the earliest King to have frequented this temple and took its care is said to be King Malayadwaja Pandyan of Pandyan reign. Architecture of Alagar Koyil Temple, MaduraiĪlagar koyil Temple is constructed amid picturesque natural setting and historic ruins.

It is said that great Jain monk Ajjanandi had resided here along with his disciples. There are also inscriptions dating back to King Ashoka rule. According to some legends, Pandyan King Malayadwaja Pandyan and Dharma Devashai had the lord’s revelation at this temple. This temple has a prominent place during the Pandyan reign. One can find various inscriptions related to different dynasties over a wide span of decades. One can also see inscriptions belonging to Brahmin script on stones in some of the caves here, which also indicate their presence during ancient times. Some of the religious literature shows that this hill used to be residing place for Jain monks in 1 B.C. The Alagar Hills are also associated to Jainism along with its high significance in Hindu religion. Alvars like Thirumangai Alvar, Peri Alvar, Nammalvar, Bhoothathalvar, Peyalwar, Andal have also mentioned the glorious history of shrine in their songs.

Epic such as Silappathikaram also contains mention of this temple and its greatness. There are around 123 hymns that illustrate the glory of this temple. This temple has been mentioned in various sacred Hindu scriptures. This temple is the place where Lord Azhar, a form of Lord Vishnu resides. Unfortunately, the marriage took place before his arrival, owing to which he turned back from River Vaigai banks. According to a legend, Lord Vishnu had come down to divine marriage of Lord Sundareswarar and Goddess Meenakshi. There are many legends associated with the Alagar Koyil temple. There are also separate shrines for deities Andal, Sudarshana and Yoga Narasimha. The temple has a shrine of Kalyana Sundaravalli, who is the consort of Lord Alagar. The processional idol of this temple is Lord Alagar or Sundararajan, who is brother of Goddess Meenakshi. The main deity of Alagar Kovil temple is Lord Paramaswamy.

History/Legends of Alagar Koyil Temple, Madurai Alagar Hills also have great importance in the Hindu religion this hill is called Alagar as the Lord Thirumal is known with the name of Alagar here, hence the hills are named on the Lord.

With a history that dates back to early Sangam age, this temple is a must visit when on a Madurai tour.Īlagar Koyil Temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is known for its intricate sculpting and mandapams. What makes it even more enchanting is the natural setting surrounding this temple. This temple has high religious significance as well as presents a captivating architecture. Located at a distance of 21 km away from Madurai, Alagar Koyil Temple, also known with the name of Azhagar Kovil is one of the prominent temples situated at the foothills of Alagar hills.

Karuppasamy with horse photos