Sri Vetri Velappar Temple Vilpatti (Kodaikanal),Tamil Nadu
Sri Vetri Velappar Temple is located at Vilpatti village, about 6 km from Kodaikanal, in Dindigul district, Tamil Nadu. The temple is set on a scenic rocky hill amidst the lush greenery of the Western Ghats. The calm hill atmosphere and natural surroundings make this temple a peaceful spiritual retreat for devotees.
Temple Age
This is an ancient Murugan temple, believed to be several centuries old. Historical indications and stone features suggest that the temple existed during the Pandya period and later received additions during the Nayak period (around 17th–18th century). The artistic style of the sculptures and mandapas reflects traditional Nayak-era architecture.
Deity Details
The presiding deity is Sri Vetri Velappar, a powerful form of Lord Murugan, worshipped here as the God who grants victory. The deity stands majestically holding the divine Vel, blessing devotees with courage, success, and protection from obstacles.
The presiding deity is Sri Vetri Velappar, a powerful form of Lord Murugan, worshipped here as the God who grants victory. The deity stands majestically holding the divine Vel, blessing devotees with courage, success, and protection from obstacles.
Sri Vetri Velappar is uniquely installed above a Shiva Lingam, symbolizing the deep spiritual bond between Lord Murugan and Lord Shiva. This rare form signifies that after achieving victory over evil, Murugan worshipped his father Shiva at this sacred spot. Shrines for Lord Shiva, Lord Ganesha, Kaala Bhairava, Idumban, and Navagrahas are also present within the temple premises. Many devotees worship Sri Vetri Velappar as their Kula Deivam.
Architecture
The temple follows a simple hill-temple architectural style, blending naturally with the rocky terrain. It does not have a large gopuram but consists of a Garbhagriha, Ardha Mandapa, and Maha Mandapa.
The sanctum faces west, which is considered unique. Stone sculptures depicting warriors, animals, birds, and mythological figures decorate the temple structure, reflecting Nayak-period craftsmanship.
History
Local traditions attribute the temple’s origin to the Pandya kings, especially King Koon Pandyan. The presence of fish symbols, the emblem of the Pandya dynasty, supports this belief. Over the centuries, due to its hill location, the temple faced natural wear but was later renovated by devoted followers, preserving its ancient sanctity.
Sthalapurana
In ancient times, the Vilpatti region was a dense forest filled with rocks and negative forces that troubled sages and villagers. Disturbed by these evil energies, the sages performed severe penance to Lord Murugan. Pleased with their devotion, Lord Murugan appeared on this rocky hill holding his divine Vel and destroyed the evil forces.
After his victory, Murugan stood on the rock radiating divine power and peace. Since he manifested on a rocky surface (Paarai in Tamil), he was first worshipped as Paarai Velappar. Later, after experiencing repeated successes through prayer, devotees began calling him Vetri Velappar, meaning the Lord who grants victory.
It is believed that after defeating the demons, Lord Murugan worshipped Lord Shiva at this very spot as an act of devotion to his father. Hence, a Shiva Lingam was consecrated beneath the Murugan idol, symbolizing the eternal unity of Shiva and Murugan.
Another legend connects this place with the Pandavas from the Mahabharata. During their exile, they are believed to have stayed in this hilly region and practiced archery. Since “Vil” means bow, the place came to be known as Vilpatti. The Pandavas are said to have prayed to Lord Murugan here and received divine blessings for victory in their future battles.
Devotees strongly believe that Sri Vetri Velappar appears in dreams, guides sincere devotees, and grants victory in legal matters, education, business, and personal struggles.
Festivals
Major festivals celebrated at this temple include Thai Poosam, Panguni Uthiram, Skanda Sashti, and Karthigai Deepam. On these auspicious days, special abhishekams, kavadi offerings, and processions are conducted. Devotees from nearby villages walk barefoot to the temple as part of their vows.
