Sri Mariamman Temple Sulakkal – History, Legend, Festivals, Timings & Devotee Beliefs

 

Location

• Situated at Sulakkal village, about 13 km from Pollachi Junction, Tamil Nadu.
• One of the most revered temples in Kongunadu region 

History & Legend

• The temple is around 400 years old, dedicated to Goddess Ambika (Mariamman).
• The deity is a Swayambu Murthy (self‑manifested).
• Legend:
• Cows from nearby Velayudhampalayam village were mysteriously pouring milk at a particular spot.
• When villagers tried to stop them, a cow’s hoof struck the ground, revealing the swayambu idol.
• The goddess appeared in the cow owner’s dream, instructing him to build a temple at the site.
• The scar on the idol is believed to be from the cow’s hoof.

Unique Features

• Goddess is called Vadukku Vayil Selvi, as she faces North (Vadukku in Tamil).
• Idol in sanctum: sitting posture with four hands –
• Right hands: Udukkai (drum) and sword.
• Left hands: trident and skull.
• Though there is a separate Utsava Murthy, all abhishekams are performed only to the main idol.
• A Sulam (trident) near the Swayambu Murthy gave the place its name Sulakkal.

Beliefs & Devotion

• Vision Cure: Devotees believe Mother Sulakkai blesses them with relief from eye problems.
• They stay in the temple for a day and apply abhisheka theertha on their eyes.
• Child Blessings: Couples without children tie cradles on the sacred Mavilangai tree, seeking divine grace.
• The temple is renowned for fulfilling heartfelt prayers and healing devotees.

Festivals & Rituals

• Chithirai Festival (May):
• Begins on the last Tuesday of Chithirai month.
• Celebrated for 15 days with grandeur.
• Temple chariot gifted by Puravipalayam Zameen members is used in processions.
• Special Poojas: Conducted on Tuesdays and Fridays.
• Daily worship includes abhishekams and traditional rituals.

Timings

• Morning: 6:00 AM – 1:00 PM
• Evening: 3:00 PM – 8:00 PM

Getting Here

• By Road:
• The temple is located in Sulakkal village, about 13 km from Pollachi Junction.
• Pollachi is well connected by buses from Coimbatore (40 km), Tiruppur, and Palakkad.
• From Pollachi, autos and local buses are available to Sulakkal.
• By Train:
• Nearest station: Pollachi Junction.
• Major trains connect Pollachi with Coimbatore, Palakkad, and Madurai.
• By Air:
• Nearest airport: Coimbatore International Airport (~50 km).
• From the airport, taxis or buses to Pollachi, then onward to Sulakkal.

Tips

• Early mornings or evenings for peaceful darshan.
• Chithirai festival (May) is the grandest celebration.
• Traditional attire is preferred (men: dhoti/shirt; women: saree/salwar).
• Tuesdays and Fridays are considered auspicious, with special poojas.
• Devotees with eye problems stay a day and apply abhisheka theertha to their eyes.
• Couples seeking children tie cradles on the sacred Mavilangai tree.
• Basic amenities available in Pollachi town; plan to stay there if needed.
• Vegetarian eateries are common in Pollachi.
• Combine your visit with nearby attractions like Topslip, Aliyar Dam, Valparai, and other Pollachi temples for a full day trip.