Nestled amidst the beautiful hills of Kodaikanal, Kurinji Andavar Temple is a huge temple of Lord Murugan named after Kurinji flowers that bloom every 12 years. Also known as the “God of Hills,” Lord Murugan is worshipped mainly by Tamil Hindus and is a religious and spiritual sanctuary in Kodaikanal. One thing that always intrigues people is that this temple was built by a European lady who was immensely moved by the Hindu scriptures. Made in the typical Dravidian style architecture, the backdrop of the lush greenery and forest gives this temple a soothing ambience and makes for a perfect meditation centre. Rarely put on the list of the places to visit in Kodaikanal, the temple is worth visiting.
Kurinji Andavar Temple History
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There is a beautiful love story hidden inside the history of this temple. The temple was built in 1936 and since then, it has become a symbol of peace and devotion. The story of this temple began with a woman with a golden heart. Her name was Leelavathy Ramanathan. Though she was European by origin, she embraced Hinduism with love and dedication. She married Ponnambalam Ramanathan, the former solicitor-general of Sri Lanka. After her husband left this physical world, she built the temple to commemorate him. Initially, the temple was named Sri Kurinji Easware Temple. After his husband’s demise, she married a Tamilian named Ramanatha again, and she was called Lady Ramanathan. Her granddaughter and husband donated this temple to the Palani Andavar Temple.
Must Read: Places To Visit In Kodaikanal
Places To Visit Near Kurinji Andavar Temple
Including your visit to Kurinji Andavar Temple in your trip will release your stress, but some must-visit spots are near the temple. Let’s check those places out:
1. Kodaikanal Lake
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Kodaikanal Lake is a perfect place to release your stress and recharge yourself. Located very close to Kurinji Andavar temple, this lake is a man-made beauty built back in 1863 by Vere Henry Levinge and is a star-shaped lake. It sets a great example of man-made wonder, enhancing nature’s beauty. You can indulge in a luxury boating cycle around the lake or have a small snack time here and admire the beauty. The mist covering the lake looks ethereal.
Distance from Kurinji Andavar Temple: 4.9 Km
Timings: 6:00 AM to 5:00 PM
2. Coaker’s Walk
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Another man-made wonder in Kodaikanal is Coaker’s Walk, which doesn’t require much from you and is just a pathway for walking and strolling. It covers an area of 500 meters and offers you breathtaking views of the Palani hills and highlands and a bird’s-eye view of the surrounding hills and small villages. It was made in the year 1872 and got its name from Lt. Coaker. There is also an observatory with a telescope for better area views. You can even see Dolphin’s Nose, Madurai City, and Periyakulam Town on a clear day.
Distance from Kurinji Andavar Temple: 3.8 Km
Timings: 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM
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3. La Saleth Church
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More than anything, the perfect serene backdrop of this church appeals to the tourists. La Saleth Church is amongst those churches dedicated to the apparition of the Virgin Mary. Almost 100 years old, the church was built by Father Saint Cyr, who was cured of the disease with the blessing of Mother Saleth. Architecture is another intriguing part, as it combines the influence of French and Tamilian architecture. Located on the top of the cliff, the surroundings bask in solitude with bird chirpings creating a symphony.
Distance from Kurinji Andavar Temple: 5.1 Km
Timings: 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM
4. Bryant Park
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If you are looking for a place where you can spend time with your family and children and also, you want to be close to nature, you must visit Bryant Park once. This botanical garden spreads across 20 acres and is home to 325 species of shrubs, trees, and cacti. If, by chance, you plan to visit Kodaikanal somewhere in May, then you will be able to attend the extravaganza flowers show, which features a wide variety of flora and some very rare species.
Distance from Kurinji Andavar Temple: 3.7 Km
Timings: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
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5. Pine Forest
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The towering trees and the tranquil ambience make this place full of mysteries! Perfect for hiking as it has several nature trails, this is also very popular amongst filmmakers, and several movies have been shot here. Many of these trees are over a century old, and monkeys crowd the forest in a large number, so be careful and try not to carry anything. Visit this forest to inhale the beauty of nature and witness how untouched beauty appears.
Distance from Kurinji Andavar Temple: 12.3 Km
Timings: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
How To Reach Kurinji Andavar Temple
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To visit this temple, you will first have to reach Kodaikanal. Roadways are the best option considering that Kodaikanal is a hill station.
By air:
The nearest airport is Madurai which is about 120 Km. You can reach there and board a bus or book a cab to directly reach Kodaikanal.
By rail:
Kodaikanal does have a railway station which is about 80 Km from the main city, but is not very well connected with the rest of the cities. You can reach the nearest railway station which is Chennai and board a bus from there.
By road:
Reaching the temple is also hassle-free as it is located about 5 Km from the bus station.
Suggested Read: Hill Stations Near Kodaikanal
Best Time To Visit The Temple
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The weather in Kodaikanal is remarkable almost yearly, making it easier to plan a trip anytime. March to May is a great time if you are looking to escape the high rising temperature. Monsoons bring the best of nature to Kodaikanal, and lush greenery covers every inch of the hill station. The waterfalls come to life, and the mist covering the hills makes for a striking view anywhere you visit. Between August and October, the famous Kurinji flowers bloom every 12 years, but you must inquire as they are rare.
Essential Facts To Know About The Temple
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From the devotees to the history-mongers, Kurinji Andavar Temple has essential significance, which you must know before visiting to have prior knowledge.
- Kurinji Andavar Temple timings are from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
- In addition to Lord Murugan’s deity, there are many shrines to other Hindu gods, such as Lord Ganesha, the Navagrahas, and Lord Vishnu.
- Visitors must follow the dress code to enter into this temple. Men should wear dhoti or pyjamas and upper clothes. They can also wear formal shirts and pants. Women must wear ethnic dresses.
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After you discover its history, a visit to Kurinji Andavar Temple will impact you. The intricate architecture combined with peaceful surroundings and the peak beauty of nature will make you realize that it is worth visiting. A trip to Tamil Nadu, which includes a visit to Kodaikanal, should include this temple in a list of must-visit places.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Kurinji Andavar Temple
To which god Kurinji Andavar Temple is dedicated?
This temple is dedicated to Lord Murugan as the main deity along with other God’s shrines of Lord Ganesha, the Navagrahas, and Lord Vishnu.
Which are the best places to visit near this temple?
There are several places near the temple which include Kodaikanal Lake, Pine Forest, Coaker’s Walk, and Silver Cascade Falls.
How to visit Kurinji Andavar Temple?
You must reach Kodaikanal first, and then you can hire a cab directly from the bus stand to reach here.
What is the timing of the temple?
Kurinji Andavar temple is open from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Plan your visit during these hours.
Which is the best time to visit the temple?
The best time to visit this temple is during the day as post 3:00 PM, mist starts to surround this place making it difficult to see the hills and nearby areas.
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