TENKASI - VISWANATHAR
TIRUKKOVIL

Tirukkovil is the honorific name for
Temple in Tail Nadu; so used for, the -following.

This renowned shrine was materialised by Lord Viswanatha Himself by directing to a pious Pandyan King, in a dream Parakrama by name to build a temple here in this holy spot. Deeming the direction a unique fortune showered on him unsought for, the king forthwith started construction, befitting his royalty and the divinity of the Lord. On completion, he installed a linga and named it Kasi Viswanathar, and another icon for Lokambikai, the local name for Mother Parvathi, in a separate shrine. It is believed that the Ganges water flowed into the temple Pushkarini at the bidding of Siva Himself. That is local belief current, and visitors bath in it before offering worship.

Misfortune struck the beautifully sculptured tall nine storyed tower some two years back, but renovation programme restored it to former glory along with some other additions, like the idol of Balasubrahmanya to the sacred shrine. Prayer rituals are performed with Agamic rules. It is one of the great pilgrimage centres in the down South luring a steady influx of bhaktas throughout the year.

It lies near Tirunelveli, the district Head (quarter town to Tamil Nadu and commands all transport facilities.

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