Arunachalam Temple, also known as Annamalaiyar Temple, is a sacred Shiva temple in Thiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu. It is famous for its majestic architecture and holy significance and welcomes millions of pilgrims every year. Devotees come for Girivalam (circumambulation of Arunachala Hill) and spiritual realization. Being aware of the Arunachalam Temple Timings allows for a tranquil and satisfactory visit.
Arunachalam Temple Address: Pavazhakundur, Tiruvannamalai, Annamalai R.F., Tamil Nadu 606601
Arunachalam Temple Timings: Complete Schedule
The temple operates on a tight schedule, and it is necessary to know the opening and closing hours prior to making a visit. The daily poojas and darshan timings are followed with great care, so devotees can follow the rituals without any confusion.
- Temple Opening Time: 5:30 AM
- Temple Closing Time: 9:30 PM
- Break Hours: The temple remains closed between 12:30 PM – 3:30 PM for afternoon rest.
- Abhishekam Timings: Special abhishekams are conducted in the morning and evening.
Early morning temple visit enables you to enjoy the divine peace with less crowd. Even late nights are suitable for a serene darshan.
Arunachalam Temple Darshan Timings & Rituals
The temple performs multiple daily poojas and rituals, and hence, it is a divine experience for devotees. Below is a detailed description of the Arunachalam Temple Darshan timings:
- Ushathkala Pooja (Morning): 5:30 AM – 6:30 AM
- Kala Santhi Pooja: 7:30 AM – 9:00 AM
- Uchikala Pooja (Noon): 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM
- Sayaratchai Pooja (Evening): 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM
- Arthajama Pooja (Night): 9:00 PM – 9:30 PM
All these poojas are done with utmost devotion, along with chanting of Vedic shlokas and prasadam offering to the lord. The atmosphere in the temple during these poojas is enchanting, with the fragrance of incense sticks, rhythmic sound of temple drumming, and divine shlokas filling the atmosphere.
Arunachalam Temple Opening Timings: Morning & Evening Hours
For those seeking Arunachalam Temple opening times, here is a quick overview:
- Morning: Opens at 5:30 AM (ideal for a peaceful start to the day)
- Evening: Closes at 9:30 PM after the final aarti
It is always advisable to come early to steer clear of congestion and feel the spiritual ambiance of the temple. Those devotees who want to do special poojas or abhishekam are requested to come even earlier.
Also Read: Arunachalam Temple Timings: Darshan & Best Time to Visit
Best Time to Visit Arunachalam Temple for a Divine Experience
Plan your visit well and it can be a world of difference in the experience. Here’s what you should know:
- Early Morning (5:30 AM – 7:00 AM): Less crowded and peaceful
- Full Moon Days: Ideal for Girivalam, where thousands of devotees walk around Arunachala Hill
- Karthigai Deepam Festival (November-December): The grand lighting of the hill attracts lakhs of devotees
- Weekdays: Less crowded compared to weekends and special occasions
- Mahashivaratri: A night-long celebration with special poojas and bhajans.
It is especially otherworldly around festival times when the temple features intricate decorations, processions, and special procedures that are all about creating a spiritual experience never to be forgotten.
Special Pooja & Abhishekam Timings at Arunachalam Temple
Special poojas and abhishekams (sacred rituals) are conducted throughout the week:
- Pradosham Pooja: Twice a month on Trayodashi days (evening time)
- Pournami (Full Moon) Pooja: Special darshan and rituals
- Girivalam Walk: Highly significant on full moon nights
- Karthigai Deepam: A once-a-year event where a massive lamp is lit on the Arunachala Hill
- Rudrabhishekam: Conducted on Mondays and special occasions to invoke Lord Shiva’s blessings
Arunachalam Temple Visiting Guidelines & Entry Rules
To make your visit smooth, keep these guidelines in mind:
- Dress Code: Traditional dress is preferred (men: dhoti, women: saree/salwar)
- Entry Charge: No charge for ordinary darshan; special darshan tickets (₹50 – ₹250) are available
- Mobile Phones & Cameras: Prohibited within the sanctum
- Shoes: Should be removed outside prior to entry
- Offerings: Coconut, fruits, and flowers are sacred offerings.
Tips for Devotees: How to Make the Most of Your Visit
- Come Early: Visit by 6:00 AM for serene darshan
- Check Festival Dates: Steer clear of peak crowds unless you prefer to see the grand celebrations
- Stay Hydrated: Take water along because you might be required to queue
- Book Accommodation in Advance: Rooms get booked fast during special events
- Plan Girivalam Walk: Begin in the evening for a more comfortable, cooler experience
- Obey Temple Etiquette: Be silent and respectful towards the temple practices.
How to Reach Arunachalam Temple: Travel Guide
- By Air: Nearest airport is Chennai International Airport (185 km away)
- By Train: Thiruvannamalai Railway Station is well connected
- By Road: Regular buses and taxis from Chennai, Bangalore, and nearby cities
Conclusion
A trip to Arunachalam Temple is a spiritually enriching experience. By knowing the Arunachalam Temple Timings, darshan timings, and the best time to visit, you can make your journey smooth and rewarding. Whether you visit for Girivalam, special poojas, or just to seek divine blessings, prior planning will make your experience more enjoyable. The temple’s energetic vibrations and peaceful environment make it a place of pilgrimage for devotees and spiritual travelers.
FAQ’s
What are the daily Arunachalam Temple darshan timings?
Darshan is available for variable timings across the day and prime poojas during 5:30 AM and 9:30 PM.
When is the best time to visit Arunachalam Temple?
Weekdays and early morning times are optimum. Full moon day and festival day of Karthigai Deepam too hold importance.
What is the special significance of Girivalam at Arunachalam Temple?
Girivalam, a 14 km parikrama of the Arunachala Hill, is said to confer great spiritual advantages, particularly on full moon nights.
Are there any entry fees for Arunachalam Temple darshan?
General Darshan is free, but special Darshan tickets cost between ₹50 and ₹250.
