Welcome to Tiruvannamalai

Discover the eternal peace of Arunachala and the grandeur of the temple city.

The Eternal Fire

History & Spiritual Significance

Tiruvannamalai is one of the most ancient and holy sites in India. It represents the Agni (Fire) element among the five primordial elements (Pancha Bhoota Stalams) of Lord Shiva.

The word 'Arunachala' is derived from 'Aruna' (red/fire) and 'Achala' (hill). According to legend, Lord Shiva once appeared here as a column of fire that had no beginning or end, to quell the ego of Brahma and Vishnu.

2000+Years of History

14kmGirivalam Path

25Acres of Temple

Arunachala Hill

Considered a living manifestation of Lord Shiva, the hill is believed to grant liberation to those who merely think of it.

Ancient Heritage

The Arunachaleswarar temple is one of the largest in the world, with inscriptions dating back to the 9th-century Chola era.

Global Seeker Hub

Renowned as a center for self-inquiry, it was the home of Sri Ramana Maharshi, drawing seekers from every corner of the planet.

Famous Places to Visit

Experience the divine energy at these holy landmarks. Click on cards to discover their history.

Arunachaleswarar Temple

One of the largest temples in Tamil Nadu, dedicated to Lord Shiva as Agni (Fire).

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History & Significance

Divine Architecture

Dating back to the 9th century, this temple represents Agni. Legend says Shiva appeared as an infinite fire column here.

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Adi Annamalai

The 'First' Annamalai temple on the western side, older than the main temple.

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Ancient Shrine

Brahma's Worship

Predating the main temple by centuries, this ancient site was established by Lord Brahma. It is known for the phenomenon where the first rays of the sun fall directly on the Lingam during specific days in April and September.

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Pachayaman Temple

Dedicated to Goddess Pachaiamman (Parvati) amidst lush greenery.

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Guardian Deity

Divine Refuge

Located amidst lush greenery, this temple hosted Sri Ramana Maharshi for six months during the 1905 plague. Legend states Goddess Parvati meditated here as 'Pachai' (Green) to rejoin Lord Shiva.

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Sathanur Dam

A scenic dam built across the Thenpennai River, popular for its crocodile farm and parks.

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Leisure Spot

Scenic Marvel

Built in 1958 across the Thenpennai River, this dam is famous for its large crocodile farm, fish grotto, and beautiful parks, making it a favorite weekend getaway for locals and tourists alike.

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Arunagirinadha Temple

Dedicated to the 15th-century saint-poet Arunagirinathar, author of Thiruppugazh.

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Poet Saint

Birthplace of Thiruppugazh

It was here that Lord Murugan saved the 15th-century saint Arunagirinathar from suicide. Transformed, he composed the 'Thiruppugazh', a monumental collection of 16,000 hymns in praise of Lord Murugan.

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M.K. Stalin Eco-Park

A lush green recreational space perfect for evening walks and relaxation.

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Recreation

Urban Oasis

A recently developed eco-park that offers a serene escape with walking tracks, children's play areas, and lush landscaping, contributing to the town's green cover and community well-being.

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Ashramam

Explore the holy abodes of saints including Ramana and Seshadri Swamigal.

Hill Trekking

Discover holy caves and viewpoints on the holy Arunachala Hill.

Jeevasamadhi

Visit the holy resting places of realized Siddhors like Mookupodi Siddhar.

Ashrams in Tiruvannamalai

Sri Ramana Ashram

Sanctuary of Bhagavan Sri Ramana Maharshi.

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Center of Self-Enquiry

Home to the great sage Ramana Maharshi from 1922 to 1950. The Ashram centers around his Samadhi shrine, a powerful locus of silence and peace.

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Seshadri Ashram

Dedicated to the Saint with the Golden Hand.

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Miraculous Siddhar

Known as the "Saint with the Golden Hand," he was a contemporary of Ramana Maharshi. He performed many miracles and often played the role of a madman to hide his divinity.

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Skandasramam

A serene cave ashram on the hill.

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Mother's Liberation

Ramana Maharshi lived here from 1916 to 1922. It is the holy spot where his mother, Alagammal, attained Mahasamadhi and was liberated by his touch.

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Yogi Ramsuratkumar

Visiri Samiyar Ashram.

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Visiri Samiyar

Known as the "Godchild of Tiruvannamalai," this massive architectural marvel is dedicated to the saint who blessed devotees with his palm-leaf fan (visiri) and chanting.

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Arunachala Ashram

A center for meditation and service.

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Service & Sadhu Seva

Founded to serve the sadhus and devotees of Arunachala. It provides food (Annadanam) and accommodation, embodying the spirit of selfless service.

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Hill Trekking & Caves

Virupaksha Cave

The Om-shaped cave of intense meditation.

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The OM Cave

Shaped like the holy 'OM', this cave houses the ashes of the 13th-century saint Virupaksha Deva. Ramana Maharshi meditated here for 17 years (1899-1916).

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Mango Tree Cave

A cool, quiet cave for meditation.

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Summer Retreat

Ramana Maharshi often stayed here during the hot summers. It is said he composed the 'Five Hymns to Arunachala' near this serene cave.

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Skandashram View Point

Panoramic views of the temple town.

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Aerial Panorama

Located near Skandashram, this point offers a breathtaking aerial view of the massive Arunachaleswarar Temple towers and the entire town spread below.

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Mulai Paal Theertham

Holy water spring on the hill.

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holy Spring

Meaning 'Mother's Milk', this holy spring is believed to have been created miraculously. Devotees drink the water for its reputed healing properties.

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Jeevasamadhis

Bhagavan Ramana Maharshi

Sri Ramanasramam, Chengam Road.

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The Maharshi's Samadhi

The great sage who taught Self-Enquiry and lived as the embodiment of Arunachala. His Samadhi shrine radiates a powerful silence that continues to guide seekers.

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Seshadri Swamigal

Girivalam Road (Near Ramanasramam).

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Saint with Golden Hand

Aradhana: Margazhi (Dec/Jan)

Located next to Sri Ramanasramam on Chengam Road. He was known for his miraculous touch. Worshipping here invites divine grace and removes karmic blocks.

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Yogi Ramsuratkumar

Visiri Swamigal Ashram, Chengam Road.

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Visiri Samiyar

Aradhana: Feb 20 (approx)

His grand ashram is near Agni Lingam. He blessed devotees with a fan (visiri) and his chant "Yogi Ramsuratkumar". A place of immense high energy.

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Isanya Jnana Desikar

Isanya Madam, Old Girivalam Road.

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Silent Siddhar

Guru Pooja: Ippasi (Oct/Nov)

The Isanya Gnaniyar Mutt is located on the old Girivalam road (Northeast). He sat in silence observing the hill. A powerful spot for deep meditation.

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Ammani Amman

Opposite Isanya Lingam, Girivalam Path.

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Ammani Amman

Guru Pooja: Thaipusam (Jan/Feb)

Located on Girivalam Road, opposite Eesanya Lingam. She collected funds to build the North Gopuram. Her samadhi radiates the energy of selfless service.

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Mookupodi Swamigal

North side of Girivalam path (Adhi Annamalai area).

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Mookupodi Swamigal

Aradhana: Dec 9

Located near Seshadri Ashram area. A modern-day Avadhuta (d. 2018) who lived without attachment. He chased away our bad karma like he chased people.

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Guha Namasivayar

On the Hill, near Virupaksha Cave.

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Guha Namasivayar

Guru Pooja: Dec 4 / Guru Pournami

Located in a cave on the Arunachala Hill. He wrote 'Arunagiri Antadi'. Worshipping here bestows wisdom and mastery over the mind.

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Virupaksha Devar

Inside Virupaksha Cave (Hill).

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Virupaksha Devar

Worship: Daily Pooja

Located in the Virupaksha Cave (Hill). His body turned to Vibhuti (holy Ash). Meditating here connects you to the lineage of enlightened masters.

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Adimudi Siddhar

Kilnathur, Opposite Durvasar Temple.

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Adimudi Siddhar

Guru Pooja: May 1 (Chitra Pournami)

Located at Gowthamar Ashram (Girivalam Path). A powerful Siddhar known for his severe penance. Worshipping here helps in conquering the ego.

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Idaikkattu Siddhar

Adi Annamalai Temple area.

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Idaikkattu Siddhar

Guru Pooja: Oct 3 (Thiruvathirai)

One of the 18 Siddhars. His energy point is near Adi Annamalai Temple. Worshipping here grants knowledge of astrology and medicine.

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The holy Circumambulation

Giri Valam: The Divine Path

A 14km spiritual journey around the holy Arunachala Hill, visiting the eight cardinal Lingams and holy caves.

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Girivalam Path

The holy hill itself, considered Lord Shiva as Fire (Agni), the focus of the entire walk.

East

Indra Lingam

Representing the East direction.

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Deity: Lord Indra

Significance: Indra, the King of Devas, worshipped Shiva here to be absolved of his sins. It marks the beginning of the spiritual journey.

Benefits: Grants prosperity, long life, and power. Removes obstacles in career and governance.

Zodiac/Planet: Taurus (Rishabam) & Libra (Thulam) / Sun & Venus.

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South-East

Agni Lingam

Located in the South-East direction, representing the element of Fire.

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Deity: Lord Agni

Significance: Stands for light, energy, and transformation. It is the only lingam situated on the right side of the Girivalam path.

Benefits: Relief from diseases, mental stress, and fear. Bestows good health and strong will.

Zodiac/Planet: Leo (Simham) / Moon (Chandra).

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South

Yama Lingam

The South direction lingam, associated with the Lord of Death.

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Deity: Lord Yama

Significance: Yama, the God of Justice and Death, worshipped here. The holy tank 'Simha Theertham' is nearby.

Benefits: Removes fear of death and financial debts. Grants longevity and justice.

Zodiac/Planet: Scorpio (Viruchigam) / Mars (Sevvai).

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South-West

Niruthi Lingam

South-West direction, worshipped for protection.

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Deity: Niruthi (Asura King)

Significance: Legend says the King of Giants (Niruthi) worshipped Shiva here. It protects from negative forces.

Benefits: Child blessing for couples, protection from evil eye and black magic.

Zodiac/Planet: Aries (Mesham) / Rahu.

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Ner Annamalai

The holy spot where Lord Shiva revealed himself to Goddess Unnamalai.

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Deity: Lord Arunachaleswarar & Unnamalai Amman

Significance: The spot where Lord Shiva appeared to Goddess Unnamalai Amman after her penance. It offers a straight view ('Ner') of the hill.

Benefits: Spiritual clarity, fulfillment of prayers, and unity in relationships.

Darshan: Viewing the hill from here is considered 'Somaskanda' darshan.

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West

Varuna Lingam

West direction, representing the element of Water.

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Deity: Lord Varuna

Significance: Varuna, the God of Rain, created a holy tank (Varuna Theertham) here. He clears sins related to water.

Benefits: Success in career/social life, protection from water-related ailments (dropsy).

Zodiac/Planet: Capricorn (Makaram) & Aquarius (Kumbam) / Saturn (Shani).

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Surya Lingam

For health and clarity, worshipped at sunrise.

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Deity: Lord Surya (Sun)

Significance: Dedicated to the Sun God. Worshipping here brings the energy of the Sun.

Benefits: Good health, eyesight, vitality, authority, and removal of skin ailments.

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North-West

Vayu Lingam

North-West direction, representing the element of Air.

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Deity: Lord Vayu

Significance: Vayu, the God of Wind, provides the vital breath. This spot is known for a constant breeze.

Benefits: Relief from heart/lung diseases, stomach issues, and stress. Peace of mind.

Zodiac/Planet: Cancer (Kadagam) / Ketu.

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Chandra Lingam

For mental peace and emotional balance.

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Deity: Lord Chandra (Moon)

Significance: Dedicated to the Moon God. It helps cool the mind.

Benefits: Mental peace, emotional balance, relief from stress and depression.

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North

Kubera Lingam

North direction, associated with wealth and prosperity.

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Deity: Lord Kubera

Significance: Kubera, the Lord of Wealth, worshipped Shiva here. It is one of the most popular lingams.

Benefits: Abundant wealth, prosperity, and improvement in financial status.

Zodiac/Planet: Sagittarius (Dhanusu) & Pisces (Meenam) / Jupiter (Guru).

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Holy Spot

Iduku Pillayar Kovil

Known as Motcha Margam, a holy spot where devotees crawl through a narrow passage.

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Motcha Margam

Significance: Believed that crawling through this narrow temple passage leads to liberation (Moksha) and cleanses past sins.

The Experience: Devotees lie down and slide through the tiny opening, representing the soul's passage from darkness to divine light.

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North-East

Esanya Lingam

The final lingam, associated with Wisdom.

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Deity: Lord Esanyar

Significance: Represents one of the seven Rudras of Shiva. It marks the completion of the Girivalam loop.

Benefits: Wisdom, knowledge, peace of mind, and success in education and arts.

Zodiac/Planet: Gemini (Mithunam) & Virgo (Kanni) / Mercury (Budhan).

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Book Your Stay

Find the perfect sanctuary for your spiritual journey, from humble ashrams to luxury resorts.

Boutique

Arunachala Ramana Home

Quiet boutique stay with a panoramic view of the holy hill. Perfect for silent retreats.

4.5₹2,500/night

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Luxury/Eco

Sparsa Resort

Eco-friendly luxury resort offering wellness programs, pool, and sustainable living.

4.5₹6,500/night

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Premium

Athena Hotel

Modern 4-star amenities with grand views of Arunachala. Excellent for families.

4.1₹4,500/night

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Resort

Sterling Arunai Anantha

Premium resort with a direct view of the holy hill. Offers curated spiritual experiences.

4.3₹5,500/night

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Amazing 9.7

Ellora Hotel

Located within a 5-minute drive of Pachaiamman Temple. 24-hour front desk & luggage storage.

4.8₹4,276/night

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Very Good 8.4

Arudra Residency

Just a 2-minute walk from Arunachaleshvara Temple. Smoke-free hotel with free parking.

4.2₹3,325/night

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Outstanding 10.0

Namo Residency

Detailed attention to service and comfort. Free Wi-Fi and transport arrangements available.

5.0₹3,299/night

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Very Good 8.5

Lingaa's Residency

15-minute walk to Temple. Smart TVs and modern amenities in a convenient location.

4.3₹2,269/night

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Good 7.7

Ramana Towers

Luxury apartment-style rooms with 1 bedroom. Breakfast included. 2.1km from Temple.

4.0₹2,785/night

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Convenience & Safety

Essential Services & Support

Access vital services, financial aid, and emergency contacts in one place.

Apollo Pharmacy

Reliable pharmacy chain, often open 24/7 or late hours. Located near Sannathi Street.

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Sri Ramanasramam Dispensary

Located in TSR Nagar, providing community medical services and supplies.

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Govt. Medical College Hospital

Full-facility general hospital for major medical emergencies.

04175 - 233131

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Rangammal Hospital

Known private hospital providing specialized care and emergency services.

04175 - 257700

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Indian Overseas Bank

Main Branch for Pilgrims. located opposite Sri Ramanasramam on Chengam Road.

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Unimoni Forex

Licensed currency exchange for international travelers. Located at Big St, Pavazhakundur.

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SBI & HDFC ATMs

Multiple ATMs located at Sannathi Street and near the Temple Main Entrance.

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ICICI Bank

Full service branch located on Durgaiyamman Kovil Street.

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Central Bus Stand

Direct buses to Chennai (4hrs), Bangalore (5hrs), and Pondicherry (2.5hrs). Frequent TNSTC & Private buses.

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Railway Station (TNM)

Connects to Vellore, Villupuram, and Tirupati. Located ~2km from the temple.

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E-Bike

Eco-friendly electric bike rentals available for exploring the city and Girivalam path. Multiple rental services including Girivalam E-Bike and Arunachala Two Wheeler Rent offer convenient options.

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Baby Trolley

Convenient stroller and baby trolley rental services for families with young children. Perfect for temple visits and Girivalam walks, making your pilgrimage comfortable and hassle-free.

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100 / 112

Police & General Emergency

108

Ambulance Service

24/7 Support

District Collectorate

Administrative headquarters for Tiruvannamalai District. Located in Vengikkal on Vellore Road.

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Taluk Office

Major government office for land and revenue related services. Located near the Collectorate.

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Town Police Station

Main police station for the town area. For emergencies dial 100.

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Adyar Ananda Bhavan (A2B)

Pure vegetarian chain known for high-quality South Indian breakfast and meals.

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The Dreaming Tree

Popular rooftop cafe serving western vegetarian dishes, salads, and coffee.

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Sparsa Restaurant

Eco-friendly vegetarian dining in a serene resort setting. Great for families.

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Vellalar Mess

Hidden gem for authentic home-style Tamil meals (Saapadu).

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Sakthi Cinemas

Modern multiplex offering 4K projection and Dolby Atmos sound experience.

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Sri Balasubramaniar Cinemas

Famous local theatre with upgraded Laser screens and comfortable seating.

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MKG Film Palace

Premium cinema experience located in Mangalam, short drive from town.

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Plan Your Spiritual Journey

Everything you need to know for a peaceful and fulfilling visit to Tiruvannamalai.

By Air

Chennai International Airport (170km) is the nearest major airport. Bangalore Airport is also a viable option (200km).

Accommodation

From peaceful ashram guest houses like Sri Ramanasramam to luxury boutique resorts, find the perfect stay for your spiritual retreat.

Local Transport

Auto-rickshaws are plentiful for short trips. For the 14km Girivalam, many pilgrims walk, while others rent bicycles or electric scooters.

Food & Dining

Savor authentic South Indian vegetarian meals. Many organic cafes around Ramanasramam serve international cuisines for global seekers.

Health & Safety

Carry basic medicines and sun protection. Several multi-specialty hospitals are available in the town center for emergencies.

Ideal Duration

A minimum of 2-3 days is recommended to cover the Temple, Ashram, and the holy Girivalam circumambulation.

Best Time to Visit

Winter (Nov - Feb) offers pleasant weather (15°C-30°C). Karthigai Deepam (Nov/Dec) is the grandest festival.

Expert Travel Tips

Start Early: Begin Girivalam before dawn (4 AM) to avoid the heat.
Respect Silence: Maintain silence in meditation halls and caves.
Connectivity: 4G/5G works well, but Ashrams often have limited Wi-Fi.
Girivalam Apps: Use local apps to track your distance and landmark stops.

Monkeys: Keep food items inside bags to avoid attracting curious monkeys.
Shoes: You must leave shoes outside temples; carry a light cloth bag for them.
Cash: Keep some cash handy as small shops might not accept digital payments.
Dress Code: Shoulders and knees should be covered when entering temples.

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