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Photo: Kggouthaman, CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons
The Deity of Lord Murugan in Kumaran Kundram is considered to be equivalent to the one in Swamimalai. small hillock at Kumaran Kundram
Kumaran Kundram is a hillrock located at Chromepet, Chennai, Tamilnadu, India. It houses an about 40-year-old temple dedicated to the Hindu God Murugan. The temple can be reached by road from Chromepet en route to Hasthinapuram. The presiding deity is Sri Swaminathaswamy. The presiding deity in Kumaran Kundram is believed to be equivalent to the one in Swamimalai and stands atop the hillock facing north. It can be reached by a flight of about 80 steps.
A Shiva temple built between 956 and 973 CE during the reign of Parantaka Chola II. A number of religious festivals are celebrated at the temple, including Pradosha, Panguni Uttiram and during Navaratri, devotees visit to offer special pujas.
Neervana Perumal Temple
This temple is one of the 108 places considered sacred by Vaishnatives. Legend has it that sage Valmiki, after composing the Ramayana, prayed in the temple and saw the divine darshan of Lord Vishnu in three forms.
Popular among bird watchers and is home to about 85 species of birds.
Vandalur Zoo
Chennai has the distinction of having the first zoo in India, which was started in 1855. This park is said to be one of the biggest in South Asia. The wildlife population is exhibited in a large open-moated island enclosure with a simulated natural environment. More than 170 species of mammals, birds and reptiles are housed in this park. Lion safari vehicles, elephant rides, battery operated vehicles are some of the facilities available. The peak time is during Pongal and weekend holidays.
Pallavapuram Hill
A hilly park with walking trails, and views of the Chennai skyline.