Thiruchendur

Subramanya Tiruchendur Temple

Thiruchendur Murugan Temple, also called Sri Subramanya Swamy Temple and Thiruchendur Murugan Thirukovil and originally as Jayanthipuram, is one of the most renowned Hindu temples of South India. Dedicated to Lord Murugan (or Kartikeya, the some of Lord Shiva), it is one of the six prominent abodes of the lord. What distinguishes the temple from other five is that it is the only one located near the sea shore. Facing the Bay of Bengal and washed by the sea waves from the Gulf of Mannar, the temple attracts pilgrims and visitors not only from India but also from Sri Lanka, UK, Canada, America and many other countries. Apart from the Raja Gopuram, the grand gateway tower about 133 ft. high, the temple boasts of many other stunning architectural features like huge mandapams (halls), long streets, majestically carved pillars and a number of small shrines. Sandstone cliffs and natural water springs are the additional highlights. It is auspicious to bathe in the sea water and also at the sacred water bodies inside the temple. The idol of Murugan in the standing position is extremely beautiful. According to the legend, Murugan performed tough penance at this place to please Lord Shiva and get rid of the sin of killing Tarkasura, who tough a demon was a great devotee of Shiva. The temple hosts many grand festivals round the year and is one of the wealthiest Hindu Temple in the whole world. The temple garnered limelight when it stayed unharmed by the destructive tsunami of 2004.