Tiruvannamalai Girivalam Full Details
Are you planning a spiritual journey in Tamil Nadu, India?
Look no further than the famous Tiruvannamalai Girivalam, a sacred practice that attracts thousands of devotees every year. In this blog, we will explore the complete details of Tiruvannamalai Girivalam, including the dates, timings, benefits, routes, distances, and more.
Tiruvannamalai Girivalam is a significant religious practice widely observed in Tamil Nadu. It involves circumambulating the holy mountain Arunachala, which is considered to be a manifestation of Lord Shiva. This ritual is believed to grant devotees physical and spiritual benefits, and it is especially popular during the Tamil month of Karthigai. The path around Arunachala Hill is approximately 14 kilometers long and offers devotees a chance to experience deep spiritual connections with Lord Shiva.
Thiruvannamalai Girivalam Benefits
Participating in Tiruvannamalai Girivalam is believed to bring numerous benefits, both to the physical and spiritual well-being of devotees. Some of the benefits associated with this ritual include:
- Purification of body, mind, and soul
- Removal of negative energies and obstacles in life
- Attainment of inner peace and spiritual growth
- Fulfillment of wishes and desires
- Protection from evil forces
- Relief from diseases and ailments
Also Read: Tiruvannamalai Astalingam Temples on Arunachalam Giri Pradakshina Route
Thiruvannamalai Girivalam Lingam List
As you undertake the Girivalam path, you will come across several sacred Lingams, representing Lord Shiva. The renowned Tiruvannamalai Astalingam Temples
found along the route are:
- Indra Lingam (East)
- Agni Lingam (South East)
- Yama (Ema) Lingam (South)
- Niruthi Lingam (South West)
- Varuna Lingam (West)
- Vayu Lingam (North West)
- Kubera Lingam (North)
- Esanya Lingam (North East)
These Lingams hold significant spiritual importance and devotees often pause at each one to offer prayers and seek blessings.
Thiruvannamalai Girivalam Total Kms
The total distance of the Girivalam path around Arunachala Hill in Tiruvannamalai is approximately 14 kilometers. This distance is a symbolic representation of the 14 Lokas (worlds) in Hindu mythology. Walking this path is seen as a way to traverse different realms and connect with the divine energy that resides within the sacred mountain.
Tiruvannamalai Girivalam Map
To better navigate the Tiruvannamalai Girivalam path, a map can be a helpful companion. It provides an overview of the route and highlights significant landmarks. Different versions of Girivalam maps are available online, and it is advisable to have one handy during your spiritual journey.
Tiruvannamalai Girivalam Distance
The Tiruvannamalai Girivalam path covers a distance of approximately 14 kilometers. Devotees typically walk this distance as a form of devotion and penance, often stopping at various Lingams to offer prayers and seek blessings.
Girivalam Dates
Tiruvannamalai Girivalam is held on the Full Moon day (Pournami) of each month, but it holds special significance during the Tamil month of Karthigai (November – December). This period witnesses a larger number of devotees walking the Girivalam path. It is believed that performing Girivalam during this time enhances the spiritual benefits gained from the practice.
Girivalam Path
The Girivalam path takes devotees around the sacred Arunachala Hill in a clockwise direction. The well-defined path is marked with white concrete tiles and lined with trees, providing a serene ambiance for the spiritual journey. Walking this path, devotees experience a closer connection to the divine energy that radiates from the hill and the surrounding area.
Girivalam Timings
The timings to start Girivalam depend on the lunar month and Full Moon day. Devotees usually start the Girivalam path around sunset and aim to complete it before the next sunrise. This allows them to experience spiritual energy during the night and witness the enchanting sight of the sun rising over the magnificent Arunachala Hill. However, you can perform the Girivalam as per your convenience.
Girivalam Lingam Route Map
The Girivalam Lingam route map can guide devotees on their spiritual journey and help them locate the various Lingams along the path. This map not only highlights the Lingams but also provides information about nearby temples, ashrams, and other points of interest. Such maps are readily available online or can be obtained from local spiritual centers in Tiruvannamalai.
Girivalam Starting Point
The starting point of the Girivalam path is the famous Arunachaleshwar Temple in Tiruvannamalai. This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the largest temples in India. Devotees begin their Girivalam from here, seeking the blessings of Lord Arunachaleshwar before embarking on their spiritual journey.
Thiruvannamalai Girivalam Walking Time
The walking time for completing the entire Girivalam path can vary depending on individual pace and the number of stops made at the various Lingams along the way. On average, it takes around 3 to 4 hours to complete the full 14-kilometer circuit. However, some devotees choose to walk at a slower pace, spending more time in meditation or offering prayers at specific points of significance. It is advisable to start the Girivalam well before sunset to ensure completion within a reasonable time frame.
How to Reach Thiruvannamalai
By Air: The nearest airport to Thiruvannamalai is the Chennai International Airport, located approximately 180 kilometers away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Thiruvannamalai.
By Train: Thiruvannamalai has its own railway station, which is well-connected to major cities like Chennai, Bangalore, and Coimbatore. You can take a train to Thiruvannamalai Railway Station and then hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach your destination.
By Bus: Thiruvannamalai is well-connected by road to major cities and towns in Tamil Nadu and neighboring states. There are regular bus services run by TNSTC to Thiruvannamalai from cities like Chennai, Bangalore, and Pondicherry. You can also drive to Thiruvannamalai or hire a taxi from nearby cities.
Top Bus Routes to Thiruvannamalai
These are some of the top bus routes to Tiruvannamalai. You can easily book bus tickets on AbhiBus which is a convenient travel option to book bus tickets.
- Hyderabad to Tiruvannamalai Bus
- Bangalore to Tiruvannamalai Bus
- Tirupathi to Tiruvannamalai Bus
- Kadapa to Tiruvannamalai Bus
Tiruvannamalai Girivalam is a powerful spiritual practice that offers devotees the opportunity to connect with divine energy and experience inner transformation. It is an ancient ritual deeply rooted in Hindu tradition and holds immense significance for those seeking spiritual growth and well-being. By circumambulating the sacred Arunachala Hill, devotees can receive the blessings and grace of Lord Shiva, experiencing profound peace and rejuvenation.
