The Arulmigu Dhandayuthapani Swamy Temple at Palani stands on a hill known as Sivagiri, looking out over the plains at the foot of the Palani hills. Here Lord Murugan is worshipped as Dhandayuthapani — the young renunciant holding a staff — who, according to legend, came to this hill after losing a contest for a divine fruit (the pazham) to his brother Ganesha.
Significance
Palani is the third of Lord Murugan’s Arupadai Veedu, or six sacred abodes. The main idol is traditionally believed to have been made by the Siddhar Bogar from navapashanam, a combination of nine medicinal substances. Bogar’s shrine can be seen within the temple complex.
The temple is one of the most visited in Tamil Nadu. During Thai Poosam, pilgrims walk to Palani from across the state, many carrying kavadis.
Visiting
Families usually combine darshan at the hilltop shrine with a visit to the Thiru Avinankudi temple at the foot of the hill. Allow extra time on weekends, holidays and festival days. Our Coimbatore to Palani temple tour is designed as a comfortable day trip.
