It is famous for its construction in Pandyan architecture in which the boundary walls, steps leading to the temple and the temple were made up of huge granite rocks.

The temple, which now stands in ruins would remind anyone of its glorious past and would still hold anyone's breath.With its construction style, the temple still ranks high among the various places of worship in the country.
According to legend the temple's deity Mangaladevi or otherwise known as Kannagi was an ordinary Tamilian woman who burnt down the entire Madurai city to avenge her innocent husband's death. Her husband Kovalan was accused of theft. It is believed that after burning down Madurai city Kannagi walked for from Madurai 14 days to where the temple now stands, and from here went to heaven along with Kovalan in a Pushpaka Vimana. The Tamil king Chera Chenguttuvan later built this temple getting inspired from the story. It is believed that the stones were brought from the Himalayas to build the temple.
Since, the temple is situated inside the Periyar Tiger Reserve, one can get an enchanting view of the forest from the temple. Adding to the scenic beauty, there is another speciality which makes this temple a unique place and a one that should be visited. The temple is open only once during the year (during the month of April-May) on a full moon's day to celebrate the birthday of Chitragupta. It is famously known as the Chitra Pournami festival. Prior bookings during the festival season are welcome at Hotel Tigers Roare’. To visit the temple during other days, prior permission should be taken.