Palani is the most divine among all abodes of Lord Murugan Who is also known as Karthikeya in North India. This is the third Padai veedu of Lord Murugan in Tamilnadu. Palani is located in Dindugal district at a distance of 112Kms (70 miles) from Madurai and 152 Kms (95 miles) from Trichy. It is almost at an equal distance from Coimbatore as well. Palani is at the banks of Shanmuganadhi which is revered as a sacred river. Palani Andavar temple, the well known name of Murugan, stands majestically at the top of the hill. The temple is visible from several kilometers away. The devotees become excited just at the sight of the gopuram itself and start feeling the presence of the Lord in their hearts. Palani Hill temple is at about 500 ft height and has 693 steps to climb up. Old people and persons, who cannot go by walk, have the option to reach the temple by Rope car or winch. The hill was believed to be inhabited by many Siddha purushas and rishies. The length of Girivalam is 2.4 kms.. Palani Murugan temple attracts lacs of devotees from all over South India carrying Kavadis and offering abhishekams or tonsure. Palani-the story about the name: Palani is described in Tamil Sangam Literature by the name ‘Podhini’.In the passing of the Centuries the name was slowly and gradually modified to Palani. There is another story about the name Palani: In mythology, he is considered to be the second son of Lord Shiva – god of destruction and Goddess Parvathi – god of energy. Lord Shiva was given a fruit by Narada Rishi. On a dispute over the fruit being given to the elder brother-Vinayagar, Murugan broke away from parents Shiva and Parvathi.He settled at the hill. Lord Shiva and Parvathi pacified the Balamurugan by convincing him “Pazham nee”- that is you yourself are a fruit. From ‘Pazham nee’ the present name evolved as Palani. For the complete story go to Sthalapurana.. Click Here