HISTORY

Sirumalai’s religious history blends Hindu and Siddha traditions, rooted in ancient mythology, saintly settlements, and long-standing temples and shrines.
Hindu and Mythological Significance – Sanjeevani Hill legend: Sirumalai is identified with the Sanjeevani episode from the Ramayana. It is believed that when Lord Hanuman couldn’t find the specific herb, he lifted the entire mountainscape to save Lakshmana; on his return, a piece of that mountain fell here, giving rise to the “Sanjeevani Hills” within Sirumalai.
Agastya and the Siddhas: The area around Agasthiarpuram (Agastya Puram) is considered holy because the sage Agastya Siddhar and other siddhas are said to have lived there since ancient times, practicing medicine and meditation using the region’s abundant medicinal herbs.
Silver Hill (Vellimalai) and the Shiva Lingam:
• The tallest peak, Silver Hill, is traditionally said to have originally been made of silver. To prevent destructive human greed in Kali Yuga, Agastya Siddhar is believed to have transmuted it into stone via alchemy, leaving only a silver shimmer in sunlight.
• At its summit stands a 500-year-old Shiva Lingam, making it an important Siva worship site; devotees climb 30–45 minutes to reach it.
Vellimalai Murugan Temple: A famous Lord Murugan temple is located on the mountain, reached after about a 45-minute climb over the valley. It is widely revered in neighboring villages and towns.