Oothumalai, Seelanaickenpatti, Salem
Oothumalai
is located at about 6 kms from Salem, this is another hill with cluster of
Hindu temples and vehicles can go all the way to the temples at hilltop. In
this hill, the Sidhars like Agasthiar, Pambatti Sithar, Bogar and many others
are believed to visit often.
Sri
Balasubramaniar Temple
This
hill top temple too is dedicated to Lord Muruga. It is a small temple, but Lord
Muruga is present in a very unique posture of holding the neck of His vahana,
peacock. Also, the view of the Salem town from the Oothumalai is breathtaking.
For
brief details, please refer below link;
Shiva
Temple
As you
descend a few meters, you would notice a small Shiva temple. Next to the linga,
on the rocks one would find wonderful engravings of Gods and Goddesses along
with a Swayambu Srichakra. Sage Agasthiyar is believed to have offered prayers
to this chakra. This small section of engravings is fenced and is worth a
visit. The cave next to it is where many siddha purushas and rishis
have done penance.
Sathyanarayana
Temple
In
Oothumalai itself, opposite to the small Shiva temple, a climb through a series
of steps would take you to a Vishnu temple, assuming the name of Satyanarayana.
It is one of the very few temples dedicated to Satyanarayana in Tamil Nadu and
hence assumes significance.
The
flight of steps are few, probably less than 60, but slightly steep in nature.
The temple is a small one but the statue of the principle lord here is worth a
visit for its beauty. It does feel quite enchanting to take a round around the
temple premise.
Connectivity
Oothumalai
is located at a distance of 6 km from Salem on the Seelanaickenpatti bypass
road. Nearest railway station is located at Salem. Nearest Airport is
located at Trichy & Coimbatore.
