Mailam Hill Murugan Temple is one of the prominent hill temples of Tamil Nadu, revered for its spiritual energy, ancient legend, and unique worship practices. Situated amidst natural surroundings filled with abundant Nochi trees, this sacred shrine attracts devotees throughout the year, especially on Tuesdays and during major Murugan festivals.
Temple History and Administration
The temple atop Mailam Hill was constructed on a grand scale by the Pommayapuram Mathadhipathi. Over the years, its maintenance and administration have been exemplary. The Mutt established at the foothill efficiently manages the temple’s affairs and ensures that pilgrims are provided with essential facilities and conveniences.
The temple is well maintained with organized darshan arrangements, clean premises, and helpful staff. The administration deserves special appreciation for providing ample parking facilities for both cars and two-wheelers, making it convenient even during festival rush days.
Temple Timings & Dharshan Details
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
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Timings |
6:00 AM – 12:30 PM & 4:00 PM – 8:30 PM |
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General Entry |
Free for all devotees |
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Special Darshan |
₹50 – ₹100 per person |
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Online booking |
Not Available |
Mythological Significance – The Story of Balasiddhar
According to temple legend, Sankakannan, one of Lord Shiva’s ganas (divine attendants), once failed in his duty of guarding Goddess Parvati. Enraged, Lord Shiva cursed him to be born on earth.
As a result, Sankakannan was born as Balasiddhar in the village of Bommapalayam. As he grew older, he learned about the divine exploits of Lord Murugan, especially the defeat of the demon Soorapadman. Believing that only Murugan could free him from the curse, Balasiddhar began intense worship of the deity.
However, Murugan initially refused to grant liberation since the curse was given by his father Shiva. Even the pleas of his consorts Valli and Devasena did not change his decision. Hurt by his stubbornness, the consorts left Murugan and took refuge at Balasiddhar’s hermitage.
Murugan later came to the hermitage disguised as a hunter, but Balasiddhar immediately recognized him and surrendered at his feet. Pleased by his devotion, Murugan relieved him from the curse, and Valli and Devasena reunited with him.
To commemorate this divine episode, Lord Murugan is worshipped here in Kalyana Kolam (marriage posture) with his consorts. The sacred temple tank is known as Balasiddhar Agniteertham.
Main Deities and Shrine Layout
Although the temple is fundamentally a Shiva temple with Sri Viswanathar and Sri Visalakshi in the Sanctum Sanctorum, primary importance is given to Lord Murugan.
Temple layout includes:
- Main east-facing shrine with Sri Murugan, Valli, and Devasena
- Vinayakar Sannidhi to the extreme left
- Jeeva Samadhi of Bala Siddhar located between Murugan and Vinayakar shrines
- Separate Navagraha Sannidhi
- Shrine of Veerabagu, Murugan’s army commander, near the Utsava Murthy
A large Vel (spear) and peacock statue are placed outside the sanctum where the Moolavar resides.
Rituals and Special Worship Practices
Daily poojas include:
- Alankaram
- Archana with “Om Saravanabhava”
- Kalasanthi Puja
- Paal Abhishekam
Families frequently visit the temple to fulfill vows. Tonsuring and ear-boring ceremonies are commonly performed here.
Special rituals:
- Velayudha Archana every Tuesday during Kalasanthi Puja – believed to resolve financial difficulties
- Special abhishekam for Veerabagu on Tuesday mornings; many unmarried women visit seeking blessings for marriage
Festivals and Observances
Major festivals celebrated include:
- Panguni Uthiram
- Skanda Sashti (Soorasamharam)
- Aadi Krithigai
- Karthigai Krithigai
- Monthly Sashti
- Thaipusam
During festival days, the temple experiences heavy footfall, and darshan timings are extended accordingly.
Unique Tradition – Nochi Leaf Decoration
Mailam Hill is famous for its abundant Nochi trees. Every morning during pooja, Nochi leaves are first garlanded and offered to the Moolavar and Utsava Murthys before adorning them with flower garlands. This unique practice is believed to enhance spiritual purity and divine protection.
Facilities for Devotees
- Shops at the hilltop and foothill selling pooja items and prasadam
- Tonsuring facilities at the foothill (for children and adults)
- Ear boring facility at the hilltop temple
- Nearby restaurants and lodges for outstation devotees
- Clean pathways and resting areas for elderly pilgrims
How to Reach Mailam Murugan Temple, Villupuram
By Air:
The nearest airport is Puducherry Airport, located about 35 km from Mailam Murugan Temple. From the airport, devotees can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Mailam comfortably. Puducherry Airport is well connected to major cities through Chennai, making it a convenient option for air travelers.
By Train:
The closest railway station is Villupuram Junction, situated approximately 28 km from the temple. Villupuram is a major railway hub in Tamil Nadu with good connectivity to Chennai, Bengaluru, Madurai, and other important cities. From the station, visitors can easily find autorickshaws, taxis, and buses to reach the temple.
By Road:
Mailam Murugan Temple is well connected by road and can be easily accessed from all major towns and cities in Tamil Nadu. Regular state transport buses operate from Villupuram, Puducherry, Tindivanam, and Chennai. The nearest bus stop is Mailam Bus Stop, which is about 1 km from the temple. From there, devotees can walk, take an autorickshaw, or hire a taxi to reach the temple. Private cars and cab services are also widely available, making road travel one of the most convenient ways to visit the shrine.
Conclusion
Mailam Hill Murugan Temple stands as a powerful spiritual destination combining divine legend, disciplined temple management, unique rituals, and natural beauty. From the sacred story of Balasiddhar’s redemption to the rare Nochi leaf worship tradition and Tuesday Velayudha Archana, every aspect of the temple reflects deep devotion and ancient heritage.
Whether seeking relief from financial troubles, blessings for marriage, fulfillment of vows, or inner peace, devotees believe that Lord Murugan of Mailam Hill grants sincere prayers. A visit to this holy shrine offers not only religious merit but also a deeply calming and spiritually enriching experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
1.Who is the main deity worshipped here?
Although the sanctum houses Lord Shiva (Sri Viswanathar) and Goddess Visalakshi, the temple is primarily famous for worship of Lord Murugan with Valli and Devasena.
2. Why is Balasiddhar important to this temple?
Balasiddhar was a former gana of Lord Shiva who was cursed to be born on earth. He worshipped Lord Murugan here and was finally relieved of his curse. His Jeeva Samadhi is located inside the temple complex.
3. In which posture is Lord Murugan seen at this temple?
Lord Murugan is worshipped in Kalyana Kolam, along with his consorts Valli and Devasena.
4.What is the name of the temple tank?
The sacred temple tank is called Balasiddhar Agniteertham.
