Palani Murugan · Verified guide
Palani Murugan Temple: Complete Pilgrimage Guide
The Dhandayuthapani Swamy temple sits on Sivagiri hill above Palani town in Dindigul district. It is one of the six abodes (Arupadai Veedu) of Lord Murugan, and you can reach the top by steps, the elephant path, the winch or the rope car.
Changing information reviewed · Official sources separated from planning guidance
Quick answer
The temple is open about 6 am to 8 pm (from 4:30 am on festival days). Climb by the steps or elephant path, or take the winch or rope car, which run about 7 am–12:30 pm and 1:30 pm–5 pm. A limited number of one-way rope car tickets (₹100) can be booked online on the temple's HR&CE website. Thaipusam falls on 22 January 2027.
Key facts
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Deity | Lord Murugan as Dhandayuthapani |
| Location | Sivagiri hill, Palani, Dindigul district, Tamil Nadu |
| Significance | One of the six abodes of Murugan (Arupadai Veedu) |
| Main idol | Made of navapashanam, an amalgam of nine substances |
| Prasadam | Panchamirtham (banana, honey, ghee, jaggery, cardamom, dates and sugar candy); it has a Geographical Indication tag |
| Managed by | Tamil Nadu Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HR&CE) Department |
Ways up the hill
Steps
The traditional climb. Start early in the day to avoid the heat.
Elephant path
A gentler sloping path with restrooms, benches and drinking water on the way.
Winch
Funicular rail cars up the hill; three tracks are laid.
Read guideRope car
The fastest way up; some tickets can be booked online.
Read guidePlan your visit
- Avoid Thaipusam week and long weekends if you want a quieter darshan.
- Seniors and families: use the winch or rope car up, and the elephant path down if you prefer to walk.
- Buy panchamirtham only from the temple's own counters.
- Many devotees offer tonsure (hair donation) at Palani; allow time for it before darshan.
Book travel to Palani
Fix your darshan first, then book the journey with buffer on both sides.
Frequently asked questions
What are Palani temple timings?
About 6 am to 8 pm on normal days, opening from 4:30 am on festival days.
How do I go up Palani hill?
By the steps, the elephant path, the winch (funicular) or the rope car.
Can I book the Palani rope car online?
Yes, a limited number of one-way tickets (₹100) are sold on the temple's HR&CE website: 50 per morning and 50 per evening slot when online booking started in July 2026.
When is Thaipusam in 2027?
22 January 2027.
Sources
- Arulmigu Dhandayuthapani Swamy Temple, Palani (Tamil Nadu Tourism)
- Online booking for Palani ropeway, July 2026 (DT Next)
- Dhandayuthapani Swamy Temple (Wikipedia)
- Thaipusam dates, Tamil Nadu (Office Holidays)
Checked 6 Oct 2026. Rules can change; confirm with the official source before you travel.