Tiruvannamalai Travels

Arunachaleswarar Temple: The city is famous for this ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, one of the largest in India, where devotees circumambulate the sacred Arunachala Hill (Girivalam).

Arunachala Hill: Considered to be the manifestation of Lord Shiva, this hill is a spiritual magnet and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding plains and forests.

Ramana Maharshi Ashram: Founded by the famous sage Ramana Maharshi, this ashram attracts spiritual seekers from all over the world looking for solace and retreat.

Deepam Festival: During the Karthigai Deepam, a huge lamp is lit on the Arunachala hill, providing a mesmerizing spectacle that can be seen from afar.

Seshadri Swamigal Ashram: Another famous ashram in Tiruvannamalai known for its serene atmosphere and spiritual teachings.

Girivalam: The ritual circumambulation of Arunachala Hill, which is said to confer spiritual merit and free one from sins.

Skandashramam: A cave on Arunachala Hill where Ramana Maharshi meditated for several years and which offers visitors a peaceful retreat.

Sri Ramanasramam Bookstore: Known for its extensive collection of spiritual literature that provides insights into the teachings of Ramana Maharshi.

Virupaksha Cave: Another cave where Ramana Maharshi meditated and offers a tranquil atmosphere for contemplation and meditation.

Tiruvannamalai Girivalam Path: The path around the Arunachala hill used for Girivalam is lined with ancient temples, serene forests, and natural beauty.

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Tiruvannamalai To Ooty

The journey from Tiruvannamalai to Ooty is about 340 kilometers long and passes through various landscapes and cities by tiruvannamalai travels that reflect the cultural and geographical diversity of South India. The route usually takes around 7-8 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. A detailed overview of the route can be found here:

Tiruvannamalai to Salem
The first leg of the journey takes travelers from Tiruvannamalai to Salem, a vibrant city known for its historical landmarks, vibrant markets and cultural heritage. The road from Tiruvannamalai to Salem is well-maintained and offers a pleasant drive through the Tamil Nadu countryside. On the way, you can enjoy views of agricultural fields, rural villages and occasional small hills in the distance.

Salem itself is an ancient city with a rich history dating back to the Sangam era of Tamil literature. It is famous for the production of steel, mangoes and textiles. Travelers passing through Salem should take in sights such as the historic 17th century Salem Fort and the Kottai Mariamman Temple, dedicated to the goddess Mariamman.

From Salem to Coimbatore
From Salem, continue northwest to Coimbatore, one of Tamil Nadu’s largest cities and an industrial hub known as the “Manchester of South India’.” The road from Salem to Coimbatore passes through more rural landscapes, with occasional views of the Western Ghats in the distance.

Coimbatore is known for its textile industry, engineering firms and educational institutions. Located on the banks of the river Noyyal and surrounded by the Western Ghats, Coimbatore offers a blend of urban amenities and natural beauty. Travelers to Coimbatore can visit attractions such as the Marudhamalai Murugan Temple, known for its hilltop location and panoramic views of the city, and the VOC Park and Zoo, a popular destination for families.

From Coimbatore to Mettupalayam
From Coimbatore, the route to Ooty leads to Mettupalayam, a town on the foothills of the Nilgiri Hills. The road from Coimbatore to Mettupalayam offers picturesque views as it winds its way up through lush green forests and tea plantations into the Western Ghats. As the altitude increases, the climate also gradually changes.

Mettupalayam is known as the starting point for the Nilgiri Mountain Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers a nostalgic ride on a steam locomotive through the scenic Nilgiri hills. The railroad, also known as the “Toy Train’,” runs from Mettupalayam to Coonoor and onwards to Ooty, offering breathtaking views of valleys, tea plantations and forests en route.

Mettupalayam to Ooty on the Nilgiri Mountain Railway

Mettupalayam to ooty The last leg of the journey from Tiruvannamalai to Ooty includes a scenic train ride on the Nilgiri Mountain Railway from Mettupalayam to Ooty. This historic railroad line is about 46 kilometers long and takes about 5 hours to reach Ooty. It passes through 208 curves, 16 tunnels and crosses 250 bridges.

The Nilgiri Mountain Railway is known for its engineering marvels and panoramic views of the Nilgiri hills. The train ride offers glimpses of the natural beauty of the region, including dense forests, tea gardens and waterfalls. Highlights along the route include the famous turning loop at Coonoor, where the train gains altitude through a series of loops, and the viewpoints that offer panoramic views of the hills and valleys below.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)

how many kilometers tiruvannamalai girivalam?

The Girivalam path in Tiruvannamalai has a length of about 14 kilometers (about 8.7 miles).

how to reach tiruvannamalai from chennai?

To reach Tiruvannamalai from Chennai, take a direct bus from Koyambedu Bus Terminus (CMBT) in Chennai. The buses run regularly throughout the day and cover the approximately 200-kilometre route via NH 45 and NH 79 in around 4-5 hours. Alternatively, you can also hire a private cab to travel faster.

when is karthigai deepam in tiruvannamalai?

Karthigai Deepam in Tiruvannamalai is typically celebrated on the full moon day (Pournami) in the Tamil month of Karthigai, which usually falls in November or December.

who built tiruvannamalai temple?

The construction of the Arunachaleswarar temple in Tiruvannamalai is attributed to various rulers and dynasties over several centuries. While the exact founder or builder of the original temple is not clearly documented, historical records and inscriptions indicate that it was expanded and renovated by various rulers who patronized the temple.

A significant period of expansion and development was during the reign of the Chola dynasty (9th to 13th century AD), who were known for their patronage of temple architecture and art throughout South India. They were instrumental in the growth and architectural splendor of the Arunachaleswarar temple.

how many lingam in tiruvannamalai?

In Tiruvannamalai, the Arunachaleswarar temple complex is known to house several lingams (symbolic representations of Lord Shiva). The main lingam worshipped in the temple is known as Arunachaleswarar, which is said to embody the element of fire (Agni). This lingam is worshipped as a form of Lord Shiva and is the central deity of the temple.

Apart from the main lingam Arunachaleswarar, the temple complex also houses several smaller lingams dedicated to various deities and forms of Lord Shiva. These lingams are located in various shrines across the sprawling temple premises, each with its own significance and associated rituals.

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