Ratnagiri Balamurugan Temple – Vellore
Vellore Ratnagiri Balamurugan Temple
Listed as one of the ancient temples in Tamil Nadu, dedicated to Lord Murugan, is the Ratnagiri Balamurugan Temple in Thirumanikundram, Vellore.
The chief deity of the temple Lord Murugan has self-manifested in two forms- one with his consorts Valli and Deva Sena (Lord Thirukolam) and the other in the form of the Guru (Lord Gurukolam). The temple was built in the 14th century. Balamurugan Adimaigal developed this hilltop temple.
The temple tower or Gopuram is five-storeyed and was built in the year 1975. Separate shrines dedicated to Lord Ganesha, Lord Shani and Navagraha are also found in the temple.
Aadi Kritika (July-August) and Thai Krithika (January-February) are the important festivals observed in the temple.
The temple is open on all days from 6:00 AM to 1:00 PM and from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Temple timings are subject to changes on special days.
One can avail direct bus from Vellore to Ratnagiri Temple. The nearest railway station is at Vellore at a distance of 15 kilometers from the temple and the nearest airport is at Chennai (115 kilometers away).