Nestled at the foothills of the sacred Annamalai Hills in Tamil Nadu lies one of India’s most powerful and awe-inspiring temples — the Arunachaleswarar Temple (also known as Arunachalam Temple).
Dedicated to Lord Shiva, who manifests here as a column of fire, this ancient temple has for centuries drawn saints, pilgrims, and travelers seeking spiritual peace and divine energy.
Located in the serene town of Tiruvannamalai, about 185 km from Chennai, the temple is not just a monument of devotion but a living embodiment of Tamil culture, architecture, and philosophy.
According to Hindu mythology, a dispute once arose between Lord Vishnu and Lord Brahma about who was supreme. To settle it, Lord Shiva appeared as an endless pillar of fire, challenging both to find his beginning and end.
Vishnu transformed into a boar and dug deep into the earth, while Brahma flew high as a swan. Neither succeeded.
Realizing Shiva’s infinite nature, they bowed before him — and thus, Shiva became known as Arunachaleswarar, the Lord of the Fire Mountain.
The Annamalai Hill itself is believed to be a form of Shiva — hence, devotees consider walking around the hill (Girivalam or Giri Pradakshina) to be equivalent to circumambulating the Lord himself.
Spread across 25 acres, the Arunachaleswarar Temple is one of the largest temples in India.
Its four monumental gopurams (gateway towers) rise majestically into the sky, with the East Raja Gopuram standing at an impressive 66 meters, built by King Krishnadevaraya of the Vijayanagara Empire.
Inside, intricately carved stone corridors, pillared halls, and sacred tanks reflect centuries of Tamil craftsmanship.
The temple’s design aligns with ancient Vastu Shastra principles, symbolizing spiritual ascension from the earthly realm toward the divine flame at the summit.
Every element of the temple — from its towering gateways to its innermost sanctum — tells stories of devotion, mythology, and timeless artistry.
The 14-kilometer circumambulation around the sacred Arunachala Hill is a deeply transformative spiritual experience.
Thousands of devotees undertake this journey, especially during Full Moon nights, chanting “Om Arunachaleswaraya Namah,” believing that each step burns away karma and brings inner peace.
The most celebrated event in Tiruvannamalai is the Karthigai Deepam, usually held in November or December.
A massive fire beacon is lit atop the hill, visible for miles — symbolizing Shiva’s eternal light. The entire town glows with thousands of lamps, chanting, and pure devotion — a sight that leaves visitors spellbound.
Six daily poojas, from early dawn to late night, mark the rhythm of worship here. The fragrance of incense, rhythmic temple bells, and ancient chants create an atmosphere that transcends time.
Even casual visitors can feel the serenity and divine vibration within the temple walls.
Timings: 5:00 AM – 12:30 PM | 3:30 PM – 9:30 PM
Best Season: November – February (cooler months and festival season)
Dress Code: Traditional and modest attire is appreciated. Footwear is not allowed inside temple premises.
Girivalam Tip: Begin the walk after sunset for comfort. Carry water and walk barefoot if possible for the full devotional experience.
Nearby Attractions: Sri Ramana Maharshi Ashram, Virupaksha Cave, Seshadri Swamigal Ashram, and Annamalai Hill viewpoint.
If you’re planning a visit to Tiruvannamalai Arunachaleswarar Temple, make your stay comfortable and divine at MPS Sai Palace — a modern, serene hotel located just minutes away from the temple.
Enjoy spacious rooms, clean facilities, and warm hospitality that complements your spiritual journey.
Our hotel offers easy access to the temple, Ramana Ashram, and the Girivalam route, making it the perfect base for pilgrims and travelers alike.
🌺 “At MPS Sai Palace, we don’t just host guests — we host seekers.”
To experience the living energy of Shiva as fire (Agni Lingam).
To witness centuries-old Tamil temple architecture at its finest.
To join thousands of devotees in the sacred Full Moon Girivalam.
To find peace, perspective, and a sense of oneness beneath the divine hill of Arunachala.
A visit to Arunachaleswarar Temple is more than a pilgrimage — it’s a spiritual homecoming.
The flickering lamps, chanting devotees, and the fiery beacon atop the hill remind every soul of the eternal truth — the divine flame burns within each of us.
Whether you come as a tourist, a pilgrim, or simply a curious traveler, Tiruvannamalai welcomes you with an ancient whisper:
“Arunachala is not a place you visit — it is a presence you feel.”
Temple Location: Tiruvannamalai – 606 601, Tamil Nadu, India
Distance from Hotel MPS Sai Palace: ~1 km from the Temple
Nearest Station: Tiruvannamalai Railway Station (4 km)
Contact for Stay: +91 94865 63222 | mpssaipalace.in
