BLOGS Sri Srivaikuntanathan Perumal Temple, Srivaikuntam -First of the Nava Tirupati Temples Nava Tirupathi Temples April 23, 2026 Sri Srivaikuntanathan Perumal Temple Sri Srivaikuntanathan Perumal Temple, located in Srivaikuntam in Thoothukudi district, is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is one of the 108 Divya Desam temples. This sacred shrine holds the honour of being the first temple in the Nava Tirupati pilgrimage circuit making it the ideal starting point for devotees embarking on the holy Nava Tirupati Yatra along the banks of the Tamirabarani River. For pilgrims planning to complete this divine circuit, Ananta Vihara in Thirukolur just a short drive away is the most peaceful and convenient homestay base. Located on the banks of the river Thamirabarani, this is one of the 108 Divya Desams of Lord Vishnu and the first of the Nava Tirupatis. Also called Srivaikuntam Temple and Kallapiran Temple, the temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu in the form of Vaikuntanathar. The presiding deity is called Sri Vaikuntanatha Perumal or Sri Kallapiran Perumal. His consort in this temple is known as Sri Vaikuntavalli Thaayar. This temple is also closely associated with the Sun God or Surya Bhagwan. The temple exemplifies Dravidian architectural style with a prominent gopuram rising to 110 feet. The Miracle of Surya Rays According to legend, Kaladushana, a devotee of Vaikuntanatha, was a leader of robbers who looted from the rich and distributed the wealth to the poor. When the Pandya King wanted to arrest him, Kaladushana prayed to Sri Vaikuntanatha. Vaikuntanatha appeared as Kaladushana and surrendered before the king. Later, Vaikuntanatha appeared in the king’s dreams to narrate the events. Since Vaikuntanathar appeared for thieves (called kalla in Tamil), he came to be known as Kallapiran. The Legend of Kallapiran A distinctive feature of the temple is the annual solar alignment during Chithirai and Aippasi months, when the sun’s rays directly illuminate the sanctum’s presiding deity, Srivaikuntanathan Perumal. This spectacular natural event draws thousands of pilgrims every year for the special Surya Puja on those sacred days. Navagraha Significance This temple is also associated with Surya, the Sun God. It is believed worshipping in this temple can mitigate the malefic effects of the Sun.Devotees who have Surya dosha in their horoscope consider a visit here especially auspicious and powerful. Temple Open Hours: 7:30 AM – 12:00 PM & 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM Major Festivals The Garuda Sevai, common to all the 9 Nava Tirupati temples, remains the grandest festival of this temple. The processional deities of all these temples are taken in the Garuda mount. Saint Nammazhwar’s idol is also carried in a palanquin, and the sacred hymns are recited with devotion. Prayers & Benefits Several poojas are held in this temple and the most important among them is the pooja done by childless couples. Devotees visit to pray for: Marriage blessings Progeny and children Academic excellence Relief from Surya dosha How to Reach From Distance Route Tirunelveli ~30 km Bus / Taxi Thoothukudi ~39 km Bus / Taxi Tiruchendur ~34 km Bus / Taxi Nearest Railway Station: Srivaikuntam Railway Station (1.5 km from temple) Most Recent Posts All Posts Nava Tirupathi Temples Nearby Attractions Temples Sri Srivaikuntanathan Perumal Temple | Srivaikuntam Nava Tirupati Temples Navakailasam Explore More Category Nava Tirupathi Temples (1) Nearby Attractions (4) Temples (3) Tags Homestay in Tirunelveli Homestay Near Kutralam Nava Kailayam Stay Nava Tirupati Homestay Nava Tirupati Yatra Pilgrim Homestay TN Srivaikuntanathan Perumal Temple Stay Near Tiruchendur Temple Stay Tamil Nadu Thirukolur Accommodation Vaithamanidhi Perumal Temple