Sri Srivaikuntanathan Perumal Temple, located in Srivaikuntam, Thoothukudi district, Tamil Nadu, is a significant Hindu temple dedicated to Vishnu. Renowned for its Tamil architectural style, it is glorified in the Nalayira Divya Prabandham, celebrating the Alvar saints. This temple is one of the 108 Divya Desams, where Vishnu is worshipped as Vaikunthanathar and his consort Lakshmi as Vaikunthavalli. It is also recognized as a Nava Tirupati temple along the Tamiraparani River, emphasizing its spiritual importance.
The temple features a tall 110-foot rajagopuram and a granite wall enclosing its various shrines and bodies of water. The Thiruvengadamudayan hall showcases exquisite life-size sculptures from the 16th century. The deity, Srivaikuntanathar, is associated with the legend of slaying Somukasura, who stole the four Vedas, affirming Vishnu’s role as a protector and restorer of dharma. The temple conducts six daily rituals and three major festivals, notably the Brahmotsavam and Nammalvar celebrations.
According to local legend, the temple's presiding deity was once buried and forgotten until a cow began performing ablutions at the site. The king, discovering this, unearthed the deity and built the temple, naming Vishnu Pal Pandian, as "pal" refers to milk in Tamil. Another legend recounts how Kaladushana, a robber chief, prayed to Vishnu for salvation, leading to his release and reinforcing the deity’s connection to the marginalized.
Historical inscriptions indicate the temple's significance across various dynasties. Rulers from the Pandya dynasty made donations for the temple's upkeep and expansion. The temple also served as a fort during the British era against local forces. Remnants of its rich past can still be seen, making the Srivaikuntanathan Perumal Temple a vital cultural and spiritual landmark in Tamil Nadu, attracting countless devotees and visitors.