The Tiruchendur Murugan Temple is a sacred Hindu temple located on the shores of the Bay of Bengal in the town of Tiruchendur, Tamil Nadu, India. Dedicated to Lord Murugan, the temple is one of the six abodes of Lord Murugan, collectively known as the Arupadaiveedu.
As the second son of Shiva and Parvathi, Lord Murugan is revered by millions of devotees around the world. The Tiruchendur Murugan Temple is believed to be over 2,000 years old, and has undergone multiple renovations and reconstructions throughout its history. Currently, the temple features a magnificent Rajagopuram, three Prakarams, and outer courtyards.
Whether you are a devout Hindu or simply curious about the rich cultural heritage of India, a visit to the Tiruchendur Murugan Temple is a must-see. These architectural wonders have beautiful carvings and sculptures that make for a stunning backdrop
In this travel blog, I will provide information on how to travel from Chennai to Tiruchendur, suggest places to stay, and share my personal itinerary for visiting the beautiful Tiruchendur Murugan temple. Additionally, I will include some of the stunning photos I have taken during my visits to this location.
A few options to get to Tiruchendur from Chennai
As part of my spiritual journey, I visit Tiruchendur once or twice a year to see the main deity Senthilandavar and other Gods, which gives me peace of mind. There are three convenient ways to get to Tiruchendur from Chennai. The Chendur Express train is the easiest and inexpensive option. Currently, It departs Chennai Egmore station at 16.05 PM and arrives in Tiruchendur early in the morning around 7:00 AM. The return train departs Tiruchendur at 8:10 PM and arrives in Chennai around 10:25 AM. For those who want to save money and don’t mind a longer travel time, taking the Chendur Express train is the best option with an overnight sleep.
Alternatively, flying to Tuticorin airport from Chennai and then taking a taxi to Tiruchendur is faster and more efficient. Taxis cost around 1200 Indian rupees, and the ride takes around 45 minutes. There are many Indigo flights available from Chennai to Tuticorin.
Tuticorin Airport- Indigo Flight
Lastly, flying to Madurai from Chennai and then hiring a taxi to Tiruchendur is a more expensive option. However, this option allows for a visit to Meenakshi Amman temple, Thiruparamkundram Murugan temple, and other temples on the way to Tiruchendur. I typically choose one of these three options based on my situation and needs.
Ramesh Iyer Hotel: My Top Choice for Accommodation in Tiruchendur
When I visit Tiruchendur, my preferred accommodation is Ramesh Iyer hotel due to its proximity to the temple entrance. The hotel is just a five-minute walk away from the temple, making it very convenient. The staff is welcoming and the rooms are clean, complete with a comfortable bed and bathroom. The hotel has a vegetarian restaurant, which provides room service and serves delicious food. Additionally, guests can enjoy free wifi and a complimentary water bottle. It’s worth noting that the hotel does not provide toilet paper, so it’s best to bring your own. In the past, the hotel accepted international credit cards, but during my last stay, they could not, so I had to pay in cash. Overall, I highly recommend Ramesh Iyer hotel to anyone visiting Tiruchendur.
Hotel Ramesh Iyer
Things to consider before Visiting the temple
- Before visiting the temple, there are a few important things to keep in mind
- Temple Timing: The temple opens at 5:30 am and closes at 9:00 pm
- Dress Code: Boys and men are required to remove their shirts before entering the temple.
- Shoes/Sandals: Shoes or sandals are not allowed inside the temple. There is a stand where you can keep your shoes and sandals
- Camera: The use of cellphones, cameras, or video cameras is strictly prohibited inside the temple. If you bring them, do not take them out. If you use them, they will be confiscated.
My Personal Journey Routine Rituals at Tiruchendur Temple
I usually visit the temple as soon as I check-in at the hotel, and also the next day early in the morning. However, everyone has their own way of visiting this temple. On my recent trip to Tiruchendur, I wanted to offer a beautiful Rose Mala to the main deity. I found a great flower shop in the shopping area and purchased a beautiful garland. Before entering the temple, I followed the tradition I learned from my parents and washed my feet and hands at the sea. To avoid the long lines, I bought a special entrance ticket for 100 rupees (please check with the temple for the current fee) and removed my shirt before entering the first prakaram. Thanks to the low crowd that day, I had a perfect spot to see the main deity when I handed my garland to an Iyer (Pujari) and watched as he offered it to Senthilandavar. Seeing my mala on His neck made me feel incredibly lucky and happy. After receiving the thiruneeru prasadam and praying to the urchavar, I explored the 2nd and 1st prakarams to worship other deities.
A List of The Main Gods and Goddesses at Tiruchendur Temple
The main God in Tiruchendur temple is moolavar Senthilandavar (also known as Lord Subramanya or Kartikeya), who is worshiped as the presiding deity. In addition to Lord Murugan, there are several other deities and goddesses worshiped in the temple, including:
- Urchavar, Chandikeswar (forms of Lord Murugan)
- Bairavar and Saturn (Sanieswaran)
- Valli and Deivanai (consorts of Lord Murugan)
- Dhakshanamoorthy and Sura Samhara Moorthy
- Pillayar (Lord Ganesha)
- Venkatachalapathy (Lord Vishnu)
After praying to all the deities, I exited through another gate where the management was offering free sweet pongal, which I received in a small disposable cup made of special leaves and savored. With a fully satisfied mind, I left the temple.
The next day, I repeated my visit to the temple early in the morning, around 4:45 am. As Tiruchendur Murugan is considered a gnaana guru and the Jupiter transit was happening between April 22 and 23, there were a lot of people around. Fortunately, I had another nice darshan.
Since the hotel was fully booked due to the Jupiter transit and the weekend, I had to check out at 4 pm, even though my train was not until 8:10 pm. I went back to the temple with my cousin and enjoyed the ocean breeze while sipping ginger tea on a bench. Later, I took the train back to Chennai, where I had booked a first-class ticket and got a cool coupe compartment. I slept most of the time and enjoyed the train ride.
Train: From Tiruchendur to Chennai
As I boarded the train back to Chennai, I couldn’t help but reflect on the incredible journey I had just experienced. The majestic Tiruchendur Murugan temple, with its stunning architecture, intricate carvings, and rich history, had left an indelible impression on me. The daily rituals, the delicious offerings, and the peaceful ocean breeze had all come together to create an unforgettable experience. As the train pulled into the station and I made my way back home, I knew that I would always cherish the memories of this incredible trip to Tiruchendur.
Get the Most Out of Your Visit to Tiruchendur Murugan Temple: Two Must-See Places and Fun Things to Do
Valli Cave
Valli Cave is a sacred cave located near the Tiruchendur Murugan Temple. It is believed that this cave was the abode of Valli, one of the consorts of Lord Murugan. Devotees visiting the temple often take a detour to visit this cave, which is situated on a hill. The climb to the cave is steep, and visitors must climb a series of steps to reach the entrance. Inside the cave, there is a small shrine dedicated to Valli, where devotees offer prayers and seek blessings. The cave also offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding hills and the Bay of Bengal. It is a peaceful and serene spot, perfect for meditation and introspection. The Valli Cave is considered a sacred site and is an important pilgrimage destination for devotees of Lord Murugan.
Nazhi Kinaru (Well)
Nazhi Kinaru is a sacred well situated within the Temple premises near the shore. This well holds great significance as a holy site, and it is believed by devotees that bathing in its water blesses them with good health and prosperity. However, my visit to Nazhi Kinaru was quite some time ago, and I do not recall any specific details about the place. I will provide more information once I have revisited this well..
Panchalingam
Panchalingam represents a collection of five Siva Lingams situated within a cave behind the Moolavar (main deity). The entrance to the cave is located on the left side of the moolavar sanctum. According to legend, Lord Murugan, after winning over the demon Surapadman, created and reverently worshiped these five Siva Lingams at this sacred site. Previously, devotees were permitted to enter the cave, and I had the privilege of personally visiting and bearing witness to the panchalingam. However, at present, the temple authorities have imposed restrictions, disallowing devotees from accessing the panchalingams.
Kodimaram Chanting
Kodimaram Chanting is a customary practice for devotees to offer prayers and recite hymns in front of the Kodimaram (flagstaff) following the main morning puja dedicated to the moolavar at the Tiruchendur Murugan temple. During my recent visit, I overheard a fellow devotee emphasizing the significance of listening to the chants following the puja. Motivated by this insight, I promptly made my way to the Kodimaram to partake in the chanting and receive divine blessings.
Golden Chariot – Thanga Ratham
Devotees have the opportunity to sponsor and participate in pulling the golden chariot at the Tiruchendur Murugan Temple. I have personally sponsored the golden chariot on multiple occasions. To sponsor, one must visit the temple office located in the first prakaram. On the day of the ceremony, sponsors gather near the Golden chariot shed around 6:30 pm. After verifying the names, the head iyer (pujari) provides a towel to each sponsor. The procession commences promptly, and it is a delightful sight to behold the fully adorned statue of Lord Murugan on the chariot, accompanied by the temple elephant leading the way.
The procession encircles the temple. If there is only one sponsor, they, along with their family and friends, join the temple devotees in pulling the rope to move the chariot. In cases where there are multiple sponsors, the distance is divided among them. Given the unique experience, there are usually several sponsors. Once our turn is complete, other sponsors take over and continue pulling the chariot. Sponsors receive laddu and sweet rice prasadams as blessings. Sponsoring the procession and pulling the chariot is an awe-inspiring experience. Enjoy the divine atmosphere and seek the blessings of Lord Murugan. It is permitted to take pictures of the procession.
Parrot Astorology
Parrot Astrology is a popular practice in the Tiruchendur Murugan Temple and other temples throughout Tamil Nadu. This fascinating tradition involves a trained parrot selecting a card from a stack placed in front of it. Each card contains a different prediction or message. The parrot is trained to choose a card that corresponds to the individual’s question or concern. The parrot astrologers are believed to possess unique psychic abilities, and it is intriguing to witness their insights unfold through the parrot’s selection. Personally, I enjoy the experience of sitting and having the parrot pick a card for me, and then listening to the parrot astrologer’s interpretation based on the chosen card’s image
Please review the fee structure before allowing the parrot to select a card. If you are not cautious, they may charge a significant amount for minor adjustments promising a prosperous future
Palm Reading
Palm reading is highly popular at the Tiruchendur Murugan Temple and other temples throughout Tamil Nadu. This practice involves analyzing the lines and patterns on an individual’s palm to gain insights into their future. Palm readers, often seen carrying a stick, stroll around the temple premises. They approach devotees, inquiring if they are interested in knowing about their future. It can be entertaining to show them our palms and listen to their interpretations about us and our future. However, it’s important to approach palm reading with a light-hearted attitude and not take their predictions too seriously.
“Must-Try Flavors of Tiruchendu before You leave
Karuppatti: In Tiruchendur, there are several local items that you must try to get a taste of the region’s unique flavors. One such specialty is the Palmyra jaggery, also known as Karuppatti. Made from the sap of Palmyra trees, this dark and rich jaggery is a natural sweetener used in various traditional dishes and sweets.
Palmyra Sprout: Panam Kizhangu, also known as Palmyra tuber or Palmyra root, is another culinary gem from the Palmyra palm tree. Panam Kizhangu is obtained from the seeds of the Palmyra tree. These tubers are not only delicious but also valued for their nutritional content, as they are a good source of dietary fiber. You can find Panam Kizhangu being sold by various vendors near the entrance of the temple. It’s a local specialty worth trying during your visit to Tiruchendur.
Palmyrah juice: When it comes to refreshing beverages, don’t miss out on trying Palmyrah juice. Extracted from the Palmyra palm fruit, this juice is known for its cooling properties and nutritional benefits. It offers a natural sweetness and is a popular choice among locals to beat the heat and quench their thirst.
And if you’re in the mood for a unique coffee experience, head to the beach and indulge in sukku coffee. Sukku, also known as dry ginger, is used as a key ingredient in this traditional Tamil beverage. The coffee is prepared by infusing roasted coffee beans with sukku and other aromatic spices, resulting in a warm and invigorating concoction that is both soothing and flavorful.
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