Perungulam Mayakoothar Temple at Perungulam in Thoothukudi in Tamil Nadu – Seventh Nava Tirupati Temple Associated with Shani or Saturn

Perungulam Mayakoothar Temple, also known as Sri Venkatavanan temple or Mayakoothan Perumal Koil, is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is located at Perungulam in Thoothukudi in Tamil Nadu. It is one of the Nava Tirupati Temples and one among 108 Divya Desams. This is the seventh Nava Tirupathi Temple and is associated with Saturn (Navagraha Shani). Perungulam Mayakoothar Temple is around 8 km from Srivaikuntam.

There is no separate Navgraha Shani Murti in the temple. The main deity represents the Navgraha.

The main murti of Vishnu worshipped in the temple faces east and is in standing posture. Moolavar is known as Venkatavanan and Srinivasan. Urchavar is known as Mayakoothar or Mayakoothan.

A unique aspect here is that a separate Garuda murti is worshipped in the sanctum sanctorum.

Consorts of Vishnu worshipped here are Alarmelmanga Thayar, Kulandaivalli Thayar (also known as Kamala Valli).

The sacred temple pond is known as Perungula Teertham.

Those having problems in life due to the bad positioning of Shani Bhagavan or Saturn in their horoscope will get relief after offering prayers here.

The shrine is noted for its carved pillars and sculptures of Yalis and animals.

Story of Perungulam Mayakoothar Temple

Legend has it that Lord Vishnu appeared here atop Garuda to defeat demon Asmacharan. After defeating the demon, Vishnu performed a victory dance on the body of the demon. Devas who had darshan of this divine event, asked Vishnu to give darshan to his devotees here as Mayakoothar.

Another legend has it that a childless couple did penance here. Lord Vishnu blessed them with a daughter. She was named Kamalavathi. The child was an ardent devotee of Vishnu. She did intense penance to please Vishnu from a young age. Her only prayer was that Lord Vishnu should marry her.

Impressed by her devotion and penance, Lord Vishnu appeared before her. As boon, Kamalavathi asked Vishnu to marry her. Vishnu accepted her and took her in his chest.

Perungulam Mayakoothar Temple Timings

Morning Puja and darshan time is from

7:30 AM to 12:30 PM

Evening Puja and darshan time is from

4:30 PM to 7:30 PM

The most important festival in the temple is observed in the Vaikasi Month (May – June). Murtis from Nine Nava Tirupati temples assemble in one location during the festival. Another festival observed here is Vaikunta Ekadasi in Margazhi month (December – January).