Deity
Vishnu (Koodal Azhagar)
Main deity & form
श्री कूडाल अज़गर
Koodal Azhagar Temple
Koodal Azhagar Temple is an ancient Vishnu temple in the heart of Madurai, Tamil Nadu. The presiding form is Koodal Azhagar, and the temple is associated with the Pandya period and Dravidian architectural tradition. Timings listed are approximate.
Koodal Azhagar Temple
Koodal Azhagar Temple
Koodal Azhagar Temple
Koodal Azhagar Temple
Koodal Azhagar Temple
Temple Summary
Quick Facts
Pilgrimage Status
Major city temple
Ancient shrine
Architecture
Dravidian
Pandya-era association
Location
Madurai, Tamil Nadu
Madurai district
Temple Profile
History and Significance
History
- Founded
- Ancient
- Founder
- Pandyan Kings
- Koodal Azhagar Temple is an ancient Vaishnavite shrine praised in Sangam literature and Thirumangai Alvar's Divya Prabandham hymns. The rock and granite structure was expanded by Pandyan and Vijayanagara monarchs with intricate stucco carvings on its vimana. It is located near the heart of historic Madurai.
Significance
- Koodal Azhagar Temple is a revered Divya Desam uniquely housing Lord Vishnu in three distinct divine postures within a single three-tiered vimana: standing (Koodal Azhagar), sitting (Surya Narayan), and reclining (Ranganatha). It is here that Periyalvar sang 'Thirupallandu' praising Lord Vishnu after winning a debate at the Pandyan court. The temple is celebrated for its intricate wooden and stucco artwork.
Temple Pilgrimage Summary
Pilgrim Guide
Before You Visit
Check timings on arrival
Timings in the record are approximate (05:30–12:30, 16:00–21:00); confirm the day’s darshan schedule at the entrance or notice board.
Plan for city traffic
As the temple is in central Madurai, allow extra time for traffic and parking, especially during peak hours.
Visit in early morning for ease
Early morning hours often help avoid crowds and heat while keeping your schedule flexible for other Madurai temples.
Carry essentials
Bring water and basic necessities for waiting time, particularly during weekends and festival periods.
Respect temple protocols
Follow queue systems and any posted instructions inside the complex for a smooth darshan experience.
Temple Timings
Darshan Schedule
Morning timings
05:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Evening timings
04:00 PM - 09:00 PM
Festivals
Temple Calendar Highlights
Margazhi (Dec–Jan) • 1 day
Vaikuntha Ekadashi
Observed as an important Vishnu festival day for devotees visiting for darshan.
Varies • Multiple days
Brahmotsavam
A multi-day temple festival period commonly associated with major Vishnu temples; dates vary by local calendar.
Panguni (Mar–Apr) • 1 day
Panguni Uthiram
A widely observed Tamil month festival day when many pilgrims plan temple visits.
Temple Knowledge
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Community Notes
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Suggested pilgrim note
Weekday mornings usually have shorter darshan queues than weekends.
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Gyaandweep Guide
Suggested pilgrim note
Carry a small cloth bag for footwear token and prasad containers.
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Gyaandweep Guide
Suggested pilgrim note
Aarti timings can shift on festival days, so check local notice boards.
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ज्ञ
श्री कूडाल अज़गर
Koodal Azhagar Temple
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