 Maruthamalai
Temple, situated on a hillock, about 12 kms from Coimbatore,
is an important temple dedicated to Lord Muruga. The temple
gets its name from the Marutha trees in the forests
on the hill. The hills also have many medicinal herbs in their forests.
The story behind the temple is that a thirsty Sanyasi was walking
through the forest and took refuge under a Marutha tree. To
quench his thirst, he prayed to Lord Muruga, who answered his prayers
and water sprang from Marutha trees. Hence Lord Muruga has been hailed
the Lord of Marutha. This temple was built about 800 years ago. The
temple was renovated recently and Kumbabishekam (renovation)
performed.
 The
temple and its surroundings are abuzz with devotees who can be seen
trekking the 700-odd steps to the top of the temple, as penance. There
are frequent buses from Coimbatore city to Maruthamalai. From the
base of the temple local buses ply to the temple.
Nearest Airport: Coimbatore
Nearest Railhub: Coimbatore
Route: 12 kms north of Coimbatore
Text and Photographs: Leslee Lazar
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