Swamimalai

This place is situated to the West of Kumbakonan.

It is the place where Muruga initiated his father into the Mysterious significance of the Pranava Mantra, which the latter had forgotten due to a sin owing to the killing of a Rakshasa. To represent the guru-sishya relationship, Subrahmanya's Temple is atop the hillock while Shiva's Shrine is below.

This is one of the 6 hallowed places (Padai Veedu) of Muruga. The Brahmachari icon is an imposing one.

There is the 5-tier Gopuram. To reach the Sanctum, one has to climb the 60 steps from the foot of the hill. This represents the Hindu cycle of 60 years.

Indra when troubled by the demon Arikesa came here to seek Muruga's help. Later in gratitude, he presented the deity with a white elephant. This is seen instead of the usual peacock.

The Vinayaka here is called Kann Kodutha Vinayaka (facing south on the hill) as he restored vision of a blindman.