Built by Tamil kings during the 12 century CE, Lord Murugan in this temple is worshipped in the form of Dhandayuthapani. According to Puranas, a Siddha overcome by tiredness, take shelter under the shade of a Marudha tree and pray to God to help him to quench his thirst. Suddenly water sprinted out from the roots of the tree and leaped in joy, the saint worshipped Muruga and this place is called Marudhamalai.The major feature of this hill is that it grows important medicinal herbs, which are used extensively in making ayurvedic medicines. Other attractions nearby include Thaan Thondri Vinaayakar, a temple for Lord Ganesha that lies at the foothills, and a cave temple, called Paambaatti Sitthar Kugai, which is dedicated to a Siddha, a saint believed to have supernatural powers, who lived in the area. Two festivals that are celebrated here with much fanfare are the Thai Poosam, in January and February, and Thiru Karthigai, in November or December.The temple can be accessed via a long flight of steps, and from the top, you can get sweeping views of the surrounding landscape. From the Coimbatore bus stand, many city buses ply to Marudhamalai. The Devasthanam has provided 3 buses from the foothill to reach the temple on top.