PALANI TEMPLE

The temple at Palani is one of the six abodes of Lord Subramanya. Dedicated to Sri Dandayuthapani, the temple is built atop a 140m high hill and can be reached either using the steps or the electrically operated winch. 

This ancient Palani temple was built in the 7th Century AD by King Cheaman Perumal at an elevation of 1500 feet above sea level.It was later added to by the Nayaks. The deity of Palani is known as Dandayudhapani Swami, the Lord having the Staff in his Hand. The deity was skillfully crafted by Siddhar Bhogar out of an amalgam of nine minerals popularly called Navabashana. The Bogar Temple situated in the Temple premises is a wonderful place for meditation.  This is maintained by the Pulipani (the direct disciple of Bogar) Siddhars Descendents who perform the poojas and the ceremonies for the Emerald Shiva Lingam (the original lingam that Bogar used to perform his prayers to, and the original yantras of Bogar).  The Family themselves are very dedicated and in their Ashram at the foothills of Palani Hills, are the Jeeva Samadis of Pulipani Siddhar and 6 of his descendents who attained Jeeva Samadis.  Even today the Ashram makes an Midday free meal to many of the Sanyasis who live around the Temple in a small way, with the little funds they receive from patrons, but with a big service heart.