Ever felt that pull toward a place that seems to glow with something deeper than words? That’s how many feel when they first hear about Arunachalam Temple in Tiruvannamalai. Some come seeking peace, others come looking for answers, and many arrive not knowing why ,they just know their heart needs to be there.
If you’ve been wondering when to visit, how the darshan works, or what makes this temple so spiritually powerful, you’re in the right place. This guide will walk you through the temple’s darshan timings, ticket booking process, rituals, and everything else you need to make your visit smooth and meaningful.
About Arunachaleswarar Temple
The Arunachaleswarar Temple, also known as Annamalaiyar Temple, stands majestically at the foothills of Annamalai Hill in Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this sacred shrine represents the element of Fire (Agni) among the revered Pancha Bhoota Sthalams. It’s believed that Shiva manifested here as an endless pillar of light, symbolizing spiritual awakening and divine energy. For centuries, devotees have come here seeking peace, blessings, and liberation (moksha).
Stepping into this ancient Hindu temple feels like traveling back in time. The chants, temple bells, and fragrance of camphor create an atmosphere charged with devotion. Every part of this holy complex reflects Shaivism’s deep spiritual legacy, making it one of South India’s most sacred pilgrimage sites. Whether you’re a pilgrim or a traveler, the Arunachaleswarar Temple promises not just a visit ,but a transformation.
Key Highlights:
- Located in Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu, dedicated to Lord Shiva.
- Represents the Agni (Fire) element among the Pancha Bhoota Sthalams.
- Known for the belief that Shiva appeared as a pillar of light (Jyotirlinga).
- A major center of Shaivism and South Indian spirituality.
- Draws millions of devotees during Karthigai Deepam and Maha Shivratri.
Architecture of Arunachaleswarar Temple
The architecture of the Arunachaleswarar Temple is a timeless display of Dravidian brilliance, blending artistic mastery with spiritual symbolism. Its colossal gopurams dominate the Tiruvannamalai skyline, covered in thousands of delicate sculptures that tell ancient stories of gods and guardians. Spread across 25 acres, the temple complex stands as both a place of worship and an enduring testament to Tamil Nadu’s architectural heritage. Every structure, from the shrines to the stone corridors, reflects a devotion carved in granite.
At the sacred core lies the Garbhagriha, housing Lord Arunachaleswarar as the embodiment of the Fire Element (Agni). The temple’s symmetry follows the cosmic principles of Vastu Shastra, aligning perfectly with the sacred Annamalai Hill. As devotees walk through its halls, they feel connected to centuries of faith and craftsmanship ,where each pillar, sculpture, and shadow seems to whisper the eternal rhythm of divinity.
Key Architectural Highlights
- Dravidian Grandeur: Tall gopurams adorned with intricate carvings depicting gods and mythological tales.
- Expansive Layout: Covers 25 acres featuring courtyards, mandapams, and sacred tanks like Agni Theertham.
- Spiritual Symbolism: The temple represents Agni (Fire) among the Pancha Bhoota Sthalams.
- Divine Alignment: Built following Vastu Shastra, directly aligned with Annamalai Hill, symbolizing Lord Shiva.
- Eternal Craftsmanship: Stone sculptures and halls that reflect both devotion and architectural perfection.
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Darshan & Aarti Timings 2025
Visiting the Arunachalam Temple is a soul-touching experience, but knowing the right darshan and aarti timings makes it even more meaningful. Each ritual follows a sacred rhythm that connects devotees with Lord Shiva’s divine energy. From early morning chants to midnight abhishekam, every moment inside this temple feels alive with devotion. Planning your visit around these timings ensures you never miss the spiritual essence that makes this temple so revered.
The temple authorities maintain a structured schedule throughout the day, allowing devotees to experience both regular and special poojas. Whether you attend the serene morning Abhishekam or the vibrant evening Aarti, each ceremony has its own charm. Below is the detailed timetable for Arunachaleswarar Temple Darshan & Aarti Timings (2025) to help you plan your visit perfectly.
Arunachalam Temple Timings
| Session | Timing (Approx.) | Ritual / Aarti Details |
| Temple Opens | 5:00 AM | Temple doors open for devotees; first bell rings. |
| Morning Abhishekam | 5:30 AM – 6:30 AM | Sacred bath of Lord Arunachaleswarar with milk, honey, and sandalwood. |
| Morning Darshan | 6:30 AM – 11:30 AM | General darshan for all devotees. |
| Uchikala Pooja (Midday) | 12:00 PM | Midday aarti with Vedic chants and offerings. |
| Temple Closed (Noon Break) | 12:30 PM – 3:00 PM | Temple remains closed for cleaning and preparation. |
| Evening Darshan Begins | 3:30 PM – 8:30 PM | Open for evening darshan and prayers. |
| Sayaraksha Pooja (Evening Aarti) | 7:00 PM | Evening worship with lamps, bells, and devotional music. |
| Midnight Abhishekam (Special Days) | 12:00 AM | Conducted during full moon, Girivalam, and special festivals. |
| Temple Closes | 9:00 PM | Final prayers and closing ceremony. |
Special Notes
- Full Moon Nights: The temple stays open for Girivalam (sacred circumambulation of Annamalai Hill).
- Maha Shivratri & Karthigai Deepam: Expect extended darshan hours and special Abhishekams.
- VIP & Special Entry Darshan: Available via online booking on the official HRCE portal.
- Timings may vary slightly during festivals or temple events ,always verify before visiting.
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Arunachalam Temple Darshan Ticket Booking – Step-by-Step Guide
Planning your visit to the Arunachalam Temple becomes effortless when you know how to book your darshan tickets in advance. The temple now offers a convenient online booking system through the HRCE official website, saving you long queues and last-minute confusion. Devotees can choose from various darshan types ,general entry, VIP, or special puja tickets ,based on their preferences and schedule.
Online booking ensures a smooth and organized darshan experience for every devotee. You can select your preferred date, time slot, and type of ticket while making secure payments through UPI, debit/credit cards, or net banking. Once booked, a confirmation SMS or email is sent instantly. Here’s a quick and clear guide to help you complete your Arunachalam Temple Darshan booking.
Step-by-Step Online Booking Process
- Visit the Official Website:
Go to the Arunachaleswarar Temple Official Portal. - Login or Register:
Create a new devotee account or log in using your registered credentials. - Select “Darshan Booking” Option:
Choose between General Darshan, Special Entry, or VIP Darshan. - Pick Your Preferred Date & Time:
Use the calendar interface to select your desired slot for 2025. - Fill in Devotee Details:
Provide the required details like name, contact number, and ID proof. - Make Secure Payment:
Pay using Debit Card, UPI, or Net Banking; all transactions are encrypted. - Receive Confirmation:
After payment, download your E-Ticket or keep the confirmation SMS/email for entry. - Show at Entry Gate:
Present your digital or printed ticket at the designated entrance for quick access.
Arunachalam Temple Darshan Ticket Prices
| Darshan Type | Approx. Price (INR) | Booking Mode | Details |
| General Darshan | Free | On-site / Online | Open to all devotees during regular hours. |
| Special Entry Darshan | ₹50 – ₹100 | Online / Counter | Faster entry with dedicated queue. |
| VIP Darshan | ₹250 – ₹500 | Online / HRCE Office | Priority access to main sanctum. |
| Gold Darshan | ₹750 | Online | Includes special puja and prasad. |
| Silver Darshan | ₹1000 | Online | Offers quicker darshan with additional blessings. |
| Diamond Darshan | ₹1500 – ₹2000 | Online / Festival Days | Premium darshan with personalized assistance. |
| Abhishekam Ticket | ₹300 | Counter Only | Participation in sacred ritual to Lord Shiva. |
| Annadanam Donation Ticket | ₹100+ | Online / Counter | Contribution to temple’s free meal service. |
Booking Tips
- Always book at least 3–5 days in advance, especially during weekends or festivals.
- Carry a valid ID proof and your e-ticket for verification at the gate.
- For large groups, bulk bookings are available through the HRCE helpdesk.
- For latest updates, check the official temple notice board or HRCE portal.
Rituals & Spiritual Practices
Arunachalam Temple, also known as Annamalaiyar Temple, is a sacred abode of Lord Shiva in Tiruvannamalai. Devotees believe that performing rituals here brings liberation (moksha) and inner peace. Each day, spiritual practices such as pujas, abhishekam, and deepa aradhana are performed with devotion and precision, creating a divine atmosphere that radiates serenity.
During major festivals like Karthigai Deepam, the temple becomes a hub of spiritual energy, where thousands of devotees participate in the sacred Girivalam , a ritual circumambulation of the holy Arunachala Hill, symbolizing the journey of life toward enlightenment.
Key Rituals and Practices:
- Girivalam (Circumambulation): Walking 14 km around Arunachala Hill during full moon nights for spiritual purification.
- Karthigai Deepam Festival: Lighting a massive flame atop the hill symbolizing Lord Shiva’s eternal light.
- Abhishekam: Sacred bath to Lord Arunachaleswarar with milk, ghee, honey, and sandalwood.
- Archana & Aarti: Daily worship offerings with chanting of Vedic mantras and divine hymns.
- Annadanam: Free food distribution to devotees as a symbol of compassion and equality.
- Pradosham Pooja: Bi-monthly ritual to remove sins and gain Lord Shiva’s blessings.
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Contact Information
For any queries about darshan, aarti timings, or festival schedules, visitors can easily contact the Arunachalam Temple office. The staff provides assistance for online booking, accommodation, and special puja arrangements, ensuring a smooth visit.
Highlights:
- Temple: Arunachaleswarar Temple, Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu
- Phone: +91-4175-252438
- Website: https://hrce.tn.gov.in
- Email: info@arunachaleswarartemple.tn.gov.in
- Nearest Station: Tiruvannamalai (2 km)
- Nearest Airport: Chennai (185 km)
Hotels Near Arunachalam Temple
Finding a peaceful stay near Arunachalam Temple (Arunachaleswarar Temple) in Tiruvannamalai enhances the spiritual experience of every devotee. The town offers a range of accommodations ,from budget-friendly lodges to luxurious retreats ,ensuring comfort and convenience for all visitors. Most hotels are located within a few kilometers of the temple, allowing guests to easily attend the early morning Girivalam or evening Deepa Aarathi.
Here are some popular hotels and lodges near the temple:
- Hotel Himalayaa – A 3-star hotel offering spacious rooms, restaurant, and proximity (1 km) from Arunachaleswarar Temple.
- Arunai Anantha Resort – A serene resort surrounded by greenery, ideal for families and group stays, around 2 km from the temple.
- Athena Hotel – Modern facilities, vegetarian restaurant, and scenic hill views; located 1.5 km from the temple.
- Sri Sarvesha Residency – Located just 500 meters from the temple; provides budget rooms with air conditioning and Wi-Fi.
- Sparsa Resort Tiruvannamalai – Eco-friendly luxury resort featuring cottages, a swimming pool, and meditation spaces; approximately 2.5 km away.
- Hotel Ramakrishna – Affordable option near the temple with clean rooms and 24-hour check-in.
- Agni Lingam Guest House – Perfect for spiritual travelers seeking simplicity; located within walking distance of the temple.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the contact number of Arunachaleswarar Temple Tiruvannamalai?
You can contact Arunachaleswarar Temple at +91 4175 252 438 for darshan details, pooja booking, and visitor assistance.
Where is Arunachaleswarar Temple located?
The Arunachaleswarar Temple is located in Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu, at the base of the sacred Annamalai Hill.
What is the official website of Arunachaleswarar Temple?
Visit the official temple website https://hrce.tn.gov.in for darshan timings, rituals, and online information.
How can I reach Arunachaleswarar Temple from Chennai?
You can reach Tiruvannamalai by train or bus from Chennai; the temple is around 190 km away.
What is the nearest railway station to Arunachaleswarar Temple?
The nearest railway station is Tiruvannamalai Railway Station, located just 2 kilometers from the temple.
What is the email ID of Arunachaleswarar Temple office?
You can contact the temple office via email at info@arunachaleswarartemple.in for all temple-related inquiries.
What are the darshan enquiry hours at Arunachaleswarar Temple?
Temple enquiry hours are usually from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM, matching the daily darshan schedule and pooja timings.
Final Thoughts
The Arunachaleswarar Temple is more than an ancient shrine ,it’s a living flame of faith and self-realization. Every ritual, chant, and step around Arunachala Hill carries deep spiritual energy that touches the soul.
For seekers of peace, wisdom, or divine blessings, the Arunachalam Temple offers a journey inward. It’s not just a visit , it’s an awakening of the heart in the presence of Lord Shiva’s eternal light.
I’m the creator of TravellerAura.com ; a travel blog dedicated to inspiring journeys, practical tips and unforgettable destinations around the globe.
