10 Famous Lord Kartikeya Temples: Kartikeya (Murugan, Subramanya) Temples in India
10 Famous Lord Kartikeya Temples: Kartikeya (Murugan, Subramanya) Temples in India
Palani Murugan Temple, Dindigul, Tamil Nadu
One of the most famous Murugan temples, known as Dhandayuthapani Swamy Temple, where Kartikeya is worshipped holding a staff. It is one of the six abodes of Murugan (Aru Padai Veedu).
Swamimalai Murugan Temple, Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu
Known as the place where Murugan turned guru and taught Lord Shiva the meaning of the sacred syllable OM. It is the fourth abode among the six abodes of Murugan.
Thiruchendur Murugan Temple, Tamil Nadu
Located on the shores of the Bay of Bengal, this temple commemorates Kartikeya’s victory over the demon Tarakasur. It is unique among the six abodes for being situated by the sea.
Thiruparankundram Murugan Temple, near Madurai, Tamil Nadu
A cave temple where Murugan is said to have killed the demon Surapadman and married Devasena. It is one of the six abodes and dates back to the 6th century.
Thiruthani Murugan Temple, Tamil Nadu
Another of the six abodes of Murugan, known for its spiritual significance and association with Murugan’s marriage.
Pazhamudircholai Murugan Temple, Tamil Nadu
The sixth of the six abodes, located in a forested area near Madurai, revered for its natural beauty and spiritual atmosphere.
Kartik Swami Temple, Rudraprayag, Uttarakhand
The only Lord Kartikeya temple in North India, situated at an altitude of about 3050 meters on Kronch Parvat, surrounded by the Himalayas. It is a unique northern shrine dedicated to Kartikeya.
Kukke Subramanya Temple, Karnataka
A famous temple dedicated to Lord Subramanya, worshipped as the serpent god, located in Karnataka.
Sikkal Singaravelavar Temple, Tamil Nadu
A well-known temple where Murugan is worshipped alongside Shiva and Vishnu deities, famous for its traditional rituals.
Vayalur Murugan Temple, Tamil Nadu
A historic temple dating back to the 9th century, known for its beautiful brass statue of Murugan and its association with the Chola dynasty.
10 Famous Lord Kartikeya Temples: Kartikeya (Murugan, Subramanya) Temples in India
Lord Kartikeya, also known as Murugan, Subramanya, Skanda, and Kumara, is a prominent Hindu deity worshipped especially in South India. He is considered the God of War and the Commander of the Devas, and the son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.
1. Palani Murugan Temple – Tamil Nadu
Location: Palani Hills, Dindigul district
Significance: One of the Arupadai Veedu (six abodes) of Lord Murugan.
Highlight: Famous for the idol made from Navapashanam (nine herbal substances).
2. Thiruchendur Murugan Temple – Tamil Nadu
Location: Thiruchendur, Tuticorin district
Significance: Another of the Arupadai Veedu.
Highlight: Only Murugan temple situated on the seashore.
3. Swamimalai Murugan Temple – Tamil Nadu
Location: Near Kumbakonam
Significance: One of the six holy abodes.
Highlight: This is where Murugan taught the meaning of “Om” to his father, Shiva.
4. Thirupparamkunram Murugan Temple – Tamil Nadu
Location: Near Madurai
Significance: Associated with Murugan’s marriage to Deivanai.
Highlight: Temple is cut out of a rock hill.
5. Pazhamudircholai Murugan Temple – Tamil Nadu
Location: Near Madurai
Significance: Final of the six abodes.
Highlight: Nestled within a forest, known for its serene surroundings.
6. Tiruttani Murugan Temple – Tamil Nadu
Location: Near Chennai
Significance: One of the six sacred Murugan temples.
Highlight: Believed to be the site of his marriage to Valli.
7. Subramanya Temple – Kukke, Karnataka
Location: Subramanya village, Dakshina Kannada
Significance: Lord Kartikeya is worshipped as Nagadevata (serpent deity).
Highlight: Famous for Sarpa Dosha Nivarana puja.
8. Marudhamalai Murugan Temple – Tamil Nadu
Location: Coimbatore
Significance: An important hill temple of Lord Murugan.
Highlight: Known for its scenic beauty and divine energy.
9. Batu Caves Murugan Temple – Malaysia (Bonus International Mention)
Though not in India, this temple is significant due to its massive 42.7-meter tall Murugan statue.
10. Skandagiri Temple – Secunderabad, Telangana
Location: Near Paradise area in Hyderabad
Significance: One of the prominent Murugan temples in Telangana.
Highlight: Hosts a large crowd during Skanda Shashti.
10 Famous Lord Kartikeya Temples: Kartikeya (Murugan, Subramanya) Temples in India
Lord Kartikeya, also known as Murugan, Subramanya, and Skanda, is a widely revered deity, particularly in South India. Numerous temples dedicated to him dot the landscape, each with its unique history and significance.
Palani Dhandayuthapaniswamy Temple, Tamil Nadu: Situated atop a hill, this temple is one of the Arupadai Veedu (six abodes) of Murugan. The deity is depicted as a dhandayuthapani (one holding a staff), and the temple is known for its unique idol made of navapashanam (nine poisonous substances believed to have medicinal properties).
Tiruchendur Sendil Andavar Temple, Tamil Nadu: This is another of the six abodes, located on the seashore. It is believed to be the site where Lord Murugan defeated the demon Surapadman. Its scenic location and historical importance make it a significant pilgrimage site.
Swamimalai Swaminathar Temple, Tamil Nadu: As one of the Arupadai Veedu, this temple is unique as it depicts Lord Murugan in the form of a guru, even teaching his father, Lord Shiva, the meaning of the Pranava mantra “Om.”
Thirupparamkundram Subramanya Swamy Temple, Tamil Nadu: This rock-cut temple near Madurai is considered the first of the six abodes. Legend says it’s where Lord Murugan married Deivanai, the daughter of Indra.
Thiruthani Subramanya Swamy Temple, Tamil Nadu: Located on a hill, this temple signifies Lord Murugan’s peaceful abode after his victory over Surapadman. The 365 steps leading to the temple represent the days of the year.
Pazhamudirsolai Subramanya Swamy Temple, Tamil Nadu: Nestled in the lush green forests near Madurai, this temple is one of the Arupadai Veedu. It is known for its natural beauty and the holy stream called “Nupura Gangai.”
Kukke Subramanya Temple, Karnataka: Located in the Western Ghats, this temple is famous for its association with snake worship. Devotees believe that Lord Subramanya protects them from snakebites.
Vadapalani Murugan Temple, Tamil Nadu: Situated in Chennai, this popular temple is known for its vibrant Dravidian architecture and is a significant cultural landmark in the city.
Subramanya Swamy Temple, Kerala: Located in Harippad, Alappuzha district, this temple is also known as “Dakshina Palani” (Southern Palani). It is an important Subramanya temple in Kerala with a rich history.
Kandaswamy Temple, Thiruporur, Tamil Nadu: This temple, located near Chennai, is dedicated to Lord Murugan in the form of Kandaswamy. It is known for its serene atmosphere and beautiful architecture.
10 Famous Lord Kartikeya Temples: Kartikeya (Murugan, Subramanya) Temples in India
Lord Kartikeya, also known as Murugan, Subramanya, or Skanda, is the Hindu god of war, revered as the son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. He is particularly worshipped in South India, with many iconic temples dedicated to him, especially in Tamil Nadu, where he is known as Murugan. Below is a list of 10 famous Lord Kartikeya temples in India, focusing on their significance, location, and unique features, with an emphasis on the most prominent ones, including the six Arupadai Veedu (six abodes) in Tamil Nadu.
Palani Murugan Temple (Dhandayuthapani Temple), Palani, Tamil Nadu
Significance: One of the six Arupadai Veedu, dedicated to Lord Murugan as Dhandayuthapani, the ascetic holding a staff. It is one of the most visited Murugan temples, famous for its Panchamirtham prasadam.
Location: Palani, Dindigul district, 100 km southeast of Coimbatore.
Unique Features: Situated in the Palani Hills, devotees climb 693 steps to reach the temple. The deity is believed to be made of a unique amalgam of nine medicinal minerals (Navapashanam) by sage Bhogar. The temple hosts the Thaipoosam festival, where devotees carry kavadis as offerings.
Thiruchendur Murugan Temple, Thiruchendur, Tamil Nadu
Significance: Another Arupadai Veedu, this is the only seaside Murugan temple, where Lord Murugan is worshipped as Senthil Andavar. It commemorates his victory over the demon Surapadman.
Location: Tuticorin district, along the Bay of Bengal, 40 km from Tuticorin.
Unique Features: The 2000-year-old temple has withstood natural calamities like tsunamis. It features a 140-foot gopuram and hosts the Skanda Shasti festival in November, celebrating Murugan’s triumph.
Swamimalai Swaminathaswamy Temple, Swamimalai, Tamil Nadu
Significance: One of the Arupadai Veedu, where Lord Murugan is revered as Swaminathaswamy, the guru who taught the essence of “Om” to his father, Lord Shiva. It is considered the oldest Kartikeya temple in India.
Location: Near Kumbakonam, Thanjavur district, 250 km from Chennai.
Unique Features: The temple is on a 60-foot hill with 60 steps symbolizing the Tamil years. The Vaikasi Visagam festival, celebrating Murugan’s birth, is a major event.
Thiruparankundram Murugan Temple, Madurai, Tamil Nadu
Significance: An Arupadai Veedu, this temple marks the site where Murugan married Deivanai, daughter of Indra, after defeating Surapadman. It is one of the oldest rock-cut temples.
Location: Thiruparankundram, 8 km from Madurai.
Unique Features: Built in the 6th century by the Pandyas, it features rock-cut architecture and shrines for Shiva, Vishnu, and Durga. The Thaipoosam and Skanda Shasti festivals draw large crowds.
Thiruthani Murugan Temple, Thiruthani, Tamil Nadu
Significance: An Arupadai Veedu, where Lord Murugan is worshipped as Subramanya, believed to have rested here after battles. It is associated with his marriage to Valli.
Location: Thiruvallur district, 87 km from Chennai.
Unique Features: The temple is on a hill with 365 steps, representing the days of the year. The Aadi Krithigai festival is celebrated vibrantly.
Pazhamudircholai Murugan Temple, Madurai, Tamil Nadu
Significance: The sixth Arupadai Veedu, where Lord Murugan is worshipped as Subramanya, surrounded by lush forests. It is linked to his playful interactions with devotees.
Location: Alagar Hills, 25 km from Madurai.
Unique Features: The temple is set in a scenic, forested area with a sacred spring, Noopura Gangai. It is less crowded compared to other abodes, offering a serene experience.
Kukke Subramanya Temple, Subramanya, Karnataka
Significance: A 5000-year-old temple where Kartikeya is worshipped as Subramanya, lord of serpents, believed to protect devotees from snake-related afflictions.
Location: Near Kumara Parvat, Dakshina Kannada district, Karnataka.
Unique Features: The temple is nestled in the Western Ghats, known for its rituals like Sarpa Samskara for relief from snake curses. It attracts devotees from across South India.
Kartik Swami Temple, Rudraprayag, Uttarakhand
Significance: The only prominent Lord Kartikeya temple in North India, located in the Garhwal Himalayas. It is tied to the legend of Kartikeya offering his bones to Shiva in devotion.
Location: Kronch Parvat, near Kanak Chauri village, 40 km from Rudraprayag.
Unique Features: At 3050 meters, it offers stunning Himalayan views. The temple houses a naturally carved idol and bones of Kartikeya. The Kartik Purnima fair and a 3-km trek attract pilgrims and trekkers.
Kartikeya Temple, Pehowa, Haryana
Significance: One of the oldest Kartikeya temples in North India, dating to the 5th century BC, linked to the Mahabharata. It honors Kartikeya in his Brahmachari (celibate) form.
Location: Pehowa, Kurukshetra district, 200 km from Delhi.
Unique Features: Women are forbidden from entering due to the deity’s celibate form. Two lamps, lit by Yudhishthira for Mahabharata warriors, are believed to burn continuously.
Malai Mandir, New Delhi
Significance: A prominent South Indian-style temple in North India, dedicated to Lord Murugan, serving the Tamil community in Delhi.
Location: R.K. Puram, South Delhi.
Unique Features: Known for its Dravidian architecture, the temple offers a serene ambiance and delicious prasadam. It hosts festivals like Thaipoosam and is a cultural hub for South Indians in Delhi.
The six Arupadai Veedu temples in Tamil Nadu (Palani, Thiruchendur, Swamimalai, Thiruparankundram, Thiruthani, and Pazhamudircholai) are the most sacred abodes of Lord Murugan, central to his worship in South India.
Temples in North India, like Kartik Swami and Pehowa, are rare but significant, reflecting Kartikeya’s broader reverence as a god of war and wisdom.
Festivals like Thaipoosam, Skanda Shasti, and Vaikasi Visagam are major events at these temples, drawing thousands of devotees.
This list covers a mix of the most famous and regionally significant Kartikeya temples, balancing South Indian dominance with notable North Indian sites.
