The history of this shrine is deeply intertwined with the great sage 'Bhogar Siddhar', who is one of the 18 revered Siddhars. The idol of the Lord on the hill is not made of stone; it is uniquely crafted from 9 types of poisonous herbs (Navapashanam). It is considered a great miracle that even after 2,000 years, the idol remains perfectly intact without any decay.

The Marvel on the Hill

Palani hill is quite steep, with over 600 steps to reach the top. The temple features classic Dravidian architecture. The 'Vimanam' (Golden tower) above the sanctum is highly radiant. There are 'Winch' (small train) and 'Rope Car' facilities available to reach the hilltop. Among the most visited hill temples in India, it is said to be second only to Tirumala in terms of devotee footfall.

Once, Sage Narada offered a 'Jnana Pazham' (Fruit of Wisdom) to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvathi. While deciding who to give it to, Shiva declared they would give it to whoever circles the three worlds and returns first. While Murugan set off on his peacock mount, Lord Ganesha simply circled his parents and won the fruit. Angered by this, Murugan renounced everything and came to this hill wearing only a 'Kaupeenam' (loincloth). Shiva and Parvathi came to pacify him, saying 'Pazham Nee' (You yourself are the fruit of wisdom). The name 'Palani' is derived from this very phrase.

The Palani temple's 'Panchamirtham' prasadam is world-famous. It is traditionally made with banana, jaggery, ghee, honey, and cardamom. Offering hair (tonsuring) by devotees is a very common practice here. Devotees firmly believe that meditating near the Bhogar Siddhar samadhi located here yields excellent spiritual and material results. There is a great significance regarding the 'Navapashanam' idol in this shrine. The water or milk used for the abhishekam of this idol absorbs powerful medicinal properties. It is believed that consuming this liquid cures many chronic diseases. Another belief is that the demon 'Idumban' carried these two hills (Sivagiri and Sakthigiri) here balancing them like a Kavadi. That is why devotees also carry the Kavadi to convey their prayers and wishes to the Lord.

Thaipusam is the grandest festival here. Lakhs of devotees showcase their immense devotion by carrying the 'Kavadi' or by piercing their mouths and tongues with a Vel. Panguni Uthiram is also celebrated on a massive scale. During this time, the deity is bathed (abhishekam) with the sacred 'Panchamirtham'.