Marunthuvazh Malai, Kanyakumari
Marunthuvazh
Malai, also known as the Marunthu Vazhum Malai ("the abode of
medicinal herbs"), forms the part and the southernmost tip of
the Western Ghats. It is located near Kanyakumari Town in Kanyakumari
District of Tamilnadu. It stretches for more than a km, reaching a height of
800 feet at the highest point. Nestled in the magnificent Travancore Hills, a
mile north of Cape Comorin, it makes for a beautiful locale with checkered
paddy fields carpeting the plains and the foothills of the Western Ghats
silhouetting the sky.
Maruthuva
Malai is one of the major peaks in Hindu mythology. Narayana Guru, a renowned
social reformer, is supposed to have meditated in a cave in Maruthuva Malai. This
rocky mountain abounds in medicinal plants and is a significant resource for
Ayurvedic therapeutic herbs. It is still occupied with several Monks and Sanyasis,
living permanently in Caves. Maruthuva Malai is a great place for trekking and
hiking thanks to the beautiful surroundings.
Legends
For
brief details, please refer below link;
History
The
biography of Lord Sri Pada Sri Vallabha was known as Sri Pada Sri Vallabha
Charithamrutham, written in Sanskrit, during the thirteen centaury contains the
facts regarding this Marunthu Vazh Malai. It is mentioned in this Holy book
that several Siddhas and other holy saints lived in this mountain. It is
considered as one of the Ayyavazhi holy sites and according to Ayyavazhi
Mythology, this sacred hill has been called as Parvatha Ucchi Malai. Based on
references from Arul Nool and Akilam, Marunthuvazh Malai can be concluded as one
among the Pathis.
The Hills
For
brief details, please refer below link;
Activities
Maruthuva
Malai is a great place for trekking and hiking thanks to the beautiful
surroundings. Ideally, visit the temple at sunrise or sunset to drink in the
breathtaking view of the sun’s rays washing over the valley below. The
spectacular sights from the mountain include the estuary of the Manakkudy Lake,
temple gopurams, emerald paddy fields and the coastal area from Leepuram to
Muttom.
Connectivity
Marunthuvazh
Malai is located at about 4 Kms from Kottaram, 8 Kms from Vattakkottai, 6 Kms
from Suchindram, 6 Kms from Marungoor, 9 Kms from Theroor, 10 Kms from Kanyakumari,
9 Kms from Kanyakumari Bus Stand, 9 Kms from Kanyakumari Railway Station, 4 Kms
from Swamithoppu Bus Stop, 3.5 Kms from Swamithope, 14 Kms from Nagercoil and
86 Kms from Thiruvananthapuram. Nearest Railway Station is located at
Kanyakumari and Nearest Airport is located at Thiruvananthapuram.
