Palani, Kodaikanal - Timings, Festivals, History, Darshan, Pooja Timings

About Palani

At a distance of 41 Km from Kodaikanal, 108 Km from Coimbatore, and 122 km from Madurai, Palani or Pazhani is a temple town located in the Dindigul district of Tamil Nadu, India. The town of Palani is renowned for Palani Murugan Temple or Arulmigu Dhandayuthapani Swamy Temple. Dedicated to Lord Murugan, it is one of the six revered temples of Lord Murugan in Tamil Nadu, that are collectively referred to as the Arupadaiveedu and is an important pilgrim centre for Hindus that one must visit as part of Kodaikanal tour packages. Situated on a hill overlooking the town of Palani, the temple is visited by more than 7 million pilgrims each year.

History of Palani

According to the Sangam literature, Palani was recognized as the southernmost region of Kongu Nadu, and historical edicts refer to it as Vaiyapuri Nadu, governed by King Vaiyapuri Kopperumpekan. A significant clan that established itself in this area was the Aviyarkudi. Following the Sangam period, the Chera Dynasty intermittently exerted control over the region. The hill temple dedicated to Murugan is believed to have been built by the Chera king Cheraman Perumal. During the medieval era, the Pandyas of Madurai held sway over the area. Numerous inscriptions can be found on the outer shrine wall of the Murugan temple. Subsequently, the region came under the influence of the rulers of Coimbatore and Madurai. In the 18th century, Hyder Ali and his son, Tipu Sultan, governed the area until it was annexed by the British following the Third Anglo-Mysore War. Dindigul remained under British rule until India achieved independence in 1947.

Mythology of Palani

According to Hindu mythology, Sage Narada had once visited Lord Shiva with the Fruit of Knowledge (Gyana-Pazham) as a gift. Lord Shiva intended to divide the fruit between his two sons, Ganesha and Kartikeya. However, Narada cautioned against this division and proposed that the fruit be awarded to whichever son could circle the world three times first. Accepting the challenge, Kartikeya embarked on his journey around the globe on his peacock mount. Meanwhile, Ganesha, understanding that the world was embodied in his parents, Shiva and Parvati, chose to circumambulate them instead. Impressed by Ganesha's wisdom, Shiva granted him the fruit. Upon returning, Kartikeya was enraged to discover that his efforts had been futile. He subsequently left Mount Kailash and settled in the Palani hills of South India. It is believed that Kartikeya sought to mature from his youthful state and thus chose to live as a hermit, discarding all his garments and ornaments. This town ultimately became the true fruit, Pazham that Lord Murugan embraced.

Things to do in Palani

The town of Palani is enveloped in natural beauty, characterized by its picturesque hills, lush forests, and flowing rivers, which enhance its allure. Palani is best known for the illustrious Dandayudhapani Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Murugan. This temple is perched atop a hill known as Sivagiri and is recognized as one of the Arupadai Veedu (Six Battle Camps) of Lord Murugan, as well as being one of the wealthiest temples in Tamil Nadu. The sanctum features a gold gopuram, and its walls are adorned with numerous stone inscriptions that detail the offerings made by devotees. The ascent to the temple is facilitated by steps carved into the rock, alongside a broad path designed for elephants. Additionally, a winch-operated railway with three tracks and a ropeway are in service. The elevated position of the temple provides a tranquil and captivating view.

At the base of the hill lies the Thiru Avinankudi Temple, also known as the Kulandai Velalyudhaswami Temple, which is dedicated to Murugan. This temple is one of the earliest sites of worship for Lord Murugan, believed to have flourished under the canopy of an ancient Nelli (Amla) tree. It predates the main Palani Murugan Temple and underwent renovations over a span of twelve years at the beginning of the 20th century. A sacred tank is also associated with this temple, along with a small shrine dedicated to Lord Ganapathi. It is customary for pilgrims to pay their respects at this shrine before beginning their ascent.

Midway up the hill, the Idumban shrine requires every pilgrim to offer their respects to Idumban prior to entering the Dandayudhapani Temple. The tradition of pilgrims carrying their offerings on their shoulders in a kavadi is linked to the legend of Idumban. Within the town, there exists another temple dedicated to Goddess Parvathi, known as Periyanayaki Amman. In proximity to the Periyanayaki Amman temple are two additional temples: the Mariyamman Temple and the Perumal Temple.

Festivals of Palani

Thai Poosam is a very important festival celebrated in Arulmigu Dhandayuthapani Swamy Temple of Palani in honoring the triumph of good over evil. Devotees from all over Tamil Nadu reach Palani by foot and worship Lord Murugan. Beginning with flag-hosting at Perianayagi Amman Temple, this festival runs on for 10 days. Skanda Sashti is another important festival pf Palani held for six days in the month of Aippasi. Panguni Uthiram, Chithirai Festival, Thirukkarthigai, and Vaikasi Visakam are other prominent festivals celebrated in Palani with great enthusiasm.

Palani Temple Dress Code & Other Restrictions

Devotees and visitors are expected to adhere to traditional and modest attire when entering the temple premises. It is customary for men to wear dhoti or veshti, full pants along with shirts, and women are typically required to wear traditional Indian attire such as a saree, salwar kameez, or a long skirt and blouse with a dupatta. It is advisable to avoid short skirts, shorts, and sleeveless tops.

Non-Hindus are allowed to visit the temple complex and admire the architecture but may not be permitted inside the sanctum sanctorum.

Palani Temple Timings

Monday: 5:30 AM to 9 PM
Tuesday: 5:30 AM to 9 PM
Wednesday: 5:30 AM to 9 PM
Thursday: 5:30 AM to 9 PM
Friday: 5:30 AM to 9 PM
Saturday: 5:30 AM to 9 PM
Sunday: 5:30 AM to 9 PM

Palani Temple Entry Fee

General Entry is Free
Special darshan available for Rs. 100 - 300

Best Time to Visit Palani

The best time to visit Palani is from November to March when the weather is pleasant and suitable for temple visits. The Thai Poosam festival typically occurs in January or February, drawing devotees from across the globe. From July to October, Palani experiences the monsoon season, characterized by moderate to heavy rainfall. This time is particularly favorable for appreciating the town's natural beauty, as the rain revitalizes the local flora and fauna. In the summer months, the town endures hot and arid conditions; however, this season presents an excellent opportunity for those wishing to avoid crowds and explore the area at a leisurely pace.

How to Reach Palani

Palani is situated between Coimbatore and Madurai. To get to Palani, one can fly to Coimbatore or Madurai. Once you reach these cities, you can take a train, bus or cab to reach Palani. There are a few trains to Palani including the Palani Express and Amritha Express from Coimbatore. There are many buses that are available as well from Madurai, Chennai, Coimbatore, and Trichy.