Azhagiya Manavala Perumal Temple in Trichy
QUICK INFO:
Location: Sri Kamalavalli Nachiar Temple, Woraiyur, Trichy – 620003
Temple Timings: 6 AM to 12 PM and 5 PM to 8 PM
Architectural Styles: Dravidian Architecture
Rajagopuram: 5-tiered GopuramTransport Options: Nearest Bus Stand: Chatram Bus Stand (3 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Trichy Fort Railway Station/TP (2.2 km)
Nearest Airport: Trichy International AirportBest Staycation Near Temple: Ramyas Hotels
Tiruchirappalli, also known as Trichy, is a famous temple town with many historic temples that attract visitors and devotees all year round. Trichy is considered a sacred place by many Hindus because of its ancient temples, which are among the most important in Tamil Nadu.
In Trichy, you can find several Perumal temples that are part of the revered 108 Divya Desam temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu. One of these temples is the Azhagiya Manavala Perumal Temple in Woraiyur, a suburb of Trichy. This temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Goddess Kamalavalli Nachiar. It’s a must-visit in Trichy and is unique because the goddess faces north, towards the famous Sri Ranganathar Swamy Temple in Srirangam, which is about 6.5 km away.
The Azhagiya Manavala Perumal Temple in Woraiyur is known by various names, such as Thirukozhi Divyadesam, Woraiyur Nachiyar Kovil, Uraiyur Kamalavalli Nachiar Temple, or simply Nachiyar Kovil. Join us on a virtual tour to learn more about this historic temple in Trichy!
Legend and History of Woraiyur Azhagiya Manavala Perumal Temple in Trichy
Once, a group of Hindu wise men were discussing the greatness of three Hindu gods: Lord Brahma, Lord Vishnu, and Lord Shiva. They couldn’t agree on who was the greatest, so they asked Maharishi Bhrigu to help them decide. Maharishi Bhrigu first went to visit Lord Shiva, but he wasn’t allowed in because Lord Shiva and his wife were spending time alone.
Next, he went to see Lord Brahma, but Lord Brahma was too busy creating and didn’t pay attention to Maharishi Bhrigu. Finally, Maharishi Bhrigu visited Lord Vishnu, who welcomed him warmly and showed him great hospitality. Maharishi Bhrigu was pleased and asked to speak with Lord Vishnu in private. When everyone else left, Maharishi Bhrigu became upset that Goddess Lakshmi, who is always with Lord Vishnu, didn’t leave. Because of this, he cursed her to be born as a human.
Despite the curse, Maharishi Bhrigu decided that Lord Vishnu was the greatest because of the kindness and respect he showed. Lord Vishnu comforted the upset goddess and told her that he would be born as a king and marry her. The king found the baby goddess in a lotus pond and named her Kamalavalli. Later, she fell in love with a god named Sri Ranganathar Swamy of Srirangam, and they got married.
To remember this special occasion, the king built a temple, which is believed to have been around since the 7th century. Lord Vishnu appeared as a handsome groom, and the temple became known as the ‘Azhagiya Manavalan Temple.
Significance of Woraiyur Azhagiya Manavala Perumal Temple in Trichy
Every year, during the Tamil month of Panguni, a special event called “Serthi Sevai” takes place at the Srirangam Sri Ranganathar Swamy Temple in India. On this day, the deity Namperumal leaves the Srirangam temple in the early morning and crosses the River Cauvery in a beautifully decorated palanquin to visit the Woraiyur Nachiyar Kovil. There, he meets Goddess Kamalavalli Thayar, and a re-enactment of their divine marriage rituals takes place. This event is a rare opportunity for devotees to witness both deities together.
The Woraiyur Kamalavalli Nachiyar Temple is amazing as it is the only one among the 108 Divya Desam Temples where the goddess faces north towards the Srirangam Temple. Many people facing difficulties in their marriages visit this temple to seek the goddess’s blessings. The Sri Azhagiya Manavala Perumal Temple, considered to be the birthplace of the revered saint Thirupaanazhwar, also celebrates Goddess Kamalavalli Thayar with special recognition during festivals, which is unique in Vishnu temples in India. The temple is a significant place of worship, featuring shrines dedicated to other important figures of Hinduism.
Important Events and Festivals:
- Kodai Uthsavam – Vaikasi/Aani (10 days)
- Vasantha Uthsavam – Vaikasi/Aani (7 days)
- Navarathri Uthsavam – Purattasi (9 days)
- Dolothsavam – Kaarthigai (7 days)
- ThiruAdhyayana Uthsavam – Thai/Maasi (11 days)
- Theppa Uthsavam – Maasi (7 days)
- Sri Kamalavalli Naachiyar – Sri Azhagiya Manavalan Serthi Sevai – Panguni Aayilyam (1 day)
- Thayar Purapaadu (every Friday)
- Dolothsavam
- Vasanthothsava
- Karthikai Tirupanazhwar Festival (10 days)
- Navaratri
- Vaikunta Ekadashi
PC: Maalaimalar
