Sri Kalugasalamoorthy Murugan Temple, Kalugumalai, Thoothukudi – Timings, How to Reach, Location
Among the countless sacred hill shrines dedicated to Lord Murugan, who is worshipped as “Kundruthorum Kudi Kondirukkum Kumara Kadavul” (the divine son who resides on every hill), Kalugumalai Murugan Temple stands out as one of the most prominent and spiritually significant temples in Tamil Nadu.
This ancient temple is located in Kalugumalai town of Kovilpatti Taluk, Thoothukudi District, situated between Kovilpatti and Sankarankovil. The temple is not only an important pilgrimage center but also a famous votive offering (kanikkai) temple, where devotees fulfill their vows and express gratitude to Lord Murugan.
A Unique Rock-Cut Cave Temple
The Kalugumalai Murugan Temple is a rare rock-cut cave temple, carved directly from a massive granite hill. Since the deity is enshrined inside a cave formed from living rock, the hill itself serves as the temple tower (vimana). Unlike conventional temples with built corridors, devotees must circumambulate the hill to complete the pradakshina, a practice known here as Girivalam.
The sacred site is known by several traditional names such as:
- Kalugumalai
- Thenpalani (South Palani)
- Kalugachalam
- Uvanagiri
- Gajamukha Parvatham
Ancient scriptures refer to this shrine as “Thenpalani” because, similar to the famous Palani temple in North Tamil Nadu, the presiding deity here also faces west.
Deity and Iconography
Lord Murugan is worshipped here as Sri Kalugasalamoorthy, seated gracefully on his peacock (Vahana). The deity is depicted with:
- One divine face
- Six sacred arms
- The Vel (spear) in hand
- Left foot placed on the peacock’s neck
- Right foot hanging freely
Unlike most Murugan temples where the peacock represents the demon Surapadman, in this temple the peacock symbolizes Indra’s divine vehicle, adding a unique theological significance.
Because both Guru (Jupiter) and Sevvai (Mars) are believed to reside spiritually in this sacred hill, the temple is also revered as a “Mangala Sthalam” (auspicious temple), especially favorable for marriage blessings and planetary remedies.
Historical and Literary Importance
This temple holds great importance in Tamil devotional literature:
- Saint Arunagirinathar, the great Murugan devotee, has sung hymns praising Kalugumalai Murugan in his famous work Thiruppugazh.
- Kachiyappa Sivachariyar, author of the Kandha Puranam, mentions that there are three major Murugan temples where the Lord faces west, and among them, Kalugumalai is the one where Murugan reigns in royal splendor.
The temple was patronized by the Ettaiyapuram kings, who worshipped Kalugasalamoorthy as their family deity (Kula Deivam). Many renovations and temple contributions were made by them, and even today, a small palace of the Ettaiyapuram royal family stands opposite the temple as a historical reminder.
Architecturally, the temple follows the Dravidian style and expanded significantly during the 18th century, featuring a grand gateway, pillared halls, and beautifully carved sculptures.
Festivals and Celebrations
Kalugumalai Murugan Temple is renowned for its grand annual festivals:
- Vaikasi Visakam – celebrated for 10 days
- Skanda Sashti – 13-day festival
- Thai Poosam – 10 days
- Panguni Uthiram – 13 days
- Vasantha Mandapam Festival during Vaikasi Visakam
During these festivals, thousands of devotees gather to offer Kavadi, perform special abhishekams, and participate in vibrant processions.
Darshan, Tickets, and Timings
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
|
Timings |
5:30 AM – 12:30 PM & 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM |
|
General Entry |
Free for all devotees |
|
Special Dharshan |
₹10 to ₹100 (depending on seva type) |
The peaceful hill surroundings and spiritual atmosphere make early morning and festival days especially divine for worship.
Festivals Celebrated
Major festivals include:
- Thai Poosam (Jan–Feb)
- Panguni Uthiram (Mar–Apr)
- Vaikasi Visakam (May)
- Aadi Krittigai (Jul–Aug)
- Skanda Sashti (Oct–Nov)
These festivals draw thousands of devotees from across Tamil Nadu and neighboring states.
How to Reach Kalugasalamoorthy Murugan Temple
By Road
- Kovilpatti (about 21 km away)
- Sankarankovil (about 22 km away)
Bus/taxi/auto-rickshaw available to the temple.
By Train
- Kovilpatti Railway Station – nearest railway station
By Air
- Madurai International Airport
Taxi services available from airport to the temple.
Conclusion
Sri Kalugasalamoorthy Murugan Temple at Kalugumalai is a rare blend of spiritual power, ancient architecture, historical legacy, and literary glory. Revered in Thiruppugazh, associated with royal patronage, and carved from living rock, this sacred shrine continues to attract devotees seeking blessings for health, marriage, courage, and spiritual growth.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why is the temple called “Kalugumalai”?
The temple is situated on a granite hill shaped like a peacock, and the deity is enshrined inside a rock-cut cave, giving the temple its name Kalugumalai (literally, “Eagle Hill” or “Peacock Hill”).
2. Is this temple mentioned in Thiruppugazh?
Yes. Saint Arunagirinathar glorified Kalugumalai Murugan in his Thiruppugazh hymns, praising the deity’s divine power and grace.
3. What makes Kalugumalai Murugan Temple special?
- Rock-cut cave temple carved from granite
- Depiction of Lord Murugan with one face and six arms
- Revered in Thiruppugazh hymns
- Rich historical and royal patronage from Ettaiyapuram kings
- Celebrates major Murugan festivals like Vaikasi Visakam, Skanda Sashti, and Thai Poosam
