As there was a tank around the temple earlier, the place is named Kovilkulam, Kovil-temple, kulam-tank.  Sri Vishvaksenar, Nagar, Tirumangai Azhwar, Nammazhwar and Udayavar-Acharya Sri Ramanuja adore the front mandap.  The temple was known for its festivals in earlier days.  Due to lack of proper administration, no festival is celebrated in the temple these days.

Devotees pray to Lord Soundararaja Perumal seeking beautiful/handsome appearance.

Presiding deity Perumal in sanctum sanctorum is made of a lime mixture called Karai.  He graces in a standing form.  As the original idol was damaged due to age, this is made and installed again, hence Tirumanjanam is not offered to the idol.  Sage Markandeya is in a worshipping for near Perumal gracing with Mothers Soundaravalli and Sundaravalli.  Original Garudazhwar is on the temple wall on the northeast corner.  Special Tirumanjanam is offered to Garudazhwar only on Swati star day in Aadi-July-August.  He would be dressed with a shirt made of flowers.  Special pujas are performed for 10 days to Lord following the Aadi Pooram festival.

Staunch Vishnu devotee Sage Markandeya was visiting many Vishnu shrines on earth.  On his way to Pothigai Hills, responding to his prayer, Lord gave the sage His darshan with Mothers Soundaravalli and Sundaravalli.

There also lived here a staunch Vishnu devotee who wanted to have the darshan of Lord in idol form.  Lord appeared in his dream and informed of His presence in idol form in Kallazhagar temple near Madurai.  The devotee brought the idol and installed here.  The temple was built later.