Significance: Palani (Pazhani - Tiruvaavinankudi) is one of the six padai vedu shrines of Murugan, representing the sites where Murugan the valiant commander of the gods sojourned, while he proceded to battle against the demon Soorapadman. Palani is probably one of the most visited and the most endowed temples in the state of   Tamilnadu. The Dhandayudapani Temple is located on the 450 feet high Palani malai in the town of Palani near Madurai. 690 stone steps line the mountain passage and an electric winch also takes pilgrims up the hill.

This temple is refered to in the Tamil work Thirumurugatruppadai of Nakeerar of the Sangam age (pre Christian era). Arunagirinaathar, the saint poet  has composed 95 verses on Palani in his Thirupugazh. The Palani malai hill temple and the Thiruvavinankudi temple at the foot hills form a composite unit. The Thiruvavinankudi temple is refered to as Kuzhandhaivelayudar temple and the Saravanpoigai tank is located near it.