One of the largest Shaivite temples in India, associated with the element of fire (agni), with four massive gopurams. The town is famous for the Karthigai Deepam festival when a giant beacon fire is lit atop the 803m Annamalai Hill, visible for miles. Circumambulating the hill on foot (14km Girivalam) is a popular spiritual practice.
| Admission | Free |
|---|---|
| Hours | 5:30 AM - 1:00 PM, 3:30 PM - 9:00 PM |
| Typical visit | 2-4 hours (full day for hill circumambulation) |
| Best time | Full moon nights for Girivalam |
| Address | Car Street, Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu 606601 |
Good to know
- Best for
- spirituality, culture, pilgrimage
Weather through the year in Tamil Nadu
Best time Shoulder Worth avoiding
Average daytime temperature in °C. Figures are for Tamil Nadu.
Location
Car Street, Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu 606601
12.2306, 79.0671 View on map
Tips for visiting
- Full moon walk around the hill takes 4-5 hours
- Karthigai Deepam festival in November is spectacular