Thiruvannamalai
It is the most sacred temple town and renowned Hindus pilgrimage center. The region was previously known as Thondai Mandalam. The name is coined from the holy hill located here. The famous town is proudly house more than 100 temples and highly reserved ashram of great saint Ramana Maharishi. Arunachala temple is the prominent and most famous temple in this Thiruvannamalai district. The temple is one of the Panchabootha temple, considered abode of fire element. The fine architectural beauty and an inviting gopurams are adding its charms. It is city of historical significance and religious importance. It is believed to be Samadhi place of great Guru Ramana Maharishi. Seshadri Swamigal Ashram and Sattanur Dam are othefeatures of Thiruvannamalai.
Places to visit
Arunachaleshwara Temple
The temple is beautifully located on the holy hill called Arunachala. It is devoted to Lord Shiva in the form of Arunachaleswarar and one of the five Panchabootha sthalam. It is the place of fire element. The temple is adorned with majestic pllars, towers and sculptures. It is the finest evidence of artistic excellence of ancient India. Karthigai Theepam is the famous festival celebrated here. Thiruvannamalai is flooded with devotees and tourists during festival time to see the Giant lamp lighted at the hill top. Girivalam is another famous procession held in full moon day.
Ramanar Ashram
It is a calm and peaceful place to meditate and relax. The ashram is beautifully depicting the life history of Sri Ramana Maharishi and Hindu Philosophies. Legends claims that Bhagawan Ramanar has enlightened at the place called Arakandanallur which is nearer to Thiruvannamalai. This places has several caves and temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Ashram is distributing food everyday to devotees and visitors.
Virupaksha Cave
It is a cave ashram in the shape of ‘OM’ located on the eastern slope of majestic Arunachala hills. The name is derived from the saint Virupaksha Deva who spent most of his time in this cave. It has small gopuram and several springs along the slope.
Skandashramam
It is located on the northern slope of holy hill Arunachala where Arunachaleswarar temple is located. It is nearerto Ramanar ashram where Ramana Maharish stayed. One can take trekking to reach the ashram. Apart from its sacredness, the ashram offers an excellent panoramic view of entire Arunachala hills.
Other Places
Sathanur Dam, Mamara Guhai, Seshadri Swamigal Ashram and Gingee Fort are other famous spots in Thiruvannamalai.
How to reach Thiruvannamalai
By Air
Chennai international airport is closest one located 185 km from Thiruvannamalai.
By Train
Thiruvannamalai has its own railhead located just a kilometer from the city center.
By Road
It is well connected by road. There are regular and frequent bus services available from government and private transport corporation.
Weather
In summer 23-37°C and in winter 17-30°C. October to March is the ideal time to make a visit.
