Devanathaswamy, Devarmalai
God
Devanathaswamy, facing east
Goddess
Devanayagi, facing south
Other Deities
Ganesha, twin Nandi
Devanathaswamy, Devarmalai is an east facing rock cut temple. Originally the temple was the sanctum in the cave. The front mantapam was constructed later. The idol of the goddess is in the front mantapam and is probably a later addition. There a few carvings of sages and Kurumba Nayanar. There are 2 Nandi’s facing the lord outside the sanctum. One more Nandi faces the lord inside. The lingam is a long and slender one. There are two Dwarapalakas outside the lord’s chamber. The Vinayaga here is a large rock carved idol. The grave of Kurumba Nayanar, one of the 63 Nayanmars is here. On top of the hill is a rock pond that has water perennially. The water from this pond is used for the ablution of the deities. This is a Devara Vaippu Sthalam (mentioned in the Devaram Hymns).
Holy Water – Deva Theertham (Rock Pond on top of hill)
Holy Tree – No information
History
Devanathaswamy, Devarmalai is an ancient rock cut temple. This place was called Perumanallur and Mizhilai Naattu Mizhilai in the ancient times. Based on the architectural style it is assumed to have been built in the 8th Century CE. There is one inscription here that mentions donations made to the temple. The name of the temple finds mentions in the Hymns of Sundarar, 7th Century CE (7th Thirumurai, 12th portion, 5th song).
Legend
Kurumba Nayanar who was a follower of the great Saivite Saint Sundarar attained the lord’s feet and his grave is located here. Divining that Sundarar was about to attain the lord’s feet Kurumba Nayanar attained the same ahead in order to await his idol. The lord and his consort are believed to have given their divine vision to Kurumba Nayanar here.
Directions
Devanathaswamy, Devarmalai is a bit tricky to reach as a road is not there till the temple. It is about 9 kilometers west of Pudukottai on a small road from Perumanadu which is on the Kodumbalur, Viralimalai road. It is possible to reach from Peraiyur also. Please ask locally to reach the temple. It is a safe place, but we advise visiting it in the morning.
Food and Stay
None locally. Closest is Pudukottai.