The 'Mahagopuram' of Vishvanatha temple and the musical pillars offers one an insight into the genius of the Pandiyan craftsmanship and thereby the power and wealth of the rulers that built these monoliths. King Parakrama Pandiya was instrumental in bringing Thenkasi into the limelight by making it his capital. He is known to have poured massive funds and endowments towards building these temples. It is here that Parakrama Pandiya and his successors were crowned kings.Many scriptures in Tamil and Sanskrit bear testimony to these facts. The courtralam falls located a few kilometers away from Thenkasi attracts people from all over the district. The cool falls offer a very pleasant respite from the otherwise hot weather.
I managed to take a few snaps of the Mahagopuram from the outside. The light inside was insufficient and so were my skills in photography. Inside are many sculptures and idols of supreme beauty and craftsmanship, that refuse to leave my amazingly meager memory. In the land of temples, the ones in Thenkasi definitely form a class apart.
Tips for travel to Thenkasi:
- Carry shades, water, an umbrella and sun block for travel in the town during the day.
- Hire a cab for local conveyance.
- Trains & buses ply between Chennai & Thenkasi and Chennai & Thirunelvelli. Check up schedules and book well in advance.
- Reasonably good hotels and lodges are available in and around the town. Some research may be required before booking.
- the waters at the falls are turbulent so bathing under the falls is NOT RECOMMENDED.
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