Arunachalam Temple, also revered as Arunachaleswarar Temple, is a sacred Hindu temple located in Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, it holds immense significance in Shaivism and is recognized as one of the five Pancha Bhoota Sthalams, symbolizing the element of Fire (Agni).
This temple is not only a divine spiritual destination but also an architectural marvel. Sprawling across 25 acres, it boasts grand Dravidian-style gopurams, sacred tanks, and majestic courtyards. As the festival of Maha Shivratri approaches in February, devotees from all corners of India prepare for a soulful journey to this jyotirlinga-like shrine.
About Arunachaleswarar Temple
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Temple Name | Arunachalam / Arunachaleswarar Temple |
| Location | Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu |
| Dedicated To | Lord Shiva (as Arunachaleswarar) |
| Architectural Style | Dravidian Architecture |
| Temple Area | 25 Acres |
| Spiritual Significance | Fire element of the Pancha Bhoota Sthalams |
| Main Festivals | Karthigai Deepam, Maha Shivratri |
| Best Time to Visit | October – December |
| Darshan Timings | 5:00 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Booking Mode | Online Available |
| Official Website | https://annamalaiyar.hrce.tn.gov.in |
Darshan & Aarti Timings 2025
| Days | Events | Timings |
|---|---|---|
| Mon–Sun | Temple Opens | 5:00 AM |
| Mon–Sun | Morning Darshan | 5:00 AM – 12:00 PM |
| Mon–Sun | Temple Break (Closed) | 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM |
| Mon–Sun | Evening Darshan | 5:00 PM – 9:30 PM |
Note: Special Darshan and Ritual Services like Abhishekam, Archana, or Annadanam are available both online and offline. Always verify exact timings on the official portal, especially during festivals like Shivratri or Karthigai Deepam.
Arunachalam Temple Darshan Ticket Booking – Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these simple steps to book your Darshan ticket online:
-
Visit the Official Website: Go to https://annamalaiyar.hrce.tn.gov.in
-
Temple Booking Service: Click on the “Temple Booking Service” on the homepage.
-
Choose Temple Service: Select “Special Darshan” or the service you want.
-
Select Date & Time: Choose your preferred date and time from the calendar.
-
Enter Devotee Details: Fill in the details like name, age, address, gender, and captcha.
-
Make Payment: Use Debit Card, Net Banking, or UPI.
-
Receive E-Ticket: You’ll get your booking confirmation and e-ticket on your registered number.
Arunachalam Temple Darshan Ticket Prices
| Darshan Type | Price (INR) |
|---|---|
| General Darshan | Free |
| Special Entry | ₹50 |
| Fast Track | ₹100 |
| VIP Darshan | ₹200 |
| Silver Darshan | ₹500 |
| Gold Darshan | ₹1000 |
| Platinum Darshan | ₹2000 |
| Diamond Darshan | ₹5000 |
For a peaceful and crowd-free experience, booking a VIP or Platinum Darshan is highly recommended, especially during weekends or festivals.
Rituals & Spiritual Practices
-
Girivalam (Pradakshina) – Circumambulating the sacred Annamalai Hill is considered deeply auspicious.
-
Karthigai Deepam Festival – Celebrated with a massive flame lit atop the hill, symbolizing Shiva as an eternal light.
-
Maha Shivratri – One of the best times to visit, with special pujas and midnight abhishekam ceremonies.
Contact Information
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Address | Sannathi Street, Tiruvannamalai – 606601, Tamil Nadu |
| Contact Number | 04175-252438 |
| Email ID | jceotvm_20343.hrce@tn.gov.in |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the best time to visit Arunachalam Temple?
The best months are October to December, especially during Karthigai Deepam and Maha Shivratri.
Q: Is online booking available for Darshan tickets?
Yes, devotees can easily book online via the official portal.
Q: How much is the Special Entry Darshan ticket?
Special Entry Darshan is available for just ₹50 per person.
Q: Can VIP Darshan be booked in advance?
Yes, VIP Darshan tickets can be booked online under the “Special Darshan” option.
Q: What are the Darshan hours of the temple?
Darshan is available from 5:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 5:00 PM to 9:30 PM daily.
Q: How to perform Girivalam?
Devotees can walk barefoot around Annamalai Hill, covering about 14 km, preferably during full moon nights.