- August 1, 2026
Thennādudaiya Sivanē Pōtri
Ennāttavarkkum Iraivā Pōtri
Located in the heart of Aruppukottai town in Virudhunagar district of southern Tamil Nadu, the ancient Arulmigu Meenakshi Samedha Chokkanathar Temple is a historic Shiva temple. Revered by devotees as “Meenakshi in Madurai and Meenakshi in Aruppukottai”, this temple is an important place of worship known for its artistic beauty and historical significance.
| Temple Name | Arulmigu Meenakshi Samedha Chokkanathar Temple |
|---|---|
| Presiding Deity | Sri Chokkanathar (Lord Shiva) |
| Goddess | Sri Meenakshi Amman |
| Sthala Vriksham (Sacred Tree) | Vilva Tree |
| Theertham (Sacred Water Body) | Sivagangai Theertham |
| Ancient Name | Sengattirukkai Idaththuvali |
| Town | Aruppukottai |
| District | Virudhunagar |
The Meenakshi Chokkanathar Temple is believed to be several centuries old. Historical researchers and inscriptions indicate that the temple was built during the reign of the Pandya kings, reflecting their devotion to art, spirituality, and temple architecture.
The Pandyas, who ruled with Madurai as their capital, built numerous temples dedicated to Lord Shiva and their clan deity, Goddess Meenakshi, in the places they visited and governed. Accordingly, this Aruppukottai temple became an important spiritual centre along the route leading south from Madurai.
Over the years, the temple was expanded with the support of local merchants and devotees, eventually developing into the magnificent structure seen today.
As soon as visitors enter the temple, they are captivated by the elegance of its ancient Dravidian architecture.
In the sanctum sanctorum, the presiding deity Sri Chokkanathar is enshrined in the form of a Shiva Lingam facing east. To His right, Goddess Sri Meenakshi, the compassionate Mother who protects the entire universe, is present in a separate shrine facing south.
Apart from the main deities, devotees can also worship the following deities while going around the temple prakaram:
Devotees firmly believe that worshipping at this temple provides the same spiritual benefits as visiting the Meenakshi Amman Temple in Madurai. Just like in Madurai, special importance is given to Goddess Meenakshi here, and the first pujas and honours are traditionally offered to Her before Chokkanathar.
It is believed that men and women facing delays in marriage can worship Goddess Meenakshi here by offering a mangalyam thread, turmeric, and kumkum, and performing archana with red oleander flowers. According to local belief, such worship helps remove obstacles and blesses devotees with marriage at the earliest.
The Meenakshi Chokkanathar Thirukalyanam, celebrated during the Tamil month of Chithirai, is the grandest festival of the temple. Thousands of devotees from Aruppukottai and surrounding villages gather to witness the divine wedding ceremony.
Special abhishekams are also performed during Pradosham, Shivaratri, Aadi Pooram, and Navaratri, which are observed every year with great devotion.
The temple remains open for devotees to have darshan of Swami and Ambal during the following hours:
Note: During Pradosham, Pournami (Full Moon), and festival days, the temple may open slightly earlier and special pujas may be performed.
Address: Arulmigu Meenakshi Chokkanathar Temple, Bazaar Street (Kadai Veethi), Aruppukottai, Virudhunagar District, Tamil Nadu – 626101.
Aruppukottai Meenakshi Sokkanathar Temple Contact Number: +914566228265, +919842986102
The temple is located within a short walking distance from Aruppukottai Old Bus Stand. Visitors coming from Virudhunagar or Madurai can easily reach the temple by bus or car.
