India is known for its cultural heritage and innumerable stunning architectural marvels. There are a few that are deeply mysterious as well, like the Karni Mata temple that is full of rats, the Hidimba Devi temple and the visa temple in Punjab among many others.
Also nestled amidst this diverse landscape of India is the mysterious and beautiful Poombarai Murugan Temple. In fact, the temple at Poombarai stands as a testament to the country’s ancient craftsmanship and spiritual devotion. With its origins shrouded in mystery, it has captivated visitors for over three thousand years. Indeed, the Poombarai Murugan Temple has welcomed travellers and pilgrims to explore its sacred grounds and uncover its secrets for many centuries now.
Join us as we delve into the mystique of this 3000-year-old sanctuary and understand why it must absolutely be on one’s must-visit list .
Are you a history buff or someone fascinated by ancient architecture? If so, a visit to Poombarai is a must on your travel itinerary. An odd 20km from Kodaikanal, Poombarai village is home to the Poombarai Murugan Temple. As you step into the temple complex, you are taken way back in time. Also known as Poomparai Kuzhanthai Velappar Temple, this temple’s age is shrouded in mystery, with some accounts tracing its origins back to almost 3,000 years.
The temple is believed to be constructed by the Tamil sage Bogar, who is one of the revered 18 siddhas of Tamil Nadu. Bogar is known to have mastered the art of alchemy and yoga among several other things. He is known to have crafted the temple’s captivating idol of the infant Lord Muruga, Kuzhanthai Velappar, from an amalgam of nine poisons known as navapashanam and 4448 medicinal herbs.
Legend has it that the sculptor worked swiftly to complete the idol’s features, focussing on the face, thus resulting in a contrast between the beautiful facial features and the less detailed body. Interestingly, a shrine dedicated to Bogar can also be found in the southwestern corridor of the temple. According to legends, it is connected to a cave within the hill where Bogar apparently continues to meditate and watch over the idols of Murugan till date.
The temple’s architecture is also very different when compared to modern temples, with intricate carvings that give an ethereal aura. Travellers can spend an entire day walking around the hallways and exploring the beauty of this temple complex. Whether one is seeking spiritual solace or a glimpse into the past, the Poombarai Murugan Temple promises an unforgettable experience.
The quaint village of Poombarai in the Dindigul district of Tamil Nadu, where this ancient temple is located, is renowned for its rustic charm and picturesque surroundings. Set against the backdrop of the Western Ghats, this village offers a serene escape from the noise and chaos of city life. As you walk through it’s streets, you also get to see traditional homes and lush greenery. Here, it is easy to relish the simplicity and peace of rural life while savouring authentic South Indian cuisine and engaging in lively conversations with the locals.
Perched atop a scenic vantage point, the Poombarai village viewpoint offers visitors a 360-degree panorama of the surroundings. From this point, you can view the entire village, with its quaint houses, lush green fields and rolling hills. This particular viewpoint is also an ideal spot for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers. If you are visiting the Poombarai Temple, then a visit to this village is a must.
If you are seeking adventure, then Poombarai has several peaks to trek on. Among the notable treks of Poombarai are—the ascent to Perumal Peak, situated amidst the scenic Palani Hills, the Dolphin’s Nose Trek and the Vellagavi Forest trek. All these trails provide ample opportunities to explore offbeat and wondrous sights.
Whether you’re seeking solitude or an outdoor adventure, a visit to Kookal Lake is bound to be a rejuvenating experience. As you keep going on the scenic route and pass the Gundupatti village, a massive lake full of water lilies will welcome you. This is Lake Kookal, a haven for nature lovers. Surrounded by lush greenery and hills, this lake and its surrounding village offers a perfect retreat where one can spend an entire day relaxing.
A rare but treasured travel destination, Poombarai offers a perfect blend of ancient mystique, natural beauty and unforgettable adventures. With its rich history and picturesque landscapes, Poombarai is indeed a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. On your next visit to Tamil Nadu, be sure to include a stop at this charming village, and we promise you won’t be disappointed.
The main attraction in Poombarai is the ancient Murugan Temple, which is almost 3000 years old. Kookal Lake, Poombarai village viewpoint, trekking trails like Perumal Peak and Dolphin’s Nose are some other fascinating attractions.
Yes, Poombarai offers something for everyone. Visitors can explore the ancient temple, enjoy the scenic beauty of this village and savour the local food.
Poombarai village can be reached by road from nearby towns like Kodaikanal and Palani. Visitors can also opt for private taxis or buses to reach the village.
The best time to visit Poombarai is during the post-monsoon months when everything is green and lush.
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