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The 18 Padi Karuppasamy Temple is located near Madurai in Tamil Nadu. It is dedicated to Karuppasamy, the fierce, watchful deity of the Tamil region. The Padhinetaam Padi, or the 18 Steps in the Karuppuswamy Temple, signifies the 18 Siddhars, aka Saivite saints, who were said to have yogic powers. They had developed advanced spiritual practices and medical knowledge along with mastery in martial arts and were revered for being as powerful and devoted as Lord Shiva himself. He is known for his protective spirit and powerful aura.
Quick Facts
Karuppasamy Temple Address: Periyur, Madurai, Tamil Nadu, 624401
Karuppasamy Temple Timings: 6 AM – 12 PM, 4 PM – 8 PM
Entry Fees: N/A
How To Reach: By bus, auto-rickshaw, taxi, or car
Nearest Airport: Madurai Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Madurai Junction
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Location
Photo: Bernard Gagnon / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The 18 Padi Karuppasamy temple is situated in Periyur, in the Madurai district of Tamil Nadu state. This temple is located around 45 km southwest of Madurai, accessible from the Periyur-Madurai Road. Other connected routes include the Usilampatti-Peraiyur Road, which connects Periyur to other towns, facilitating easy movement from Madurai and other places.
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How To Reach
Photo: Shishirdasika / Wikimedia Commons
By Air: The nearest airport is Madurai Airport, which is 38 km from the temple. You can hire a taxi from the airport or use the public transport available from the airport to reach Periyur.
By Rail: The closest railway station is Madurai Junction, 25 km from there. You can reach the temple using taxis and local buses from there.
By Road: The temple can be reached by road through NH 85, and buses frequently operate from Madurai to Periyur. Autorickshaws and taxi services are also available in the city of Madurai.
Things To Do
1. Participate In Rituals And Sacraments
Photo: RDNE Stock project / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Devotees gather to present offerings, including turmeric, fresh flowers, camphor, and incense, representing purification, devotion, and the eradication of all negativities. One of the most unique practices involves the sacrifice of a black rooster to represent the fiercely protective nature of Karuppasamy. Another ritual is “padaipalan,” in which food offerings are left hoping that the deity approves an important life event or confers blessings.
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2. Marvel At The Traditional Architecture
Photo: P. Madhusudan / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The temple is an example of the beauty of Tamil folk architecture that has a mixture of rural charm with culturally rich design elements. Built using local materials like stone and wood, this temple reverberates with regional aesthetics and values. Intricately carved pillars with a modest gopuram mark its entrance, vibrantly depicting regional deities and intricate folk motifs.
Places To Visit Around Karuppasamy Temple
1. Meenakshi Amman Temple
Photo: MADHURANTHAKAN JAGADEESAN / Wikimedia Commons
Situated in the city centre, the Meenakshi Amman Temple is devoted to Goddess Meenakshi and her husband, Lord Sundareswarar. This temple is considered a brilliant example of the magnificence of Dravidian architecture and houses some fine carvings and murals accompanied by tall gopurams, which are visible from most places in the city. Its wide corridors have colourful sculptures that bring a reflection of South Indian culture.
Timings: 5 AM – 12:30 PM, 4 PM – 9:30 PM
Distance From The Temple: 25 km
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2. Koodal Azhagar Temple
Photo: Ssriram mt / Wikimedia Commons
Located near the famous Meenakshi Amman Temple of Madurai, the Koodal Azhagar Temple is considered one of the most worshipped places under the blessings of Lord Vishnu, popularly known as Koodal Azhagar. Famous for its beautiful designs and stone carvings, the gopuram reflects all the old-time Tamilian architectural sense. This is one of the 108 Divya Desams, and the importance of the temple holds special significance to Vaishnavites.
Timings: 6 AM – 12 PM, 4 PM – 8 PM
Distance From The Temple: 26 km
3. Azhagar Kovil
Photo: சித்திரவீதிக்காரன் / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The beautiful Alagar Kovil, with the scenic backdrop of Azhagar Hills, is a temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, who is also known as Kallazhagar. This one is mainly popular for its annual festival, Chithirai, which carries Kallazhagar in an elaborate procession through the Vaigai River, attracting thousands of devotees. The temple architecture, which features stone carvings and sculptures, showcases the deep cultural richness of Tamil Nadu.
Timings: 6 AM – 12:30 PM, 4 PM – 8 PM
Distance From The Temple: 1 km
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4. Thirupparamkunram Murugan Temple
Photo: Itsmanibharathi / Wikimedia Commons
Thirupparamkunram Murugan Temple, or Subramaniya Swamy Temple, is an ancient hill temple near the city of Madurai. It is one of the six abodes of Lord Murugan and is remarkable for its rock-cut cave with the most beautiful architectural views with murals and sculptures. It is believed to have been built by the Pandyas during the 6th century. This temple, with its calm hilltop setting and unique rock-cut design, is one of the special places in the Tamil spiritual tradition, and it attracts numerous visitors every year.
Timings: 5:30 AM – 12:30 PM, 4 PM – 9 PM
Distance From The Temple: 30 km
5. Gandhi Memorial Museum
Photo: Ryan / Wikimedia Commons
Located in Madurai, the Gandhi Memorial Museum provides a deep and inspiring insight into India’s freedom struggle. The museum houses a collection of artefacts, including a blood-stained garment worn by Mahatma Gandhi during his assassination, along with photos, letters, and newspaper clippings that document India’s path to independence. Visitors can learn about Gandhi’s principles, life, and philosophy that fuelled India’s quest for freedom through these displays.
Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM (Closed on Fridays)
Distance From The Temple: 20 km
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Where To Stay
Photo: Engin Akyurt / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Visitors to the temple can find every type of lodging, from budget accommodations to top-of-the-line hotels, within easy distance. For your stay in Madurai, Hotel Supreme or The Gateway Hotel Pasumalai provides clean, comfortable rooms with modern amenities and dining on the premises. For budget-conscious travellers, there are clean, affordable, and convenient accommodations at Hotel Rajadhani and MRS Residency within 10 km of the temple.
Where To Eat
Photo: sarthak / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
There are a few small restaurants around the temple that serve authentic South Indian cuisine that people can enjoy in the vibrant Tamil Nadu cuisine. For breakfast, idli, dosa, and sambar can be expected in some of the smaller eateries nearby. To eat something different, people visit Hotel Sree Sabarees and Murugan Idli Shop in Madurai. They are known to provide authentic Tamil Nadu cuisine with Chettinad chicken, parottas, and filter coffee that perks up any day.
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Best Time To Visit
Photo: Pratik Tibrewal / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
The best time to visit the temple is in October and March as Tamil Nadu weather is relatively cooler, which is perfect to explore. The festive season usually comes around at these times so you can enjoy lively local celebrations and the finest temple rituals.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: ian dooley / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Average Cost Of The Trip:
The weekend trip to the temple costs in the range of ₹2,500 to ₹10,000 per person, depending upon one’s preferences and travel options. More comfort can be obtained in mid-range hotels at Madurai or nearby for a slightly higher price. Budget-conscious travellers can stay at a lodge or eat at local food stalls and use public transportation.
Tips For Travellers:
- Visitors to the temple are requested to respect local mores and the sanctity of the Temple.
- Dress modestly and take off shoes before entering the sanctorum as a gesture of respect.
- You can avoid larger crowds if you go early in the morning or late in the evening.
- Offer a flower or some fruits as a small offering to interact more with the religion and the culture.
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Karuppasamy Temple, Tamil Nadu, reflects the epitome of devotion and cultural richness. There is serenity in the air and traditional rituals to experience spirituality. Whether it is participation in colourful festivals, appreciating architectural designs, or visiting other attractions nearby, the temple gives an altogether unique glimpse into the rich tapestry of Tamil heritage. Plan a trip with TripXL and begin your spiritual journey.
Cover Photo: Anandajoti Bhikkhu / Wikimedia Commons
