Vaithamanidhi Perumal Temple

Vaithamanidhi Perumal Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu located in Thirukolur village in Thoothukudi district, Tamil Nadu, on the banks of the Thamirabarani River. It is one of the 108 Divya Desams and one of the nine Nava Tirupati temples revered by the Alvar saints. Built in Dravidian architecture, the temple is associated with the legend of Kubera and is the birthplace of Madurakavi Alvar.

Visitors can expect a traditional South Indian temple complex with Dravidian architecture, gopuram, pillared mandapas and sanctum enshrining Vaithamanidhi Perumal with consorts Kolurvalli and Kubera. The temple is situated in the quiet village of Thirukolur near the Thamirabarani River. Visitors can have darshan, observe daily pujas, view stone inscriptions and sculptures, and explore the temple courtyard. The atmosphere is devotional and relatively uncrowded compared to larger temples.

The temple is one of the 108 Divya Desams glorified in the Nalayira Divya Prabandham by the Alvar saints, particularly Nammalvar. It is the birthplace of Madurakavi Alvar. The temple exhibits Dravidian architecture and has historical associations with Pandya and later dynasties. Inscriptions and traditions link it to the Nava Tirupati group of nine Vishnu temples along the Thamirabarani River.

As a Divya Desam and Nava Tirupati shrine, the temple holds importance for Sri Vaishnavism. The presiding deity is worshipped as Vaithamanidhi Perumal, the guardian of wealth, linked to the legend of Kubera entrusting his wealth (Nikshepam) to Vishnu. The temple is revered for its association with Madurakavi Alvar and is a pilgrimage destination during Vaikunta Ekadashi and Nava Tirupati festivals.