Swamimalai is a significant and must visit Murugan temple in Tamil Nadu. Built in the 10th century AD, The temple is still famous for its unique architecture, which is a blend of Dravidian and Chalukyan styles. Swamimalai is considered one of the six sacred places of Lord Murugan temple (Arupadaiveedu) in South India. The Swamimalai temple itself follows the traditional Dravidian architectural style of Tamil Nadu. But the legend behind the temple also plays an important role in its architecture. In this legend, Murugan is considered the best in Hindu mythology as he is his father's teacher. Guru's status is always the higher. Therefore, Murugan's temple is on top of a hill sixty feet high. To climb the temple, devotees must climb sixty steps, each named after one of the sixty Tamil years in a circle. The temple celebrates important festivals dedicated to Lord Murugan like Thai Poosam, Panguni Uthiram, Maha Shivaratri and the Swaminathaswamy chariot festival.

History of Swamimalai temple

According to Hindu mythology, it is believed that Lord Murugan imparted the essence of the Pranava Mantra (OM) to his father, Lord Shiva, at this sacred site where the temple stands today. This event is known as “Swaminatha Swami’s Upadesa” and is a central theme in the temple’s lore.

Speciality of Swamimalai temple

Swamimalai Murugan Temple has a unique feature. It has a staircase consisting of 60 steps, each representing a Tamil era. This beautiful architecture reflects the belief that climbing the steps could absolve people from sins committed over a period of 60 years.

Temple timings – 5.00 am – 12.00 pm, 4.00 pm – 9.00 pm

Dress code

Ladies are suggested to wear only sarees, chudidhar, and kurtis. For Men Dhotis, shirt are preferred and trousers and short dresses should be avoided.

How to reach Swamimalai temple?

By Air – Trichy airport is the nearest to reach Swamimalai temple covering 100 km.

By Train – Kumbakonam railway station is the nearest to reach Swamimalai temple covering 9 km. Trichy railway station is also the best option to reach the temple which covers 100 km.

By Road - All road ways in Tamil Nadu are well- connected to reach Tanjore through NH 36, NH45C, NH83, NH38, and NH67

FAQ

1. What does “OM” mean?

It means the original Vibration of the Universe that could be manifested by the other Vibrations.

2. What is the first abode of lord Murugan?

Thiruparankundram in Madurai is the first abode of lord Murugan

3. Why Lord Murugan is called as Tamizh Kadavul?

Murugan fought the Asuras and helped the Tamil poet gain their freedom. Therefore, Tamil kings like Pallavas and Cholas praised him as the "God of the Tamils" for being the savior of the Tamil language.

4. Famous temple nearby Swami Malai Murugan temple?

Vellai Pilayar Kovil, Thiruvalanchuzhi, kathyayene temple are the famous temple nearby Swami Malai Murugan temple

5. Is there any Darshan fee in Swamimalai Murugan temple?

Yes, the temple charges Rs, 50 for visitors who need a special darshan.