22 JAN 2027
Thaipusam, Palani
Lakhs of pilgrims walk to the Murugan hill temple at Palani for Thai Poosam on 22 January 2027, many carrying kavadis.
Palani Hill Temple, Palani, Dindigul district, Tamil Nadu 624601
Thaipusam, or Thai Poosam, honours Lord Murugan on the full moon of the Tamil month of Thai, when the Poosam star is in the ascendant. Palani, home to the Arulmigu Dhandayuthapani Swamy temple on a hill above the town, is one of Murugan's six abodes and draws the largest Thaipusam crowds in Tamil Nadu.
In 2027, Thaipusam falls on Friday 22 January, at the end of a ten day festival at the temple. In the days before, lakhs of devotees walk to Palani on padayatra from across Tamil Nadu and Kerala, many carrying decorated kavadis and pots of milk, singing and dancing as they go. The temple car festival is held on Thaipusam day.
The hill temple can be reached by the 693 steps, the winch or the rope car, but expect waits of several hours on the main days. Book rooms in Palani or Dindigul early, and arrive a day ahead if you want to see the padayatra groups arrive.
Thaipusam, or Thai Poosam, honours Lord Murugan on the full moon of the Tamil month of Thai, when the Poosam star is in the ascendant. Palani, home to the Arulmigu Dhandayuthapani Swamy temple on a hill above the town, is one of Murugan's six abodes and draws the largest Thaipusam crowds in Tamil Nadu.
In 2027, Thaipusam falls on Friday 22 January, at the end of a ten day festival at the temple. In the days before, lakhs of devotees walk to Palani on padayatra from across Tamil Nadu and Kerala, many carrying decorated kavadis and pots of milk, singing and dancing as they go. The temple car festival is held on Thaipusam day.
The hill temple can be reached by the 693 steps, the winch or the rope car, but expect waits of several hours on the main days. Book rooms in Palani or Dindigul early, and arrive a day ahead if you want to see the padayatra groups arrive.
Tags
Share a quick rating, tip, or photo so the next traveler knows what to expect.
