Thirumayam - Vishnu Temple

This much-hallowed Vishnu temple lying at the foot of the hill at Thirumayam. is said to have been built in 1687 by Vijayanatha Thevar, the celebrated Sethupathi of Ramanathapuram. The reputed fort and the extremely popular Siva and Vishnu temples are deemed to be the triple achievements of the Pudukkotai Tondaiman rulers who played an unforgettable role in their reign. Though the building of this 40-acre wide kshetra is attributed to the king of Ramanathapuram, its fate was entwined with the Tondaimans and their ally, the British overlords. The Rock-cut Siva temple atop the hill is richly adorned with masterly chiseled figures that cast a spell on the art-critics and common-men alike, the moment they enter the sanctum. Down below lies another popular Vishnu temple built it accordance with silpa sastra, possessing all the indispensable parts. It enjoyed a high reputation during its heyday as evidenced by the vast dimensions and imposing adornments. Though it holds out irresistible attraction, being a memorable relic of the bygone past, its devotional activities are not so worthy of mention, or befitting to its former splendour.

It lies 19 km off Pudukkotai, accessible by bus service.

[ Back ] [ Temples Of India ] [ Up ] [ Next ]