Srivilliputhur Andal Temple
A Sacred Center of the Pancha Bhoota Stalams
Arunachaleswarar Temple in Tiruvannamalai is one of the five revered Pancha Bhoota Stalams, each representing one of the fundamental elements of creation—Earth, Fire, Water, Air, and Space. This holy shrine symbolizes Agni (Fire), and Lord Shiva is worshipped here as the Agni Lingam.
According to the ancient Shiva Purana, only four places on earth are said to grant liberation, and Arunachala is counted among them. Devotees believe that even thinking about this sacred hill is enough to cleanse one from the endless cycle of birth and rebirth.
Mythological Significance
A well-known legend associated with Arunachala describes Lord Shiva manifesting as an infinite column of fire to humble the pride of Lord Vishnu and Lord Brahma.
A dispute began between the two—Vishnu claimed that Brahma emerged from his navel, while Brahma declared himself superior as the creator.
To settle this argument, Shiva appeared as an endless flame and asked them to find the top or bottom of this fiery column. Brahma took the form of a swan and flew upward; Vishnu transformed into a boar (Varaha) and burrowed downward. Unable to find an end, Vishnu admitted defeat.
Brahma, however, encountered a Thazhambu flower and persuaded it to falsely testify that he reached the top. Angered by the deception, Shiva cursed Brahma that no temple on earth would be dedicated to him, and the flower was forbidden from being used in rituals.
The blazing pillar of Shiva is believed to have solidified into the present Arunachala Hill, symbolizing the boundless cosmic lingam—the origin of all creation.
Temple Architecture and Experience
Spread over nearly 25 acres, Arunachaleswarar Temple is one of India’s largest temple complexes. Although the site is ancient, much of the existing architecture was expanded during the 17th to 19th centuries.
Upon entering, the majestic Thousand Pillar Mandapam on the right immediately captures the eye—an architectural hallmark of traditional Tamil temples.
To the left lies a large sacred tank, and straight ahead is the gateway leading to the inner sanctum where the Agni Lingam is enshrined.
The temple and its surroundings are best viewed from the top of Arunachala Hill, an 800-meter ascent. The climb can be challenging, but the panoramic view of the temple and town makes the effort spiritually uplifting.
Temple Timings
Morning: 5:30 AM – 12:30 PM
Evening: 3:30 PM – 9:30 PM
Daily Pooja Schedule
Pooja
Time
Pooja
Time
Pooja
Time
Ukshakala
5:30 AM
Kala Shanthi
8:00 AM
Uchi Kala
11:30 AM
Sayaratchai
5:30 PM
Irandam Kala
7:30 PM
Arthajama
9:00 PM
Major Festivals
Every festival celebrated at Arunachaleswarar Temple is considered holy, attracting lakhs of devotees annually. The most important celebration is the Karthigai Deepam, held in November–December. On the 10th day, the Maha Deepam is lit atop Arunachala Hill, illuminating the entire region and drawing millions of visitors.
Annual Festival Calendar
Chithirai (Apr–May): Vasantha Utsavam – 10 days
Vaikasi (May–Jun): Vaikasi Utsavam – 1 day
Aani (Jun–Jul): Aani Brahmotsavam – 10 days; Aani Thirumanjanam – 1 day
Aadi (Jul–Aug): Aadi Pooram Brahmotsavam – 10 days
Avani (Aug–Sep): Avani Moolam Utsavam – 1 day
Puratasi (Sep–Oct): Navaratri Utsavam – 9 days
Aippasi (Oct–Nov): Annabishekam – 1 day; Kanda Sashti – 6 days
Karthigai (Nov–Dec): Karthigai Deepam Brahmotsavam – 17 days
Margazhi (Dec–Jan): Vaikunda Ekadasi – 1 day; Arudra Darisanam – 1 day
Thai (Jan–Feb): Uttarayana Punyakalam – 10 days; Thiruvoodal – 1 day; Several Theerthavari festivals
Masi (Feb–Mar): Maha Shivaratri; Masi Magam Theerthavari
Panguni (Mar–Apr): Panguni Uthiram Thirukalyana Utsavam – 6 days
How to Reach Tiruvannamalai
By Air
The closest airport is Chennai International Airport, about 185 km away. From Chennai, travelers can hire a taxi or take government buses to Tiruvannamalai.
By Rail
Nearby major railway stations include:
Villupuram – 76 km
Katpadi – 65 km
Regular trains from many parts of India pass through these stations, from where buses and taxis are easily available.
By Road
Tiruvannamalai is well-connected by road to major cities across South India. Buses, private vehicles, and taxis are widely available, making road travel convenient.
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