Malaiyanur Temple: A Sacred Destination For Spiritual Seekers

The outer view of a temple featuring Gopuram artwork consisting of various deities.
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Sitting pretty in the calm and quiet village of Melmalayanur is the Sri Angala Parameswari or Malaiyanur Temple. It is a popularly known pilgrimage site due to the impressive spiritual aspects attached to the temple. Built in honour of Goddess Angala Parameswari, this temple draws both worshippers and inquisitive tourists, thanks to its rich cultural legends. The temple is beautifully decorated with exquisite carvings and holds vibrant weekly and annual rituals, making it an important place for those on a spiritual journey in Tamil Nadu.

Quick Details About Malaiyanur Temple

Malaiyanur Temple Location: Melmalayanur, Kodukankuppam, Tamil Nadu
Malaiyanur Temple Timings: 6 AM-12:30 PM; 4:30 PM-8:30 PM
Best Time To Visit: October-March
Nearest Railway Station: Polur Railway Station
Nearest Airport: Tirupati Airport
Important Festivals: Simimasana Kollai, Thai Festival, Margazhi Festival, Masi Car Festival

About Malaiyanur Temple

The tower of a temple is shown with few people standing outside and two buses parked.

Photo: Anandhakumar.rko / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

The main deity in Sri Angala Parameswari Temple is Sembadavars. The legend associated with this temple is that Mother Parvati, wife of Lord Shiva, incarnated on a hive in this temple to clear Lord Shiva from some sin. Forte Mother Angala Amman faces north and graces the devotees in her sitting position. The goddess Angala Parameswari/ Angala Devi, the temple’s deity, is considered a defender and a helper, and many legends commemorate her saving action for her believers.

Suggested Read: Temples In Tamil Nadu

How To Reach Malaiyanur Temple

A railway station showing a railway track with enquiry windows in the corridor and people waiting.

Photo: mattbuck / Wikimedia Commons

You can consider all of these options for your travel to Sri Angala Parameswari Temple:

By Air: Chennai International Airport, located 147 km away, is the nearest airport. Tirupati Airport is 175 km away. Flights from various major cities are connected to these airports.

By Train: Polur is the nearest railway station, located 40 km away, and is well-connected to all the major cities. Villupuram station is 60 km away.

By Road: Melmalayanur’s road network connects it to all the major cities. You can easily find a state or local bus or a taxi.

Places To Visit Near Malaiyanur Temple

Check out these tourist places to visit near the Malaiyanur Temple for an all-round travel experience in the Kodukankuppam region.

1. Vellore Fort

Stoned walls of a Vellore fort with lush greenery in the background and lake in the front.

Photo: Ssriram mt / Wikimedia Commons

Vellore Fort is one of the historic attractions that history enthusiasts love for its charming architecture and engraving history. Built in the 16th century, the fortress has grand ramparts, a wide moat, and robust masonry. Inside the fort, a temple dedicated to Jalakanteswarar, St. John’s Church, and a mosque further enhance the beauty of the area. Photographers can expect great opportunities as the top of the fort commands some splendid views.

Distance From Temple: About 79 km
Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Vellore

2. Sri Lakshmi Narayani Golden Temple

Gold-covered Sri Lakshmi Narayani Golden Temple with a lake surrounding the temple.

Photo: Ag1707 / Wikimedia Commons

Sri Lakshmi Narayan Golden Temple, also known as Sripuram Golden Temple, is a sacramental place where Vimanam and Ardha Mandapam are covered fully of gold and are dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi. The temple is composed of beautiful architecture and a serene environment attracting visitors. The golden exterior of the temple built inside the Thirupuram spiritual Park at the foothills of Malaikodi, adorned with nature, appeals to the eyes. The pathway to reach the temple is a star-shaped path with Amma’s teaching on the display board to help connect with the divine.

Distance From Temple: About 74 km
Timings: 8 AM – 8 PM

3. Sathanur Dam

Sathanur Dam Park displays various fountains with lush greenery surrounding the background.

Photo: Jeganila / Wikimedia Commons

Sathanur Dam, located in the beautiful hills of Chennakesava, is a great place to picnic and a good tourist attraction. The dam is constructed on the Pennaiyar River and provides picturesque gardens, a fish grotto, and even a crocodile farm. This place also has a park inside for all kinds of excursion activities. The park’s garden is also being used by the film industry.

Distance From Temple: About 69 km
Things To Do: Boating, take a troll in the garden, enjoy the scenic view

Suggested Read: Hill Stations In Tamil Nadu

4. Gingee Fort

Top view of Gingee Fort with lush greenery in the background and few people leaving.

Photo: MariaSelvamSavarimuthu / Wikimedia Commons

Gingee Fort is also called the Troy of the East as it is one of the prominent historic landmarks close to Malaiyanur Temple. The fort was constructed during the Chola Empire and had walls and large granaries. The fort has three hills consisting of different structures such as temples, towers, and a citadel. The fort is located on hilltops and has a breathtaking view of the beautiful landscape, which is an added advantage for history lovers.

Distance From Temple: About 24 km
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM

5. Sri Ramanatha Eswarar Temple, Esalam

A picture of a historical temple with a typical South Indian style architecture near Malaiyanur Temple

Photo: Vinayaraj / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Sri Ramanatha Eswarar Temple at Esalam stands as a timeless example of Chola-era architecture. Commissioned in the eleventh century by King Rajendra Chola this shrine honours Lord Shiva under the name Ramanatha Eswarar. Its graceful vimana soars above granite walls etched with inscriptions and floral motifs. Pilgrims gather in the tranquil courtyard to offer prayers beside the sacred tank believed to grant healing blessings. Within the sanctuary the flicker of oil lamps illuminates the carved Nandi and a silver-plated lingam. A leisurely walk around the temple complex reveals hidden sculptures and a sense of enduring devotion.

Distance From Temple: 44 km
Timings: N/A

Suggested Read: Ancient Temples In Tamil Nadu For Every Devotee To Visit

6. Marakanam Beach

A picture of a tide approaching the serene golden sand of a beach near Malaiyanur Temple

Photo: Pinakpani / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Marakkanam Beach unfolds along the Bay of Bengal as a peaceful coastal retreat. Its wide sweep of golden sand is lined by swaying coconut palms and quaint fishing villages. At low tide shallow pools invite wading while the open sea suits windsurfing and kite surfing under gentle ocean breezes. Nearby salt pans shimmer in the sun as local workers harvest the sparkling crystals. Visitors stroll along the shore at sunrise to enjoy vivid colours and the soft sound of waves. Simple shacks serve fresh seafood and tea, making this beach a restful escape near Malaiyanur Temple.

Distance From Temple: 92 km
Timings: N/A, advised to visit during daylight hours

7. Auroville Botanical Gardens

A picture of the lush plants and greenery spread across a botanical garden in Auroville

Photo: Barry Pousman / Wikimedia Commons

Auroville Botanical Gardens celebrates the harmony between people and plants in a verdant setting. Spread across lush grounds, the gardens house thematic sections such as the bamboo corridor, sensory garden and medicinal herb plots. Meandering paths reveal towering trees, vibrant wildflowers and placards explaining sustainable gardening techniques. The on-site nursery provides native saplings while a small shop offers eco-friendly tools and seeds. With guided tours by prior appointment, visitors gain insight into conservation projects and environmental education. Quiet benches beside water features invite reflection, making the Auroville Botanical Gardens a serene destination for nature lovers.

Distance From Temple: 85 km
Timings: 9 AM – 4:30 PM

Suggested Read: Top Tourist Places To Visit In Auroville For A Memorable Experience

8. Gengavaram Fort

A frontal view of a historical fort located near the Malaiyanur Temple in Tamil Nadu

Photo: Matthew T Rader / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Gengavaram Fort, often called Dhruvan Fort, rises from a forested hillside as a reminder of ancient Tamil heritage. This lesser-known stronghold features crumbling walls built from brick and stone, interspersed with inscriptions that hint at Chola and Vijayanagar influences. Within the ruins lie the remains of a stepped pond and scattered oil storage pits. The surrounding woodland trails offer glimpses of native birdlife and wildflowers. Climbing to the highest bastion rewards travellers with bird’s-eye views of emerald fields and distant villages. Gengavaram Fort blends history, nature and off-grid exploration near Malaiyanur Temple.

Distance From Temple: 30 km
Timings: 24*7, advised to visit during daylight hours

Where To Stay

A person holding the lever of a door for an entry inside the hotel room having a bed and table.

Photo: Pixabay / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

Melmalayanur has several facilities for its visitors, catering to various budget needs. Try The Kabin and Kuala Selangor Hotel for a comfortable stay. It offers all types of modern amenities and is just a few miles from the temples. Hotel Secret Garden Homestay is a nice hotel for a budget-friendly and comfortable stay. You can also try various guest houses that are available in a reasonable range.

Suggested Read: Things To Do In Tamil Nadu

Where To Eat

Varieties of red gravy served in a white ceramic bowl along with starters and roti placed.

Photo: Chan Walrus / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

If you’re looking for traditional South Indian cuisine, try visiting Hotel Sharavana Bhavan, as they are popular for their delectable taste, offering Idli, Dosas, Pongal, and Vada. Another good option is Hotel Chezhiyan Dhaba, which offers local flavours with an elaborate menu. Also, try local street food that provides a taste that reflects the region’s heritage.

The Melmalayanur Angala Parameswari Temple will undoubtedly fulfil your thirst for spirituality. It’s the architectural marvel, the magical history, and the energetic celebrations that the temples provide to the tourists make the experience special. As you visit the other places of interest in the region and relish local dishes, you will appreciate the cultural richness that best defines Tamil Nadu. Let TripXL plan your trip so that you can experience all the beauty in the area you have always dreamed of.

Cover Photo: Matthew T Rader / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Frequently Asked Questions

The period between October and March is the right time as the weather is very nice.
Yes, it’s advised that visitors be modest while selecting their outfits. The dress must align with the local culture and traditions. You can wear the traditional dress that is usually recommended.
Some parts of the temple may not be suitable for picture-taking. Look for signboards or ask temple staff for information.
Yes, a parking space is provided for all the visitors close to the temple.
Yes, various poojas and other rituals would appeal to visitors and can be done during the visit, such as Simimasana Kollai.
The Malaiyanur Temple opening time is usually early in the morning around 5:00 AM, and it remains open till late evening with a break in the afternoon.
Nearby attractions include Gingee Fort, Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary, and heritage temples in Villupuram and Kanchipuram.
Yes, Gingee Fort, just a short drive away, is one of Tamil Nadu’s most remarkable historical forts and a great spot for trekking and photography.
Absolutely, pilgrims often combine their temple darshan with visits to natural spots like Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary and cultural landmarks nearby.

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