Maruthamalai Marudhachalamurthy Temple, Hindu temple on Marudhamalai hill, Tamil Nadu, India
Maruthamalai Marudhachalamurthy Temple is a place of worship dedicated to Lord Murugan, perched on a hill roughly 183 meters above the surrounding plain in Tamil Nadu. The complex houses several shrines built with dark stone and follows the architectural lines typical of South Indian religious structures.
The earliest structures at this location were raised during the 12th century under the Chola dynasty, which established the shrine on this hill. Later rulers from the Pandya and Nayaka dynasties expanded the complex, adding new sections and elements over time.
Pilgrims walking up the hill often carry offerings such as coconuts and flower garlands, reciting prayers as they climb toward the shrine. Many devotees remove their footwear before beginning the ascent, following the tradition of approaching sacred spaces with humility.
Access to the shrine is possible during morning and afternoon hours, with no entrance charge required. Visitors may store personal belongings in lockers provided near the main entrance before proceeding into the inner areas.
An underground passage links the central sanctuary to a cave associated with a sage, where local tradition holds that an appearance in serpent form took place centuries ago. The tunnel remains closed to visitors most of the time and is opened only during certain observances.
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