Arunachalam giri pradakshana and Temple full details | Tiruvannamalai |

Arunachalam Giri Pradakshina, also known as Girivalam, is a revered spiritual practice involving the circumambulation of Arunachala Hill in Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu. This ritual is deeply rooted in Shaivism and is centered around the Arunachalesvara Temple, one of the Pancha Bhoota Sthalams representing the fire element (Agni) .

🛕 Arunachalesvara Temple Overview

• Location: Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu, at the base of Arunachala Hill.
• Deity: Lord Shiva, worshipped as Annamalaiyar or Arunachalesvara; Goddess Parvati as Unnamalai or Apitakuchambal.
• Significance: The temple is associated with the fire element among the five elements in Shaivism.
• Architecture: Spanning 25 acres, the temple features four towering gopurams (gateway towers), with the eastern Rajagopuram standing at 66 meters.
• Temple Timings: Open daily from 5:30 AM to 12:30 PM and 3:30 PM to 9:30 PM .

🚶‍♂️ Giri Pradakshina (Girivalam) Details

• Distance: Approximately 14 kilometers (8.7 miles) around Arunachala Hill.
• Duration: Typically takes 3 to 5 hours to complete, depending on individual pace .
• Best Times: Early morning (around 4:00 AM) or late evening (after 10:00 PM) to avoid heat and crowds .
• Auspicious Days: Full moon (Pournami) days are considered especially sacred, attracting thousands of devotees .
• Path: The route is well-marked, encircling the hill with the sacred hill always on the right. Devotees often walk barefoot as a sign of humility and devotion.

🕉️ Spiritual Significance

• Ashta Lingams: Along the path, there are eight shrines known as Ashta Lingams, each representing a cardinal direction and associated with specific blessings:
1. Indra Lingam (East)
2. Agni Lingam (Southeast)
3. Yama Lingam (South)
4. Niruthi Lingam (Southwest)
5. Varuna Lingam (West)
6. Vayu Lingam (Northwest)
7. Kubera Lingam (North)
8. Esanya Lingam (Northeast) .
• Philosophy: The practice symbolizes the journey towards self-realization, with the hill representing Lord Shiva himself. Devotees believe that undertaking this pilgrimage with sincerity can lead to spiritual liberation (moksha) .

📝 Practical Tips for Pilgrims

• Preparation: Engage in regular walking to build stamina.
• Attire: Wear comfortable, breathable clothing suitable for walking.
• Hydration: Carry water and light snacks; there are also refreshment stalls along the route.
• Footwear: While traditional practice involves walking barefoot, those with sensitive feet may use padded socks.
• Conduct: Maintain a meditative state, chanting or silently reflecting during the walk .

📅 Upcoming Full Moon Dates for Girivalam in 2025

• June 11, 2025
• July 10, 2025
• August 9, 2025
• September 7, 2025
• October 6, 2025
• November 5, 2025
• December 5, 2025

Note: Dates are based on the lunar calendar and may vary slightly.

For a visual guide and more insights into the Girivalam experience, you might find this video helpful:

Embarking on the Giri Pradakshina is not just a physical journey but a profound spiritual endeavor that connects devotees deeply with the divine essence of Arunachala.