The Neelamegha Perumal Temple, also known as Sowriraja Perumal Temple, is dedicated to Vishnu in Thirukannapuram, a village near Nagapattinam in Tamil Nadu. Constructed in Dravidian architectural style, it is glorified in the Divya Prabandha by Alvar saints (6th–9th centuries CE). As one of the 108 Divya Desam dedicated to Vishnu, the temple honors Neelamegha Perumal and his consort Thirukannapura Nayagi, embodying divine legends that draw devotees from all over.
Legend has it that the deity once appeared with a wig to save a priest, which led to the temple's name, Sowriraja Perumal. Another legend tells of King Vasu, who mistook sages for demons and attacked them. Vishnu intervened, defeated Vasu, and accepted the king’s daughter, Padmini, in marriage. This story highlights Vishnu’s protective and benevolent nature, revered by local devotees.
The temple complex spans 1.5 acres, featuring a seven-tiered, 100-foot rajagopuram and an expansive tank. The sanctum enshrines Neelamegha Perumal with Sridevi and Bhudevi, alongside Sowriraja Perumal with his consorts. It also houses metal images of Krishna, Chakrathaalvar, and other deities. With four temple tanks, including the Nityapushkarani, these features add to the temple’s spiritual and architectural grandeur.
Managed by the Tamil Nadu Hindu Religious and Endowment Board, the temple holds six daily rituals and three yearly festivals, with the Vaikasi chariot festival being the most prominent. The temple is celebrated for its intricate architecture, divine legends, and ongoing worship traditions, making it a significant place of worship and cultural heritage for Vaishnavites across Tamil Nadu.