Tourism in Thiruvannamalai: Things to do in Thiruvannamalai

A distinguished pilgrimage town and municipality in Thiruvannamalai district of Tamil Nadu, Thiruvannamalai is an ancient city that has long been associated with many yogis and siddhars. The headquarters of Thiruvannamalai district, Thiruvannamalai has become an international center of study in spiritualism.

Location

Thiruvannamalai is situated 185 km from Chennai and 210 km from Bangalore.

History

The name Thiruvannamalai was derived from the name of the holy mountain Tiruvannan Malai. In Thiruvannamalai, Lord Shiva took the form of a column of fire which had no beginning or end, so as to destroy the ego of Lord Vishnu and Brahma. It is said that Lord Shiva in ardhanarashwari form, with one half being Goddess Umadevi, appeared before his devotees here.

Fairs & Festivals of Thiruvannamalai

Bhrahmotsavam: As many as four Brahmotsavams are celebrated here every year, but the one celebrated during the month of Karthikai (November/December) is the most famous. Decorated deities are mounted and taken out on a procession through the temple town during this annual event. This ten day event culminates on the day of Karthikai Deepam, when a huge lamp is lit on a cauldron with three tons of ghee at the top of the Annamalai hills.

Cattle Fair: During the Karthikai Deepam festival, the famous Cattle Fair is celebrated. It is estimated that nearly 20,000 cattle are brought to this 4-day fair.

Best Time to Visit Thiruvannamalai

For a tour to Thiruvannamalai, the best time to visit is between the months of November and March.

How to Reach Thiruvannamalai

By Air

BY AIR -

The nearest airport is at Chennai.

By Train

BY RAIL -

You can board a passenger train to Vellore or Villupuram from the railway station at Thiruvannamalai.

By Road

BY ROAD -

Thiruvannamalai is well-connected by a network of roads to many cities and towns in Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh.

Tourist Attractions in Thiruvannamalai

Make your tour to Thiruvannamalai memorable by visiting these famous tourist places in Thiruvannamalai :

Sri Seshadri Swamigal Ashram: One of the holy places in Thiruvannamalai, this Ashram is dedicated to Mahan Sri Seshadri Swamigal.

Yogi Ram Surathkumar Ashram: Also known as Visiri Samiyar Ashram, this Ashram is one of the beautiful places in Thiruvannamalai.

Arunachaleswara Temple: Nestled at the foot of the Arunachala hill, and devoted to Lord Shiva, this is one of the largest temples in India.

Sri Ramana Ashram: Consecrated to Bhagavan Sri Ramana Maharshi, this Ashram is decked with flowering trees, accompanied by a soothing ambience.

Places around Thiruvannamalai

Explore the land of Thiruvannamalai, visiting the places around it, while on a Tour to Thiruvannamalai :

Sathanur dam: Constructed across Pennaiyar River among Chennakesava Hills, this dam is located 35 km from Thiruvannamalai. It has a well-maintained green foam park, huge trees, and a mini zoo with crocodile farm.

Padaveedu: This village of temples is positioned 35 km from Thiruvannamalai. Near to it you can witness the remnants of a 13th century palace of the Sambuvarayars who were chieftains of the Chola Empire.

Javadu Hills: Situated 75 km from Thiruvannamalai, these stunning hills have many charming spots around it, such as the Beema Falls, Komutteri Lake, Kavalur Observatory, Amirthi Forest, and the Glass House.