Alagar Koyil is one of the oldest and most lavish temples of Madurai. It is also known as Thirumaliruncholai or Azhakar temple. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Alagar Koyil is mainly known as one of the largest Vaishnavite temple of south India. Built in typical Dravidian architecture, this temple has a well decorated gopuram and lavish mandapa decorated with lavish sculptures of all Hindu gods and goddesses. Tourists and pilgrims from various corners of the country throng to this temple to witness its beauty.
Location of Alagar Koyil
It is located in the Tamil Nadu state of India. It is situated 21 km from the city of Madurai. It is nestled at the foothills of Alagar hill. The temple is surrounded by the natural evergreen forests.
Legend of Alagar Koyil
Like other temples this too carries a legend. According to the local legend, Lord Vishnu came to this place to give way to Goddess Meenakshi so that she can marry Lord Sudereswara. The legend of the temple attracts a number of tourists who visit the temple with great reverence.
Architecture of Alagar Koyil
The temple features Dravidian architecture. It is designed with large gopurams and pillared mandapams. The temple has another half built gopuram on the southern side. This half built gopuram has been used as an artistic backdrop in various Tamil movie songs. The Mukya Gopuram (main tower entrance) which enshrines Karupana Swami always remains closed. By observing the style of the building, it is predicted to be 3rd or early 4th Century construction.
Attractions of Alagar Koyil
Alagar Koyil is mainly known for the festival called Cittirai festival. During the festival, the wedding ceremony of Goddess Meenakshi and Lord Sundareswarer takes place. Lord Azhgar in his gold processional idol of Azhgar, called Sundararajar, travels all the way from Madurai in a procession of devotees and participates in the wedding ceremony. The temple includes a number of shrines. It includes the shrine of Kalyana Sundaravalli, Sudarshanar and Yoga Narasimha and Karuppannaswamy, which are revered by millions of devotees.
Thus with some splendid architecture, mandapas and festival, this temple is included among the major temples of Madurai.