Arulmigu Solaimalai Murugan Temple, Pazhamudircholai – Timings, How to Reach, Location
Arulmigu Solaimalai Murugan Temple, popularly known as Pazhamudircholai, is one of the six sacred abodes (Arupadai Veedu) of Lord Murugan. Nestled amidst the lush green hills near Madurai, Tamil Nadu, this divine shrine is a major pilgrimage destination for Murugan devotees and spiritual seekers from across South India.
Surrounded by dense forests and scenic landscapes, the temple offers a serene and tranquil atmosphere that helps devotees disconnect from worldly distractions and immerse themselves in devotion. Thousands of devotees visit the temple every year to seek the blessings of Lord Murugan, who is worshipped here along with Deivanai.
Arulmigu Solaimalai Murugan Temple holds a unique place among the Arupadai Veedu temples, as Lord Murugan is believed to bless devotees with wisdom, prosperity, and fulfillment of wishes. The temple is associated with many divine legends, especially those highlighting Murugan’s compassion and miracles.
One of the most significant festivals celebrated here is Panguni Uthiram, which attracts large crowds. During this festival, the temple is beautifully decorated with flowers and lights, and the deity is taken out in a grand procession, filling the entire hill with divine energy and devotion.
Temple Timings & Dharshan Details
Temple Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Entrance Fee: Free for all
Special Dharshan: Rs.100 per person
Online Booking: Not Available
The temple remains open throughout the year, allowing devotees to participate in daily pujas, abhishekams, and rituals. After prayers, devotees commonly offer milk and clothes to Lord Murugan as part of their vows and thanksgiving.
Festivals at Solaimalai Murugan Temple
Apart from Panguni Uthiram, several other festivals are celebrated with devotion:
- Kanda Sashti (main festival)
- Vaikasi Visakam
- Aadi Karthigai
- Avani Pooram (Varushabishekam)
- Karthika Somavaram
- Thirukarthigai
- Tamil New Year
These festivals reflect the temple’s deep-rooted traditions and vibrant spiritual culture.
Sacred Nupura Ganga
Slightly above Pazhamudircholai lies the holy pond known as Nupura Ganga, also called Silambaru, believed to be over 1,000 years old. Nearby is the Goddess Rakayi Amman Temple. Devotees take a holy bath at the spot where Nupura Ganga flows, believing it purifies the soul and removes negative karma. The sacred water from this stream is also used to prepare Samba Dosai, a famous offering associated with the nearby Azhagar Temple.
The Miraculous Naval Maram (Jamun Tree)
One of the unique attractions of Solaimalai murugan temple is the Naval Maram (Jamun Tree). Normally, jamun fruits ripen during the Tamil months Aadi and Avani (July–August). However, at this temple, the tree bears ripe fruits during Ippasi (October)—a phenomenon believed to be a divine miracle of Lord Murugan.
How to Reach Arulmigu Solaimalai Murugan Temple
By Public Bus:
From Periyar Bus Stand, Madurai, take buses heading towards Alagar Koil. The journey takes about 30–40 minutes. From Alagar Koil, devotees can walk 3 km uphill to reach the temple. The path is scenic, well-marked, and surrounded by greenery.
By Auto Rickshaw:
Autos are available throughout Madurai. Inform the driver to take you to Arulmigu Solaimalai Murugan Temple, Pazhamudircholai. The ride takes approximately 30 minutes. It is advisable to negotiate the fare in advance.
Walking Route:
From Alagar Koil, devotees can enjoy a peaceful uphill walk of around 3 km. Comfortable footwear is recommended as certain stretches are steep.
Scenic Beauty & Visitor Experience
As you approach the temple, the panoramic hilltop views, cool breeze, and natural surroundings create a spiritually uplifting experience. The location is ideal for meditation, photography, and reflection, making Pazhamudircholai a perfect blend of spirituality and nature.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which is the main festival of the Solaimalai Murugan Temple?
Kanda Sashti is the main festival, along with Panguni Uthiram.
2.What is Nupura Ganga?
It is a sacred stream believed to be over 1,000 years old, where devotees take holy baths.
3. What is special about the Naval Maram?
The tree bears ripe jamun fruits during Ippasi (October), which is considered miraculous.
