Marudhamalai temple is 600 feet high nestled on the top of the western ghats, surrounded by mountains on all three sides, and made in Dravidian-style architecture with 12th-century inscriptions. You will have to climb 700 steps to reach the temple. The temple is dedicated to Lord Murugan who is displayed in an ornate style, a treat for the eyes of many visitors. The temple is located in an area of abundant medicinal herbs, creating a welcoming atmosphere for health enthusiasts. Tourists and devotees experience an enchanting experience after visiting this beautiful hilltop temple.
Location
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This temple is located at Marudhamalai Adivaram, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu,12 kilometres west of the city. It is open every day from 6 AM to 1 PM and 4 PM to 7 PM, giving you immense chances to soak in the rich history and culture of the temple.
How To Reach
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The temple location is accessible and connected by road to all major cities of Tamil Nadu. It takes just 20 minutes from Coimbatore city, and the daily temple bus transportation makes it easier to reach the place at a nominal price.
By Air: Marudhamalai in Coimbatore is connected by all major airlines in the country. You can book a flight from any part of India to the Coimbatore International Airport, Tamil Nadu. The fare cost starts from, ₹2000.
By Road: If you are planning by road, bus services are available in all the cities of Tamil Nadu. However, if you are visiting from outside the state, there is no direct bus route from other states of India.
By Rail: This is the cheapest mode of transportation and is connected to all the major cities, you may book from anywhere in India. The nearest railway station is the Coimbatore Junction.
Places To Visit In And Around The Marudhamalai Temple
Coimbatore where the temple is located provide many tourist attractions. The place has great flora & fauna, so be ready to visit parks, wildlife sanctuaries, and other temples nearby.
1. Perur Pateeswarar Temple
Photo: Dharmaphotography / Wikimedia Commons
This is one of the oldest temples in South India, located just 15 km from Marudhamalai temple. It is a marvel of Dravidian architecture and culture. The temple has exquisite carvings and paintings, depicting rich stories and tales of Hindu mythology. This temple attracts all types of tourists because it is a hotspot for cultural and religious ceremonies and you will find them throughout the year. This 2000-year-old temple was built by the powerful Chola Dynasty and is mentioned in the ancient Tamil literature of the Sangam Period. The temple is 15 kilometres from the marudhamalai temple.
Timings: 5 AM-1 PM, 4 PM-9 PM
Entry fees: Free
2. VOC Park & Zoo
Photo: Vigneshdm1990 / Wikimedia Commons
The park is just 10 kilometres from the Marudhamalai temple. The amusement park has hundreds of species of animals, mammals, birds, and reptiles. It is a great recreational place for nature and animal lovers who love to see the species in their closest habitat. The park is fascinating for kids as there is a Jurassic Park, toy train rides, slides, swings, and see-saws, making it a popular place for families with kids. Also, it is a great picnic spot for locals and tourists. The place also hosts trade fairs exhibitions and celebrations during important holidays such as Republic Day and Independence Day.
Timings:4 PM-7:30 PM (Mon, Tue, Thur, Fri), 10 PM-7:30 PM (Sat-Sun)
Entry Fee: ₹3 Adults, ₹2 Children
3. Siruvani Waterfalls
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This waterfall is 31 kilometres from the marudhamalai temple and 57 minutes from the city. The 120 ft waterfall is amidst lush green forest which is the most visited place. It is also a haven for photographers and nature lovers. You can swim at the foothills of the waterfall and enjoy the cool water. Visitors are drawn to this place because of all the goodness this place provides, such as the water of Siruvani is considered the purest in the world and has abundant minerals. This ecotourism spot can be reached by trekking or a car belonging to the forest department, without charge.
Timings:10 AM.-3 PM (Mon-Sat)
Entry fees: ₹50
4. Dhyanalinga Temple
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This temple is inside the premises of Adiyogi temple. It has a huge dome and a lingam of 13 meters, made of black granite. If you love meditating or basking in its energetic yoga atmosphere, this temple gives you 15 minutes to meditate and you may sit longer. You will feel rejuvenated and energized, walking down the surrounding areas where you will find three lingas immersed in water to take a dip in the water. This place attracts serious spiritual practitioners and seekers, plus many curious tourists.
Timings:6 AM-8 AM
Entry Fee: Free
5. Ukkadam-Valankulam Lake, Coimbatore
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Located just 18 kilometres from the marudhamalai temple is a serene lake called Ukkadam-Valankulam Lake, Coimbatore, a bird paradise for many nature enthusiasts with 48 species of birds from the region. Bird watchers may hope to find little grebes painted storks, purple moorhen, and many more. There is a 1.2 km long road built for two-wheelers with solar-powered lamps and fences. Another name for this is Marine Drive. This place is a picturesque spot for a nice evening out, watching the sunset with the beautiful birds flying over the horizon.
Location: Highways Colony
Entry Fee: Free
Where To Stay
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There are many options for cosy homestays and hotels around the temple. Some homestays like luxury Home Vadavalli, Happy Home, and Shi Isha Homestays provide on-budget stays of ₹1500/-. It is advisable to book hotels in advance, especially during the holidays.
Where To Eat
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You can enjoy the South Indian food of idli, sambar, dosa rasam, and many more in the restaurants near the temple. Restaurants like Cavern Bar & Kitchen, Sri Balakumar Mess, Dhana Lakshmi, etc. These restaurants provide lip-smacking southern dishes that will delight your taste buds. There is also continental and north-Indian cuisine for those who like to try a variety of cuisines.
Best Time To Visit
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The best season for visiting temples, trekking, and other excursions in and around Coimbatore is October to March. You can also travel from July to September, although it is not the best season, it is pleasantly good with some scanty rainfall.
Other Factors To Consider
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Here are some factors to consider before planning for your trip to Coimbatore:
Average Cost:
The trip to Coimbatore will cost an average, ₹12000/-, but depending on your accommodation choices, and your recreational activities, the budget of the trip will be determined.
Travellers Tips:
- Choose modest clothes as the place is traditional.
- Learn basic Tamil for a smoother stay.
- Stay hydrated and as much as you can eat local food as it’s healthier.
- Choose public transport for sightseeing, as it is convenient.
- Wear comfortable shoes for a better sightseeing experience.
The Marudhamalai Temple and its surrounding places have many tourist attractions that will charm you. The lush forest with its parks, waterfalls, and enchanting temples will make your visit worth remembering. Book a trip with TripXL for the wonderful experiences of Dravidian culture, beautiful nature, food, and spirituality. Coimbatore will surprise you with its reputation of being a holiday destination from colonial times, and the variety of attractions it has and activities it provides.
Cover Photo: AdithyaVR / Wikimedia Commons