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You might have heard of places like Kudremukha (Horse-Face Hill), Tortoise Rocks, etc. It is just amazing to see how these naturally formed hills or rocks resemble a familiar shape or an animal. Such is the beauty of Yanaimalai in Madurai; the hill is in the shape of an elephant. It almost looks like a big wall bordering Madurai.
Yanaimalai
Photo Courtesy: Ve.Balamurali
Adventure Quotient oozes out when we see such an interesting spot, isn't it? In fact, many love Yanaimalai for the trekking opportunities it provides. However, what is fun in just climbing or hiking? There must be something else to explore! Yanaimalai or the Elephant Hill is not just a trekking place but also a historic and a religious destination.
Yes, Narasingam Yoga Narasimha Perumal Temple at the foot of the hill, Ladan Cave Temple and Murugan Temple are prominent attractions in Yanaimali. Traversing in Yanaimalai will give you a sneak-peek into the mythology and the local history.
Shall we look into the legends and history behind these tourist places in Yanaimalai?
Narasingam Yoga Narasimha Perumal Temple
Narasingam Yoga Narasimha Perumal Temple is situated at the foot of Yanaimalai. It is a cave temple where Lord Vishnu's another form, Narasimha is the presiding deity.
According to the legend, a sage name Romasa installed the Narasimha idol in this cave to perform penance but the Lord got angered and went into his fierce form as Ugra Narasimha. So the sage brought Prahlad to calm the Lord and Narasimha's anger was calmed. It is only after that Lord Narasimha granted Sage Romasa and settled here as Yoga Narasimha.
Narasingam Yoga Narasimha Temple is one of the must-visit religious places in Yanaimalai.
Ladan Cave Temple
Earlier, the region of Yanaimalai was ruled by Pandya Dynasty. Ladan Cave Temple is one of the cave shrines built during the reign of Pandyas. It is dedicated to Lord Murugan and has a lot of importance in this region.
Ladan Cave Temple
Photo Courtesy: Vikas Soorya
Jain Sculptures at Yanaimalai
Several Jain religious sculptures are also found in Yanaimalai.
A journey to Yanaimalai is worthwhile as it is a place of several interests. Those who love adventure can hike through the rocky trails and also visit the age-old temples here.
