Suchindram Temple/Hanuman Temple

Suchindram Temple also known as Thanumalayan Temple is located in Suchindram district of Kanyakumari, at a distance of around 11 km from Kanyakumari. The striking aspect of this temple is that it is dedicated to the Trinity of God, Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu and Lord Brahma. Owing to this, it has high religious importance to devotees belonging to both Shaivite and Vaishnavite sects.

Also known as Sthanumalayan Perumal Temple, it consists of around 30 shrines and presents captivating architecture. The deity in the temple, Sri Sthanumalayan represents Sthanu means Lord Shiva, Mal symbolizes Lord Vishnu and Aya symbolizes Lord Brahma. This temple is also known with the name of Suchindram Lord Anjaneyar Temple.

History of Suchindram Temple, Kanyakumari

The ancient Suchindram Temple is said to be built in 17th Century. However, a few part of the temple can be traced back to 8th century to 15th Century. The inscriptions of the temple dates back to 9th Century.

Before the merger of Kanyakumari in the Tamilnadu State, Suchindram Temple came under the administration of Travancore Kingdom. The main temple of Travancore kingdom was at Padmanabhapuram. This temple is Vaishnavite. While in Nagercoil which was earlier under the control of Cholas, Chera and Pandya Reign, most of the residents were Shaivites. Hence, this temple presents a beautiful site where both Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu as well as Lord Brahma is worshipped. The worship at this temple is taken care of by the families of Namboodiri Brahmin.

Architecture of Suchindram Temple, Kanyakumari

Suchindram Temple of Kanyakumari is known not only for its religious significance but also for its alluring architecture. Its structural excellence allures everyone.

This temple has a white Gopuram of seven stories with its portico adorned with finely sculpted images of various deities. This 134 foot high Gopuram appears all the more astonishing as light rays fall on it, presenting a fine example of the architecture styles of South Indian temples. To the right side, there is huge temple tank; water from here is used for temple activities.

Major attractions of this temple are the four musical pillars with a height of 18 feet. These pillars have been carved out of a single granite stone. Located in the area of Alankara Mandapam, these pillars when struck create various musical notes, presenting exceptional example of architecture.

The temple has a dancing hall as well with around 1035 beautifully carved pillars.

The presiding deity, Sthanu (Lord Shiva), Mal (Lord Vishnu) and Aya (Lord Brahma) are in the sanctum sanctorum of the temple. By the side of sanctum sanctorum, there is a shrine for Lord Vishnu; the idol of the Lord has been made by combining eight different kinds of metals. On to the right side, there is shrine of Lord Rama and Goddess Sita, while on the left side is the shrine of Lord Ganesha. On the front, there is Navagraha mandapa. There are around 30 shrines in this temple including of those of Kailasanathar, Nataka Sala, Vadakkedam, Kailasattu Mahadeva, Pancha Pandavar, Kontai Adi, Guru Dakshinamurthy, Cheravasal Sastha, Lord Muruga, Garuda, Subramania Swamy and many more.

The massive idol of Lord Hanuman at a height of 22 feet is sure to allure every devotee here. The statue has been carved out of single granite rock. This state of Lord Hanuman, which is one of the largest statues in India, was kept hidden in the temple as attacks from Tipu Sultan were feared. Later in the year of 1930, it was found and was subsequently restored to it previous glory. Another striking aspect is the carving of Vinayaki (Female Vinayaka) in the temple. Majestic Image of Nandi, vehicle of Lord Shiva is also captivating with a height of 13 feet and length of 21 feet and width of 10 feet.

Timings of Suchindram Temple are from 4.30 to 11.30 in morning. The temple again opens for darshan in evening at 5 PM and closes at 8.30 PM.