Jnanamalai, the Mount of Wisdom, referred to in many scriptures as a sacred place of Muruga worship, could be identified only recently. It was identified by the discovery of a stone inscription, dating back to AD 1320, in 1998. This is the only temple where an imprint of Lord Muruga’s footprints can be seen.
Jnanamalai is a hill temple surrounded by a lake and fertile plains. The temple is more than 1300 years old. The idol, dating back to the Pallava era, is in the Brahmasasta form. Muruga is seen here along with his consorts, Valli and Devayani.
There is a small Shiva shrine on the western side of the mountain, behind which is found the footprint of Lord Muruga on the rocks.
It is at Jnanamalai that the revered saint, Arunagirinathar attained the experience of oneness or yoga anubhuti. The feet of the Lord were revealed to him here. Both facts are mentioned in Thiruppugazh.
Jñanamalai is 15 kilometres off the National Highway from Chennai to Bangalore, at about 97 km from Chennai. The nearest airport is at Chennai.
