The oldest of the Vaishnavaite temples in South ( Older than Srirangam , the place where the famous verse ……Om Apavitrah Pavitro Vaa Sarva-Avasthaam Gato-Aa pi Vaa | Yah Smaret-Punddareekaakssham Sa Baahya-Abhyantarah Shucih” had its origin…. and the darshan of SUPREME LORD that qualifies one to get Moksham….

At this temple ,to seek the LORDS darshan a devotee recollects at entrance of this temple 18 steps reminding us of the 18 chapters of Srimad Bhagvat Gita given to us by LORD Pundareekakshan. Proceeding further we come across 4 steps that are 4 Vedas and later one reaches the Bali Peetam. It is believed that one’s wishes submitted to the Perumal at the Balipeetam with the turmeric kappu are automatically taken care by Him. Abhishekam is done to the Bali Peetam only . From here, we enter the Perumal sannidhi by ascending 5 steps further representing the PanchaBhoothams (Fire, Water, Space, Air and Earth) and slowly crossing the Naazhi Kettaan Vasal. Now we see 2 entrances Dakshinaayana Gate and Utharaayana Gate which are alternately opened for devotees during the Dakshinayana/ Utharayana six month periods. to climb 18 Steps at the entrance . As One climbs further 8 steps we are reminded of Ashtaakshara mantra and further we move ahead another 24 steps reminding us of Gayathri Mantram to arrive at the sanctum sanctorum,where we have divya darishnam of our LORD Senthaamarai Kannan (Pundareekaakshan) along with His consort Pankajacchelvi Naacchiyaar.