Nizhal Thangal

Nizhal Thangals in Chettikudiyiruppu, Agastheeswaram, Paloor, Sundavilai, Vadalivilai, Kadambankulam and Pambankulam were established during the period of Vaikundar per Akilam.

[5][6] There are more than 8000 worship centres[7] throughout India[8] These Nizhal Thangals formed place in the socio-religious life of the people.

But inside, in most of the Thangals instead of raised pedestal, chairs were placed as asanas in which the saffron or silk cloths are wrapped-around.

In front of these there will be two standing oil lamps(kuthu vilakku)made of brass, each placed on the either side of the asana.

Since Ayyavazhi is not an organised religion, thangals are not officially controlled by Swamithoppe, though it was considered as the religious headquarters.

It was considered ritualistic by the Ayyavazhi followers to lay foundation stones for new Thangals by someone from Payyan dynasty.

A survey from the year 2004 states that there are more than 8000 Nizhal Thangals throughout South India mostly in Tamil Nadu and Kerala.

The main form festival which is conducted in Nizhal Thangals are The Thiru Eadu Vasippu and the Vaikunda Avatharam.

This Thiru Eadu Vasippu, the ritual reading and expatiation of the Holy book Akilam, is an important religious observance of Ayyavazhi.

During that days ' Vahanam Eduppu ' is conducted in which the asanam is carried on Vahanas (vehicles) as processions by the followers.