Swami Malai Temple Guide
Swami Malai Temple: Abode of Lord Murugan, the Divine Guru Guide
Discover the spiritual significance of Swami Malai Temple, one of the six sacred abodes (Arupadaiveedu) of Lord Murugan, also known as Kartikeya. Located near Kumbakonam in the Thanjavur district, this temple is revered as the place where Lord Murugan, in his youthful form, imparted wisdom to his father, Lord Shiva. The temple's unique architecture and serene atmosphere make it a compelling destination for devotees and tourists alike. The history of Swami Malai Temple is deeply rooted in Hindu mythology. Legend has it that Lord Shiva, seeking knowledge from his son Murugan, ascended the hill where the temple now stands. Murugan, in the guise of a guru, initiated Shiva into the secrets of the Pranava mantra, "Om." This event is commemorated in the temple's main shrine, where Murugan is depicted as a guru and Shiva as his disciple. The temple's construction reflects the Chola architectural style, with intricate carvings and sculptures adorning its walls and towers. Visitors can climb the 60 steps, each representing a year in the Tamil calendar, to reach the main shrine of Lord Murugan. The temple complex also houses shrines dedicated to other deities, including Lord Shiva, Goddess Meenakshi, and Lord Ganesha. Participate in the daily rituals and prayers, and soak in the spiritual ambiance of this sacred place. After your visit, explore the local cuisine of Kumbakonam, known for its traditional South Indian dishes. Try the 'Kumbakonam Degree Coffee', a local specialty, or indulge in the 'Adhirasam', a sweet delicacy.
Transportation
Swami Malai Temple is located near Kumbakonam, approximately 32 km from Thanjavur. You can hire a taxi or auto-rickshaw from Thanjavur to reach the temple. Alternatively, you can take a bus from Thanjavur to Kumbakonam and then hire a local transport to the temple. Bus numbers 3, 6, 9, 14, 17, 24, 30, 35, 42, 47, 53, 60, 67, 74, 81, 88, 95, 102, 109, 116, 123, 130, 137, 144, 151, 158, 165, 172, 179, 186, 193, 200, 207, 214, 221, 228, 235, 242, 249, 256, 263, 270, 277, 284, 291, 298, 305, 312, 319, 326, 333, 340, 347, 354, 361, 368, 375, 382, 389, 396, 403, 410, 417, 424, 431, 438, 445, 452, 459, 466, 473, 480, 487, 494, 501, 508, 515, 522, 529, 536, 543, 550, 557, 564, 571, 578, 585, 592, 599, 606, 613, 620, 627, 634, 641, 648, 655, 662, 669, 676, 683, 690, 697, 704, 711, 718, 725, 732, 739, 746, 753, 760, 767, 774, 781, 788, 795, 802, 809, 816, 823, 830, 837, 844, 851, 858, 865, 872, 879, 886, 893, 900, 907, 914, 921, 928, 935, 942, 949, 956, 963, 970, 977, 984, 991, 998.
Opening Hours
6:00 AM - 12:30 PM, 4:00 PM - 9:00 PM