Acharapakkam

It is also said that a Pandya King, who was on his way to bring soil from river Ganga's banks for construction of a dam on a local river nearby this place happened to pass through this village in his chariot. While passing, the axle of his chariot is also said to have broken in this very village in to two pieces.

Hence the name of this village came to being as Achu Iru Paagam Meaning- "Axle into two pieces" Later this name eventually became Achirupakkam and then to Acharapakkam.

The town is also famous for the Mazhai Malai Madha Church, which is visited by thousands of Christians every year. The church is popular with people of other faiths too. According to locals, in 1969, as severe drought prevailed in the region, a car procession was organised for Mother Mary at the Acharapakkam hill and prayers were offered. But astonishingly, even before the car procession ended, the place saw a heavy downpour, with thunder and lightning. Mother Mary was honored by locals as 'Mazhai Malai Madha' (Mountain Rain Mary) and a grotto was built at the place. The shrine we see today is built at the same spot.

The church has of late become very popular with people of all faiths and has become a tourist attraction. For Christian devotees, a walk up the stairs leading to the top of a small hillock is considered a 'must-do' activity.

Location

Acharapakkam is located along the busy Chennai-Tuticorin National Highway NH32 or GST Road, 3 km from the famous temple town Melmaruvathur. Taluk Headquarters is Madurantakam.

The Police Station in Acharapakkam is one of the oldest police stations in Tamil Nadu, witnessing over 100 years of its existence.