श्वेतगिरिः

The presence of white rock hillocks close by, gives the name to this place as Swetagiri. This temple is also called Aadi Vellarai, as it is believed that this temple pre-dated Srirangam temple.

The presiding deity is Pundareekakshan in a standing posture with His consorts Shenpakavalli and Pankajavalli. There is also a separate shrine for Thayar. The Theertam is Divya Pushkarani and the Vimanam, Vimalakriti Vimanam.

Legend has it that Garudan and Markandeyan offered worship to the Lord.

The main shrine has two entrances referred to as Uttarayana vaayil, mainly used from the Tamil month of Thai (January) to Aadi (July) and then on Dakshinayana vaayil. In addition the temple has one more entrance referred to as "Naazhi Kettan Vaayil", where it is believed that Mahalakshmi intercepted and questioned Lord Vishnu upon His returning home late, after His sojourn.

This is a vast temple and there are shrines for Sri Devi, Bhu Devi, Surya, Chandra and Adishesha in the sanctum. There are seven theerthams within the temple complex and it is believed that Ramanujacharya has lived here for some time. Manavalamamuni and Desikar have sung of this great shrine. Historical evidence, on the unfinished Raja gopuram located on the northern entrance, shows the contributions made by Hoyasala kings to this temple.