The Arunachaleswarar Temple, also known as Annamalaiyar Temple, is one of the most revered Shiva shrines in India. Located in Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu, this ancient temple is one of the five Pancha Bhoota Sthalams, representing the element of Fire (Agni) . The temple is situated at the foothills of the sacred Arunachala Hill, believed to be a manifestation of Lord Shiva himself.
Spread across 25 acres, the temple features towering Dravidian-style gopurams, intricately carved pillars, sacred tanks, and the famous Thousand-Pillar Hall . The temple is particularly famous for two sacred practices:
- Girivalam (Pradakshina): Circumambulating the 14 km path around Arunachala Hill, especially sacred on full moon days
- Karthigai Deepam: A grand festival where a massive flame is lit atop the hill, symbolizing Lord Shiva as the eternal light
Arunachalam Temple Darshan Timings 2026
The temple follows a consistent daily schedule with an afternoon break. According to multiple sources, here are the confirmed timings for 2026:
| Session | Timings | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Temple Opens | 5:00 AM | First darshan begins |
| Morning Darshan | 5:00 AM – 12:00 PM | Main darshan period |
| Afternoon Break | 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM | Temple closed for maintenance and rituals |
| Evening Darshan | 5:00 PM – 9:30 PM | Evening darshan resumes |
*Sources: *
Daily Pooja and Aarti Schedule
| Ritual Name | Timings |
|---|---|
| Ko Pooja | 5:00 AM – 5:15 AM |
| Ushakala Pooja | 5:30 AM – 7:00 AM |
| Kalasandhi Pooja | 8:00 AM – 9:30 AM |
| Uchikkala Pooja | 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM |
| Sayaraksha Pooja | 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM |
| Ardhajama Pooja | 9:00 PM – 9:30 PM |
*Sources: *
Best Time for Darshan
- For Peaceful Experience: Early morning (5:00 AM – 8:00 AM) offers fewer crowds
- For Spiritual Atmosphere: During Pournami (full moon) days and festival periods
- For Avoiding Crowds: Weekdays are significantly less crowded than weekends
Arunachalam Temple Darshan Ticket Prices 2026
The temple offers multiple darshan options to suit different preferences and budgets. General darshan is completely free, while paid tickets provide faster access and a more comfortable experience.
| Darshan Type | Price (INR) | Features |
|---|---|---|
| General Darshan | Free | Standard entry; longer queues |
| Special Entry Darshan | ₹50 | Faster access with shorter waiting time |
| Fast Track Darshan | ₹100 | Priority entry; ideal for limited time |
| VIP Darshan | ₹200 | Exclusive entry with minimal waiting |
| Silver Darshan | ₹500 | Comfortable experience with better seating |
| Gold Darshan | ₹1,000 | Premium facilities and priority access |
| Platinum Darshan | ₹2,000 | Top-tier experience with priority entry |
| Diamond Darshan | ₹5,000 | Exclusive VIP privileges; ideal for special visits |
*Sources: *
Pooja and Abhishekam Price List 2026
| Pooja / Abhishekam | Price (INR) | Timing |
|---|---|---|
| Ko Pooja | ₹100 | 5:00 AM – 5:15 AM |
| Ushakala Pooja | ₹200 | 5:30 AM – 7:00 AM |
| Kalasandhi Pooja | ₹300 | 8:00 AM – 9:30 AM |
| Uchikkala Pooja | ₹400 | 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM |
| Sayaraksha Pooja | ₹200 | 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM |
| Rudrabhishekam | ₹5,000 | 6:00 AM – 7:00 AM |
| Milk Abhishekam | ₹1,000 | 6:30 AM & 9:00 PM |
| 1008 Sangu Pooja / Special Abhishekam | ₹10,000 | 6:00 AM – 7:00 AM |
*Sources: *
How to Book Arunachalam Temple Darshan Online
Booking your darshan online is the easiest way to avoid long queues and secure your preferred time slot, especially during festivals like Karthigai Deepam and Maha Shivratri. The official booking portal is managed by the Tamil Nadu HR&CE Department.
Step-by-Step Online Booking Process
Step 1: Visit the Official Website
Go to the official Arunachaleswarar Temple portal: annamalaiyar.hrce.tn.gov.in
Step 2: Navigate to Temple Booking Service
On the homepage, click on “Temple Booking Service” .
Step 3: Select Darshan Type
Choose your preferred darshan option:
- Special Darshan (₹50)
- Fast Track (₹100)
- VIP Darshan (₹200)
- Silver/Gold/Platinum/Diamond Darshan (₹500 – ₹5,000)
Step 4: Choose Date and Time Slot
Select your preferred date and time slot from the calendar. Morning slots fill quickly, so book early .
Step 5: Enter Devotee Details
Fill in the required information:
- Full name
- Age
- Gender
- Address
- Mobile number
- Valid ID proof details (Aadhaar, Passport, or Voter ID)
Step 6: Complete Payment
Make payment using:
- Debit Card
- Credit Card
- Net Banking
- UPI
Step 7: Receive E-Ticket
After successful payment, your darshan e-ticket will be sent to your registered mobile number and email. Save a digital copy and print it for entry .
Special Pooja and Abhishekam Booking
Devotees can also book special poojas and abhishekam services online through the same portal. These rituals are highly recommended for those seeking blessings, prosperity, and divine energy.
How to Book Special Poojas
- Visit the official website: annamalaiyar.hrce.tn.gov.in
- Click on “Online Booking / Seva”
- Select your desired pooja (e.g., Rudrabhishekam, Milk Abhishekam)
- Choose the date and time slot
- Enter devotee details (name, gotra, nakshatra if applicable)
- Complete payment
- Receive confirmation via SMS and email
Important Notes for Pooja Booking
- Rudrabhishekam is a powerful Vedic ritual invoking Lord Shiva’s blessings for health and prosperity
- Milk Abhishekam is performed twice daily (6:30 AM and 9:00 PM)
- 1008 Sangu Pooja is a highly meritorious ritual, considered one of the most powerful offerings
Girivalam (Giri Pradakshina) 2026: Full Moon Dates
Girivalam is the sacred practice of circumambulating the 14 km path around Arunachala Hill. It is considered most auspicious on Pournami (full moon) days, when thousands of devotees walk barefoot around the hill seeking blessings and liberation .
Complete Pournami Dates for Girivalam 2026
| Pournami | Date 2026 | Start Time | End Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pausha Pournami | January 3 | 5:03 AM (Jan 2) | 3:56 AM (Jan 3) |
| Magha Pournami | February 1 | 6:55 PM (Jan 31) | 7:25 PM (Feb 1) |
| Phalguna Pournami | March 3 | 10:36 AM (Mar 2) | 12:24 PM (Mar 3) |
| Chaitra Pournami | April 1 | 3:21 AM (Apr 1) | 5:24 AM (Apr 2) |
| Vaisakha Pournami | May 1 | 8:02 PM (Apr 30) | 10:25 PM (May 1) |
| Jyesta Pournami | June 10 | 11:35 AM | 1:13 PM |
| Ashada Pournami | July 10 | 2:08 AM | 2:06 AM (Jul 11) |
| Shravana Pournami | August 8 | 2:12 PM | 1:24 PM (Aug 9) |
| Bhadrapada Pournami | September 6 | 11:41 PM (Sep 5) | 11:38 PM (Sep 6) |
| Ashwayuja Pournami | October 6 | 12:24 PM | 9:17 AM (Oct 7) |
| Karthika Pournami | November 4 | 10:36 PM (Nov 3) | 6:49 PM (Nov 4) |
| Margashira Pournami | December 4 | 8:37 AM | 5:43 AM (Dec 5) |
*Sources: *
Facilities on Girivalam Path
The temple administration provides excellent facilities for pilgrims undertaking Girivalam:
- Drinking water available every 200 meters
- Bio-toilets every 400 meters
- First aid and ambulance services
- Rest areas for senior citizens and pregnant women
- Security personnel ensuring orderly movement
- Wheelchair access and paid transport for those unable to complete the full walk
Important Visitor Instructions
Dress Code
The temple recommends modest, traditional attire:
- Men: Dhoti, kurta-pyjama, or formal trousers (avoid shorts)
- Women: Saree, salwar kameez, or half-saree with dupatta
- Avoid: Sleeveless tops, shorts, and revealing clothing
What to Carry
- Printed or digital copy of your e-ticket
- Valid ID proof (Aadhaar, Passport, Voter ID)
- Small cash for offerings
- Water bottle (especially during Girivalam)
- Comfortable footwear (to be removed before temple entry)
What NOT to Carry
- Mobile phones and cameras inside the sanctum
- Large bags and luggage (lockers available)
- Leather items
- Non-vegetarian food and alcohol
Prohibited Items During Pournami Festival
For special festivals like Pournami, the administration cancels VIP darshan and special darshan tickets to ensure equal access for all devotees. All devotees are allowed free darshan during these periods .
How to Reach Arunachalam Temple
By Air
- Nearest Airport: Chennai International Airport – approximately 200 km
- From the airport, hire a taxi (4-5 hours) or take a bus to Tiruvannamalai
By Train
- Tiruvannamalai Railway Station is well-connected to Chennai, Bangalore, and Vellore
- From the station, auto-rickshaws and taxis are available to the temple
By Road
- Regular TNSTC and private buses from Chennai, Bangalore, and Vellore
- Distance from major cities:
- Chennai: 190 km
- Bangalore: 220 km
- Vellore: 75 km
Local Transport
- Auto-rickshaws and taxis are readily available
- The temple is located on Sannathi Street in the heart of Tiruvannamalai
Nearby Accommodation
| Type | Price Range (INR) | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Dharamshalas | ₹200 – ₹500 | Temple-run accommodations |
| Budget Hotels | ₹500 – ₹1,500 | Local lodges near temple |
| Mid-Range Hotels | ₹1,500 – ₹3,500 | Hotels near Sannathi Street |
| Premium Stays | ₹3,500 – ₹7,000 | Heritage hotels and resorts |
Booking Tip: During Pournami days and Karthigai Deepam (November-December), book accommodation at least 2-3 weeks in advance as rooms fill quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: How can I book Arunachalam Temple darshan online?
A: Visit the official website annamalaiyar.hrce.tn.gov.in, click on “Temple Booking Service,” select your darshan type, choose date and time, enter details, and complete payment .
Q2: What are the darshan timings for Arunachalam Temple?
A: Morning darshan: 5:00 AM – 12:00 PM; Evening darshan: 5:00 PM – 9:30 PM. The temple is closed from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM .
Q3: What is the price of VIP darshan at Arunachalam Temple?
A: VIP Darshan costs ₹200. Special Entry Darshan is ₹50, Fast Track is ₹100, and higher-tier options (Silver to Diamond) range from ₹500 to ₹5,000 .
Q4: Can I book Rudrabhishekam online?
A: Yes, Rudrabhishekam (₹5,000) and other special poojas can be booked online through the official portal under “Online Booking / Seva” .
Q5: What is Girivalam and when should I do it?
A: Girivalam is the circumambulation of the 14 km path around Arunachala Hill. It is most sacred on Pournami (full moon) days. The 2026 Pournami dates are listed in the table above .
Q6: What is the dress code for Arunachalam Temple?
A: Modest traditional attire is required. Men should wear dhoti or kurta; women should wear saree or salwar kameez. Shorts and sleeveless tops are not permitted .
Q7: Is there free darshan available?
A: Yes, General Darshan is completely free. Paid tickets are optional for faster access and a more comfortable experience .
Q8: What is the best time to visit Arunachalam Temple?
A: The best time is from October to December, especially during Karthigai Deepam. For peaceful darshan, visit early morning (5:00 AM – 8:00 AM) on weekdays .
Q9: How do I reach Tiruvannamalai from Chennai?
A: By road (190 km, 4-5 hours), by train (direct trains to Tiruvannamalai Railway Station), or by flight to Chennai Airport followed by taxi/bus .
Q10: Are there facilities for senior citizens during Girivalam?
A: Yes, the temple provides rest areas, drinking water, medical aid, and separate queues for senior citizens and pregnant women. Battery-operated cars are available for persons with disabilities .
Temple Contact Information
| Purpose | Details |
|---|---|
| Address | Sannathi Street, Tiruvannamalai – 606601, Tamil Nadu |
| Phone Number | 04175-252438 |
| jceotvm_20343.hrce@tn.gov.in | |
| Official Website | https://annamalaiyar.hrce.tn.gov.in |
| Prasadam Booking | www.hrce.tn.gov.in or Thirukoil mobile app |
The Arunachalam Temple offers a profound spiritual experience for devotees. By booking your darshan online through the official portal, you can avoid long queues and focus on your spiritual journey. Whether you choose General Darshan or a premium experience, the divine presence of Lord Arunachaleswarar awaits you