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Friday, June 17, 2016

Oothumalai, Seelanaickenpatti, Salem

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.