Perched atop of a hill in the Thiruvannamalai district of Tamil Nadu, Thiruvannamalai is one of the most sacred pilgrim centers in this region. The town is home to the highly venerated Ashram of the renowned saint Sri Ramananda Maharishi and the famous Arunachaleswara temple where Lord Shiva is enshrined as Arunachaleswarar. The city is home to around 100 temples. The temple has imposing Gopurams and exquisite architectural beauty. It is believed to be the salvation place of Saint Ramana Maharishi. Legends have it that Saint Ramana Maharishi had a dream of the Supreme Truth at Arakandanallur, a town nearby Thiruvannamalai. During the Arunachaleswara temple days, the town goes into a vivacious mode.
How to Reach Thiruvannamalai from Bangalore
Attractions in Thiruvannamalai
Gingee Fort
Also known as Chenji Fort, Gingee Fort is one of the few forts in Tamil Nadu which still stands intact against the atrocities of intruders. The fort is located in the Villupuram district and was labeled as the ‘Troy of the East’ by the British. The fort was originally commissioned by the Chola dynasty during the 9th century and was later modified in 13th century by Vijayanagar emperors. In 1677 AD, Shivaji built the present fort in complete form.
Virupaksha Cave
Located on the eastern slope of the famous Arunachala hill in Thiruvannamalai, Virupaksha Cave ashram is built in the shape of a perfect ‘OM’ and is perched on a small peak, around 200 feet below, the Skandasram Cave. There is a small Gopuram on the eastern side of the temple. The cave temple was named after the 13th century renowned saint named ‘Virupaksha Deva’.
Arunachaleswara Temple
Located on the Arunachala Hills, Arunachaleswara Temple in Thiruvannamalai is one of the most sacred temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. Lord Shiva is worshipped here in the form of Arunachaleswarar. The temple is for fire. Other four temples are in Kanchipuram (Earth), Chidambaram (Space), Kalahasti (wind) and Tiruvanaikka (water). The walls of this temple exhibit various beautiful inscriptions of various rulers and tribal chiefs.
Mamara Guhai
Located in the hilly terrain of Thiruvannamalai, Mamara Guhai is a holy cave temple where the ancient saint Sri Ramana Maharishi carried out penances and meditation for six years. Lord Shiva is enshrined at this temple in the form of Vishwanathar (Lord of World). Besides, the two forms of Goddess Devi, Rajeshwari and Annapoorna, are enshrined in this cave temple.
