Malleswaramudi-The Peak of Malleswara (Lord Siva)

It is the highest peak at Attappadi. This peak is 4500 meter above sea level. This peak can be seen from all over Attappadi. Mallesawaran is one of the names of Lord Siva. It means Husband of Malli. The legend is that Lord Siva fell in love with Malli, Daughter of a Tribal chief of Muduga tribe and wanted to Marry her. Since the young man's whereabouts were unknown the chief refused the request. Yet Siva ran away with Malli to this peak. When the people realized that it was non other than Siva they apologized for their misbehavior. They wanted his presence to be here in Attappadi. So he promised be in the peak guarding the tribal people at Attappadi. Sivaratri is the festival of Attappadi. As the believe goes on Sivaratri night when Siva sleeps, all the tribal people keep awake with dance and songs to guard him. All other days Siva guards them. On Sivaratri evening a light is lit on the top of the peak and it is seen by all tribal settlements in Attappadi. It is the symbol of Lord Siva's presence in Attappadi.