If you are exploring temples in Tamil Nadu, make sure you don’t miss the Sri Balasubramanyar Temple in Periyakulam. This beautiful little town in Theni district has many attractions, but the temple stands as its shining jewel.
Locals call this temple as Periya Kovil (meaning “Big Temple” in Tamil). Officially, it is known as Sri Rajendra Chozheeswarar Temple, where Lord Shiva is the presiding deity. But here’s the interesting twist—the temple is more popularly worshipped as Balasubramanyar Temple. This is because Lord Murugan, with his six divine faces flanked by Valli and Deivanai, radiates his grace here.
Why This Temple is Truly Special
Step inside, and you’ll instantly feel the peaceful energy. The temple is impeccably clean, well-maintained, and surprisingly calm even on busy days. It is not just a temple—It is an experience of serenity and divinity rolled into one.
And wait till you hear its story. This temple isn’t just over 1000 years old but also born out of compassion. Legend says that when King Rajendra Chozha shot down a mother pig while hunting, her cubs were left helpless. Lord Muruga himself appeared and fed them with divine milk. Deeply moved and remorseful, the king built this temple so that generations could remember the Lord’s mercy.
What Awaits You Inside this Periyakulam Temple
The Periyakulam big temple is not dedicated to one deity alone. Along with Lord Shiva and Lord Muruga, you will encounter shrines for Nataraja, Ekambareswara, and Jambukeswara. There are also shrines for Dakshinamurthy, Bhairava, and Vishnu. Additionally, you will find the Sun & Moon with their consorts, Saptha Kannikas, Rahu & Ketu, and even Lord Mrityunjaya. It’s like walking through a cosmic gallery of divinity.
Photography is restricted inside the sanctum. However, the temple’s outer premises offer plenty of picture-perfect moments. These scenes reflect its age-old grandeur.
Periyakulam Sri Subramanyar Swamy Temple Photo Gallery
Don’t Miss the Sacred Surroundings
The temple stands gracefully on the banks of the Varaha River. It is revered here as Brahma Theertham and considered as holy as the Ganges.
You can take a short walk to its serene banks. There, you will find two ancient Marudha trees. One is male, and the other is female. They face each other. They’ve stood tall for over a thousand years, silently watching countless generations. A truly rare and humbling sight!
Travel Tips to the Periyakulam Temple
- Best time to visit: 6:00 AM – 12:00 PM or 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
- Getting there: The most convenient way is by your own vehicle. Parking is hassle-free with space available near the temple.
Explore Beyond the Temple
Periyakulam is a gateway to many scenic wonders. Once you’ve soaked in the temple’s divine aura, here is what you can explore nearby:
- Sothuparai Dam – 9 km
- Kumbakarai Falls – 8 km
- Theertha Thotti – 2 km
- Vaigai Dam – 15 km
- Manjalar Dam – 18 km
- Kodaikanal – 49 km
- Thekkady – 80 km
- Suralithirtham – 60 km
- Munnar – 103 km
Why Should You Visit this Periyakulam Temple?
This is not just a temple visit—it’s a journey into history, spirituality, and nature’s calm embrace. Whether you are a devotee, a heritage lover, or a traveller in search of hidden gems, Sri Balasubramanyar Temple in Periyakulam will fill you with stories. It will also bestow blessings on you to cherish.
Have you been to Periyakulam yet? Share your favorite moments with us on Facebook—we’d love to hear your story.