Places to Visit in Sivakasi

A dry, dusty town in Virudhunagar makes most of the fireworks India sets off at Diwali, along with mountains of matchboxes and printed labels. This is the tangled story of how it got there.

Also called Thirumeninathar temple, this ancient Shiva temple in Tiruchuli is a Paadal Petra Sthalam praised in the 7th-century Tevaram hymns and counted as the 12th Tevara Stalam of the Pandya region. It is associated with the Chola and Pandya dynasties and holds three sacred tirthams. The town and its temple are closely linked with the birth of sage Ramana Maharshi.

This house in Tiruchuli is where the revered Advaita sage Ramana Maharshi (born Venkataraman) was born on 30 December 1879, in the family home of Sundaram Aiyar close to the Bhuminathaswamy temple. It has been converted into a memorial and shrine used by visitors and devotees for meditation. Tiruchuli is a recognised pilgrimage stop for followers of Ramana Maharshi.

One of the oldest temples in the region and a landmark of Virudhunagar town, with a history spanning roughly four centuries. Dedicated to the goddess Mariamman, it is known for the large temple tank within its complex. It draws large numbers of local devotees during its annual festivals.

Sri Mariamman Temple, Virudhunagar is best understood through its defining feature, its relationship with Virudhunagar and the evidence that survives at the site today.

A locally revered temple in Virudhunagar town dedicated to Lord Ganesha (Vinayagar). It is listed among the town's notable holy places on district tourism resources and serves as a regular worship centre for residents.

Vanni Vinayagar Temple, Virudhunagar is best understood through its defining feature, its relationship with Virudhunagar and the evidence that survives at the site today.