The annual pilgrimage at Velliangiri Hills, also known as the ‘Kailash of the South’, began earlier in February, marking the start of the four-month spiritual journey in Coimbatore. Amid this, several trekkers and devotees claimed that authorities had imposed a ban on wearing footwear while climbing the hills. The authorities have now clarified that there was a misunderstanding regarding the rule. Scroll on to know more about this.
Are Footwear Now Banned At Velliangiri Hills?
According to The New Indian Express, authorities have clarified that the alleged footwear ban at Velliangiri Hills applies only within the premises of the Poondi temple. They explained that the rule had been misinterpreted by some volunteers, who put up banners asking people to refrain from wearing footwear while climbing the hills.
Trekkers spotted signboards declaring the prohibition of footwear on the hill. It turns out, the alleged ban news spread through word of mouth, and some people put up the signboards. Now, lakhs of devotees visit Velliangiri Hills between February and May to offer prayers at the Velliangiri Andavar Temple. The mountain terrain is steep, rugged, physically demanding, and filled with leeches, insects, venomous snakes and wild animals.
It can also be life-threatening. According to reports, nine people lost their lives last year due to various health issues, and one death has been reported so far in 2026. Given the challenging nature of the trek, only physically fit individuals are advised to attempt it. Authorities have also clarified that trekkers are allowed to wear footwear of their choice.
The temple authorities have clarified that the footwear ban applies only within the premises of the Poondi temple at Velliangiri Hills to maintain the sanctity of the shrine. Trekkers are allowed to carry their footwear and can wear it once they begin the climb.
Also Read: Odisha To Sponsor Puri Jagannath Temple Darshan For Poor Devotees, Making Devotion Inclusive
More About The ‘Kailash Of The South’
Velliangiri Hills are often referred to as the “Kailash of the South” or Thenkailayam. This seven-hill range in the Western Ghats, located near Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, stands at an elevation of around 6,000 feet. The hills are widely known for the challenging 6-kilometre trek that leads to a self-manifested (swayambu) Shiva temple atop the seventh hill. Devotees typically spend 8-10 hours completing the trek, with the first and seventh hills considered the most challenging.
Also Read: Watch: Snowy Aarti At Rudranath Temple In Uttarakhand Goes Viral, Leaves Devotees Spellbound
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Cover Image Courtesy: Wikimedia Commons
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