Chitra Ratha Vallabha Perumal Temple (Chithirai Star) ✓

This is the dedicated star temple for the Chithirai nakshatra (Sanskrit Chitra), ruled by Mars (Chevvai). People born under Chithirai traditionally worship here as their parihara (remedy) sthalam.

The presiding deity is Lord Chitra Ratha Vallabha Perumal (Vishnu). Lord Vishnu is worshipped here as Chitra Ratha Vallabha Perumal, whose name evokes the celestial chariot (chitra ratha) and the brilliance of the Chitra star. The Goddess worshipped here is Lakshmi.

The temple generally follows village-temple hours, opening around 6:00 AM and closing around 8:00 PM, with a midday break. Morning darshan is roughly 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM and evening darshan 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Timings can change on star days and festivals, so it is best to confirm locally.

Devotees mainly seek creativity, recognition, beauty, fame and Chithirai / Chitra blessings. Chitra is linked with brilliance and design, so artists and those seeking recognition believe Chitra Ratha Vallabha Perumal grants creative fame and celebrated artistry.

The most auspicious time is the monthly Chithirai star day, when special worship is performed. Devotees visit on the Chithirai star day, offer tulasi and flowers, and pray for artistic talent and public recognition. Major festivals such as Vaikunta Ekadashi and Brahmotsavam are also excellent times to visit.

Kuruvithurai is about 8 km from Cholavandan and makes an easy day trip from Madurai. The nearest railway access is Cholavandan / Madurai Junction, the nearest airport is Madurai Airport (about 30-40 km), and the nearest bus stop is Kuruvithurai / Cholavandan-area stop.

Key festivals include Vaikunta Ekadashi, Brahmotsavam, along with monthly Chithirai star-day worship. The Madurai-region Chithirai festival season makes this star especially resonant.

There is no entry fee; darshan is free. Devotees are expected to wear traditional, modest attire and to remove footwear before entering. Near Cholavandan in Madurai district, with road access by bus or taxi.

Nearby attractions include Madurai Meenakshi Temple, Alagar Kovil and Thiruparankundram. For stays, hotels are available in Madurai, with limited options near Cholavandan.