Tiruchendur  (article courtesy of Mr. Suresh)

Tiruchendur, the grand seaside temple of Muruga, the Second among the Six Padai veedu shrines, is near Tirunelveli and Kanya Kumari in Southern Tamil Nadu.

The temple signifies the victory of the Lord against the asura (demon) Surapadman and hence Muruga here is worshipped as Senthil Andavar.

Unlike most other temples of Aru Padai Veedu, Tiruchendur is not on a hill and is located near the sea. It may be the only major Muruga temple situated near sea: As a rule, His temples are either on top of hills or in forests. Though the main shrine is ancient, most other structures of the temple were constructed during 19 – 20th century.

Legend has it that Muruga vanquished the demon Soorapadman and his army, in his fortress Veeramahendram situated in the middle of the sea here. The demon was a nuisance to the gods (Devas) and often found joy in torturing and imprisoning them.