Tiruvannamalai

Arunachaleswarar Temple

Tiruvannamalai, home of the sacred Arunachaleswarar Temple, is one of the most important Shiva temples in India. Lakhs of devotees visit this holy place every month for darshan, Girivalam, and to experience the divine power of Annamalai Hill.
Here, you will find verified, clear, and updated information to make your visit easy and peaceful.

Ancient Temple of Lord Shiva as Agni Lingam

🕉️ About Tiruvannamalai Temple

The Arunachaleswarar Temple is one of the Pancha Bhoota Sthalams, where Lord Shiva is worshipped as the element of Fire (Agni).
The temple covers 25 acres and is known for its tall Rajagopuram (about 66 meters), four major towers, long corridors, and ancient stone carvings.

Important Highlights:

One of the largest Shiva temples in India

Associated with the divine form of Arunachala (Annamalai Hill)

Known for deep spiritual vibrations and centuries-old rituals

This temple is considered a place where devotees can find inner peace, clarity, and spiritual strength.

Updated Temple Darshan and Pooja Schedule

🙏 Darshan Timings

The temple follows a fixed daily routine. Pilgrims need correct timings to plan their darshan without confusion.

General Darshan Timings:

Morning Darshan: Around 5:30 AM to 12:30 PM
Evening Darshan: From 3:30 PM to 9:30 PM

Major Poojas include:

Palliyarai Pooja
Kala Santhi Pooja
Uchikala Pooja
Sayaratchai Pooja
Arthajama Pooja

Temple timings may change during festivals and special days.
We update the timings regularly so pilgrims can plan their visit smoothly.

🚶‍♂️ Girivalam (Giri Pradakshina) Guide

Sacred 14 km Walk Around Annamalai Hill

Girivalam is one of the most powerful spiritual practices in Tiruvannamalai.
Devotees walk 14 km barefoot around Annamalai Hill, chanting prayers and experiencing the divine presence of Lord Shiva.

Key Points for Girivalam:

Best time: Pournami nights and early mornings

Route length: 14 km around the hill

Important stops: Ashta Lingams, Siddhar shrines, sacred tanks

Benefits: Brings peace, removes worries, and is believed to burn past karma

During Pournami, lakhs of people participate in Girivalam. We provide maps, route details, and safety tips to make your pradakshina easier.

Maha Deepam Lit on Top of Arunachala Hill

🔥 Karthigai Deepam Festival

Karthigai Deepam is the most important festival in Tiruvannamalai.
A huge flame called Maha Deepam is lit on the top of Arunachala Hill after sunset, symbolising Lord Shiva as infinite light (Jyoti).

Festival Highlights:

Celebrated in the Tamil month of Karthigai (Nov–Dec)
Deepam is lit at the exact time fixed by temple authorities
The entire temple and town glow with lakhs of oil lamps
Lakhs of devotees visit to witness this divine moment

This festival attracts pilgrims from across the world and is one of the most spiritually charged experiences in India.

Important Utsavams Celebrated in the Temple

🎉 Festivals of Tiruvannamalai

Throughout the year, the temple celebrates many important festivals:

Karthigai Deepam
Maha Shivaratri
Pradosham
Panguni Uthiram
Navaratri
Thai Poosam
Vasantha Utsavam
Chitra Pournami
Monthly Girivalam Pournami

Each festival has its own rituals, significance, and crowd flow.
We share festival dates, pooja timings, and event details to help pilgrims plan ahead.