Maruthamalai Temple

About Maruthamalai Temple

Maruthamalai Temple, situated on a hillock at a height of about 500 feet in a plateau on the Western Ghats, about 12 kms from Coimbatore, is an important temple dedicated to Lord Muruga.The temple gets its name from the Marutha trees in the forests on the hill. The hills also have many medicinal herbs in their forests.The story behind the temple is that a thirsty Sanyasi was walking through the forest and took refuge under a Marutha tree. To quench his thirst, he prayed to Lord Muruga, who answered his prayers and water sprang from Marutha trees. Hence Lord Muruga has been hailed the Lord of Marutha. The “Marudha Thirtam” and the“Pambatti Sunai” are springs on the hills with holy waters for ablution and a dip in them cures a number of diseases for they contain Medicinal Properties.

Interesting places to Visit

**Thanthonri Vinayagar:**As we approach the foothills, at a little distance from it, the deity Ganesha greet us. Offering our prayers to Sri Vigneshwara, the remover of obstacles, we begin our ascent to the hills. It is significant to note that the deity is not a chiseled one but it is of a spontaneous origin .

**The Srine of Idumba:**The shrine of Idumba is located almost in the middle of the path of steps. The image of the deity is carved on a huge round rock in the posture of carrying a Kaavadi. Married couples having no issues worship the deity and offer toy cradles with the firm faith of being blessed with progeny by the Grace of god.

The Depictions Of Arjuna’s Penance: A beautiful mandapam enshrining what is called ‘Kudirai Kulambu’ .It is believed that the horse of Lord Muruga caused the Marks, as He marched against the Demon Surapadma. Or the horse on which Lord Muruga rode and chased the robbers referred to earlier might have imprinted by them.

**Pambatti Siddhar Cave:**This is located on the slopes towards the east and can be approached by a narrow path, protected by a stone hedge or parapet. Pambatti Siddhar used this cave as his abode for meditation on Lord Muruga and attained salvation here. One can notice a natural image of a snake on the rock.

Nearest Visiting places

V.O.C. Park & Zoo:An amusement park, V.O.C. Park & Zoo are named after the famous freedom fighter V.O. Chidambaram. The park is an interesting place to visit in Coimbatore. The main attractions within the park include an aquarium, a mini zoo, and a toy train for joyrides.

Perur Temple :7 kms west of Coimbatore, this ancient temple was built by Karikala Chola and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Also known as Mel Chidambaram, the exquisite sculptures in Kanagasabai are the main tourist attraction.

Anamalai Wildlife Sanctuary: Anamalai wildlife sanctuary is about 90-km from Coimbatore and is situated at an altitude of 1,400 meters in the Western Ghats near Pollachi. The sanctuary is spread across an area of 958 sq. kms. and is an ecological paradise. This sanctuary encompasses a National Park. The sanctuary has been recently renamed as Indira Gandhi wildlife sanctuary.

Hotels/Lodge/Accommodation

The temple town offers a range of options from budget lodges and guesthouses to mid-range hotels, many within walking distance of the temple. During festivals, book well in advance.

Help Line/Phone Number

Nearest Hospital:

Vallalar Hospital
Maruthamalai Road, Coimbatore, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu 641041- 0422 2450693

KG Hospital
Coimbatore, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu- 0422 2212121

Ganga Hospital
313, Mettupalayam Road, Alagesan Rd No. 2, Saibaba Koil, Coimbatore, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu 641 043- 0422 2485000

Sheela Hospital
46, Coimbatore, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu- 0422 2498381

Aravind Eye Hospital
Coimbatore, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu- 0422 4360400

Location info

• **Address:**Maruthamalai,Coimbatore district ,Tamil nadu ,India

• **District:**coimbatore district

• Nearest City: coimbatore

• Best time to visit: December and March

Climate & weather

The climate of Coimbatore city is moderate and pleasant throughout the year. Summers are hot with the maximum temperature reaching 39C and the minimum temperature is 21C. Winters are mild with the maximum temperature hovering around 30C and the minimum temperature of about 15C. A salubrious climate makes the tourists enjoy every moment of their visit to the city.

How to reach Maruthamalai Temple

• **Nearest Railway Station:**Coimbatore Junction and the Coimbatore North Railway Station.

• **Nearest Airport:**Coimbatore Airport (12 km)

• **Road Transport:**Buses are available from Coimbatore, The entry fee for cars to uphills is Rs.10/-.

Best time to visit Maruthamalai Temple

November to February when the weather is pleasant and cool. Early morning (6–8 AM) is ideal for a peaceful darshan. Temple festivals (Brahmotsavam, Panguni Uthiram) are spectacular but crowded. Avoid midday heat (12–4 PM).

Timings & opening hours

Typically 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM daily. Some temples open continuously from early morning until night. Pooja timings vary by season — check locally.

Entry fee & tickets

Entry is usually free. Special darshan tickets may cost INR 50–200. Camera fees: INR 20–50 for still photography, INR 100–150 for video. Some major temples have separate ticket counters for special abhishekam.

Duration needed

1–2 hours for a typical visit. Allow 2–3 hours for larger temple complexes with multiple shrines and mandapams. Festival days require more time.

Safety tips

Beware of pickpockets in crowded areas during festivals. Keep valuables secure. Wear comfortable footwear that can be removed easily — temple floors can be hot in summer. Stay hydrated. Follow security instructions at major temple complexes.

Things to carry

Remove footwear before entering the sanctum. Carry a cloth bag for shoes. Modest clothing (shoulders and knees covered). Small change for offerings and prasadam. Drinking water — temple premises can be warm.

Nearest airport, railway & bus

By Air: Chennai International Airport (MAA) is the primary international gateway. Regional airports include Coimbatore International Airport (CJB), Madurai International Airport (IXM), and Tiruchirappalli International Airport (TRZ), depending on location.

By Train: Tamil Nadu has an extensive railway network. Major junctions include Chennai Central (MAS), Coimbatore Junction (CBE), Madurai Junction (MDU), Tiruchirappalli Junction (TPJ), and Salem Junction (SA). From the nearest station, local transport is readily available.

By Road: Tamil Nadu State Transport Corporation (TNSTC) operates an extensive bus network connecting all parts of the state. National highways NH 44, NH 48, and NH 32 provide excellent connectivity. Private buses and taxis are also available from nearby towns and cities.

Mobile network coverage

Airtel, Jio, BSNL, and Vi all provide coverage across Tamil Nadu. 4G is reliable in Chennai, Coimbatore, Madurai, and along major highways. Coverage may be weaker in remote sections of the Western Ghats, deep forest reserves, and certain rural interior areas. Free Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels and cafes in urban areas.

Food & restaurants nearby

Tamil Nadu’s temple cities (Madurai, Thanjavur, Rameswaram) have excellent vegetarian restaurants, temple prasad counters, and traditional Tamil meals served on banana leaves. Major cities offer multi-cuisine dining.

History of Maruthamalai Temple

Maruthamalai Temple is an ancient temple with deep roots in Tamil heritage. Its architecture reflects the Dravidian style perfected during the Pallava and Chola periods, with towering gopurams, intricate stone carvings, and pillared mandapams. The temple has been a centre of worship and pilgrimage for centuries, mentioned in early Tamil literature.

Things to do at Maruthamalai Temple

Visit the temple during different pooja times to experience the spiritual atmosphere. Explore the temple architecture — the gopurams, vimana, and pillared halls. Observe the daily rituals and ceremonies. Participate in the temple festivals if visiting during auspicious dates.

Things to visit & highlights

The main sanctum sanctorum is the spiritual heart of the temple. The towering gopurams (gateway towers) are adorned with colourful sculptures depicting deities and mythological scenes. The temple’s mandapams (pillared halls) and the sacred temple tank are key highlights.

Nearest petrol pump

Petrol pumps are available in the nearest town and along the approach roads to the temple. Major fuel stations (Indian Oil, Bharat Petroleum) are within 5–10 km.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best time to visit Maruthamalai Temple? Early morning (6–8 AM) is the best time for a peaceful darshan. Temple festivals and special occasions draw large crowds.

Is photography allowed inside Maruthamalai Temple? Photography rules vary — still cameras are usually allowed in the outer precincts. Flash photography is typically prohibited inside the sanctum. Video cameras may require special permission.

What is the dress code for visiting Maruthamalai Temple? Modest dress covering shoulders and knees is required. Traditional Indian attire (saree, salwar kameez, dhoti, pyjama) is preferred.

Accessibility

Religious sites may have steps at the entrance and may not have ramps. The interiors are generally level once inside. Some historic sites have uneven stone floors. Visitors with mobility concerns should check in advance.

Rules & restrictions

Modest dress is required: shoulders and knees must be covered (scarves or shawls are often available at the entrance). Photography is generally permitted without flash, but video may be restricted. Maintain silence inside. Mobile phones should be on silent mode. Remove shoes if required (indicated by signage). Do not touch artefacts or altars. These are active places of worship — respect services, festivals, and devotees.

Best photography spots

Tamil Nadu has several historic churches including San Thome Basilica in Chennai (built over the tomb of St. Thomas) and the Velankanni Basilica (Our Lady of Good Health). The colonial-era churches in hill stations and Fort St. George are smaller but photogenic. Shoot early morning for the best light.

Quick facts

• Type: Tourist Attraction
• State: Tamilnadu
• Category: Temples

Visitor information

Please check locally for current visitor information.