Palani History

PALANI : The Legend, Heritage, and Spiritual Glory of the Hill Temple
The sacred hill temple of Palani is steeped in legend, historical richness, and deep spiritual significance. According to Hindu mythology, the story begins when Sage Narada presented a golden mango—called the Jñanapalam (fruit of wisdom)—to Lord Shiva. At that time, Lord Shiva was seated with Goddess Parvati and their sons, Lord Vinayakar (Ganesha) and Lord Subrahmanya (Murugan).

Narada requested Lord Shiva to consume the rare fruit. Shiva, in turn, offered it to Parvati, who wished to share it with their children. Since the fruit was indivisible, a contest was announced: whoever circled the world first would win the fruit.

Lord Murugan immediately set off on his peacock to circumnavigate the globe. Meanwhile, Lord Vinayakar chose to walk around his parents, symbolizing the universe, and was awarded the fruit for his wisdom. Upon returning, Murugan felt deceived and, in disappointment, renounced his family and retreated to the hill now known as Palani.

Lord Shiva and Parvati followed to console him, telling him lovingly, “Pazham Nee”—meaning “You are the fruit.” The name Palani is derived from these words.

The presiding deity, Lord Dandayudhapani Swami, also known as Palaniandavar, is worshipped in various forms such as Shanmukhan, Swaminathan, Balasubrahmanyan, Arumugan, and Jñana Pandita. Devotees from Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Fiji, Africa, Australia, and the U.S. regularly visit this revered temple, making Murugan worship a truly global phenomenon.

The main temple is believed to have been constructed in the 7th century AD by Kerala’s Cheraman Perumal. The Navaranga Mandapam—a beautifully crafted stone pavilion—was added by the Nayak rulers. Other parts of the temple were developed over time by the Pandiya kings, local chieftains, religious groups, and devotees.

HOW TO REACH PALANI HILL TEMPLE
There are five different ways to reach the Palani Murugan Temple atop the hill. Four of them are commonly known:

1. Steps Route – The traditional path with steps leading to the temple. At the base is a shrine for Lord Ganesha, known as Paadha Vinayagar (Vinayagar at the steps).

2. Elephant Path – A gentler slope often used by elderly devotees.

3. Winch Facility – A convenient rail car system that takes devotees up the hill.

4. Rope Car Facility – A cable car service offering scenic views during the ascent.

5. Theertha Pathai – A sacred and rarely used route, mainly for bringing holy water (Theertham) for Abishegam rituals.

Each route offers a unique experience, blending devotion with the natural beauty of the sacred Palani Hills.