Fairs & Festivals of Thiruvannamalai
Thiruvannamalai hosts numerous festivals that reflect its deep spiritual heritage and vibrant
traditions:
Karthigai Deepam: The most prominent festival, where a giant flame is lit atop Arunachala Hill,
symbolizing Lord Shiva’s divine presence.
Girivalam: Observed every full moon, devotees circumambulate the Arunachala Hill to seek blessings.
Maha Shivaratri: A night-long celebration with prayers, chants, and rituals dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Adi Pooram: Celebrated with processions and rituals in honor of Goddess Parvati.
Arudra Darshanam: Marks the cosmic dance of Lord Shiva and is celebrated with grandeur at the
Arunachaleswarar Temple.
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Best Time to Visit Thiruvannamalai
The ideal time to visit Thiruvannamalai is from November to March, when the weather is cool and
pleasant, making it perfect for temple visits and trekking. Summers (April to June) can be
scorching, while the monsoon season (July to October) brings moderate rainfall, enhancing the lush
greenery around the Arunachala Hill.
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How to Reach Thiruvannamalai
Thiruvannamalai is well-connected
by road to major cities like Chennai (200 km) and Bengaluru (215 km). Regular buses and taxis are
available.
The Thiruvannamalai Railway
Station has connections to Chennai, Tirupati, and other nearby towns.
The nearest airports are
Chennai International Airport (200 km) and Puducherry Airport (110 km).
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Tourist Attractions in Thiruvannamalai
Thiruvannamalai offers a mix of spiritual sanctity, historical grandeur, and natural beauty:
Arunachaleswarar Temple: A majestic temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, known for its towering gopurams
and sacred significance.
Arunachala Hill: Believed to be an embodiment of Lord Shiva, it is a popular spot for trekking and
meditation.
Ramana Ashram: A serene retreat established by the sage Ramana Maharshi, attracting spiritual
seekers from across the globe.
Skandashramam: A peaceful cave ashram located on the slopes of Arunachala Hill, offering panoramic
views of the town.
Virupaksha Cave: A historical cave on Arunachala Hill where the saint Virupaksha lived and
meditated.
Sathanur Dam: A picturesque dam and reservoir located 35 km from Thiruvannamalai, ideal for picnics
and nature walks.
Gingee Fort: Located about 40 km away, this historic fort is a must-visit for history and
architecture enthusiasts.
Yogi Ramsuratkumar Ashram: A tranquil ashram dedicated to the saint Yogi Ramsuratkumar, known for
its meditative ambiance.
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Location
Thiruvannamalai is situated in Tamil Nadu, about 200 km from Chennai and 215 km from Bengaluru.
Surrounded by the lush forests of Arunachala Hill, this town is a spiritual haven and a historic
treasure, offering a unique blend of devotion, tranquility, and scenic beauty.
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