Pachaimalai Arulmigu Subramanya Swamy Temple, also known as the Pachaimalai Balamurugan Temple, is one of the two major hill temples located in Gobichettipalayam, Tamil Nadu, dedicated to Lord Murugan. Constructed in the traditional Tamil architectural style, the temple sits atop a small hillock on the outskirts of Gobichettipalayam, near Pudupalayam. Here, Kartikeya is revered as Balamurugan, offering devotees a serene and spiritual atmosphere, inviting them to seek blessings and guidance.
The name "Pachaimalai" translates to "green hill," a reflection of the lush landscape surrounding the temple. Legend has it that a water spring flows directly beneath the sanctum sanctorum, contributing to the hill's verdant beauty. Remarkably, during the drought years from 2001 to 2005, while nearby wells ran dry, water remained accessible at the temple, showcasing the divine presence believed to bless the site and its visitors.
Historically, the temple is linked to Saint Durvasa, who, during his stay in Kongu Nadu, sought a suitable place for penance dedicated to Lord Shiva. Guided by divine insight, he arrived at Modachur and later ascended the hillock of Pachaimalai to worship Sri Murugan, installing a statue facing west. After years of neglect, the temple was revitalized in 1954 when Amarar P. K. Kuppusamy Gounder witnessed a divine light emanating from the shrine, leading to its restoration by 1980.
Architecturally, the temple features a striking five-story gopuram, emblematic of Dravidian design. The main deity, Balamurugan, is depicted in his child form and faces westward. Notably, the temple boasts a towering 40-foot statue of Lord Senthilandavar, among the largest of Murugan in the state, visible from the town. Additionally, the temple complex includes shrines to various deities, including Vidya Ganapathy and the Navagraham, with their consorts uniquely seated on their respective mounts, enhancing the temple’s spiritual significance.