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The Mailam Temple, or Mailam Murugan Temple, is one of the most popular shrines dedicated to Lord Murugan. Situated in the hilly region of Mailam in Tamil Nadu, its rich ancient history and cultural value define this godly temple, which is supported by lush green surroundings and rocky terrains. The temple’s architecture is a classic blend of traditional Tamil styles and has intricately carved sculptures and vibrant murals depicting aspects of Lord Murugan’s life. Various celebrations are planned in the temple across the year, especially the Brahmotsava festival, which lasts for ten days in the month of Paŋkunii.
Quick Facts About Mailam Temple
Mailam Temple Address: Adheenakarther, SSBS Thirumadan, Mailam, Tamil Nadu 604304
Mailam Temple Timings: 6 AM – 1 PM, 4 PM – 8 PM
Entry Fee: Free
How To Reach: Bus, taxi, and autorickshaw
Nearest Airport: Puducherry Airport, 35 km
Nearest Railway: Villupuram Railway Station, 28 km
Best Time To Visit: October to February
Mailam Temple Location
Photo: Destination8infinity / Wikimedia Commons
The Mailam Murugan Temple, located in Tindivanam, is on a small hill along the GST Road. It is in the Viluppuram district and is located 15 km from Tindivanam and 30 km from Pondicherry. The temple road connects Mailam-Chendur Road, Palayam Street, and Dam Road. The Murugan temple is in the same area as Mailam Sivagnana Balaya Swamigal Thirumadam temple.
How To Reach
Photo: Timothy A. Gonsalves./ Wikimedia Commons /
Mailam is accessible by all means of transport. It is easy to reach for visitors from nearby cities as well as tourists.
By Air: The closest airport is Puducherry Airport, 35 km from the temple. A taxi or bus is available to Mailam from the airport.
By Train: The nearest railway station is Villupuram railway station or junction at a distance of 28 km. An autorickshaw or taxi can be taken from here.
By Road: It is accessible by road, and buses are available from all major cities in Tamil Nadu. The nearest bus station is the Mailam Bus stop, 1 km from the temple. You can also use taxis and private cars to get there.
5 Places To Visit Near Mailam Temple
Visit these interesting places located near the Mailam Temple to explore the beauty of this spiritual and cultural landscape of Tamil Nadu.
1. Gingee Fort
Photo: MariaSelvamSavarimuthu / Wikimedia Commons
The Gingee Fort is a splendid piece of architecture and a historical landmark in Tamil Nadu. The fort complex comprises three hills, Raja, Rani, and Krishna Giri, which are interjoined with fortified walls. Towards climbing Raja, various ancient sculptures in the form of temples and granaries and an elaborate structure called the Kalyana Mahal, a multi-sectioned tower, can be found. Also called the ‘Troy of the East’ because of its enclosing walls, Gingee Fort was once a defence anchor for several Chola, Maratha, and even the British empires.
Timings: 9 AM – 7 PM
Distance: 35 km from the Mailam Temple
Entry Fee: Children: free for below 15 years, Adults ₹5, Foreign tourists ₹100
2. Sri Angala Parameshvari Temple
Photo: Prabhu046 / Wikimedia Commons
Angla Parameshvari Temple is famous for the Goddess Angala Parameswari, worshipped as Sadakshari, or relief from difficulties. The devotees usually come on the new moon for large ceremonies and overnight events. The temple complex is filled with various vendors selling different religious items, while people also carry food to the deity for worship, seeking assistance with their problems. The temple structure is based on the Dravidian style of architecture and retains many aspects of the local culture in its festivals. This is a place for those who wish to explore the intact local culture, rituals, and religious celebrations.
Timings: 6 AM – 1 PM, 2 PM – 8 PM
Distance: 35 km from the Mailam Temple
Entry Fee: None
3. Sri Vakra Kali Amman Sannathi
Photo: சித்திரவீதிக்காரன் / Wikimedia Commons
The Thiruvakkarai Temple is devoted to the deity Vakrakaliamman, who is believed to be aggressive and protective. The temple has its own peaceful ambience and rituals, which draw in the visitors. The National Fossil Wood Park is located next to the temple and features remains of tree trunks turned into natural fossils, some of which are said to be millions of years old, displayed outdoors. Both the temple and the fossil park make the experience of such cultures and science fun and interesting as they focus on both the cultural and paleontological aspects.
Timings: 6 AM – 12 PM, 5 PM – 8:30 PM
Location: 14 km from Mailam Temple
Entry Fee: None
4. Puducherry Beach
Photo: Pinakpani / Wikimedia Commons
Puducherry Beach is another exciting diversion from the temples’ spiritual atmosphere. A few yards from Mailam Temple, it has some pristine sandy shores and gentle waves at this scenic beach, making it a place for relaxation and recreation. There are numerous activities on the beach, including water sports such as jet skiing and parasailing, where one can feel that adrenaline rush of adventure. Along the promenade are local seafood restaurants that serve regional cuisine. The sunsets and sunrises are a must-experience when visiting Puducherry Beach.
Timings: 6 AM – 8 PM
Distance: 35 km from Mailam Temple
Entry Fee: None
5. Sri Vedapureeswarar Temple
Photo: Ssriram mt / Wikimedia Commons
Another historical place of worship is the Vedapureeswarar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. This temple, built in Chola times, features beautiful Dravidian-style architecture comprising beautiful reliefs and carvings of various Hindu gods, goddesses, and mythological tales. The surrounding serenity promotes stillness and concentration, enabling every individual to savour the beauty and sanctity of the shrine. The temple pillars are eroded yet well intact, demonstrating the skills of Chola craftsmen. The temple is hidden away in Cheyyar for the people who are ardent fans of the temples of Tamil Nadu.
Timings: 6 AM – 8 PM
Location: 65 km from the Mailam Temple
Entry Fee: None
Where To Stay
Photo: AS Photography / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
For a more relaxed stay near the Mailam Murugan Temple, it is advisable to check out hotels and guest houses in Tindivanam, which is approximately 12 kilometres away, or even in the surrounding cities of Pondicherry. Tindivanam has a few economical options, like Hotel Anandha, which offers primary services at a reasonably low price. Even if you want to stay in the hotel longer and need more services, a place like Pondicherry has many alternatives. Starting from economical hotels like Hotel Athithi, which provides modern utilities and services close to the beach, to luxury hotels like The Promenade.
Where To Eat
Photo: Jack Baghel / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
There are plenty of local eateries around the Mailam Murugan Temple but a few fine dining restaurants. Tindivanam is home to many vegetarian restaurants and cafes that serve typical South Indian fare, including several traditional thali options. People also like to visit Saravana Bhavan for dosas, idlis, and filter coffee. There are also smaller tiffin centres near the bus stand that sell decent and cheap food. Besides these, Pondicherry is a drive away and offers various types of restaurants. For simple South Indian meals, visit Kamatchi Mess, but La Villa provides unique French fusion cuisine for a different twist close to the sea.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: LoggaWiggler / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Best Time To Visit
The best time to visit the Mailam Temple is during winter, between October and February. In this season, the weather remains cool and pleasant, making it ideal for temple tours and outdoor activities. The summer months are between March and June, but they are hot and sticky, making travel inconvenient.
Tips For Tourists
Dress accordingly and prepare to remove your footwear before entering the temple premises. You are advised to visit the temple in the morning. At that hour, there is no crowd, and it provides a very peaceful atmosphere. Carry cash with you to buy souvenirs and temple offerings.
The Mailam temple is a pilgrimage site where people come to seek blessings and participate in different rituals. Nature lovers are drawn by the serene environment prevalent around the temple. One of the unique architectural landmarks, along with being spiritually important and possessing breathtaking natural beauty, Mailam Temple is a place that should not be missed. So, plan your spiritual journey to Tamil Nadu with TripXL.
Cover Photo: Destination8infinity / Wikimedia Commons
