Srivaikuntam is a town located in the Tirunelveli district of Tamil Nadu, India. It is known for being the birthplace of Saint Nammalvar, one of the twelve Alvars, revered poet-saints of Tamil Nadu who dedicated their hymns to the Hindu god Vishnu.
Temples:
Srivaikuntam Temple: Also called Vadabadrakaliamman Temple, this is the temple where Saint Nammalvar is believed to have attained moksha (liberation). The temple has a shrine dedicated to Nammalvar.
Alwar Thirunagari: This temple is dedicated to Nammalvar and is believed to be the place where he spent his later years. The temple has a life-size statue of Nammalvar in a sitting posture.
Other places of interest:
Nammalvar House: Believed to be the house where Nammalvar lived.
Nachiar Koil: A temple dedicated to Andal, the foster daughter of Nammalvar.
Getting There:
By Air: The nearest airport is Tuticorin Airport (TCR) located about 70 km from Srivaikuntam.
By Train: Srivaikuntam has its own railway station on the Chennai-Tirunelveli line.
By Road: Srivaikuntam is well connected by road to major cities in Tamil Nadu.
Things to do:
Visit the temples and learn about the history of Saint Nammalvar.
Explore the town and experience the local culture.
Sample the local cuisine, which is known for its use of spices and seafood.
Festivals:
Vaikunta Ekadasi: This festival is celebrated in the Tamil month of Margazhi (December-January) and commemorates the day when Vishnu is believed to have opened the gates of Vaikunta, his heavenly abode, to his devotees.
Nammalvar Birth Anniversary: This festival is celebrated in the Tamil month of Avani (August-September) and celebrates the birth of Saint Nammalvar.
Lưu ý (Lưu ý means "Note" in Vietnamese):
- Srivaikuntam is a small town, so there may not be many tourist amenities available.
- It is recommended to dress modestly when visiting temples.
- Photography may be restricted in some temples.
While Srivaikuntam may not be a popular tourist destination, it holds significance for devotees of Saint Nammalvar and offers a glimpse into Tamil Nadu's rich cultural heritage.