Annamalaiyar Temple, Tiruvannamalai
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Annamalaiyar Temple, Tiruvannamalai

Discover the ancient Annamalaiyar Temple, a monumental Shiva shrine and one of the Pancha Bhoota Sthalams, nestled at the sacred Arunachala Hill.

⭐ 4.7 Religious & Spiritual 📍 Area: Tiruvannamalai 🏙️ Tiruvannamalai 📍 Tamilnadu
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Best Time October/November to February/March
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Category Religious & Spiritual
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Area / Region Tiruvannamalai
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Entry Fee

Entry Free

special darshan ₹50 per person, Abhishekam Darshan ₹250 per person, Archana ₹5 per person.

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Open Hours

5:30 AM – 8:00 PM (Daily, timings may vary during festivals)

🗺️ Get directions to Annamalaiyar Temple, Tiruvannamalai (Google Maps)

About this Place

Spread over 25 acres, the Annamalaiyar Temple is one of the largest temple complexes in India. It features four towering gateway towers, known as gopurams, with the eastern Rajagopuram being the tallest at 66 meters (217 ft) and having 11 stories.

The complex houses numerous intricately carved shrines, halls (including a notable thousand-pillared hall), and sacred tanks. The temple is a vibrant center of devotion, especially during festivals like Karthigai Deepam, when a massive lamp is lit atop the Arunachala Hill.

🛡️ Verified Travel Resource 📅 Last Updated: August 16, 2026 11:54 PM (Local Time)

Ideal For & Recommended Visitors

👥 Pilgrims
👥 Spiritual Seekers
👥 Devotees
👥 Cultural Tourists
👥 History enthusiasts
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How to Reach

The Annamalaiyar Temple is easily accessible by various modes of transport.

  • Nearest Airport: Chennai International Airport (MAA) is approximately 175 km away. Also Puducherry Airport is approximately 112 km away.

  • Nearest Railway Station: Thiruvannamalai Railway Station (TNM) is conveniently located just 2 km from the temple.

  • Nearest Major Bus Stand/City Center: Thiruvannamalai Bus Station is approximately 2 km from the temple.

Annamalaiyar Temple, Tiruvannamalai – FAQs

What are the timings of Annamalaiyar Temple, Tiruvannamalai?

5:30 AM – 8:00 PM (Daily, timings may vary during festivals)

What is the entry fee for Annamalaiyar Temple, Tiruvannamalai?

Entry Free special darshan ₹50 per person, Abhishekam Darshan ₹250 per person, Archana ₹5 per person.

What is the best time to visit Annamalaiyar Temple, Tiruvannamalai?

October/November to February/March

How to reach Annamalaiyar Temple, Tiruvannamalai?

The Annamalaiyar Temple is easily accessible by various modes of transport. Nearest Airport: Chennai International Airport (MAA) is approximately 175 km away. Also Puducherry Airport is approximately 112 km away. Nearest Railway Station: Thiruvannamalai Railway Station (TNM) is conveniently located just 2 km from the temple. Nearest Major Bus Stand/City Center: Thiruvannamalai Bus Station is approximately 2 km from the temple.

Where is Annamalaiyar Temple, Tiruvannamalai located?

Annamalaiyar Temple, Tiruvannamalai is in Tiruvannamalai, Tamilnadu (GPS: 12.2317, 79.06774).

📜 Historical Context

The Annamalaiyar Temple is one of the most significant temples in the Tamil Shaivite tradition and is considered one of the five Pancha Bhoota Sthalams, representing the element of fire (Agni). According to Hindu legend, Lord Shiva manifested as an infinite column of fire here to settle a dispute between Lord Brahma and Lord Vishnu.

The Arunachala Hill itself is revered as a manifestation of Shiva. The temple's origins date back to the 9th century CE, with initial structures built during the Chola dynasty, followed by expansions by the Vijayanagara Empire and Nayaka rulers. Revered saints like Manikkavacakar and Ramana Maharshi have further cemented its spiritual importance.

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📍 GPS Accurate Map

GPS Coordinates: 12.23170361, 79.06773853

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