The Arulmigu Arunachaleswarar Temple in Tiruvannamalai, revered as one of the Pancha Bhoota Sthalams representing the element of fire, is a premier spiritual destination in Tamil Nadu. Known for its immense spiritual energy and grand architecture, it attracts millions of devotees. This comprehensive guide for 2026 provides all essential details—from darshan timings and online booking to festivals like Karthigai Deepam—for a smooth and fulfilling pilgrimage.
Arunachalam Temple Tiruvannamalai Overview
| Key Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Temple Name | Arulmigu Arunachaleswarar Temple (Annamalaiyar Temple) |
| Location | Sannathi Street, Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu |
| Main Deity | Lord Shiva as Arunachaleswarar |
| Significance | Fire (Agni) element of the Pancha Bhoota Sthalams |
| Architectural Style | Grand Dravidian Architecture |
| Best Time to Visit | October to March (pleasant weather, major festivals) |
| Official Website | annamalaiyar.hrce.tn.gov.in |
The temple, sprawling at the base of the sacred Arunachala Hill, is an architectural masterpiece dating back to the 9th-century Chola period. Its spiritual prominence is matched by its cultural and historical importance, making it a must-visit for devotees and heritage enthusiasts alike.
Arunachalam Temple Darshan Timings 2026
Planning your visit according to the temple schedule is crucial for a smooth experience. Here are the official daily timings:
| Time Period | Activity |
|---|---|
| Morning Session | 5:30 AM to 3:00 PM |
| Evening Session | 3:00 PM to 8:30 PM |
Important Notes:
- Entry Gates: Devotees can enter through the East Rajagopuram (Main Tower) and the North Ammaniamman Tower.
- Extended Hours: On Saturdays, Sundays, full moon (Pournami) days, public holidays, and during high crowd periods, darshan is allowed until 8:30 PM.
- Midday Break: Please note the temple is closed for darshan between 3:00 PM to 5:30 PM for rituals and preparation.
Arunachalam Temple Darshan Ticket Prices & Types 2026
The temple offers various darshan options to suit different needs, from free entry to premium experiences with faster access.
| Darshan Type | Price (INR) | Key Features & Suitability |
|---|---|---|
| General Darshan | Free | Standard queue for all devotees; ideal for those with time. |
| Special Darshan | ₹ 50 | Faster access than the general queue. |
| VIP Darshan | ₹ 200 | Priority entry with shorter waiting times. |
| Platinum Darshan | ₹ 2,000 | Exclusive, guided entry with minimal crowd interaction. |
| Diamond Darshan | ₹ 5,000 | Premium personalized guidance and fastest possible access. |
Choosing the Right Darshan: For a regular visit, Special Darshan offers good value. During major festivals like Karthigai Deepam or Maha Shivratri, booking VIP or higher tickets online in advance is highly recommended to manage time and avoid extreme crowds.
How to Book Arunachalam Temple Darshan Online 2026
Booking your darshan online through the official portal is the most reliable way to secure your slot, especially for special entries.
- Visit the Official Portal: Go to annamalaiyar.hrce.tn.gov.in.
- Navigate to Booking: Click on the “Temple Booking Services” link on the homepage.
- Select Darshan Type: Choose from the available options (Special, VIP, etc.).
- Choose Date & Time: Pick your preferred visit date and an available time slot.
- Fill Details: Enter accurate personal details (Name, Age, Mobile Number) for all visitors.
- Make Payment: Complete the transaction using UPI, debit/credit card, or net banking.
- Save E-Ticket: Download the confirmation slip or save the e-ticket on your phone. Carry a printed copy or the digital ticket along with the original photo ID used for booking for verification at the temple.
Major Festivals & Spiritual Practices
- Karthigai Deepam (Nov-Dec): The temple’s most spectacular festival. A gigantic ceremonial lamp is lit atop Arunachala Hill, symbolizing Lord Shiva as a column of fire. The sight of the beacon against the night sky is a profoundly spiritual experience for lakhs of devotees.
- Maha Shivratri (Feb-Mar): Celebrated with night-long vigils, special abhishekams (ritual baths), and chanting. The spiritual energy in the temple during this time is immense.
- Girivalam (Circumambulation): A sacred practice of walking the 14-kilometer path around the base of Arunachala Hill. Performing this barefoot, especially on full moon nights, is believed to bring great spiritual merit and is a defining spiritual activity for pilgrims.
Essential Travel & Visiting Tips
- Dress Code: Adhere to traditional temple dress. Men should avoid shorts and sleepless tops. Women are advised to wear sarees, salwar kameez, or long skirts.
- Arrival Time: Reach the temple at least 30-45 minutes before your allotted darshan time for security checks and verification.
- Footwear & Bags: Leave footwear at the designated stands outside. Large bags and leather items (like belts, wallets) are generally not permitted inside the sanctum.
- Accommodation: Tiruvannamalai offers a wide range of stays, from simple ashrams and choultries to mid-range hotels. Book well in advance during festival seasons.
- Local Transport: Auto-rickshaws are readily available. For Girivalam, start early and carry water.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are the exact opening hours of the temple?
A: The temple is open from 5:30 AM to 3:00 PM and again from 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM.
Q: Is online booking mandatory for darshan?
A: No, but it is highly recommended for Special Darshan and above. It guarantees entry and saves hours of waiting in line.
Q: What is the best time of day for a peaceful darshan?
A: Early morning (5:30 AM onwards) or late evening (after 7:00 PM) are typically less crowded than midday.
Q: Can I perform Girivalam at any time?
A: Yes, the path is open 24/7. However, it is most popular and spiritually charged on full moon (Pournami) nights.
Q: How do I reach Tiruvannamalai?
A: The town is well-connected by road. The nearest major railway station is Tiruvannamalai Railway Station, and the closest airport is in Chennai (approx. 185 km away).
I hope this detailed guide helps you plan a blessed and seamless visit to the sacred Arunachalam Temple. For the most current updates, always refer to the official temple website before your journey.
