Thiruparankundram

Thiruparankundram is counted first among the six. The shrine is cut into the rock of the hill itself rather than built on it, which is unusual among Tamil temples of this scale and gives the sanctum its close, cave-like quality.

It marks Murugan's marriage to Deivanai, the daughter of Indra, granted to him after the defeat of Surapadman. Because of that, it is one of the most auspicious places in Tamil Nadu for a wedding, and Panguni Uthiram — the festival of divine marriages — is observed here with particular weight.

Devotees commonly bring a Vel to be blessed here before keeping it at home, and the temple is a common first stop for anyone setting out to complete all six.