Viralimalai Murugan Temple is one of the famous Hindu temples located in Tamil Nadu. It is situated in the Viralimalai town, which is about 34 km from Tiruchirapalli. The temple is dedicated to Lord Dandayudhapani (Muruga). The temple is enclosed by dense foliage, which is a peacock sanctuary.
Structure and Sculptures of Viralimalai Murugan Temple
The idol of Lord Muruga in the Viralimalai Murugan Temple has six faces and twelve hands. The idol is seated elegantly in the garbhagriha riding a peacock and faces the east direction. He is flanked by his wives Valli and Deivanai. The temple has been built on a small hill. The pillars of the temple are decorated with the sculptures of Arumugan and Arunagirinathar. The temple is also adorned with the statues of Kashyapa and Narad Muni. Devotees need to climb almost 207 stairs to reach the temple. There are some mandapams that provide rest to the pilgrims.
Shrines of Viralimalai Murugan Temple
A shrine dedicated to goddess `Maikannudaiyal` can be seen on the eastern side. There is a small cave shrine, known as Idumban Sannidhi, situated on the way to the hill top. It is dedicated to Meenakshi Sundreshwarar. The shrines of Vinayagar, Dhakshina Moorthy, Agathiyar and Arunagirinather are located on the western part of the prahara while the shrines of Chandikeshwarar and Bairavar have been built on the northern side. The shrine for Navagraha is located on the way to the Maha Mandapam in front of the sanctum sanctorum. Many inscriptions can be seen on the outer walls of the garbhagriha. The Sthala Vriksham in this temple is "Kasi Vilvam".
Rituals in Viralimalai Murugan Temple
Daily poojas are performed in the temple six times a day as per Kamika Agamam. The temple celebrates many festivals on a grand scale. Some of the important festivals celebrated here are Thaipoosam, Panguni Utthiram, Kanda Shasti Adikrithigai etc.
Visiting Information to Viralimalai Murugan Temple
Viralimalai Murugan Temple is located on the bus route between Madurai and Tiruchy. It is 25km from Tiruchy and 40 km from Padukottai. Narthamalai railway station and Tiruchirapalli International Airport are the nearest to this temple.
