This site is synonymous with the legendary Tamil poetess Avvaiyar. It is here that Murugan tested her wisdom in the form of a small shepherd boy. Historically, the temple has been a vital part of the spiritual landscape of Madurai, often visited in conjunction with the [Arulmigu Subramaniya Swami Temple, Tirupparankundram](http://googleusercontent.com/map_location_reference/3).

The Temple in the Woods

The temple is smaller and more intimate than the other Arupadai Veedu shrines. It features a bright, multi-colored gopuram. The unique feature is the presence of the Naval Tree, which according to legend, yields fruit in the off-season during the Skanda Shashti festival. The stone carvings within the main mandapa depict the various forms of Murugan as described in Tamil scriptures.

The most famous legend involves Avvaiyar resting under a Naval tree. A shepherd boy (Murugan in disguise) asked her if she wanted 'Sutta Pazham' (cooked fruit) or 'Sudatha Pazham' (uncooked fruit). Confused, Avvaiyar chose uncooked. The boy shook the tree, and as the fruit fell and gathered dust, she blew on them. The boy laughed, asking why she was 'cooling' them if they weren't hot. This profound riddle humbled the great poet, teaching her that even the most learned have more to discover about the nature of reality.

Worship is focused on the 'Jnana' (knowledge) aspect of the Lord. Devotees often bathe in the [Noopura Gangai](http://googleusercontent.com/map_location_reference/5) before climbing to the shrine. Offering honey and fruits is traditional here, echoing the 'Forest of Fruit' theme. It is a favored spot for meditation due to its quiet, natural environment.

Skanda Shashti is the primary festival, celebrated with the 'Soorasamharam' enactment. The Tamil New Year and Vaikasi Visakam are also times of major celebration when the forest hills come alive with the chants of devotees.

Modern folklore says that **the monkeys of Pazhamudircholai are protectors of the temple**. It is believed they only approach those who carry negative intentions. Many pilgrims claim that the **Naval fruit from the sacred tree** has a unique, honey-like taste found nowhere else. There is also a belief that the water of Noopura Gangai contains herbs that can cure skin diseases, a tradition that draws people from all over Tamil Nadu.