Arunachaleswarar Temple

📍Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu

One of the Pancha Bhoota Sthalams, representing the element of fire (Agni), at the foot of the sacred Arunachala hill. It is one of the largest and most revered Shiva temples in South India.

Primary Deity

Shiva

Location

Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu

Best Time to Visit

October to March; Karthigai Deepam (November–December) and full-moon Girivalam nights are the most significant.

Significance

Arunachaleswarar represents fire among the five great elemental temples (Pancha Bhoota Sthalams) of Shiva. The Arunachala hill is regarded as a self-manifested lingam of fire, and merely thinking of it is said to grant liberation. The Girivalam and Karthigai Deepam are among the most powerful devotional practices in Tamil Shaivism. The temple's association with Ramana Maharshi adds a deep dimension of self-inquiry and realisation.

About

The vast Arunachaleswarar temple, spread over some 25 acres with soaring gopurams including the towering eastern Rajagopuram, stands at the base of the holy Arunachala (Annamalai) hill, itself worshipped as a form of Shiva. Here Shiva is venerated as Agni, the element of fire. The temple is the setting for the spectacular Karthigai Deepam festival, when an enormous lamp is lit atop the hill and blazes for days, visible for many kilometres. Each full moon, hundreds of thousands of devotees perform the 14 km Girivalam, circumambulating the sacred hill on foot. The sage Ramana Maharshi lived and taught in this hill's presence.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Which deity is worshipped at Arunachaleswarar Temple?

Arunachaleswarar Temple is primarily dedicated to Shiva.

Where is Arunachaleswarar Temple located?

Arunachaleswarar Temple is located in Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu.

What is the best time to visit Arunachaleswarar Temple?

October to March; Karthigai Deepam (November–December) and full-moon Girivalam nights are the most significant.

Why is Arunachaleswarar Temple significant?

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