Kanyakumari City Information

Kanyakumari, the southernmost tip of the Indian Subcontinent. It is a favourite place for people who love watching the sunrise and sunset over the ocean.  

Kanyakumari

Kanyakumari, also known as Cape Comorin, is the southernmost point of the Indian subcontinent. Cape refers to land that has penetrated the sea, and Comorin was the Kanyakumari's old name. During British rule, sailors and traders used the term Cape to mention the identical landmark of Comorin. The city is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, clean beaches, and historical landmarks. It is a continent that extends into the wide expanse of the Indian Ocean. Uniquely, the confluence of the Indian Ocean, Bay of Bengal and the Arabian Sea occurs here, making it a meeting point for the three seas. The city has a shoreline of more than 70 kilometres. Kanyakumari has gorgeous beaches with golden sands, ideal for relaxing and soaking up the sun. Sunrises and sunsets over the Indian Ocean are breathtaking, providing a fascinating spectacle of nature's craftsmanship, especially on full moon days when you can see both sunset and sunrise at once. The city's shoreline comprises pristine beaches lapped by turquoise waves from the Indian Ocean. It's also a popular pilgrimage destination for Hindus, Christians, and Muslims. The most famous landmark is the Kumari Amman Temple, which is devoted to the Goddess Kanya Kumari. The town also has churches and mosques, which show its diverse religious landscape. Explore the city's bustling bazaars and shop for traditional Tamil Nadu items such as handicrafts, handloom textiles, and pearls. Enjoy the delectable South Indian cuisine, which is famed for its use of fresh seafood and aromatic spices. Tamil culture serves as the foundation while neighbouring Kerala and Karnataka influences are also visible. The town exemplifies South India's pleasant and welcoming spirit. 

The best time to visit Kanyakumari is during the winter, which lasts from October to March because the temperature is cool and pleasant.

Three main ways to reach Kanyakumari: 

By Air: Thiruvananthapuram International Airport (TRV), located 85 kilometres north of Kanyakumari, is the city's nearest airport. Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala's capital city, is well-connected to major cities in India and overseas.

By Train: Kanyakumari railway station (CAPE) is well connected to India's major cities, including Chennai, Bangalore, Mumbai, and Delhi. Trains provide a comfortable and scenic travel to Kanyakumari.

By Road: Kanyakumari is easily accessible by road from major cities and towns in Tamil Nadu and bordering states via national roads (NH66) and state highways.

Main Attractions in Kanyakumari:        

Vivekananda Rock Memorial: The Vivekananda Rock Memorial is a monument and renowned tourist attraction that stands on a rock off the coast of Kanyakumari. It was created in 1970 to honour Swami Vivekananda, a Hindu monk credited with spreading Indian philosophy to the West. The memorial is located on one of the two rocks about 500 meters off the mainland of Vavathurai, Kanyakumari. It is composed of two primary structures: Vivekananda Mandapam (Meditation Hall): This octagonal edifice holds a museum that depicts Swami Vivekananda's life and teachings. There is also a meditation hall where guests can sit and reflect, as well as the Shripada Mandapam (a footprint shrine), which is a sacred site with a footprint said to be Goddess Parvati's. The memorial is a beautiful and tranquil site with breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean. The Vivekananda Rock Memorial is a prominent Hindu pilgrimage destination as well as a tourist attraction. The memorial is placed on a rock believed to be the location where Swami Vivekananda acquired enlightenment. The memorial is created in a distinct style that combines aspects of Hindu and Islamic architecture. The memorial includes a meditation hall, museum, and library. The ferry voyage to Vivekananda Rock Memorial is a popular tourist excursion. The ferry cruise provides spectacular views of the coastline and memorial. Visitors can go to the Vivekananda Rock Memorial by ferry from the mainland. The ferry voyage takes approximately 20 minutes.

Timings: 08.00 AM to 04.00 PM 

Normal ferry charge including rock entry fee: Rs.105 for both Indian and Foreigner  

Special ferry charge including rock entry fee: Rs.330 for both Indian and Foreigner 

Special remark: The ferry ride is subject to climatic conditions. 

Thiruvalluvar Statue: The Thiruvalluvar Statue is a 41-meter-tall stone sculpture of Tamil poet and philosopher Valluvar, also known as Thiruvalluvar, that stands on a small island near the town of Kanyakumari on the southernmost tip of the Indian peninsula in Tamil Nadu. V. Ganapathi Sthapati, an Indian sculptor, created the statue, which was dedicated to the people of Tamil Nadu on January 1, 2000, by the state's then-chief minister, M. Karunanidhi. The statue is dedicated to Thiruvalluvar, the author of the Thirukkural, an ancient Tamil book on ethics and morality that is regarded as one of Tamil literature's best masterpieces. The statue and pedestal stand together at 133 feet (41 meters) tall, representing the 133 chapters of the Thirukkural. The 95-foot (29-meter) Valluvar sculpture rests on a 38-foot (12-meter) pedestal representing the 38 chapters of Virtue, the first of the Kural text's three books. The monument depicts the second and third volumes of the Kural scripture, respectively, wealth and love. The overall design suggests that money and love can be achieved and enjoyed based on strong virtue. The statue is designed in Indian architectural styles and is hollow inside. It is composed of stone and intended to endure severe winds and saline weather conditions.

Timings: 09.00 AM to 04.00 PM 

Mahatma Gandhi Mandapam: The Mahatma Gandhi Mandapam, popularly known as the Gandhi Memorial, is a pink-colored memorial structure found in Kanyakumari, India. It is historically significant since it was created to honor India's "Father of the Nation," Mahatma Gandhi. After Mahatma Gandhi's assassination in 1948, his ashes were separated into urns and distributed throughout India for public honor. One of the urns was transported to Kanyakumari, and the Gandhi Mandapam was built on the exact location where the urn was stored for public sight before being immersed in the sea. The memorial was completed in 1956. The memorial's prominent feature is a 79-foot-tall pink portico that represents Mahatma Gandhi's age at the time of his death. The building is inspired by Orissan architecture, which is distinguished by its pyramidal roof and curving eaves. The Gandhi Mandapam allows people to pay their respects to Mahatma Gandhi and learn about his life and legacy. It is a historical landmark that connects you to India's freedom movement and Gandhi's nonviolent beliefs.

Timings: 07.00 AM to 07.00 PM 

Bhagavathy Amman Temple / Kumari Amman Temple: The Kumari Amman Temple, also known as the Bhagavathy Amman Temple, is a highly respected Hindu temple in Kanyakumari. It has great significance for believers and is a famous pilgrimage destination. The temple honors Goddess Kanya Kumari, also known as Devi Kanyakumari. She is regarded as a virgin goddess, embodying purity and might. The temple is regarded as one of the 108 Shakti Peethas, sacred locations associated with the Goddesses Sati and Shakti. The temple is thought to be over 3,000 years old, while its exact period of construction is uncertain. The main idol of Goddess Kanya Kumari faces east, toward the sunrise, representing fresh beginnings. The temple complex is encircled by solid stone walls, with the main entrance on the north side. Unlike other Hindu temples, the primary idol of Goddess Kanya Kumari faces the east. This represents her function as the one who removes darkness and welcomes the sun. The idol wears a one-of-a-kind and extremely shiny nose ring. Legends and myths surround the ornament's origin and meaning.

Timings: 04.30 AM to 12.30 PM & from 04.00 PM to 08.30 PM.                                                                               

Wax Museum: Kanyakumari also has a wax museum, called the Mayapuri Wonder Wax Museum, which is located inside the Baywatch amusement park. It's an excellent place to go for some enjoyable entertainment, especially with families and children. The museum houses a collection of life-sized wax figurines of notable people from a variety of fields, including national and international celebrities (performers, singers, etc.), historical figures, Indian and foreign cinema actors, political figures, and sports personalities. The museum allows you to stand next to your favorite celebrities or historical figures in a realistic setting. The lifelike wax figurines are excellent photo opportunities, allowing you to save entertaining moments. The Mayapuri Wonder Wax Museum is part of the Baywatch amusement park, which also includes a 3D museum, water rides (when operational), and fun activities.

Timings: 08.00 AM to 08.00 PM 

Entrance fee: Rs.120 

Government Museum: The Government Museum in Kanyakumari is a multidisciplinary museum that celebrates the region's rich history and culture. It is administered by the Tamil Nadu government and can be found on Gandhi Mandapam Road. The museum has a large collection of exhibits on various areas of the region, including archaeology—artifacts and remnants from the region's ancient past. Anthropology: items and displays demonstrating the ethnic customs and traditions of the area, History: displays reflect the historical timeline of Kanyakumari and the neighboring districts, Numismatics is the collecting of coins and currencies used throughout the region's history. Philately is a collection of stamps and postal goods. Botany includes specimens and information on the local plant life. Zoology: exhibitions displaying the region's fauna, Geology: rocks and minerals discovered in the area, and Local History: exhibits dedicated to Kanyakumari's distinct cultural legacy. The museum's collection includes sculptures and wood carvings of Hindu deities, historical personalities, and scenes from mythology and daily life.

Timings: 09.30 AM to 05.00 PM 

Entrance fee: Foreigner – Rs.100 & Indian – Rs.5 

Triveni Sangamam: It is also known as the confluence of the three seas, and it is located near the southernmost point of mainland India in Kanyakumari, Tamil Nadu. It's a wonderfully magnificent sight, and many people come to Kanyakumari just to see it. The waters of the three seas have different colours, and the spot where they meet is frequently identified by a line of white foam. The meeting of the three seas is a one-of-a-kind geographical phenomenon since it brings together three huge bodies of water in one location. Hindus revere the confluence, and many think that soaking in the sangamam cleanses the soul. The Triveni Sangamam is a remarkable geographical phenomenon since it is one of the few spots on the planet where three huge bodies of water meet. The beauty of the sangamam, along with its religious significance, makes it a famous tourist attraction.

Important Local Festivals in Kanyakumari: 

Kumari Thiruvizha (May): This annual ten-day celebration is held at the Kumari Amman Temple, which is devoted to the goddess Parvati. The festival includes a range of cultural events, such as music, dance, and drama performances. It is claimed that Goddess Parvati's spine and right shoulder fell into this position during her self-destruction.

Suchindram Temple Car Festival (December-January): This ten-day event is one of the most significant in Kanyakumari. It is observed in the Thanumalayan Temple in Suchindram, which honors the trinity of Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva. The celebration includes a colorful temple car procession, which is a popular attraction for tourists.

Cape Festival (October): Kanyakumari holds a three-day festival to commemorate the region's cultural history. The festival includes a range of cultural events, such as music, dance, and drama performances. There is also a beach festival where guests may watch boat racing, beach volleyball, and sand sculpture events. Kanyakumari is named after the Hindu deity Devi Kanya Kumari, who is thought to be Lord Krishna's sister. Devi Kanya, according to Hindu belief, was the incarnation of Goddess Parvati.

Kalabham (July-August): This unusual event takes place on the last Friday of the Tamil month of Aadi (July-August). During the festival, the figure of the presiding deity at the Bhagavathy Amman temple is coated with sandalwood paste.  

Pongal (January): This four-day harvest festival is observed throughout Tamil Nadu, including Kanyakumari. Farmers give their first fruits to the Sun God, Surya, as a symbol of gratitude. As a result, it commemorates the Sun God Surya as well as the new rice crop. During Pongal, people decorate their homes with Kolam artwork, prepare Pongal (a sweet rice meal), and start bonfires. 

Interesting Places nearby Kanyakumari: 

Suchindram Thanumalayan Swamy Temple:  The Suchindram Thanumalayan Temple, also known as Sthanumalayan Temple, is a significant Hindu temple located in Suchindram, 15 kilometres from Kanyakumari. The Thanumalayan Temple is significant to both the Shaivaite and Vaishnavite sects of Hindus. The name Sthanumalayan refers to the Trimurti; "Stanu" represents Mahesha (Shiva), "Mal" signifies Vishnu, and "Ayan" indicates Brahma. In Vaishnavite traditions, it is considered an Abhimana Kshetram, and it is one of the 108 Shiva temples cherished in Kerala Hindu culture. The temple structure covers two acres and features two tall entrances called Gopurams. The eastern tower has eleven storeys and stands 44 meters tall. The temple complex includes 30 shrines, but the most notable feature is that it is devoted to the sacred trinity of Lords Shiva, Vishnu, and Brahma. A three-tiered lingam represents all three deities: Brahma at the bottom, Vishnu in the middle, and Shiva on top. The temple is thought to have been built in the 17th century, while certain elements may date back as far as the 8th or 9th centuries. Inscriptions unearthed in the temple complex date from the ninth century. The Thirumalai Nayak and Travancore kings both expanded the temple. The architecture is a unique combination of Kerala and Tamil cultures. Another unique aspect of the temple are the four melodic pillars cut from a single stone. When struck, these pillars emit a variety of musical notes. The facility also has a dance hall with 1035 finely carved pillars. The temple's main attraction is a 22-foot-tall statue of Lord Hanuman.

Timings: 06.00 AM to 12.00 PM & from 05.00 PM to 08.30 PM 

Entrance fee: No 

Vattakottai Fort: Vattakottai Fort, popularly known as the Circular Fort, is a spectacular seashore stronghold located 7 kilometres from Kanyakumari, India's southernmost point. It was erected in the 18th century as a coastal defence base during the Travancore kingdom's reign. It was an important strategic location. Captain Eustachius De Lannoy oversaw the fort's construction, which began in 1729 under King Marthanda Varma. Captain Eustachius De Lannoy, a French military officer who had previously fought against the Travancore army, was eventually captured, and assigned as the kingdom's army chief. He contributed significantly to the design and construction of the fort. Though the fort's name translates as "Circular Fort," it is rectangular in design and covers an area of 3.5 acres. The fort walls are composed of granite stones and reach up to 29 feet thick at the front, making them a strong defence construction. The architectural style of Vattakottai Fort combines indigenous Kerala and European elements. Inside the fort's ramparts, you'll find fragments of different constructions, including watchtowers, a weapon chamber, and even a tiny pond. There used to be a hidden passage, a 4-foot-wide tunnel connecting the fort to the Padmanabhapuram Palace, the Travancore monarchs' home. However, the tunnel is no longer open to the public. The Archaeological Survey of India named Vattakottai Fort a protected monument, and it has recently undergone restorations. The fort provides spectacular views of the Bay of Bengal on one side and the Western Ghats on the other.

Timings: 08.00 AM to 05.00 PM.                              

Padmanabhapuram wooden Palace / Marthandam Palace:  Padmanabhapuram Palace, also known as Kalkulam Palace, was erected in the 16th century by the monarchs of the Travancore state and served as their capital until the late 18th century. It is in Padmanabhapuram, Tamil Nadu, 40 kilometres from Kanyakumari, but is owned, administered, and maintained by the government of Kerala, its neighbouring state. The palace is a stunning example of Kerala architecture, including ornate woodwork, murals, and craftsmanship. It is a collection of buildings composed of wood and granite. The Puthukallu Mandapam, a vast hall with a pyramidal ceiling, serves as the palace's main entrance and contains several genuinely spectacular features. Other notable structures in the palace are Ezhuthattu Mandapam (a seven-tiered hall), Natakasala (theatre hall), Mantrasala (council chamber), and Thekkakkuttu Mandapam (a southern hall). The palace is decorated with stunning murals depicting events from Hindu mythology and Indian epics. The halls' ceilings are adorned with floral and geometric motifs. The palace also has a collection of antique furniture, weapons, and antiques. This is Asia's largest wooden palace. One notable element is the flooring in the palace, which is part of the complex. This floor is produced from a unique blend of egg whites and coconut shells, which creates a dark and shiny surface. The King's Bedroom is a wonderful attraction. The bed itself is supposed to be built of 64 different species of herbal and medicinal wood, a gift from Dutch traders. Adding to the mystery, the palace is claimed to have an underground tunnel named 'charottu kottaram.' This hidden route was purportedly utilized by the royal family to flee in the event of an assault, going to another palace some distance away. The palace complex has a museum with a variety of antiques such as weaponry, furniture, Chinese jars, and paintings illustrating Travancore’s history.

Timings: 09.30 AM to 04.30 PM (Lunch break time: 01.00 PM to 02.00 PM) 

Entrance fee: Foreigner Adult – Rs.320 & Indian Adult – Rs.40 and Foreigner child below 12 years – Rs.110 & Indian child below 12 years – Rs.10 

Camera fee: Rs.60

Video Camera fee: Rs.2500 

Holidays: Monday, Wednesday Forenoon and National Holidays   

Thiruparappu Waterfalls: Thiruparappu Waterfalls is a man-made waterfall and a lovely scenic site located approximately 55 kilometers from Kanyakumari. The Kodayar River cascades down here, forming a breathtaking waterfall. The riverbed in this area is stony and measures around 300 feet in length. The waterfall itself is almost 50 feet high and flows for around seven months of the year. The water collects in a pool below the falls, which is a popular swimming and picnic area. The environment around the waterfalls is lush green, providing a pleasant getaway. A modest shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva is located near the entrance and is highly adored by the locals.

Hotels: 

Restaurants: 

• The Curry (Indian, Asian, Chinese), East Car Street, Kanyakumari. 
• The Ocean Restaurant (Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options), Inside Seashore Hotel, Kanyakumari. 
• Sea View Restaurant (Indian, Seafood, Asian), Inside Hotel Sea View, Kanyakumari. 
• Udupi International Restaurant (Indian, Vegetarian Friendly), Salem-Kanyakumari Highway, Kumaracoil, Padmanabhapuram. 

Important Temple destinations located near Kanyakumari: 

Tirunelveli – which is 85 km away from Kanyakumari & it will take 2 hrs to drive approximately. 

Krishnapuram Temple at Tirunelveli: The Krishnapuram Venkatachalapathy Temple is a Hindu temple devoted to the god Vishnu, located near Krishnapuram, about 10 kilometres from Tirunelveli. The temple is regarded as a repository of Nayak architecture, having been constructed in the Dravidian style. Krishnappa Nayak, the son of the Madurai Nayak dynasty's founder, is believed to have built the temple in the 16th century. Inscriptions and copper plates discovered in the temple back up this allegation. A tall granite wall surrounds the temple complex, encompassing all of its shrines. The temple's five-tiered rajagopuram, or gateway tower, stands 110 feet tall. The sanctum sanctorum contains a picture of Venkatachalapathy, a form of Lord Vishnu, in a standing position with four arms. The granite idol stands approximately four feet tall. The temple complex also has temples dedicated to other deities, such as Alamelumangai (Lakshmi), Vishnu's consort, and Andal, a revered Alvar saint. The Krishnapuram Temple is a prominent Hindu pilgrimage destination, particularly during the 11-day Brahmotsavam festival held in the Tamil month of Puratasi (September-October). Other festivities observed here are Vaikunda Ekadasi in December-January, Pongal in January, and Tamil and English New Year's Day.

Timings: 07.00 AM to 11.00 AM & from 5.00 PM to 08.00 PM 

Nellaiyappar Temple at Tirunelveli: The Nellaiyappar Temple is a Hindu temple devoted to the deity Shiva in Tirunelveli. The temple's major deity is Nellaiyappar (also known as Venuvananathar), a form of Lord Shiva represented by the lingam. His consort, Parvati, is portrayed as Kanthimathi Amman. Surprisingly, the deity Vishnu is also venerated here, having observed their marriage, according to mythology. The Pandyas are thought to have built the initial complex, with the Cholas, Pallavas, Cheras, and Madurai Nayaks later adding to the current masonry edifice. Nindraseer Nedumaran (Koon Pandian), the 7th-century AD ruler, built the temple's sanctums and gopurams. The temple complex measures 14.5 acres, and all its shrines are surrounded by concentric rectangular walls. There are several shrines, the most important of which are dedicated to Swamy Nellaiyappar and his consort, Sri Kanthimathi Ambal. The temple is well-known for its melodic pillars, thousand-pillar hall, and five gopurams. Musical pillars are engineering marvels that, when struck, produce musical notes. The Thousand Pillar Hall (Aayi Mandapam), supported by 1000 pillars, is a stunning specimen of Dravidian architecture. The temple structure features five beautifully carved gopurams (gateway towers). The Nellaiyappar Temple celebrates numerous festivals throughout the year, the most notable of which is the Brahmotsavam festival held during the Tamil month of Aani (June-July). This ten-day festival is filled with vivid processions, religious rites, and cultural events that draw thousands of enthusiasts.

Timings: 06.00 AM to 12.30 PM & from 04.00 PM to 09.00 PM 

Apart from the temples listed above, Tirunelveli is well-known for its Nava Tirupathi temples and many waterfalls. Hence, it is nicknamed "the Spa of South India."

The Nava Tirupathi (literally "Nine Tirupati's") is a series of nine Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu that are located on the Tiruchendur-Tirunelveli road in Tamil Nadu, India, on the banks of the Thamirabarani River. Each of these temples is a Divya Desam, one of the 108 holy locations of Vishnu worshiped by the 12 Alvar saints, poet-saints from the Tamil Nadu Vaishnava tradition.

Here' a list of the Nava Tirupathi temples along with their significance:

1.Sri Vaikuntanatha Perumal Temple, Srivaikuntam: This temple is the first of the Nava Tirupati and is devoted to Sri Vaikuntanatha, an avatar of Vishnu who is said to live in Vaikunta, his celestial home. 

2.Sri Vijayasana Perumal Temple, Varagunamangai (Natham): The second temple is dedicated to Sri Vijayasana Perumal and depicts Vishnu in a victorious pose. 

3.Sri Vaithamanidhi Perumal Temple, Thirukkolur: This temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu as Vaithamanidhi, the source of all necessities. 

4.Sri Kasinivendan Perumal Temple, Thirupuliyangudi: The fourth temple houses Sri Kasinivendan Perumal, which is thought to be a form of Vishnu capable of eradicating sins. 

5.Sri Adhi Natha Perumal Temple, Alwarthirunagari: This temple honours Sri Adhi Natha Perumal, the immortal Lord. 

6.Makara Nedunkuzhai Kadar Temple, Thenthiruperai: This temple is dedicated to Makara Nedunkuzhai Kadar, a manifestation of Vishnu with a long, lovely mane. 

7.Sri Vanamamalai Perumal Temple, Perunkulam: This temple honours Sri Vanamamalai Perumal and is decorated with a garland of woodland flowers. 

8.Sri Neelakantan Perumal Temple, Appanagaram: The eighth temple houses Sri Neelakantan Perumal, who has a blue complexion. 

9.Sri Sowmya Narayana Perumal Temple, Kuruvithurai: The final temple of the Nava Tirupathi complex is dedicated to Sri Sowmya Narayana Perumal, the embodiment of auspiciousness.

These temples are significant pilgrimage sites for Vaishnavites and are known for their architectural beauty, sculptures, and spiritual importance.

Thiruchendur – is 90 km which is a 2.5 hrs drive away from Kanyakumari. 

Thiruchendur Murugan Temple: The Tiruchendur Murugan Temple, also known as the Subramaniya Swamy Temple, is a popular Hindu temple devoted to Lord Murugan, also known as Kartikeya. It is the second of Murugan's six homes (Aarupadai Veedu). The temple is located at the eastern end of the town of Thiruchendur in the Thoothukudi (Tuticorin) district, on the Bay of Bengal. Legends about the temple date back to the Sangam period (3rd century BC to 4th century AD). It is thought to be the location where Lord Murugan defeated the demon Surapadman, bringing peace and harmony. The temple complex features Dravidian-style architecture, including a nine-story gopuram (gateway tower) that dominates the landscape. The elaborate sculptures and carvings on the temple's walls and pillars portray themes from Hindu mythology. Lord Murugan is the main god worshipped at the Temple. He is shown standing with a spear (Vel) in his hand, indicating heavenly might. Unlike most Murugan temples, which are built on hills, the Thiruchendur Murugan Temple is located on the coasts of the Bay of Bengal, providing calm vistas. Another distinguishing feature is the presence of a holy well (Shanmuga Theertham) within the temple grounds, where devotees believe swimming in its waters is auspicious. The temple comes alive during festivals, particularly the Skanda Sashti (six days dedicated to Murugan) held in the Tamil month of Aippasi (October-November), which features vivid processions, religious ceremonies, and cultural events that bring thousands of devotees from all over India and overseas. During the celebration, the temple is also treated to a stunning display of fireworks.

Timings: 05.00 AM to 12.00 PM & from 05.00 PM to 09.00 PM.

Papanasam is 107 km away from Kanyakumari and it will take 3 hrs drive approximately. 

Sorimuthu Ayyanar temple: 

The Sorimuthu Ayyanar Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Ayyappan (also known as Sastha) in Tamil Nadu's Mundhunthurai reserve forest, nestled in lush rainforest. Lord Ayyanar is Lord Ayyappa here. Many temples dedicated to Ayyanar can be seen all over South India. Almost all villages of Tamil Nadu would have an Ayyanar Kovil. Ayyanar shrines are usually located at the peripheries or boundaries of rural villages and the deity is seen riding a horse with a sword or whip. Ayyanar has both types of temples - temples constructed in agamic style (Agamas mean collection of several tantric literature and scriptures of Hindu schools) and non-agamic open-air shrines. Ayyanar in Agamic temple is usually called Sastha or Dharma Sastha. Kerala retains its Ayyanar temples as Sastha temples. Lord Ayyappan, a Hindu deity is being worshipped as Sree Dharma Sastha in the South Indian state of Kerala. While Ayyappan temples typically show him as a celibate yogi, a few temples such as the one at Achankovil Sastha Temple in Kollam, Kerala, depict him as a married man with two wives Poorna and Pushkala, as well as a son Satyaka.

This Sorimuthu Ayyanar temple is located between Papanasam and the Karaiyar Dam, approximately 12 km from Papanasam and 61 km from Tirunelveli. It is in a deep jungle, making it a remote and evocative pilgrimage destination. The temple is located near the banks of River Thamirabarani. The temple's principal deity is Mahalinga Swamy, but Sorimuthu Ayyanar is more often worshipped here. Sorimuthu Ayyanar is one of the most powerful and well-known Ayyanar shrines in Tamil Nadu. Ayyanar shrines are usually located at the peripheries or boundaries of rural villages and the deity is seen riding a horse with a sword or whip. In Tamil Nadu, people believe in Ayyanars as guardian deities who safeguard them from burglars at night. In certain areas, people will not even lock their doors at night; they will sleep peacefully, leaving their belongings in the hands of Ayyanar, and they think that Ayyanar would ride around the hamlet on his white horse and kill the cruel men. In Tamil Nadu, each village has a protecting deity (Ayyanar), and Sorimuthu Ayyanar is one of them in Ambasamuthiram. He lives in a little temple (Sorimuthu Ayyanar Temple) near Ambasamuthiram, on the banks of the Thamirabarani River, and blesses worshipers.

According to legend, Muthupattar, a Brahmin, once visited Papanasam and fell in love with two backward women but was unable to marry them because of caste indifference. So, he became a low-caste person and married them. However, soon after their marriage, one of the cows in the hamlet went missing, and Muthupattar went in pursuit of the cow, risking his own life. After saving the cow, he died a historical death, and his two wives followed suit, embracing death. The villagers were moved by his bravery and constructed a temple for Sorimuthu Ayyanar and his two wives. This temple is revered as the first Ayyapan Stala, Lord Ayyappa as a young boy, came to this place and learnt martial arts. He worshipped Lord Sori Muthu Ayyanar, to give him success in all his endeavours. Later he went to Sabari Hills. People of Papanasam offer Pongal to this Ayyanar before commencing any of the functions. The devotees who are all taking a pilgrimage tour to Ayyapan temple (Sabari hill) wear the first Ruthraksha chain (maalai) at this temple. Ayappan is shown with his left leg bowed and his right leg hanging down. Interestingly, Sorimuthu Ayyanar is represented by his two consorts, Pushkala and Poorna, which is unusual among Ayyappan statues. It is regarded as one of the six most prominent Sastha temples in South India. Many families in the area regard Sorimuthu Ayyanar as their Kula devata (family deity). Devotees on a pilgrimage to Sabarimala frequently start their holy journey at this temple. They wear their 'maala' (garland), which represents their promise here. The word "Sorimuthu" means "pouring down golden rain," which could imply favours for travellers. The temple complex also has temples dedicated to other deities, such as Vinayaka (Ganesha), Bhairava, and Devi, providing a more complete worship experience. Ayyappa's lieutenants, Sangili Bhootham, Thoosi Madan, Thulasi Madan, Pechi, Isakki, and Pattavarayan, are also revered in the temple.  

The temple is under the administration of Singampatti Zamin, who maintains the temple. The Pattavarayan Shrine, dedicated to Lord Ayyappa's lieutenant, Pattavarayan, is associated with an intriguing ritual. Devotees tie chappals (slippers) to the shrine and express their sorrow, believing that as the chappals wear out, their prayers will be answered. The temple compound has a sacred Illupai tree (Mahua tree). Devotees tie bells to the tree, and if the bell gets lodged in the branches, it is considered a sign that Lord Ayyappan has heard their prayers.

Timings: 08.00 AM to 03.00 PM.