Things to Know Before Going to Arunachalam
1 Arunachaleswara Temple – History and Interesting Facts
Arunachaleswara Temple is one of the famous temples in Tamil Nadu. It is one of the Panchabhuta Sthalas, considered one of the five Shiva temples. It is believed that this temple was built during the 9th century by the Chola dynasty. Later, the Vijayanagara dynasty expanded the temple, and the Saluva and Tuluva dynasties further developed it.
During the Pallava rule over Tiruvannamalai, two Tamil saints, Appar and Sambandar, worshipped at the Annamalaiyar Temple. Kings also performed worship at this temple for centuries. However, over time, the Carnatic Nawab took over this temple and the town of Tiruvannamalai. The area came under the rule of both Hindu and Muslim rulers.
According to the temple legend, once when Parvati closed Shiva’s eyes for a short time, the world plunged into darkness for many years. During this time, Shiva appeared on the Arunachala hill as a giant column of fire, illuminating the universe. This is when the Ardhanarishwara form – half man, half woman – appeared, where Shiva and Parvati merged into one form.
This event, marked by the great fire on Arunachala hill, brought unique sanctity to this temple.
Main Features:
- The temple is located at the foot of the Arunachala hills in Tiruvannamalai town.
- Shiva is worshipped here as Agni Lingam.
- Goddess Parvati is worshipped as Unnamalai Amman or Apithakuch Ambal.
- The temple spans 10 hectares.
- There are four gopurams (gateway towers) in the temple. The eastern gopuram is 66 meters tall with 11 stories.
- The gopuram was built during the reign of Savappa Nayakkar.
- The temple houses several shrines and halls.
Pujas and Festivals:
Six daily pujas are performed in the Arunachaleswara Temple from 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
Puja Timings
Go Puja: 05:00 to 05:15 AM
Usha Kala Puja: 05:30 to 07:00 AM
Udaya Kala Puja: 10:00 to 11:30 AM
Sayaratcha Puja: 05:30 to 07:00 PM
randam Kala Puja: 08:00 to 09:00 PM
Ardhajama Puja: 09:00 to 09:30 PM
Other pujas: Pradosham, Amavasya, Kruttika, Purnima, Chaturthi, Brahmotsavam, Kartika Deepam.
How to Reach?
By Air: The temple can be reached from Chennai International Airport by taxis or other vehicles.
By Train: The temple is 2 km away from Tiruvannamalai Railway Station. Taxis or autos can be used from the station to reach the temple.
By Road: Buses or taxis can be used from various towns to reach Arunachaleswara Temple.
By knowing this information beforehand, you can make your journey to the Arunachaleswara Temple easier.
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