Why people go
One of the largest temples in India, at the foot of Arunachala hill. On every full moon, pilgrims walk the 14 km girivalam around the hill, and Ramana Maharshi’s ashram draws seekers from around the world.
Getting there
- Nearest airports: Pondicherry (PNY), about 86 km, Chennai metropolitan area (MAA), about 145 km in a straight line. Check which have flights from your city.
- Nearest major railway station: Viluppuram Junction railway station (VM), about 57 km. Smaller stations may be closer.
- Base: our Puducherry (Pondicherry) guide covers where to stay and how to get there.
Tips before you go
- Walk the girivalam barefoot at night on full moon, as pilgrims do.
- Sri Ramanasramam is a short walk away.
Visiting from abroad?
Everyone is welcome. Dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered) and follow the queue rules. OCI and foreign passport holders: carry your passport.
Other shrines nearby
- Sripuram Golden Temple, Vellore, Vellore (about 71 km)
- Tiruttani, Tiruvallur district (about 121 km)
- Swamimalai, near Kumbakonam (about 144 km)
Frequently asked questions
Where is Arunachaleswara, Tiruvannamalai?
How do I reach Arunachaleswara, Tiruvannamalai?
What is the best time to visit Arunachaleswara, Tiruvannamalai?
Can non-Hindus or foreigners visit Arunachaleswara, Tiruvannamalai?
How we chose: real demand, from monthly Google searches in India (Semrush, India database, monthly Google searches, checked 21 Oct 2026), plus the circuits families actually travel. Locations: Wikidata (CC0) and Wikipedia. Airports and stations are the nearest on our own lists, measured in a straight line, so check flights and road times. We do not list timings or fees because they change; check with the temple. Checked 21 Oct 2026.
More: Wikipedia