Arunachalam Temple 2025: Latest News, Festivals & Pilgrimage Guide
The Arunachaleswarar Temple also known as the Arunachalam Temple, it stands as a beam of spiritual significance in Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu. The Arunachalam Temple Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple is renowned for its grand festivals, deep-rooted traditions and the sacred practice of Girivalam (circumambulation of Arunachala Hill).
Karthigai Deepam Festival: A Radiant Celebration
The most anticipated event at Arunachalam Temple is the Karthigai Deepam festival. In 2024, the Maha Deepam was lit atop the 2,668 ft-high Arunachala Hill, which was witnessed by lakhs of devotees chanting ‘Annamalaiyaruku Harohara’. This event marked the culmination of the great 10-day festival, featuring processions of the Panchamurthis with vibrant fireworks. (MyTownBlog, The New Indian Express)
The Majestic Padmanabha Temple: A Spiritual Journey
Looking forward, the 2025 Karthigai Deepam is scheduled on the 4th of December. Pilgrims across the country are expected to gather, making it a significant spiritual flock. (Daga Developers)
Girivalam: The Sacred Circumambulation
The practice of walking around Arunachala Hill is known as Girivalam, it holds an immense spiritual value. Girivalam can be performed on any day, but full moon days (Pournami) are considered to be especially auspicious. The notable Pournami dates in 2025 include:(MyTownBlog, Daga Developers)
- May 11-12
- June 10-11
- July 10-11
- August 8-9
- September 7
- October 6-7
- November 4-5
- December 4-5(Daga Developers)
The route, which is 14 kilometers, offers devotees a chance for self-analysis and spiritual growth. (Daga Developers)
🕉️ Darshan Timings & Pooja Schedule
To facilitate a serene experience, the temple follows a structured schedule:(bookdarshans.in)
Darshan Timings:
- Morning: 5:00 AM – 12:00 PM
- Evening: 3:30 PM – 8:30 PM (ayodhyachronicle.in, bookdarshans.in)
Pooja Schedule:
- Suprabatham Seva: 5:00 AM – 5:15 AM
- Morning Abhishekam: 5:30 AM – 7:00 AM
- Kalash Pooja: 8:00 AM – 9:30 AM
- Madhyanam Pooja: 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM
- Sandhya Pooja: 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM
- Second Kala Pooja: 8:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Rathri Ardhajama Pooja: 9:00 PM – 9:30 PM (bookdarshans.in)
Devotees can choose between free general and special paid darshan options, with online booking available for convenience. (bookdarshans.in)
⚠️ Preservation Efforts: Addressing Encroachments
In April 2024, a major concern was raised regarding the encroachments on temple properties. Temple activist TR Ramesh highlighted the disappearance of ancient temples like Sri Elaiyanar and Sri Idumbanar due to unauthorized constructions. He urged the Tamil Nadu Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HR&CE) department to take corrective measures. (OpIndia)
Elements to Include:
- The towering Rajagopuram (main entrance tower)
- Devotees performing Girivalam under the full moon
- The glowing Maha Deepam atop the hill (MyTownBlog, The New Indian Express)
📚 Authoritative Sources
For further information and updates:
- Arunachalam Temple Darshan Timings & Booking
- Giripradakshina Arunachalam 2025 Guide
- Arunachalesvara Temple – Wikipedia(bookdarshans.in, Daga Developers, Wikipedia)