Othimalai is unlike any other hill in its surroundings. Rising majestically to a height of about a thousand meters, it stands alone, a solitary peak of devotion and wisdom. The journey to the temple atop this hill is not an easy one. Devotees must climb 1,870 steep steps to seek the blessings of Lord Murugan.
The pilgrimage begins at the Pada Vinayagar Shrine at the base, where devotees offer prayers seeking protection from negative energies during their climb. After crossing 850 steps, pilgrims reach the White Vinayagar Shrine. Continuing the journey leads to the Parameshwari Amman Shrine and further ahead, the Idumban Shrine before finally arriving at the sanctum of Lord Murugan, whose shrine faces the east.
The temple, located on a small flat plateau atop the hill, has seen gradual development over the years. While the original sanctum existed for centuries, a stone vimana was constructed in 1932. The temple today features a peacock hall, a spacious maha mandapam, and an artha mandapam. The ceiling of the maha mandapam is beautifully adorned with carvings of the 12 zodiac signs, adding to the temple’s spiritual charm.
Othimalai is also known as Gnanamalai, the “Mountain of Wisdom.” One of the most significant rituals here is the Trisatha Archana, where the Lord is worshipped by reciting 300 hymns three times, offering a total of 900 verses in deep devotion.
Another unique tradition at this temple involves seeking Lord Murugan’s approval through flowers. Devotees place red flowers atop the deity, and if the flowers fall, it is believed that Murugan has granted permission for their wishes. This practice reflects the intimate bond between the devotee and the divine.
The sacred name “Othimalai” is deeply rooted in divine wisdom. According to legend, when Lord Brahma was questioned by Lord Murugan about the meaning of the Pranava Mantra “Om”, Brahma could not answer. Murugan, displeased, imprisoned Brahma and took on the role of creation himself.
When Lord Shiva came to question Murugan about his actions, Murugan revealed that true greatness comes not from age or status, but from knowledge. He offered to explain the meaning of “Om”, but only if Lord Shiva accepted him as a Guru. Shiva, understanding the depth of Murugan’s wisdom, bowed before his son and listened. It is believed that the divine knowledge of “Om” was first recited here. Thus, the hill came to be known as Othimalai - “the mountain where sacred wisdom was recited.”
The Othimalai Murugan Temple is unique in its depiction of Lord Murugan. The deity here is portrayed with five faces and eight arms, symbolizing immense power and spiritual knowledge. The sanctum, known as the Thiruka Peedam, reflects Murugan’s divine presence and eternal connection with Lord Shiva.
Othimalai, like many Murugan temples in the Kongu region such as Maruthamalai, Pavalamalai, and Pachamalai, dates back to the pre-Sangam period. Over centuries, the hill witnessed the influence of Buddhism, Shaivism, and local traditions. At one point, Buddhist monks established monasteries here, and later, Shaivism restored the temple’s dedication to Lord Murugan.
Adding to the temple’s sacred aura, the northeastern side of the hill is said to have remnants of a yaga performed by sages, leaving behind white ash-like soil. Nearby, the Velliangiri Hills carry a similar spiritual significance, where devotees collect white sand and apply it as vibhuti for blessings.
Source / Image Credit : Temple Dinamalar , Temple of India