The holy hilltop shrine of Lord Murugan nestled amidst the lush Alagar Hills.
Arulmigu Solaimalai Murugan Temple, popularly known as Pazhamudircholai, is a highly revered Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Murugan. Located at the top of the Alagar Hills, it is celebrated as the sixth of the six holy abodes (Arupadaiveedu) of Lord Murugan. The temple is unique as it is the only abode where Lord Murugan is depicted along with both his consorts, Valli and Deivayanai.
This sacred spot is famous for the legendary interaction between the Tamil poet-saint Avvaiyar and Lord Murugan (who appeared disguised as a young boy). Murugan asked the tired Avvaiyar if she wanted "roasted fruits" (Sutta Pazham) or "unroasted fruits" (Sudadha Pazham) from a black plum tree. When she chose unroasted fruit, the boy shook the tree, and as the fruits fell into the sand, Avvaiyar blew the sand off them. The boy jokingly remarked that she was blowing them because they were hot (roasted), teaching her a profound lesson in humility and divine wisdom.
Timings: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Location: Alagar Hills, Madurai (approx. 25 km from the city center, situated just 4 km uphill from the Alagar Kovil temple).