- April 15, 2026
There is a famous saying in Tamil, “Kundru irukkum Idamellam Kumaran Irukkum Idam” (Wherever there is a hill, Lord Murugan resides there). In that spirit, I am sharing my personal experiences and the unique spiritual significance of the Subramanya Swamy Temple located atop a hill in Kundrathur, near Chennai.
| Main Deity | Lord Subramanya Swamy |
|---|---|
| Sthala Vriksham (Sacred Tree) | Vilvam |
| Theertham (Holy Water) | Saravana Poigai |
| Agama/Puja | Shivagama |
| Location | Kundrathur, Kanchipuram District |
The 84 Sacred Steps: This beautiful temple is situated on a small hill accessible by 84 steps.
Our Travel Experience: During our first visit, it was raining heavily, making it difficult to climb the stairs. We asked a local “Auto Anna” to drive us directly to the hilltop. However, during our next two visits, we climbed all 84 steps, which provided a deeply satisfying and spiritual experience.
A Unique Sanctum Arrangement: The sanctum here is built in a very specific way. If you stand directly in front of Lord Murugan, you can only see Him; the consorts, Valli and Deivayanai, remain hidden from direct view. To see the Lord with either Valli or Deivayanai, you must stand slightly to the left or the right of the sanctum.
Darshan Tickets: During all three of our visits, the temple was quite crowded. To save time and ensure a peaceful viewing, we purchased the ₹100 Special Darshan Ticket each time.
After defeating the demons in Thiruporur, Lord Murugan traveled toward Thiruttani. On His way, He wished to perform Shiva Puja and meditated on this hill, installing a Lingam for worship. Later, during the reign of King Kulothunga Chola, this temple was constructed on the hill.
The Shiva Lingam worshipped by Lord Murugan is located at the foot of the hill in a separate temple called “Kandhazheeswarar” (named after ‘Kandhan’ or Murugan who worshipped Him). Interestingly, the Vibhuti (sacred ash) used for Lord Subramanya’s Abhishekam is given to devotees as Prasadam here.
Annadhanam (Free Meals): On one occasion, we arrived early for Darshan and stayed until the afternoon for Annadhanam. Every day, many devotees sponsor free meals for 100 to 200 people. If you wish to offer Annadhanam, you can contact the temple office for details.
Temple Library: There is an excellent library within the temple complex. If you are interested in reading or buying books related to Lord Murugan and other spiritual topics, I highly recommend checking it out.
Kantha Sashti: This festival is celebrated grandly over eight days, featuring the Soorasamharam and the celestial weddings of Valli and Deivayanai.
Sekkhizhar: This town is the birthplace of the great poet Sekkhizhar, who authored the Periya Puranam. There is a dedicated temple for him at the base of the hill.
Special Prayers: It is a strong belief that those facing delays in marriage will find quick resolution by praying here. Devotees often perform Thirukalyanam (celestial wedding) for the Lord as a form of gratitude.
To plan your visit effectively, please note the following hours:
Location: Kundrathur is located 16 km from Tambaram and 8 km from Pallavaram. It is easily accessible for those traveling from southern districts via Tambaram.
Arulmigu Subramanya Swamy Temple,
Kundrathur, Chennai – 600069.
Kanchipuram District.
Phone: +91-44-2478 0436, +91-93828 89430
