Thanumalayan Temple, Hindu temple in Suchindram, Tamil Nadu, India
Thanumalayan Temple is a Hindu temple in Suchindram, Tamil Nadu, southern India. The complex covers two acres and features two tall towers, with the eastern gopuram standing at 44 meters.
The stone sanctuary originated in the 9th century under the Chola dynasty, marking the start of a major religious center. Later rulers, including Thirumalai Nayak and the Travancore Maharajas, added further structures and decorations.
The temple unites three principal Hindu deities in a single shrine: Shiva as Sthanu, Vishnu as Mal, and Brahma as Ayan. This rare combination draws devotees from across Tamil Nadu who come to worship all three deities in one place.
The sanctuary opens from 4:30 AM to 12:00 PM and again from 4:30 PM to 8:30 PM, with each period offering different ceremonies. Special rituals and celebrations take place in December during the annual chariot festival.
Four musical pillars were carved from a single stone and produce different tones when struck. These pillars demonstrate the exceptional skill of ancient Indian stonemasons who could unite sound and form within one material.
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