History:

is one of the most prominent and historical temples in India. The temple is devoted to Lord Shiva and is the most visited temple of the Pancha Bhoota Stalams. This legendary temple with its seven walled prakarams (outer courtyard), towering Gopurams, numerous shrines and tanks is situated at the base of the Arunachala Hills, one of the largest hills in the state of Tamil Nadu, about 200 km from the city of Chennai. It is surrounded by four courtyard walls, with a fifth innermost courtyard where the main sanctum of the temple and the holy Lingam of Lord Shiva lies. It is one of the best temple in TamilNadu which you must visit.

Facts:

• The Thiruvannamalai Arunachaleswarar Temple is one of the most ancient temples in India, built in the late 9th century. • The temple is one of the Pancha Bootha Sthalas, and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is associated with the five elements, earth, water, air, fire, and sky. • The temple is situated atop the Annamalai Hill, which is said to have been formed when Shiva and Parvati multiplied themselves a thousand times. • The temple complex also plays host to a grand celebration known as Karthikai Deepam, which draws tens of thousands of pilgrims each year. • Inscriptions detailing vast sums of donations made to the temple by various kings and religious officials dating back to the 9th century have been found on the temple's external walls. • The temple is one of the sixteen abodes of LordVishnu which are part of the 108 Divya Desam temples. • The temple is also known for its 108 Shiva lingams that were carved into the hill by King Raja Raja Chola's order. • It is believed that worshiping at the Thiruvannamalai Arunachaleswarar Temple will bring peace, harmony, and prosperity to those who visit. Here are some facts about the TamilNadu temple.These facts will help you understand why it is oldest temple list of the best temples in TamilNadu

Worship Method:

The Thiruvannamalai Arunachaleswarar Temple is one of the ancient temples in Tamil Nadu. It is dedicated to the Hindu deity, Lord Arunachaleswarar (Lord Shiva) and is located at the foothills of the Annamalai hills. The temple complex comprises of four gates, four towers and four entrances facing each direction of the Annamalai hills. The temple has two main parts - the inner and the outer. The inner temple or Garbhagriha is the sanctum where the deity resides and where puja (offerings) are made, including offering of kavadi (burdens) and playing the nadaswaram (musical instrument). Worship of the deity is done following standard procedures, which include prayer chants, lighting of 'ghee' lamps, distribution of 'prasad' (blessed items), processions and 'theerthavaari' (holy bath). Other popular activities in this temple include offering of flowers, singing of bhajans, performing 'aarti' (ritual prayer) and performing the 'abhisheka' (ceremonial bath) with the 'paamalai' (a mix of sacred herbs and ingredients). The temple follows the Saivite tradition of worship; hence, six times puja is conducted daily. During festivals, special poojas are also conducted. Apart from the daily pooja activities, devotees also visit the temple to take part in Annabisheka, an annual event conducted on an auspicious day. The festival is celebrated in the Tamil month of Karthigai (corresponding to Nov-Dec) and is dedicated to Lord Arunachaleswarar. Special rituals such as 'Kaavadi' and 'Pradakshinam' are also performed during this festival. The temple is also celebrated for offering special homas (fire rituals) dedicated to Goddess Parvathi, Annamalaiyar and Lord Aravana, using special ingredients offered by the devotees. The immense faith of devotees in the temple, the beautiful location and the wonderful architecture has made this temple a popular pilgrimage centre in India. This most visited temple in TamilNadu

Opening Timing:

The temple is open from 5:00am to 12:30pm and 4:00pm to 9:30pm every day. top temples in TamilNadu

How to reach:

The Thiruvannamalai Arunachaleswarar Temple located in the Thiruvannamalai District of Tamil Nadu can be reached by road. It is located about 200 km from Chennai, the state capital. From Chennai, the temple can be reached by taking NH66 (which connects Puducherry and Salem). By train: The Thiruvannamalai Railway Station (TEN) is the closest to the temple and is well-connected with major cities and towns of Tamil Nadu and India. By air: The closest airport to the temple is the Chennai International Airport (MAA), which is located about 183 km away. famous temples in TamilNadu