Overview
Tiruvannamalai is one of the greatest Saivite shrines in Tamil Nadu, drawing hundreds of thousands of pilgrims every full moon. The Arunachaleswara Temple sprawls across 24 acres with nine towers, including the 217-foot Rajagopuram—the second tallest in South India.
Festivals · History · Trekking
Before you go
Accommodation
Book accommodation well in advance for full moon days and the Karthigai Deepam festival (Nov/Dec). Regular days offer more availability.
Safety
Avoid full moon days if you prefer fewer crowds. Street food caution advised. The Girivalam path is well-lit at night with sanitation facilities.
Transport
Tiruvannamalai is on NH 66 (Puducherry-Bengaluru) and the Chittoor-Cuddalore state highway. Bus services connect to major cities in Tamil Nadu and neighboring states. Chennai airport is 180 km north.
Weather
Best times for Girivalam are early morning and evening. The Karthigai Deepam festival occurs during November/December full moon.