Swamimalai Murugan Temple

Swamimalai Murugan Temple is located 5 to 6 km from Kumbakonam town and represents one of the six sacred Arupadai Veedu abodes of Lord Murugan. The temple sits atop a hill accessed via 60 sacred steps that represent the Tamil calendar's 60-year cycle. According to legend, Parantaka Chola I made significant contributions to the temple. The temple dates back to the Sangam period in the 2nd century BC, making it among the oldest pilgrimage sites in the region.