Kurinji Andavar Temple Kodaikanal
A serene temple dedicated to Lord Murugan, famed for its association with the rare Kurinji flower and offering breathtaking hill views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

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Best Time
Clearer views, fewer crowds
Kurinji Andavar Temple Kodaikanal
Best Time
Clearer views, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene temple dedicated to Lord Murugan, famed for its association with the rare Kurinji flower and offering breathtaking hill views.
"Spectacular views and a divine atmosphere make this temple a must-visit in Kodaikanal."
🎯 Catch the Views
Mist can hide the valley! Try early morning or late afternoon for the best chance at clear, panoramic views.
🚗 Parking is Limited
Parking is available but can be tight, especially for cars. Motorcycles have more space.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Valley Views
From the temple grounds
Breathtaking vistas of the Palani hills and surrounding valleys, especially stunning when the mist clears.
The Sacred Kurinji Flower
Temple surroundings
Associated with the rare Kurinji flower that blooms only once every 12 years, symbolizing divine blessings.
Lord Murugan's Abode
Main shrine
Dedicated to Lord Murugan, the 'God of Hills,' this temple offers a spiritual and serene experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Views
Temple Etiquette & Dress Code
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Catch the Views
Mist can hide the valley! Try early morning or late afternoon for the best chance at clear, panoramic views.
🚗 Parking is Limited
Parking is available but can be tight, especially for cars. Motorcycles have more space.
🛍️ Souvenir Shopping
Browse the shops outside for local handicrafts, home decor, and dolls.
🙏 Dress Modestly
Respect the temple by wearing modest clothing. Avoid shorts and sleeveless tops.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Catch the Views
Mist can hide the valley! Try early morning or late afternoon for the best chance at clear, panoramic views.
🚗 Parking is Limited
Parking is available but can be tight, especially for cars. Motorcycles have more space.
🛍️ Souvenir Shopping
Browse the shops outside for local handicrafts, home decor, and dolls.
🙏 Dress Modestly
Respect the temple by wearing modest clothing. Avoid shorts and sleeveless tops.
📸 Photoshoot Spot
Great location for traditional couple photoshoots with scenic backdrops.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Kurinji Andavar Temple for its spectacular valley views and serene spiritual atmosphere. While the temple is small, its divine significance, especially its connection to the rare Kurinji flower, is highly appreciated. Some note limited parking and the potential for mist to obscure views.
"It’s one of the popular places in Kodaikanal. The temple is small yet beautiful and the views from there are spectacular. The temple is maintained well and new hall is being constructed. The roads are tidy and parking space is very limited. There are lots of shops and residences surrounding it. One of the best places in the town."
Nadana Ravishankar
"A divine sub temple of Palani
Main deity is Lord Muruga as kurinji aandavar ( Lord of Kurinji Hills )
Also have vigrahas of Navagraha, Vishnu & Ganapathi.
Annadhanam is served for 100 peoples daily.
Good amount of parking space for motorcycles limited space for cars"
ameeshmenon
"The Kurinji Anadavar Temple is a popular Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Murugan, located in Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu, India.
Significance
1. Dedicated to Lord Murugan: The temple is dedicated to Lord Murugan, the Tamil god of war and victory.
2. Kurinji Flower: The temple is famous for its association with the Kurinji flower, which blooms once every 12 years.
Temple Features
1. Beautiful Architecture: The temple features beautiful architecture and intricate carvings.
2. Idol of Lord Murugan: The temple houses a beautiful idol of Lord Murugan.
3. Scenic Views: The temple offers scenic views of the surrounding hills and forests.
Festivals and Celebrations
1. Thaipusam Festival: The temple celebrates the Thaipusam festival, which is a significant festival for Lord Murugan devotees.
2. Other Festivals: The temple also celebrates other festivals like Skanda Sashti and Panguni Uthiram.
Visitor Information
1. Timings: The temple is open for visitors from early morning to late evening.
2. Dress Code: Visitors are expected to dress modestly and follow temple rules.
3. Offerings: Devotees offer prayers, flowers, and other offerings to Lord Murugan.
The Kurinji Anadavar Temple is a significant pilgrimage site and a popular tourist destination in Kodaikanal, attracting devotees and visitors from all over."
Housefull Events & Hospitality Management Services
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The temple is conveniently located about 3 km from Kodaikanal Lake. You can hire a taxi or an auto-rickshaw, or even enjoy a pleasant walk if you prefer. Many visitors use Royal Enfield bikes for scenic rides to the temple.
Parking is available, but it can be limited, especially for cars. There's more space for motorcycles. Arriving early can help secure a spot.
The drive itself to the temple is beautiful, with winding roads and lush greenery. Many visitors enjoy the journey on bikes, taking in the natural beauty of the hills.
Kodaikanal is accessible by road. The nearest railway station is Kodai Road, and the nearest airport is Madurai. From these points, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Kodaikanal.
Yes, it's a pleasant walk of about 3 km from Kodaikanal Lake to the temple. It's a good option if you enjoy walking and want to soak in the surroundings.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no entry fee to visit the Kurinji Andavar Temple. It is open to all visitors who wish to seek blessings or enjoy the scenic beauty.
The temple is generally open from early morning to late evening. Specific timings can vary, so it's advisable to check locally upon arrival.
No, advance booking is not required as there is no entry fee. You can visit the temple at your convenience during its operating hours.
Yes, visitors are expected to dress modestly out of respect for the religious site. Avoid shorts, sleeveless tops, and revealing attire.
Photography is generally allowed in the temple premises, but it's always good to be mindful of ongoing prayers and rituals. Avoid flash photography inside the main shrine.
📸 📸 Photography
The panoramic views of the valley from the temple grounds are spectacular. The temple architecture itself also offers great photo opportunities.
Early mornings and late afternoons often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and potentially clearer views before the mist rolls in.
If you are lucky enough to visit when the Kurinji flowers are in bloom (once every 12 years), capturing their unique beauty would be a memorable photographic moment.
The temple is considered a great spot for traditional couple photoshoots, leveraging the scenic beauty and spiritual ambiance.
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient for most visitors. A wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the expansive valley views.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are several food stalls located outside the temple premises where you can find affordable snacks and local food options.
You can typically find local snacks, beverages, and some quick meal options at the stalls. Some shops might also offer sweets and chocolates.
The temple itself does not have dining facilities, but the surrounding shops and stalls cater to visitors looking for refreshments.
While there are food stalls right outside, for a wider range of dining experiences, you would need to head back towards Kodaikanal town or the lake area.
Yes, the temple serves Annadhanam to approximately 100 people daily, providing a free meal to devotees and visitors.
For Different Travelers
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👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
🙏 Spiritual Seekers
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