Shri Swamimalai Swaminatha Swamy Temple

Shri Swamimalai Swaminatha Swamy Temple is a famous Hindu temple located in Swamimalai. This place is located near Kumbakonam district of Tamil Nadu. Shri Swamimalai Swaminatha Swamy Temple is dedicated to Lord Murugan. Not only this, but the temple is considered as one of the six abodes of Lord Murugan. Lord Murugan is also known as Swaminatha Swamy.

Inside the temple, you can see very beautiful Dravidian-style architecture with intricate carvings and designs. A large number of devotees are coming here to worship Lord Murugan.

There is a unique ritual that is done in this temple, and it is known as Padikasu. In this ritual, an offering of coins is made to the deity. It is believed that this ritual will bring goodness and blessing. So, while going for your KUMBAKONAM TOUR PACKAGE, visit this temple also.

Shri Swamimalai Swaminatha Swamy Temple History 

The Shri Swamimalai Swaminatha Swamy Temple has a very rich history. The person who built the temple is not known. There are various stories behind the construction of the famous temple. Among those stories, one great story is that it is believed that Lord Murugan himself built the temple. Lord Murugan taught the meaning of “Om” to his father, Lord Shiva, at this place. After that, he asked the father to recite in reverse order. Lord Shiva was pleased. After that, Lord Shiva Put the idol of Swaminatha Swamy in the temple.

However, different types of reconstruction and rework happened inside the temple during the rule of various dynasties. The Nayak dynasty rulers constructed the current structure of the temple present here. Many saints and Scholars have been attached to this temple. One of the most famous saints, Thirugnanasambandar Sung, hymns about Lord Murugan in the temple. 

Architecture of the Temple

Shri Swamimalai Swaminatha Swamy Temple has very beautiful architecture. When you enter the temple, you will find Gopuram and Towers. The Gopuram has a height of 70 feet. There are 5 tiers inside Gopuram. The whole Gopuram has very intricate carvings and cultures. The carvings present on the Gopuram depict scenes from Hindu mythology.

There is a main sanctum sanctorum Which is present inside the temple. The main sanctum is having deity of Lord Murugan. The idol of Lord Murugan is made up of granite, and it is 6 feet high.

Along with the main Shrine inside the temple, you will also find various other shrines. The other shrines inside the temple include Lord Ganesha, Lord Shiva, and Goddess Parvati. All the shrines have very beautiful carvings and sculptures. 

Mandapams are also present inside the temple. Pillars support the Mandapam that is present inside the temple.  

Another interesting fact about the temple is that the temple is situated on a small hill. It is believed that the hill represents the human mind. Not only this, but there is a stone slab which weighs 3 tons. The stone slab is placed on the ceiling of the temple. It Is believed that Lord Murugan himself put that stone on the ceiling. 

The Shri Swamimalai Swaminatha Swamy Temple is considered one of the most famous pilgrimage sites in South India. Not only this, but the nearby places of the temple are also very amazing, and you will love that. So, while going for the different places to visit in Kumbakonam, you should visit this temple, also.