Adinathar Temple

Adinathar Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Vishnu as Adinatha Perumal located in Alwarthirunagari, Thoothukudi district, Tamil Nadu. It is one of the Nava Tirupati temples and one of the 108 Divya Desams revered by the Alvars. Traditionally regarded as the birthplace of Nammalvar, the temple features Dravidian architecture, a prominent gopuram, and shrines to Adinathanayaki. It is an important pilgrimage centre on the banks of the Tamiraparani River.

Visitors can expect a traditional South Indian temple complex with a gopuram, pillared mandapas, and sanctums for Adinathar and Adinathanayaki. The temple is situated in the town of Alwarthirunagari near the Tamiraparani River. Inside, visitors can view Dravidian stone architecture, sculpted pillars, and shrines associated with Nammalvar. The atmosphere is that of an active pilgrimage site with daily pujas, darshan queues, and festival decorations during Vaikunta Ekadasi and Garuda Sevai.

The temple is an ancient Divya Desam glorified in the hymns of Nammalvar (9th century). Alwarthirunagari was historically known as Thirukurugur and is traditionally the birthplace of Nammalvar. The temple exhibits Dravidian architecture developed under Pandya and later Nayak patronage and has long been a centre of Vaishnavite tradition along the Tamiraparani River.

As one of the 108 Divya Desams and one of the nine Nava Tirupati temples, the temple holds high religious importance for Sri Vaishnavas. It is closely associated with Nammalvar and the Alvar bhakti tradition. Major observances include Vaikunta Ekadasi and the annual Garuda Sevai festival when festival images from all Nava Tirupati temples are brought to Alwarthirunagari.