Palani Murugan Temple stands as one of the most sacred pilgrimage sites in Tamil Nadu. The Arulmigu Dhandayuthapani Swamy Temple attracts millions of devotees every year. This Lord Murugan temple is located atop the Palani Hills in Dindigul district, Tamil Nadu. It is one of the Six Abodes of Murugan, also known as Arupadai Veedu. The temple houses a unique Navapashanam idol made from nine healing minerals. This complete guide covers temple darshan timings, pooja booking online,e and all essential details for your Tamil Nadu pilgrimage.
About Palani Murugan Temple
Historical Significance
The Arulmigu Dhandayuthapani Swamy Temple was built by the Chera kings between the 2nd and 5th centuries CE. The temple showcases magnificent Dravidian architecture with intricate carvings. Lord Murugan is worshipped here as Dhandayuthapani, the bearer of the divine staff. The temple complex spreads across the hilltop with stunning views.
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The Sacred Navapashanam Idol
What is Navapashanam in Palani temple? The deity is made from nine rare medicinal minerals. This Navapashanam idol was created by the sage Bogar using ancient alchemical knowledge. The idol is believed to have healing properties. Devotees consider the darshan of this deity highly auspicious. The divine composition makes it unique among all Murugan temples.
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Temple Architecture and Features
The temple features classic South Indian temple architecture. The main sanctum houses the Navapashanam idol of Lord Murugan. Multiple mandapams (halls) accommodate thousands of devotees. The Palani Hills temple offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Intricate sculptures adorn the temple walls and pillars.
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Palani Temple Daily Darshan Timings 2025
Morning Darshan Schedule
What time does Palani temple open? The temple’s opening hours begin at 5:45 AM daily. The morning darshan schedule runs from 5:45 AM to 1:00 PM. Devotees can have peaceful darshan during early morning hours. The temple witnesses fewer crowds before 8:00 AM. Early morning visits offer a serene spiritual experience.
Afternoon Break Timings
The temple closes for a break from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM. This time is used for temple maintenance and deity rituals. Devotees cannot enter during this period. The priests perform special poojas during the break time. Plan your visit accordingly to avoid disappointment.
Evening Darshan Time
Evening darshan time starts at 4:00 PM and continues until 8:00 PM. The temple is beautifully illuminated in the evening. Evening hours see maximum devotee footfall. When does Palani temple close? Regular closing time is 8:00 PM. The deity is adorned with special decorations during evening hours.
Special Festival Timings
During major festivals, temple darshan timings are extended. The temple opens as early as 4:00 AM on festival days. Closing time extends beyond 9:00 PM depending on the crowd. Festival celebration dates include Thaipusam, Panguni Uthiram, and Karthigai Deepam. All Margazhi days also have special extended timings.
Complete Darshan Timings Table
| Darshan Type | Timings | Days |
| Temple Opening | 5:45 AM | Monday–Sunday |
| Morning Darshan | 5:45 AM – 1:00 PM | Monday–Sunday |
| Afternoon Break | 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM | Monday–Sunday |
| Evening Darshan | 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM | Monday–Sunday |
| Temple Closing | 8:00 PM | Regular Days |
| Festival Opening | 4:00 AM | Festival Days |
| Festival Closing | After 9:00 PM | Festival Days |
Palani Temple Entry Tickets

Free General Darshan
Is Palani temple darshan free? Yes, general darshan is completely free for all devotees. No prior booking is required for free darshan. Devotees can directly enter the temple during visiting hours. Queue lines are available for systematic darshan. Free darshan allows you to visit the deity without any charges.
Special Darshan Price
What is the cost of a special darshan at Palani? The special darshan price is ₹100 per person. Special darshan offers faster access to the sanctum. You get a closer view of the Navapashanam idol. Wait time is significantly reduced compared to free darshan. This ticket is recommended during peak hours and weekends.
Benefits of Special Darshan
Is there a special darshan available at Palani? Yes, it provides priority entry to devotees. You can avoid long queues in the general darshan. Closer proximity to the deity for better darshan. Special counters are available for ticket holders. Temple entry tickets can be purchased online or at the counter.
Ticket Comparison Table
| Darshan Type | Price (INR) | Details | Booking Required |
| General Darshan | Free | Open to all | No |
| Special Darshan | ₹100 | Faster access, closer view | Recommended |
Pooja and Seva Price List in 2025
Regular Pooja Services
How much does pooja cost at Palani temple? Various poojas are available at affordable rates. Each pooja has specific timings and benefits. Devotees can book poojas based on their requirements. The pooja seva list includes daily and special rituals.
Daily Pooja Offerings
Vila Pooja is performed during early morning hours at ₹150. Kala Santhi Pooja takes place in the morning session at ₹150. Siru Kala Santhi Pooja is offered mid-morning at ₹150. Uchikala Pooja happens during the afternoon at ₹150. Irakala Pooja is conducted in the evening at ₹150. Sayaratchai Pooja is the last pooja of the day at ₹150.
Special Seva Services
Kattalai Poojas are special sponsor edition offerings. These elaborate poojas cost ₹900 each. They include special rituals and abhishekam. Devotees receive prasadam after the pooja. Advance booking is recommended for the sponsor edition poojas.
Complete Pooja Price List
| Pooja / Seva Name | Price (INR) | Timings |
| Vila Pooja | ₹150 | Early Morning |
| Kala Santhi Pooja | ₹150 | Morning |
| Siru Kala Santhi Pooja | ₹150 | Mid-Morning |
| Uchikala Pooja | ₹150 | Afternoon |
| Irakala Pooja | ₹150 | Evening |
| Sayaratchai Pooja | ₹150 | Night |
| Kattalai Poojas (Sponsor) | ₹900 | As Scheduled |
Devotee Rituals Available
What rituals can I do at Palani Murugan temple? Tonsuring or head offering tonsuring is a popular ritual. Kavadi offering is performed by devotees during festivals. Abhishekam with sandal paste is available. Archana with flowers and fruits can be offered. These devotee rituals fulfill spiritual vows and prayers.
Online Booking for Palani Temple Darshan & Seva

Official Booking Platform
Can I book Palani temple pooja online? Yes, the HRCE Tamil Nadu provides online booking. The Hindu Religious Endowments Department manages the ticket booking website. What is the official website for Palani temple booking? Visit https://palanimurugan.hrce.tn.gov.in for bookings. The online booking process is simple and user-friendly.
Step-by-Step Booking Process
How to book Palani temple darshan online? Follow these easy steps. First, visit the official website https://palanimurugan.hrce.tn.gov.in. Click on “Temple Booking Service” on the homepage. Choose “Temple Service” then select “Special Darshan” or pooja option. Select your preferred date and time slot from the available options. Fill in devotee details, including name, age, gender, and address.
Enter the captcha code for security verification. Proceed to the payment page to complete the transaction. Payment methods include UPI, debit/credit cards, and net banking. After successful payment, you receive confirmation via SMS and email. Download or print your e-ticket before visiting the temple.
Booking Tips and Guidelines
Do I need to book in advance for the Palani temple? Advance booking is highly recommended. Weekend and festival days require prior booking. How to do online booking for Palani darshan saves waiting time. Book at least 2-3 days before your visit. Keep your booking confirmation ready at the temple entrance.
Online Booking Benefits
Online booking saves time and avoids long queues. You get confirmed seva timings 2025 for your visit. Pooja booking online ensures your preferred slot. E-tickets are valid and accepted at the temple. Digital payment is secure and convenient.
Main Festivals Celebrated
Thaipusam Festival
When is Thaipusam celebrated at Palani? The Thaipusam festival falls in January or February. This is the grandest celebration at Palani Hills temple. Lakhs of devotees participate in this festival. Devotees carry a kavadi offering as penance. Head offering tonsuring is performed by thousands. The temple remains open throughout the night during Thaipusam.
Panguni Uthiram Celebration
Panguni Uthiram marks the celestial wedding of Lord Murugan and Deivanai. This festival occurs in March or April. Special processions are conducted around the temple. The deity is decorated with special ornaments. Devotees witness the divine marriage ceremony. This is one of the most auspicious days for the Tamil Nadu pilgrimage.
Surasamharam Festival
Surasamharam celebrates Lord Murugan’s victory over the demon Surapadman. The festival showcases the warrior aspect of the deity. Special performances depict the battle scene. This festival emphasizes good triumphing over evil. Devotees seek blessings for overcoming obstacles.
Vaikasi Visakam
Vaikasi Visakam celebrates the birth of Lord Murugan. The festival falls in May or June. Special abhishekam and poojas are performed. The temple witnesses large crowds on this day. Devotees offer special prayers and offerings.
Karthigai Deepam
Karthigai Deepam is the festival of lights. The entire temple is illuminated with oil lamps. The sight is spectacular during evening hours. This festival occurs in November or December. Devotees light lamps seeking divine blessings.
Festival Calendar Table
| Festival Name | Significance | Typical Month |
| Thaipusam | Kavadi and tonsuring ceremonies | January–February |
| Panguni Uthiram | Celestial wedding of Murugan | March–April |
| Surasamharam | Victory over demon Surapadman | October |
| Vaikasi Visakam | Birth of Lord Murugan | May–June |
| Karthigai Deepam | Festival of lights | November–December |
What Festivals Are Celebrated at Palani Temple
What festivals are celebrated at Palani temple? All major Murugan festivals are observed. Monthly Krittika star days are special. Thai Poosam attracts maximum devotees. Every Friday witnesses special poojas. Full moon days have extended darshan timings.
How to Reach Palani Temple

By Air
The nearest airport is Madurai Airport, located 100 km away. Coimbatore International Airport is 90 km from Palani. Regular flights connect these airports to major cities. Taxi services are available from both airports. How to reach Palani temple by air is convenient for distant travelers.
By Train
Palani has its own railway station with good connectivity. The station is about 7 km from the temple. Regular trains connect Palani to Chennai, Coimbatore, and Madurai. Auto-rickshaws and taxis are available from the station. The train journey offers scenic views of the Tamil Nadu countryside.
By Road
Palani is well-connected by road network. State transport buses operate regularly from major cities. Private buses and taxis are also available. The temple is accessible from Dindigul (60 km) and Coimbatore (90 km). The road journey provides beautiful views of the Western Ghats.
Temple Hill Access
The temple is located atop a hill. Devotees can climb 659 steps to reach the temple. A rope car (winch) service is available. The electric winch carries devotees to the hilltop. Walking up the steps is considered spiritually rewarding. Elderly devotees prefer the rope car service.
Contact Information
Temple Address Details
Arulmigu Dhandayuthapani Swamy Temple is located at 315 Head Office, North Giri Street. The temple is in Palani, Dindigul district, Tamil Nadu – 624601. This Lord Murugan temple is easily accessible from the town center.
Phone Number
What is the phone number of Palani temple? The temple contact information is 04545-241293. You can call for darshan timings and booking queries. The Temple office operates during business hours. Staff assist with general information and guidance.
Email Contact
For written communication, use jceomdu_32203.hrce@tn.gov.in. Email queries are responded to within 1-2 business days. You can inquire about pooja booking online and special events. Attach necessary documents for specific requests.
Official Website
What is the official website for Palani temple booking? Visit https://palanimurugan.hrce.tn.gov.in for all services. The website provides complete information about Seva Timings 2025. Online booking and payment facilities are available. Check the website for the latest updates and announcements.
Complete Contact Table
| Contact Type | Details |
| Temple Address | 315 Head Office, North Giri Street, Palani, Dindigul – 624601 |
| Phone Number | 04545-241293 |
| Email ID | jceomdu_32203.hrce@tn.gov.in |
| Official Website | https://palanimurugan.hrce.tn.gov.in |
Darshan Duration and Crowd Management

How Much Time Does Palani Darshan Take
How much time does Palani darshan take? General darshan typically takes 1-2 hours. Special darshan is completed within 30-45 minutes. Festival days may require 3-4 hours waiting. Early morning visits have shorter wait times. Plan your schedule accordingly for a comfortable visit.
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings between 6 AM and 9 AM are ideal. Avoid weekends and festival days for shorter queues. Post-afternoon break (4 PM to 6 PM) is also good. Margazhi month witnesses heavy crowds. Plan accordingly based on your preference.
Facilities for Devotees
Drinking water facilities are available throughout. Separate queues for elderly and differently-abled devotees. Washroom facilities are kept clean. The Prasadam counter operates near the exit. Footwear deposit counters ensure safe storage.
What Are the Famous Poojas at Palani Temple
What are the famous poojas at Palani temple? Abhishekam with panchamritam is highly sought. Kavadi carried during Thaipusam is popular. Tonsuring represents devotion and surrender. Sandal paste cools the deity. Archana with 108 names of Murugan is powerful. Special sponsor poojas include elaborate rituals.
Personal Opinion and Requirements
My visit to this sacred Lord Murugan temple was truly transformative. The divine energy at the Arupadai Veedu is palpable and overwhelming. I recommend early morning visits for a peaceful darshan experience. Kavadi offerings during festivals showcase incredible devotion and faith.
The head offering tonsuring represents complete surrender to the divine. Booking a special darshan is worth the additional cost for convenience. The temple administration by Hthe indu Religious Endowments is well-organized and efficient. Every devotee should experience this Tamil Nadu pilgrimage at least once in their lifetime.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does Palani temple open?
The temple opening hours are 5:45 AM daily. Festival days open at 4:00 AM.
Is Palani temple darshan free?
Yes, general darshan is completely free. No booking required for free entry.
What is the cost of a special darshan at Palani?
Special darshan price is ₹100 per person. Booking is available online or at the counter.
Can I book Palani temple pooja online?
Yes, pooja booking online is available at https://palanimurugan.hrce.tn.gov.in. All poojas can be booked.
Do I need to book in advance for the Palani temple?
Advance booking is recommended for weekends and festivals. It saves waiting time.
Conclusion
Palani Murugan Temple is one of Tamil Nadu’s most visited pilgrimage sites. The unique Navapashanam idol offers divine blessings and spiritual healing to millions annually. Online pooja bookings and understanding darshan timings make visits convenient and hassle-free. The temple showcases rich Dravidian architecture from the Chera kings’ era. Major festivals like Thaipusam and Panguni Uthiram create unforgettable spiritual moments. HRCE Tamil Nadu ensures smooth management with online booking facilities. This essential stop in the Six Abodes of Murugan journey is simple to plan.
Alich, a skilled content writer with 3+ years of experience, known for creating clear guides and 1000+ published articles across multiple niches.











