Maruthuva Malai is also known as 'Marunthu Vazhum Malai', which literally means the abode of medicinal herbs. Legend has it that Maruthuva Malai is a fragment of the Sanjeevani Mountain, a piece of which fell down here while being carried by Lord Hanuman to cure Lakshman. Besides, Shri Narayana Guru, a great social reformer, is believed to have meditated in a cave in the Maruthuva Malai.

Maruthuva Malai Shiva Temple and Nayanar Swamy Ashram are the prime attractions in the vicinity.

By road, Maruthuva Malai can be approached from Kanyakumari Central Bus Station. Kanyakumari Railway Station is the nearest railhead. Trivandrum International Airport is the nearest airport.