Arunachaleswarar Temple in Tiruvannamalai is one of the most pious Shiva temples in India and is situated in the Tiruvannamalai district in Tamil Nadu. This temple is a shrine for Lord Arunachaleswarar (Lord Shiva) and Goddess Unnamulai Amman (Goddess Parvati). The temple is one of the renowned Pancha Bhoota Stalas, symbolizing the Fire (Agni) element. Each day, many devotees come to visit the temple for blessings and perform Girivalam around Arunachala Hill, along with other poojas. It is essential that if you want to visit, you should know the Tiruvannamalai temple timings today.
Tiruvannamalai Temple Timings Today
| Activity | Time |
|---|---|
| Temple Opening Time | 5:30 AM |
| Morning Darshan | 5:30 AM – 3:00 PM |
| Evening Darshan | 3:00 PM – 8:00 PM |
| Temple Closing Time | 8:00 PM |
Location of Tiruvannamalai Temple
The Tiruvannamalai Arunachaleswarar Temple is located in the sacred city of Tiruvannamalai in the state of Tamil Nadu, India. Located on the base of the sacred hill Arunachala, the temple is one of the most sacred pilgrimage centers devoted to Lord Shiva. It is situated about 195 km from Chennai, 205 km from Bengaluru, and 110 km from Vellore and is quite easily reachable through road, rail transport, and airports in proximity. The temple is situated right in the center of the city of Tiruvannamalai, with hotels, restaurants, shops, and transport being within easy reach from the temple premises.
Quick Information of Tiruvannamalai Temple
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| Temple Name | Arunachaleswarar Temple |
| Also Known As | Annamalaiyar Temple |
| Location | Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu |
| Main Deity | Lord Arunachaleswarar (Shiva) |
| Goddess | Unnamulai Amman |
| Famous For | Girivalam, Karthigai Deepam |
| Temple Type | Pancha Bhoota Sthalam (Fire Element) |
| Built By | Chola Dynasty (Expanded by Vijayanagara Kings) |
| Best Time to Visit | October to March |
About Tiruvannamalai Arunachaleswarar Temple
Arunachaleswarar Temple is one of the largest temple complexes in South India, covering nearly 25 acres. The temple is famous for its majestic Rajagopuram, ancient architecture, beautifully carved mandapams, and spiritual atmosphere. The sacred Arunachala Hill behind the temple is believed to be Lord Shiva himself, making this place one of the holiest pilgrimage destinations for Shaivites.
History of Tiruvannamalai Temple
Arunachaleswarar Temple’s historical background can be traced to about a thousand years ago. The first temples were constructed by the Chola kings, while the subsequent expansions took place during the periods of the Vijayanagara Empire and Nayak kings. As per Hindu mythology, Lord Shiva had revealed himself as an eternal column of fire in order to end the debate between Lord Brahma and Lord Vishnu.
Why is Tiruvannamalai Temple Famous?
The temple is famous for many spiritual and historical reasons.
- One of the Pancha Bhoota Sthalas
- Represents the Fire element
- Sacred Arunachala Hill
- Monthly Girivalam pilgrimage
- Karthigai Deepam Festival
- Massive Rajagopuram
- Ancient Dravidian architecture
- One of the biggest Shiva temples in India
Tiruvannamalai Temple Daily Pooja Timings
| Pooja | Time |
|---|---|
| Thiruvanandal Pooja | 5:30 AM |
| Vilaa Pooja | 6:30 AM |
| Kalasanthi Pooja | 8:00 AM |
| Uchikalam Pooja | 11:30 AM |
| Sayaraksha Pooja | 5:30 PM |
| Second Kalam | 7:30 PM |
| Arthajama Pooja | 8:30 PM |
Tiruvannamalai Temple Aarti Timings
The temple performs several aartis throughout the day along with traditional Vedic chanting. The early morning aarti and evening Deeparadhana are considered highly auspicious and attract a large number of devotees.
Special Sevas of Tiruvannamalai Temple
Devotees can participate in various sevas offered by the temple.
- Abhishekam
- Archana
- Rudrabhishekam
- Deepa Aradhana
- Special Festival Poojas
- Annadanam
Tiruvannamalai Girivalam Timings
Girivalam is the sacred walk around Arunachala Hill.
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Distance | Approximately 14 km |
| Best Time | Early Morning or Evening |
| Time Required | 3–5 Hours |
| Special Day | Every Full Moon (Pournami) |
Importance of Girivalam
Girivalam is believed to remove negative karma, bring peace of mind, improve health, and bless devotees with prosperity. Walking barefoot around Arunachala Hill while chanting Lord Shiva’s name is considered one of the most sacred spiritual practices.
Temple Entry Fee
| Service | Charges |
|---|---|
| General Darshan | Free |
| Girivalam | Free |
| Vehicle Parking | Paid |
| Special Darshan | Available during selected occasions |
Tiruvannamalai Temple VIP Darshan
During festivals and peak seasons, the temple administration may arrange special darshan facilities for devotees. Availability depends on crowd management and temple regulations.
Tiruvannamalai Temple Dress Code
Visitors should wear decent and traditional attire.
Men
- Dhoti
- Kurta
- Shirt with Full Pants
Women
- Saree
- Salwar Suit
- Churidar
- Traditional Indian Dress
Shorts, sleeveless tops, and revealing dresses should be avoided.
Temple Architecture
The temple showcases classic Dravidian architecture with beautifully carved pillars, huge mandapams, sacred tanks, and towering gopurams. The eastern Rajagopuram is among the tallest temple towers in India and is an architectural masterpiece.
Main Shrines Inside the Temple
- Lord Arunachaleswarar
- Goddess Unnamulai Amman
- Lord Ganesha
- Lord Murugan
- Chandikeswarar
- Nataraja
- Navagrahas
- Dakshinamurthy
Temple Festivals
The temple celebrates numerous festivals every year.
- Karthigai Deepam
- Maha Shivaratri
- Panguni Uthiram
- Thai Poosam
- Chitra Pournami
- Pradosham
- Monthly Pournami Girivalam
Karthigai Deepam Festival
Karthigai Deepam is the biggest festival celebrated at Tiruvannamalai. A giant lamp is lit on top of Arunachala Hill, symbolizing Lord Shiva’s infinite form of fire. Lakhs of devotees gather every year to witness this grand spiritual event.
Best Time to Visit
October to March is considered the best time to visit due to pleasant weather. Devotees who wish to experience the temple’s vibrant spiritual atmosphere should visit during Full Moon days or Karthigai Deepam.
How to Reach Tiruvannamalai Temple
By Air
The nearest airports are Chennai and Bengaluru.
By Train
Tiruvannamalai Railway Station is well connected with major cities in Tamil Nadu.
By Road
Regular government and private buses operate from Chennai, Bengaluru, Vellore, Salem, Puducherry, and nearby towns.
Parking Facility of Tiruvannamalai Temple
Paid parking is available near the temple for cars, bikes, and buses. During festivals, temporary parking arrangements are also made.
Accommodation Near Tiruvannamalai Temple
Pilgrims can choose from various accommodation options.
- Budget Hotels
- Mid-range Hotels
- Luxury Hotels
- Temple Guest Houses
- Ashrams
- Dharamshalas
Nearby Attractions
- Arunachala Hill
- Sri Ramana Ashram
- Skandashram
- Virupaksha Cave
- Seshadri Swamigal Ashram
- Yogi Ramsuratkumar Ashram
- Sathanur Dam
Nearby Temples
- Adi Annamalai Temple
- Pachaiamman Temple
- Durga Amman Temple
- Sri Renugambal Temple
- Vediyappan Temple
Local Food Near Tiruvannamalai Temple
| Food | Description |
|---|---|
| Idli | Soft South Indian breakfast |
| Dosa | Crispy rice pancake |
| Pongal | Rice and lentil dish |
| Vada | Fried lentil snack |
| Filter Coffee | Traditional South Indian coffee |
| Lemon Rice | Popular temple meal |
| Curd Rice | Refreshing rice dish |
Shopping Near the Temple
Visitors can buy:
- Rudraksha malas
- Brass idols
- Shiva lingams
- Incense sticks
- Kumkum
- Camphor
- Spiritual books
- Wooden handicrafts
- Temple souvenirs
Temple Rules
- Remove footwear before entering.
- Wear modest clothing.
- Maintain silence inside the temple.
- Photography is restricted in certain areas.
- Do not carry alcohol or tobacco.
- Follow temple staff instructions.
- Keep the temple premises clean.
Photography Rules of Tiruvannamalai Temple
Photography is generally allowed only in the outer premises. Cameras and mobile photography may be restricted inside the sanctum and certain temple areas.
Facilities Available
- Drinking Water
- Washrooms
- Shoe Stand
- Wheelchair Assistance
- Parking
- Cloak Room
- Prasadam Counter
- Security Services
Spiritual Benefits of Visiting Tiruvannamalai Temple
According to Hindu beliefs, visiting Arunachaleswarar Temple and performing Girivalam helps devotees attain inner peace, remove sins, overcome obstacles, strengthen spiritual awareness, and receive Lord Shiva’s blessings for health, prosperity, and family well-being.
Interesting Facts About Tiruvannamalai Temple
- One of the Pancha Bhoota Sthalas.
- Represents the Fire element.
- Rajagopuram is about 217 feet tall.
- Temple covers nearly 25 acres.
- Arunachala Hill is worshipped as Lord Shiva.
- Girivalam route is approximately 14 kilometers.
- Millions of pilgrims visit annually.
- Karthigai Deepam is one of India’s largest temple festivals.
Travel Tips
- Visit early morning for less crowd.
- Carry water while doing Girivalam.
- Wear comfortable clothes.
- Avoid afternoon heat.
- Keep your belongings safe.
- Book hotels in advance during festivals.
- Follow temple customs respectfully.
Conclusion
Tiruvannamalai Arunachaleswarar Temple is one of the most sacred Shiva temples in India and draws millions of devotees annually. For whether you come here to have daily darshan, Girivalam or Karthigai Deepam festival that is very famous all around the world, knowledge about Tiruvannamalai temple timings will make your pilgrimage convenient. With rich history, beautiful architecture, sacred Arunachala Hill, and spiritual importance, this temple will give unique experience to each pilgrim.
FAQs
What are the Tiruvannamalai temple timings today?
The temple generally opens at 5:30 AM and closes around 8:00 PM.
Is there any entry fee?
No, general darshan is free.
What is Girivalam?
Girivalam is the sacred 14-kilometer walk around Arunachala Hill performed by devotees.
Which is the biggest festival?
Karthigai Deepam is the grandest festival celebrated at the temple.
Can I visit during Full Moon?
Yes, Pournami is one of the most auspicious days to visit.
Is parking available?
Yes, paid parking facilities are available near the temple.
Are mobile phones allowed?
Mobile phones are generally allowed, but photography inside the sanctum is restricted.
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