Virudhunagar

Virudhunagar, the erstwhile capital of Ramanathapuram, is located on the Western side of Tamil Nadu. Virudhunagar is both a famous pilgrimage center and a land abundantly blessed with the rich bounties of Mother Nature. Like many ancient south Indian cities, its past is a rich tapestry weaved in the vibrant colors of tradition, culture, history, and folklore. Life of the people in this city revolves around the majestic temples and its colorful festivals.

A journey through this amazing town will reveal that it offers more than just festivals and grand temples. Virudhunagar of today is a buzzing trading and industrial hub with a number of industries operating in the region. The town today thrives predominantly on its agriculture, trade and manufacturing industries.

The town was earlier called Virudhukkalvetti, with an interesting story behind the origins of this name. Virudhukkal in the local language means banners of victory. History narrates that once a famous warrior traveled through these lands defeating many mighty warriors, collecting banners as a token for each victory. The warrior came to this town and challenged a local resident, and in a sad turn of events got defeated. The town from thenceforth came to be known as Virudhukkalvetti, which later went on to become Virudhunagar.

Vadabadrasayi temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, is one of the 108 sacred Vaishnavite temples in India. It lies on the Virudhunagar- Thenkasi train route about 65 km from Madurai. The temple has beautiful carvings from Hindu scriptures and is famous for its annual chariot festival. The gopuram of this temple towers to a height of 192 ft and is used as the emblem of the Tamil Nadu State Government. The Mariamman Temple at Virudhunagar is famous for its yearly Panguni Uttiram festival.

Bhuminathaswamy temple at Tiruchuli is one amongst the 14 famous Shiva temples of Pandya Nadu. The town of Tiruchuli is situated on the banks of the scenic river Gundar, at a distance of 40 km from Virudhunagar. After a massive restoration and conservation effort, this temple is now restored to its original stunning beauty.

Ramana Maharshi Ashram on the banks of the river Gundar promulgates the teaching of Sri Ramana Maharshi. The Ashram is at a distance of about 40 km from Virudhunagar.

The house of the great leader Kamaraj, the former dynamic Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, is located here. The house has now been converted into a museum with photographs and articles related to his life on display.

Shenbagathope Squirrel sanctuary, located on the slopes of the Western Ghats, is a haven for the endangered grizzled giant squirrel. The sanctuary is also the home for a variety of birds, mammals, reptiles, butterflies, elephants, tigers and leopards. The splendid Ayyanar falls located on the slopes of Western Ghats is also a favored picnic spot.

November to February.

By Flight

Nearest airport is located in Madurai at a distance of 43 km.

By Rail

Tirunelveli railroad station is the nearest station.

By Road

The city is well connected by road to most of the major cities in the state.