Arunachalam Temple is located in Tiruvannamalai in Tamil Nadu. Arunachalam Hill is popular for its sacred tradition of Pradakshina around the holy hill. Let’s uncover its significance, rituals, and the spiritual journey it offers. Discover the full details of Arunachalam Temple Giri Pradakshina, a famous pilgrimage that draws countless devotees seeking divine blessings.
Significance of Arunachalam Temple Giri Pradakshina
- The act of walking around the hill in a clockwise direction, with the right side facing the object of adoration, is known as “Giri Pradakshina.”
- Pradakshina signifies the removal of sins, fulfillment of desires, freedom from future births, and deliverance through knowledge (jnana).
- According to Sri Ramana Maharshi, each step taken during Pradakshina brings increasing levels of happiness: one step for happiness in this world, two steps for happiness in heaven, and three steps for the bliss of Satyaloka.
- During Pradakshina, one can choose to maintain silence (mouna), engage in meditation (dhyana), repeat the Lord’s name (japa), or participate in devotional singing (sankeertana), while constantly contemplating on God.
- Siddhars, revered spiritual practitioners, are believed to still reside on the hill according to tradition.
- The town of Tiruvannamalai features an octagonal structure due to the presence of eight lingams placed in eight directions.
- The eight lingams are Indra Lingam, Agni Lingam, Yama Lingam, Niruthi Lingam, Varuna Lingam, Vayu Lingam, Kubera Lingam, and Esanya Lingam.
Recommended: Arunachalam Temple Complete Guide: How to Reach & Timings
Arunachalam Giri Pradakshina Full Details
- The total Arunachalam Temple Giri Pradakshina distance covered to walk around the hill is 14km which takes 3hrs to 4hrs.
- Preferably Arunachalam Temple Giri Pradakshina’s timings to walk would be 4:00 am, 4:00 pm, or 10 pm onwards.
- Darshan may take 6 to 7 hours, be prepared to stand in long queue lines.
- Giri Pradakshina can be performed any time in a year, but its auspicious on full moon days.
- One can witness higher crowds during Full moon days.
- Two pathways: outer pathway (commonly traveled) with Temples, Asta Lingams, Tirthams, and Shrines.
- The inner path is available for Girivalam but closed due to security reasons.
- The inner path passes through the forest and is covered with stones, making it difficult to walk without footwear.
Aunachalam Temple Giri Pradakshina Map Routes
You have to start your Arunachala Giri Pradakshina (girivallam) from Arunachaleswarar Temple, and then follow Ashta Lingas starting with Indra linga, Agni, Yama, Niruthi, Surya, Vayu, Kubera and finally Eesanya Linga.
Tips for Arunachalam Giri Pradakshina
- Giri Pradakshina can be tiring, especially for those unaccustomed to daily walking.
- Start early, preferably from 4 am onwards, for cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
- Some lingam temples along the way open after 5 am, so plan accordingly.
- Stop at the Hanuman temple to see a 150-year-old Sanyasi in meditation for personal benefit.
- Continuously gaze at the mountain while reciting the Siva mantra within oneself, particularly auspicious on full moon days.
- Many people walk barefoot during the pilgrimage as spirituality is a personal experience.
- Consider taking an auto tour the day before to familiarize yourself with the Girivalam route.
- Read up on the proper way to complete the Girivalam for a fulfilling experience (agasthiar.com website).
- Encounter sadhus living on the streets and sleeping under trees along the route.
- The complete walk takes around 4 hours or more, with short stops at main Lingam temples en route.
How to Reach Arunachalam Temple
To reach the Arunachalesvara Temple, also known as the Annamalaiyar Temple, located in Thiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu, you can follow these directions:
By Air: The nearest airport to Thiruvannamalai is the Chennai International Airport, located about 180 kilometers away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the temple town.
By Train: The nearest railway station to Thiruvannamalai is the Tiruvannamalai Railway Station, which is well-connected to major cities like Chennai, Bangalore, and Coimbatore. From the railway station, you can take a taxi or a local bus to reach the temple.
By Road: Thiruvannamalai is well-connected by road to major cities in Tamil Nadu and neighboring states. You can drive to the temple town or take a bus from nearby cities like Chennai, Bangalore, and Pondicherry.
Local Transport: Once you reach Thiruvannamalai, you can hire a taxi or an auto-rickshaw to reach the Arunachalesvara Temple. The temple is located in the heart of the town and is easily accessible by local transport.
Walking: If you are staying near the temple, you can also reach it by walking. The temple is a significant landmark in Thiruvannamalai and can be easily located from anywhere in the town.
By Bus:
Thiruvannamalai is well-connected by road, and traveling by bus is a convenient option. There are regular bus services from major cities and towns in Tamil Nadu to Thiruvannamalai. Buses run by TNSTC as well as private buses operate on these routes, providing various options for travelers. The bus stand in Thiruvannamalai is located close to the temple, making it convenient for visitors to reach the temple complex.
Top Bus Routes to Tiruvannamalai
Here are some of the top bus routes to Tiruvannamalai, offering convenient and affordable travel options for visitors to the Arunachalesvara Temple and the surrounding areas. You can easily book bus tickets to Tiruvannamalai on AbhiBus from your city.
- Hyderabad to Tiruvannamalai Bus
- Bangalore to Tiruvannamalai Bus
- Tirupathi to Tiruvannamalai Bus
- Kadapa to Tiruvannamalai Bus
These are the bus routes frequently travelled by people to reach Arunachalam Temple.
In conclusion, the Arunachalam Temple Giri Pradakshina in Tiruvannamalai is a worshiped pilgrimage that holds immense significance for Hindu devotees. While the walk can be physically challenging, it is considered a must for those seeking spiritual blessings. Starting early in the morning, paying visits to the Lingam temples, and experiencing the presence of ancient sages add depth to the journey. The Giri Pradakshina provides an opportunity for introspection, devotion, and a deep connection with the divine. Embarking on this sacred path is a transformative experience that leaves a lasting imprint on the hearts and minds of the pilgrims.
