Thoranamalai Murugan Temple is located on Thoranamalai hill located near Kadayam, a suburb in Tirunelveli district, Tamil Nadu. It lies on the route from Tenkasi to Kadayam. The hill was originally called “Vaaranamalai” because its shape resembles a reclining elephant (“varanam” means elephant). Over time, it came to be known as “Thoranamalai.”
The hill has sixty-four natural springs, which are used for the ritual bathing of the deity at the Murugan temple located there. It is believed that the great sage Agasthiyar stayed here and practiced medicine.
Agasthiyar’s disciple, Theraiyar, also attained Jeeva Samadhi (final resting place) on this hill. Even today, it is said that many siddhars (spiritual beings) visit this divine hill invisibly to worship. At the peak of Thoranamalai, there is a beautiful cave temple dedicated to Lord Murugan, who sits facing east, radiating wisdom and grace.
At the cave temple, Lord Murugan sits gracefully, holding his Vel (spear) and accompanied by his peacock. His gentle smile and kind eyes seem to tell devotees, “Why fear when I am here?”
The origins of Thoranai Malai Murugan Temple are steeped in legend and tradition. It is believed that the temple is more than 1000 years old, and devotees have to climb 926 Steps to reach the hill temple.
It is also said that during Lord Shiva and Parvati’s wedding at Mount Kailash, the earth tilted, with the north sinking and the south rising. To balance it, Lord Shiva sent Agasthiyar to South India. On his journey, Agasthiyar was captivated by the beauty of Thoranamalai and stayed there for a while. Ancient texts mention that he established a medical center here, using rare herbs from the region to treat people.
It is believed that even Lord Rama visited Agasthiyar at Thoranamalai to seek blessings. The famous poet Bharathiyar praised this sacred place in his poem, calling Lord Murugan “the divine one who resides in the cave.”
Daily poojas are conducted in the cave temple, and annual festivals like Thai Poosam and Vaikasi Visakam are celebrated grandly. Additionally, the last Friday of every Tamil month is considered very special.
Devotees pray for the removal of obstacles in marriage, healing from illnesses, blessings for children, growth in business, and overall family prosperity.
