Pazhamudhircholai Murugan Temple - Hindu temple in Alagar Hills R.F - Dindigul, India

Atop a hill covered with lush greenery and dense forests lies one of the six divine abodes of Lord Muruga, The Pazhamudircholai Murugan. Also known as Solaimalai Murugan Temple, It is Twenty-five kilometers to the north of Madurai, India, and stands only two and a half kilometers away from the Vishnu temple of Azhagar Kovil. It is said that the Azhagar Kovil was the original home to the main deity of this temple, and the deity was later relocated to Pazhamudircholai during Thirumalai Nayak's rule in Madurai. For ages, the Vel, which is the weapon of Lord Muruga's primary weapon Vel(an ancient spear), which was crafted and handed over to Lord Muruga by goddess Parvati is worshipped as the presiding deity in the shrine. As per the Hindu mythology, Lord Murugan split the demon king Surapadman in half with the Vel during their vicious battle. Being the only temple amongst the six holy abodes where Lord Murugan blesses his devotees along with both his consorts, he stands along with Goddess Valli and Devayani. The famous Tamil poet Nakkeerarm mentioned Solaimalai in his Tamil Poem Tirumurukaatruppadai. Though it is sixth among the Arupadaiveedugal(the six abodes), in terms of visitors, it still attracts plenty of devotees all over the world with its soothing charm and the lush green flora-fauna that surround the temple. History Behind the Temple The foundation of the main temple was laid by Cheaman Perumal, a ruler of Kerala in the 7th Century AD. Though the temple dates back to more than a millennium, the temple as in existence today was constructed in recent memory. In ancient times, only the Vel was worshipped as the main deity. Earlier, only a stone carved Vel, the spear of Lord Muruga, was kept in Pazhamudircholai. Later on, a wood idol of Muruga standing with his consorts, Valli and Deivanai were added. Avvaiyar was a renowned and legendary Tamil poetess and a name behind one of the most famous and appreciated works ever written in Hindu folklore. Her exceptional vocabulary and dexterity in the language made her works stand apart, in the list of even the greatest of the poets. This had started to make her audacious over her abilities. According to the pages drenched in the antiquity of the Hindu folklore, Lord Murugan who was well-versed with his devotee wanted to teach her a lesson and took the shape of a ten-year-old boy in here in Solaimalai. After having achieved everything in her life, Avviayar was resting under a Naaval tree, trying to figure out what lied next for her. A small boy appeared out of nowhere and stood on the tree. The boy asked Avviayar if she would like some fruits. Driven by hunger and thirst, she agreed instantly. The boy asked if she wanted a hot fruit or a cold one, which confused Avviayar but was tired to argue and opted for the cold one. Smilingly, the boy shook the tree, as many fruits fell, all of which were collected by her. The fruits were coated with the sand, so Avviayar blew them to remove it. The boy asked innocently, why was she trying to cool down the fruit blowing, which was already cold. This incident left Avviayar humbled by the clever wordplay and the poetic knowledge of the little boy. However, She was skeptical of the boy's true identity which was revealed to her as Lord Murugan himself. She bowed to the almighty and requested him to bestow her with his bountiful knowledge, for she had realized the power of infinite learning. She sought Lord Murugan's blessings and embarked on her quest for endless knowledge. The Story of Muruga Lord Muruga, is considered as the chief deity by many Tamils all over the world. His story is even elaborated in the largest Mahapurana called Skanda Purana. Muruga, also known as Skanda or Kartikeya and is considered the god of love and war. Legend says that the celestial gods asked Lord Vishnu for help after being tortured and tormented by the demon King Surapadman. He assigned Kamadeva to awake Lord Shiva from the state of deep tapas. This led to the birth of Lord Murugan with the sole purpose of finishing Surapadman and putting an end

Visited this temple on Friday and it was much of rushy. Visited and prayed well. A small drive on the hill which was so cool looking around monkeys and nature. Recommended

Beautiful Temple.. 3 kms uphill from azhagar koil.. lovely road.. Temple open Full day upto 7 pm.. Devasthanam provide transport facility to reach temple.. Footpath also available. Must visit Temple at Madurai.. Periyar bus stand to alagar koil and uphill to pazhamuthircholai murugan temple..

One of the 6 padai veedu of lord murugan. The trek to the top of alagar hill is very scenic. Huge temple, so allot to spend more time. There is also a big alagar temple. Could get very crowded so plan accordingly which of these to visit first. Had an awesome darshan.

Too powerful having good vibrance Lots of monkeys are there, they add more fun for your visit.

It's is the Sixth abode of Lord Muruga.. And its a very good place to visit, there won't be any huge crowd, (on normal days even on Weekends).. It is located above Azhagar Kovil.

Visited 2nd time after nearly 10-12 yesrs and found more devotees than before and the temple renovated and surroundings cleaner than before. We had great darshan at a close distance and entire visit was over in 30 mins as its a small temple on a small hill which can be reachrd by car/bus with good parking facility. Down the way got down at famous very old Jamoon tree where Avvai Patti was asked by Lord Murugan the famous question " cutttt plllm veennttumaa, cuttaat plllm veennttumaa?". Beware of Monkeys. They snatch anything from you if careless. A very satisfying spiritual visit.

The architecture of Pazhamudhircholai Murugan Temple is captivating. The entrance gopuram is adorned with intricate carvings depicting various episodes from Hindu mythology. As one enters the temple complex, the soul-stirring chants and the fragrance of incense create a reverential atmosphere that prepares devotees for their encounter with the deity.The sanctum sanctorum houses the idol of Lord Murugan, resplendent and adorned with garlands and jewels. The serene expression on the face of the deity evokes a sense of peace and divine grace.