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Makara Nedunguzhaikaathar Temple

Makara Nedunkuzhaikathar Temple, located in Thenthiruperai on the banks of the Thamirabarani River, is a revered Divyadesam, one of the 108 sacred abodes of Lord Vishnu that have been praised by the Azhwars, the renowned Vishnu devotees. This temple is also part of the Nava Thirupathis, a group of nine temples dedicated to Vishnu, situated along the Tiruchendur-Tirunelveli route on both sides of the Thamirabarani River. The presiding deity of the temple is Lord Makara Nedunkuzhaikathar, and his consort is Goddess Kuzhaikaduvalli. Additionally, this temple is associated with Shukra, the planet Venus.

Timings

Opens from 6.00 am to 6.00 pm

Entry Fee

Free of cost

Origin/History :-



The history of the Makara Nedunkuzhaikathar Temple in Thenthiruperai is deeply rooted in the ancient traditions of Tamil Nadu, particularly in connection with the Chola and Pandya dynasties. While the exact builder of the temple remains unclear, it is believed that the temple dates back to the early mediaeval period, around the 9th to 12th centuries CE, during the rule of the Pandya kings. The temple's architectural style and inscriptions suggest strong influences from both the Pandya and Chola dynasties.

The temple was likely constructed or significantly expanded during the reign of these dynasties, who were known for their patronage of Vishnu temples. The temple may have undergone various renovations and expansions over the centuries, with contributions from later rulers, including the Nayaks, who played a significant role in maintaining and enhancing many temples in Tamil Nadu during the 16th to 18th centuries.

The temple's association with the Nava Thirupathis, the nine temples along the Thamirabarani River, further underscores its importance in the region's religious history. The exact periods of renovations and specific contributors to the temple's upkeep are not well-documented, but it is evident that the temple has been an important centre of worship for centuries.


Puranic Significance :-


According to a mythological story, Goddess Lakshmi, also known as Sridevi, felt upset because she believed that Lord Vishnu spent more time with Goddess Bhudevi, who appeared more beautiful. Seeking to match Bhudevi's beauty, Lakshmi confided in Sage Durvasa, expressing her wish to attain the same form and appearance as Bhudevi. However, when Sage Durvasa later visited Bhudevi, she did not welcome him with due respect. This angered the short-tempered sage, who cursed Bhudevi to take on the form of Sridevi.

To regain her original form and the love of Lord Vishnu, Bhudevi undertook severe penance on the banks of the Thamirabarani River. During her penance, she discovered two beautiful earrings shaped like fish and offered them to Lord Vishnu on the auspicious day of Panguni Pournami, the Full Moon day in March-April. Pleased with her devotion and offering, Lord Vishnu accepted the earrings, adorned himself with them, and lifted the curse from Bhudevi.

In Tamil, "Makara" means fish, and the Lord, who wore the fish-shaped earrings, came to be known as Makara Nedunkuzhaikathar. Bhudevi, who had to take on the form of Lakshmi and offered the earrings, became known as Sri Perai or Thiruperai Nachiyar. Since then, this place has been called Thiruperai.

Do's and Don'ts

  1. Regular Maintenance: Inspect and repair the temple regularly; keep it clean.
  2. Follow Traditions: Maintain traditional rituals and document practices.
  3. Consult Experts: Seek advice from historians and conservationists for accurate restoration.
  4. Community Involvement: Engage the community in upkeep and fundraising.
  5. Legal Compliance: Adhere to regulations and seek heritage status if applicable.
  6. Sustainability: Use eco-friendly materials and practices.


  1. Neglect Maintenance: Don’t ignore damage or cleanliness issues.
  2. Alter Traditions: Avoid changing or abandoning traditional rituals.
  3. Overlook Expert Advice: Don’t undertake restoration without expert input.
  4. Exclude Community: Don’t make decisions without involving local stakeholders.
  5. Disregard Regulations: Avoid making changes without proper permits.
  6. Ignore Sustainability: Don’t use harmful materials or waste resources.

Dress Code

For Men :-  Wear traditional attire such as dhoti, kurta, or a formal shirt and trousers. Avoid shorts, sleeveless shirts, and casual wear.

For Women :-  Wear traditional attire such as saree, salwar kameez, or a long skirt with a top. Ensure that clothing covers the shoulders and knees. Avoid short dresses and sleeveless tops.

How to reach

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  1. By Air: The nearest airports are Tuticorin Airport (around 40 kilometres from Tirunelveli). From the airport, hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Thenthiruperai. 
  2. By Train: Take a local train or taxi from Tirunelveli Junction to Thenthiruperai. The distance is approximately 45 kilometres, and local trains or taxis can provide direct routes.

Nearby Cities and Rivers

Nearby rivers and cities include:

  1. Tamiraparani River: The primary river near the temple, flowing through the region and providing the temple with its serene setting.
  2. Tirunelveli: A prominent city in Tamil Nadu, located approximately 45 kilometres from the temple. It serves as a major urban centre and is a key point of reference for the area.
  3. Tiruchendur: Another important city in the vicinity, located around 90 kilometres from Thenthiruperai. It is well-known for the Tiruchendur Murugan Temple.