikuntanatha Perumal Vishnu assumed his Matsya avatar to retrieve the Vedas from an asura and return them to Brahma, after which he resided here for a while.
Thiruvaragunamangai Natham,
Thoothukudi district,
Tamil Nadu8°36′35″N 77°58′34″E / 8.60972°N 77.976037°E / 8.60972; 77.976037
Varagunavalli and Vijayasana Perumal A sage named Vedavitha performed penance after the death of his parents. Vishnu appeared in the form of a Brahmin, and advised him to perform a penance at Varagunamangai. After several years of penance and pleased by the devotion of Vedavitha, Vishnu appeared before him. Vedavitha requested Vishnu to appear as Vijayasnar at this place.
Thiruppuliangudi Thirupulingudi,
Thoothukudi district,
Tamil Nadu8°36′35″N 77°58′34″E / 8.60972°N 77.976037°E / 8.60972; 77.976037
Malarmagal Nachiyar and Poomagal Nachiyar and Kaaichina Vendhan Perumal Regarded to be the site where Vishnu appeased the jealous Bhudevi, the second aspect of Lakshmi, appearing with Sridevi.
Thirutholaivillimangalam (Navathirupathi) Tholavillimangalam,
Thoothukudi district,
Tamil Nadu8°36′35″N 77°58′34″E / 8.60972°N 77.97603°E / 8.60972; 77.97603
Karunthadanganni Nachiyar and Aravindalochana Perumal Regarded to be the site Vishnu blessed the sage Suprabha.
Thirukkulandai (Navathirupathi) Perungulam,
Thoothukudi district,
Tamil Nadu8°36′25″N 77°57′02″E / 8.606968°N 77.950545°E / 8.606968; 77.950545
Alamelumangai Thayar and Kulandhai Valli and Srinivasa Perumal An asura once abducted Kumudhavalli, the wife of a Vaishnava. The asura was vanquished by Vishnu, who danced on his head, and restored Kumudhavalli to her husband.
Thirukkolur (Navathirupathi) Thirukolur,
Thoothukudi district,
Tamil Nadu8°36′23″N 77°58′26″E / 8.6065018°N 77.97389°E / 8.6065018; 77.97389
Amudhavalli and Koloorvalli and Vaithamanithi Perumal Regarded to be the site Vishnu relieved Kubera of his misfortune.
Thirupperai Thenthiruperai,
Thoothukudi district,
Tamil Nadu8°36′23″N 77°58′26″E / 8.60650°N 77.97389°E / 8.60650; 77.97389
Kuḻaikkadhu Valli, and Thirupperai Nachiyar and Magara Nedungkuḻai Kathar Perumal Believed to be the site Bhudevi's beauty was restored after being cursed by Durvasa.
Thirukkurugur Alwarthirunagari,
Thoothukudi district,
Tamil Nadu8°36′25″N 77°57′02″E / 8.60696°N 77.95054°E / 8.60696; 77.95054
Aadhinadha Valli and Gurukoor valli and Aadhinatha Perumal Associated with Nammalvar and Madhurakavi Alvar.
Srivillipputhur Srivilliputhur,
Virudhunagar district,
Tamil Nadu8°36′25″N 77°57′02″E / 8.60696°N 77.95054°E / 8.60696; 77.95054
Kodhadevi and Vatapatrasayee Perumal Regarded to be the site where the deity Ranganatha of Srirangam married his ardent devotee and Alvar, Andal.
Thiruthangal Thiruthankal
Virudhunagar district,
Tamil Nadu9°00′39″N 77°53′07″E / 9.010702°N 77.8853°E / 9.010702; 77.8853
Sengamala Thayar and Narayana Perumal The temple in its present form was believed to have been built by Devendra Vallabha, a Pandya king. The temple has three inscriptions in its two rock-cut caves, two dating from the period of the 8th century. Ninra Narayana is believed to have appeared to Sridevi and Bhudevi. Ranganatha from the Srirangam Ranganathaswamy temple is believed to have been enamoured by the devotion of Andal. He started a journey to Srivilliputhur Divya Desam to seek her hand for marriage. While reaching the place, it became dark, and he decided to spend the night in the place. Since he stayed at this place, it came to be known as Thiruthangal and the hillock came to be known as Thalagiri.[75]
Thirukkoodal Madurai,
Madurai district,
Tamil Nadu9°59′19″N 78°15′52″E / 9.98860°N 78.26434°E / 9.98860; 78.26434
Madhuravalli Thayar and Koodal Aḻagar Perumal Historians are of the opinion that Koodal Aḻagar temple finds mention in Sangam literature (3 century BCE – 3 century CE) in works like Madurai Kanchi by Mangudi Marudan, Paripāṭal, Kaliththokai and Silappatikaram. Periyalvar obtained the name as he is believed to be an ardent worshipper of Vishnu. While coming out of Madurai, he was taken out in procession to Srivilliputhur and he got the divine vision of Vishnu at the instance. He started reciting his composition, Periya Tirumoḻi, which was compiled in the Naalayira Divya Prabhandam by Manavala Mamunigal. Manavala decreed that the verses of Periyalvar starting with Tirupallandu should be the first and last verse while reciting Pradandam in any sacred occasion in Vishnu temples. Ramanuja, a proponent during the 10th century, believes that Tirupallandu originated at Madurai. Thus Koodal Aḻagar temple finds an indomitable position in Vaishnavite belief. During Mahapralaya, the great disaster, the devotees sought the abode of Vishnu in Madurai.[76]
Thirumaliruncholai Alagar Koyil,
Madurai district,
Tamil Nadu9°59′19″N 78°15′52″E / 9.988609°N 78.2643428°E / 9.988609; 78.2643428
Sundaravalli and Kallaḻagar Perumal Kallaḻagar was worshipped by Yama, the Hindu god of death. He requested Vishnu to stay in the place and built a temple with the help of Vishvakarma, the divine architect.[77] Kallaḻagar is believed to have appeared to redeem sage Suthapava off his curse from sage Durvasa.[78] The temple houses some rare Vijayanagara sculptures.[79]
Thirumogur Thirumohur,
Madurai district,
Tamil Nadu9°59′19″N 78°15′52″E / 9.98860°N 78.26434°E / 9.98860; 78.26434
Mohavalli and Kalamega Perumal According to Hindu legend, the presiding deity is believed to have appeared as a female Mohini to lure the asuras to support the devas, the celestial deities. The temple is also known as Mohanapuram and Mohanakshetram.[80]
Thirukkoshtiyur Thirukoshtiyur,
Sivaganga district,
Tamil Nadu9°59′19″N 78°15′51″E / 9.98860°N 78.2643°E / 9.98860; 78.2643
Mahalakshmi and Uraga Mellanayaan Perumal The temple is known as the place where Ramanuja, the expounder of Vaishnavadatta philosophy preached the mantra "Om Namo Narayana" to all people irrespective of their birth. Sowmyanarayana Perumal is believed to have appeared as Narasimha avatar to the devas, the celestial deities.[81]
Thiruppullani Thirupullani,
Ramanathapuram district,
Tamil Nadu9°59′19″N 78°15′52″E / 9.98860°N 78.26434°E / 9.98860; 78.26434
Kalyanavalli, Padmasani and Kalyana Jagannatha Perumal The temple is believed to have been built during the late 8th century CE, with later contributions from Medieval Cholas, later Pandyas, Sethupathi Kings of Ramnad. According to Hindu legend, Rama is believed to have done penance to worship Varuna to seek a path to Lanka upon the grass, giving the name Dharbasayanam to the place.[82]
Thirumeyyam Thirumayam,
Pudukottai district,
Tamil Nadu9°59′19″N 78°15′51″E / 9.98860°N 78.2643°E / 9.98860; 78.2643
Uyya Vandha Nachiyar and Sathyagirinatha Perumal Historians believe that the temple was built during the 9th century by the Pandyas. M.A. Dhaky places the period to be the 7th decade of 9th century. He has also compared the images of the temple to that of Vijayalaya Choleeswaram in Narthamalai, built by Muttaraiyar kings during the same period.[83] Another view is that the temple to have been built by a vassal of Pallavas following the rock-cut architecture of the group of monuments at Mahabalipuram built by Mahendravarman I (590-630 CE) and his son Narasimhavarman I.[84]
Kshira Sagara (Tirupparkatal) (Ocean of Milk) Heaven
Kadal Magal and Parkadal Natha Perumal This Divya Desam is not located on Earth. But the divine essence of this ocean is believed to be present in these temples - Prasanna Venkatesa Perumal Temple, Perumal Koil Street, District Vellore, Walaja Taluk, Tirupparkatal, Tamil Nadu, India
Tirupparamapadam (Vaikuntha) Vaikuntha
Paramapada Nayaki and Paramapada Nathan This Divya Desam is not located on Earth. Vaikuntha is the abode of Vishnu and Lakshmi. While the first 106 Divya Desams are believed to be mortal replicas of Vaikuntha, this is the Vaikuntha situated upon the spiritual sky (Paravyoma).

See also

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References

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Sources

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Vaishnavism
Closeup of Vishnu, seated in the lotus position on a lotus. From depiction of the poet Jayadeva bowing to Vishnu, Gouache on paper Pahari, The very picture of devotion, bare-bodied, head bowed, legs crossed and hands folded, Jayadeva stands at left, with the implements of worship placed before the lotus-seat of Vishnu who sits there, blessing the poet.
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