Annamalaiyar Temple

Annamalaiyar Temple: Abode of Lord Shiva as Arunachala

Annamalaiyar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is a revered Hindu temple located at the base of Annamalai Hills in Tiruvannamalai. It is significant as one of the Pancha Bhoota Sthalams, representing the element of fire. A visit to the temple and the surrounding sacred hills offers a deeply spiritual experience, especially during festivals like Karthigai Deepam.

Expectations for Pilgrims

Sacred Offerings: Blessings from Lord Annamalaiyar

Prasad at Annamalaiyar Temple includes traditional South Indian sweets and savories, offered to the deity and then distributed to devotees as a symbol of blessings and divine grace.

Prasad / Prasadam :

Note : Prasad is readily available inside the temple premises, typically distributed near the sanctum sanctorum or at designated counters. Some prasad items are also sold in shops outside the temple.

What to Offer: Sacred Contributions to the Divine

Devotees visiting Annamalaiyar Temple can make various offerings to express their devotion and seek the blessings of Lord Shiva. These offerings range from flowers and fruits to monetary donations.

Devotee's Offerings

Offerings are usually made near the sanctum sanctorum, guided by priests. Monetary donations can be made at the donation counters within the temple complex. It is important to dress respectfully when visiting the temple.

Essential Experiences: Immerse in Tiruvannamalai's Spirituality

Activities:

Sacred Rituals & Pujas: Deepening Your Connection

Annamalaiyar Temple is a center for various daily rituals and special pujas. These ceremonies are an integral part of the temple's spiritual atmosphere, offering devotees a chance to connect with the divine.

Attending Pujas:

Non Attending Pujas:

Pujas and special rituals can be booked in advance at the temple's administrative office or through online portals managed by the temple. During peak season and festivals, it's recommended to book well in advance.

Historical Roots & Profound Meaning: Annamalaiyar Temple's Ancient Legacy

Annamalaiyar Temple boasts a rich history dating back centuries, with contributions from various dynasties, reflecting its importance as a major religious center.

Significance: A Paramount Spiritual Beacon

Annamalaiyar Temple holds immense spiritual significance for Hindus, particularly devotees of Lord Shiva. The temple represents the element of fire (Agni) and is considered a powerful spiritual center.

Key Aspects:

• Pancha Bhoota Sthalam Annamalaiyar Temple is one of the five Pancha Bhoota Sthalams, each representing one of the five elements: earth, water, fire, air, and ether. This association adds to its significance as a place of immense spiritual power.
• Mount Kailash of the South Annamalai Hill is often referred to as the Mount Kailash of the South, drawing parallels to the abode of Lord Shiva in the Himalayas. Devotees consider the hill to be a manifestation of Shiva himself.

Opening Hours

Sunday : 5:30 AM – 8:00 PM
Monday : 5:30 AM – 8:00 PM
Tuesday : 5:30 AM – 8:00 PM
Wednesday : 5:30 AM – 8:00 PM
Thursday : 5:30 AM – 8:00 PM
Friday : 5:30 AM – 8:00 PM
Saturday : 5:30 AM – 8:00 PM

User Review

Total Reviews : 40463

• Star Rating :
  Author Name : Kushal S
  Review Time : 3 months ago
  Review : I recently visited the Arunachaleswarar Temple in Thiruvannamalai, and it was a truly enriching experience. The temple's towering gopurams (gateway towers) and intricate carvings are awe-inspiring. Participating in the early morning Girivalam—a 14-kilometer barefoot walk around the sacred Arunachala Hill—was both challenging and spiritually uplifting. The path is well-marked, and the serene atmosphere, especially during the full moon, adds to the profound sense of peace. The temple staff were welcoming, and the rituals were conducted with deep reverence. I highly recommend this pilgrimage to anyone seeking spiritual enrichment and a glimpse into India's rich cultural heritage. . . . . Must visit the place for exploring the cultural heritage...!
  
  
• Star Rating :
  Author Name : Deepak
  Review Time : 2 weeks ago
  Review : Been visiting the temple for last 12 years but in recent years the crowd has increased significantly and even on a weekday in May took almost 4hrs. There was a heavy crowd as well. Wish they setup proper amenities to the crowd coming there. Beware of spammers outside temple. Have a good visit.
  
  
• Star Rating :
  Author Name : Aash Royal
  Review Time : a week ago
  Review : Arunachala Temple is a truly divine and serene sanctuary. The ambiance here exudes a potent blend of energy and tranquility, while the temple’s architectural marvels are nothing short of stunning. The spiritual atmosphere envelops the premises, and the Girivalam path provides an profoundly meaningful experience. For those seeking inner peace and divine blessings, Arunachala Temple stands as an indispensable destination.
  
  
• Star Rating :
  Author Name : Prudhvi Kanth Reddy Ganta
  Review Time : a week ago
  Review : It is a sacred and serene place. Its grand architecture, vibrant rituals, and spiritual energy draw thousands. Surrounded by nature, it offers peace, devotion, and a deep sense of divine connection. A must-visit for spiritual seekers.
  
  
• Star Rating :
  Author Name : aliya sk
  Review Time : a month ago
  Review : The Arunachaleswarar Temple in Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu, is one of the most sacred and significant Shiva temples in India. It holds deep spiritual, historical, and architectural importance. On the day of pornami there will be Jyothi prajvalana on hill. Never visit at pornami. There will be very crowd compare to other days. Location Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu, India Deity Lord Shiva (as Arunachaleswarar or Annamalaiyar) Consort Goddess Parvati (as Unnamulai Amman) Significance One of the Pancha Bhoota Stalams (Fire/Agni element) Associated Hill Arunachala Hill, considered a form of Lord Shiva Style Dravidian architecture Festival Highlight Karthigai Deepam – a giant fire lit atop Arunachala Hill Spiritual Significance Arunachaleswarar represents Agni (Fire) among the five elements (Pancha Bhootas). The Arunachala Hill is itself revered as a form of Shiva. It's believed that Lord Shiva appeared as an infinite column of fire here to settle a dispute between Brahma and Vishnu, leading to the celebration of Karthigai Deepam. Ramana Maharshi, one of India's most renowned modern saints, lived at the base of Arunachala Hill. He considered the Arunachala Hill as God incarnate and meditated in nearby caves such as Virupaksha Cave and Skandashram. Temple Architecture & Features. It's Spread over 25 acres, it is one of the largest temples in India. The Rajagopuram (main entrance tower) is about 66 meters (216 feet) high – one of the tallest temple towers in India. Includes numerous shrines, pillared halls (mandapams), tanks, and 1000-pillared hall. The temple has four main gopurams (towers) facing the cardinal directions. Karthigai Deepam Festival Celebrated in November–December (Karthigai month). A giant cauldron of ghee is lit atop Arunachala Hill, visible for miles – symbolizing Shiva as a pillar of fire. Devotees walk the 14-km Girivalam (circumambulation) path around the hill on full moon days, especially during this festival. Girivalam (Pradakshina of Arunachala Hill) Circumambulating the Arunachala Hill is a key spiritual practice. The path is about 14 kilometers and passes eight lingams (Ashta Lingams) and several sacred spots. It is believed to cleanse karma and bring spiritual liberation (moksha). 📍 How to Reach We will have a lot of buses to arunachalam from Kilambakkam Bus station. By Road: Well-connected by buses and private taxis from Chennai, Bengaluru, and other cities. By Train: Tiruvannamalai Railway Station is connected to major cities in Tamil Nadu. By Air: Nearest airports are in Chennai (180 km) and Bengaluru (200 km).