Aru Padai Veedu

Tiruchendur Temple

From the town, a long sheltered corridor leads pilgrims to the shore temple. At the beginning of this corridor, one worships Lord Ganesha, known as Thoondukai Vinayaka. A nine tiered sculptured Gopura with the emblem of Om and Vel adorns the eastern entrance. It was built by Sri Desikamoorthi Swami of Thiruvaaduthurai Adheenam more than 300 years ago. The main entrance to the temple is through Shanmukha Vilasam, facing south. It is a fine specimen of architectural workmanship.

There are 24 sacred Theerthas around the seashore. Significant among them are Vadanaarambha Theertha and Shanmukha Theertha or Naazhi Kinaru (in Tamil). It is customary to enter the shrine after a holy dip in the sea followed by a ritual bath in Naazhi Kinaru. It.is a unique perennial fresh water fountain on the salty bed of the size of a naazhi (a small measuring container), believed to have been created by the Lord Himself with His Vel.