kundrathur murugan temple chennai- Timings, How to Reach, Location

kundrathur murugan temple chennai- Timings, How to Reach, Location Kundrathur Murugan Temple – Overview Kundrathur Murugan Temple is a historically and spiritually significant shrine closely associated with the Chola period. The temple is believed to have been renovated during the reign of King Kulothunga Chola II, highlighting its ancient origins and royal patronage. According to legend, after defeating the demon Surapadman at Thiruchendur, Lord Murugan visited this serene hill shrine and rested here before proceeding to Thiruttani, where he later married Valli. This divine pause for rest and contemplation is symbolically represented in the idol’s posture—Lord Murugan stands alone, holding the Vel, facing north, towards Lord Vishnu at Tirupati, reflecting unity and spiritual balance. Deity & Spiritual Significance Lord Murugan is worshipped here in a majestic standing form with the Vel (spear), symbolizing victory, wisdom, and protection. The temple is known for its calm atmosphere, making it ideal for meditation and prayer. Daily poojas are conducted following traditional Agama rituals, which include: • Early morning Abhishekams • Special Alankarams • Vel Poojas Tuesdays and Fridays are considered especially auspicious, attracting a large number of devotees. Important sacred days such as Kiruthigai, Pournami, and Sashti are observed with special poojas, chanting of Thiruppugazh and Skanda Sashti Kavacham. Sacred Fig Tree & Sekkizhar Shrine At the foothills of the temple, there is a dedicated shrine for Sekkizhar, the revered Shaivite saint. A large sacred fig tree (Arasa Maram) near this shrine holds special significance. Devotees seeking blessings for childbirth tie cradles to this tree. Once their prayers are fulfilled, they return to offer fruits or sugar equal to the weight of the child as thanksgiving. The tree is also worshipped by devotees praying for their children’s good health and well-being. Kundrathur Murugan Temple Timings & Darshan • Morning: 6:00 AM / 6:30 AM – 12:00 PM / 12:30 PM • Evening: 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM (Timings may slightly vary on festival days) Darshan & Pooja Details • General Darshan: Free • Special Entrance Darshan: ₹20 to ₹1000 (varies by occasion and crowd) • Special Poojas: Conducted on Mondays and festival days • Booking: o Online booking not available o Same-day booking available at the temple counter Festivals Celebrated Kundrathur Murugan Temple is vibrant during major Murugan festivals: • Thaipusam (Jan–Feb): Celebrates Murugan receiving the divine Vel from Goddess Parvati. Thousands of devotees carry Kavadi as an act of devotion. • Panguni Uthiram (Mar–Apr): Marks the celestial wedding of Lord Murugan with Valli and Deivanai. • Skanda Sashti (Oct–Nov): A six-day festival commemorating Murugan’s victory over Surapadman, with fasting, special poojas, and processions. • Tamil New Year • Aadi Krithigai • Karthigai Deepam Best Time to Visit The best time to visit Kundrathur Murugan Temple is October to March, when the weather is cool and pleasant. For a peaceful darshan, early morning hours between 6:00 AM and 9:00 AM are ideal. To experience the temple’s cultural and devotional grandeur, visiting during Thaipusam or Panguni Uthiram is highly recommended. How to Reach Kundrathur Murugan Temple • Distance from Chennai International Airport: ~18 km • Distance from Tambaram Railway Station: ~14 km • Easily accessible by bus, taxi, and private vehicles Frequently Asked Questions 1. What is the legend associated with Kundrathur Murugan Temple? According to legend, after defeating the demon Surapadman at Thiruchendur, Lord Murugan stayed at Kundrathur before proceeding to Thiruttani to marry Valli. This moment of rest is symbolized by the deity standing alone, holding the Vel, and facing north toward Lord Vishnu at Tirupati. 2. What form of Lord Murugan is worshipped here? Lord Murugan is worshipped in a standing posture, holding the Vel (spear), symbolizing victory, strength, and divine wisdom. 3. What are the temple and darshan timings? • Morning Darshan: 6:00 AM – 12:00 PM • Evening Darshan: 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM 4.Are there any special poojas performed at the temple? Yes. Daily poojas include abhishekams, alankarams, and vel poojas. Special poojas are conducted on Mondays, festival days, and auspicious days like Kiruthigai, Pournami, and Sashti.