Tiruchendur subramaniya swamy temple

Top Attractions around thoothukudi

Thiruchendur Murugan Temple, located in the Thoothukudi district of Tamil Nadu, is one of the six sacred abodes (Arupadai Veedu) of Lord Murugan. Uniquely situated on the shores of the Bay of Bengal, this temple is a rare coastal shrine dedicated to the warrior deity unlike most Murugan temples which are set atop hills. With a history that dates back over 2,000 years, it is revered as the site where Lord Murugan defeated the demon Surapadman, a victory celebrated annually during the grand Soorasamharam festival. The temple features a majestic nine-tiered Rajagopuram (main tower) that rises to about 157 feet, welcoming pilgrims from across the country. The sanctum houses Lord Subramanya (Murugan) along with his consorts Valli and Deivanai. Devotees often take a ritual bath in the sacred sea (known as Nazhi Kinaru) before entering the temple, believing it cleanses the body and mind. According to the Skanda Purana, Lord Murugan was born from Lord Shiva’s divine energy to defeat the demon Surapadman, who had become a threat to the Devas. After slaying the demon at Tiruchendur, Murugan wished to worship his father, Lord Shiva. To fulfill this desire, the divine architect Mayan built the temple at the very site of his victory. Known for its powerful spiritual energy, the temple draws thousands of devotees daily, especially on auspicious days like Thaipusam, Panguni Uthiram, and Karthigai Deepam. With its rich mythology, serene coastal setting, and deep-rooted traditions, Thiruchendur Murugan Temple remains a beacon of devotion and divine grace.