Arunachaleswarar Temple
Also known as Annamalaiyar Temple
Agni (fire) Pancha Bhoota Sthalam at the foot of the Arunachala hill, itself worshipped as a form of Shiva. Ramana Maharshi lived on this hill for over 50 years.
Photos of Arunachaleswarar Temple
- Presiding Deity
- Shiva
- Established
- 9th century CE (expanded 16th c.)
- Architecture
- Dravidian
- Address
- Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu 606601
- Timings
- 05:30–12:30, 15:30–21:00
History of Arunachaleswarar Temple
Expanded by the Cholas, Hoysalas, and Vijayanagara emperors. The Karthigai Deepam festival lights an enormous flame on the summit of the hill.
Festivals Celebrated at Arunachaleswarar Temple
- Karthigai Deepam
- Maha Shivaratri
- Girivalam (every full moon)
How to Reach Arunachaleswarar Temple
Tiruvannamalai is 190 km from Chennai and 210 km from Bengaluru.
Frequently Asked Questions about Arunachaleswarar Temple
Where is Arunachaleswarar Temple located?
- Arunachaleswarar Temple is located at Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu 606601, in Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu, India.
Who is the presiding deity at Arunachaleswarar Temple?
- The presiding deity at Arunachaleswarar Temple is Shiva (also known as Mahadev, Bholenath), worshipped in the Shaiva tradition.
What are the timings of Arunachaleswarar Temple?
- Arunachaleswarar Temple is generally open 05:30–12:30, 15:30–21:00. Timings can vary on festival days and special occasions — verify with the temple before your visit.
When was Arunachaleswarar Temple built?
- Arunachaleswarar Temple was established 9th century CE (expanded 16th c.). Portions of the structure have been added and renovated by successive dynasties over the centuries.
What is the architectural style of Arunachaleswarar Temple?
- Arunachaleswarar Temple is built in the Dravidian style, characteristic of Shiva shrines of this region.
Which festivals are celebrated at Arunachaleswarar Temple?
- The principal festivals celebrated at Arunachaleswarar Temple include Karthigai Deepam, Maha Shivaratri, Girivalam (every full moon). These draw large crowds of pilgrims from across Tamil Nadu and beyond.
How can I reach Arunachaleswarar Temple?
- Tiruvannamalai is 190 km from Chennai and 210 km from Bengaluru.
Why is Arunachaleswarar Temple significant?
- Agni (fire) Pancha Bhoota Sthalam at the foot of the Arunachala hill, itself worshipped as a form of Shiva. Ramana Maharshi lived on this hill for over 50 years.
Is there an entry fee at Arunachaleswarar Temple?
- Entry to the main shrine of Arunachaleswarar Temple is generally free for darshan. Special sevas, abhishekams and priority queues may carry a nominal fee — check with the temple office on arrival.
What is the dress code at Arunachaleswarar Temple?
- Arunachaleswarar Temple follows the traditional dress code observed at Tamil Nadu temples — modest attire covering shoulders and knees. Many shrines in the region also expect men to remove upper garments before entering the sanctum.