The Arunachaleswarar Temple, also known as Arunachalam Temple, is a revered Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. Located at the base of the Arunachala hill in Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu, this magnificent temple sprawls over 25 acres and stands as a remarkable example of Dravidian architecture. It symbolizes the eternal light of wisdom and divinity, drawing millions of devotees from around the world each year.
To manage the large number of visitors and provide a seamless experience, the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Department (HR&CE) of Tamil Nadu has introduced an online portal. This allows pilgrims to book darshan, special poojas, and accommodation in advance. Let’s explore how you can use these online services for your visit.
Tiruvannamalai Temple Darshan Online Booking
The official portal for all online services related to the temple is managed by HR&CE. The primary website for booking is https://annamalaiyar.hrce.tn.gov.in.
How to Book Special Darshan Tickets Online
For those who wish to have a quicker darshan and avoid long queues, the temple offers a Special Entry Darshan for a nominal fee. Here is a step-by-step guide to booking your Tiruvannamalai Temple special darshan tickets online:
- Visit the Official Website: Navigate to the official Arulmigu Arunachaleswarar Temple website:
https://annamalaiyar.hrce.tn.gov.in. - Select Booking Service: On the homepage, find and click on the “Temple Booking Service” option.
- Choose Temple Service: A new page will open. From the various options available, select “Temple Service.”
- Pick Special Darshan: You will see a list of services. Click on the “Special Darshan” option.
- Select Date and Time: A calendar will be displayed. Choose your preferred date and time slot for the darshan and click the “Book” button.
- Enter Devotee Details: You will be prompted to enter the details of each devotee, including their name, age, address, and gender. You will also need to complete a captcha for verification.
- Submit the Form: After filling in all the required information, click the “Submit” button.
- Complete the Payment: You will be redirected to a payment gateway. The ticket price for Special Darshan is ₹50 per person. You can pay using a debit card, net banking, or UPI.
- Receive Your E-Ticket: Once the payment is successful, an e-ticket will be sent to your registered phone number and email address. Make sure to save a digital copy or print it out for your visit.
Darshan Timings and Ticket Prices
The temple is open for darshan at specific times throughout the day. It’s important to be aware of these timings to plan your visit accordingly.
Temple Darshan Timings:
- Morning Hours: 5:00 AM to 12:30 PM
- Evening Hours: 3:30 PM to 9:30 PM
- Temple Closing: The temple is closed for darshan between 12:30 PM and 3:30 PM.
Darshan Ticket Prices:
While General Darshan is free of cost, the temple offers several special entry options to cater to the needs of different devotees.
| Darshan Type | Ticket Price (INR) |
|---|---|
| General Darshan | Free of Cost |
| Special Entry Darshan | ₹50 |
Note: Prices for other special darshan categories like Fast Track, VIP, Silver, Gold, Platinum, and Diamond can vary. Please check the official website for the most current pricing and availability.
Tiruvannamalai Abhishekam Tickets Online Booking
Participating in an Abhishekam is a profound spiritual experience. The temple allows devotees to book tickets for various Abhishekam ceremonies online. To book an Abhishekam ticket, follow a similar process to the darshan booking on the official HR&CE portal. You will need to select the “Abhishekam” service, choose the specific type of pooja you wish to attend, and complete the payment process.
Tiruvannamalai Temple Accommodation Online Booking
For pilgrims traveling from afar, the temple devasthanam provides accommodation facilities. Tiruvannamalai Temple accommodation online booking can also be done through the official HR&CE website.
The process involves selecting the “Accommodation” or “Room Booking” service on the portal. You can then view the availability of rooms, choose your check-in and check-out dates, and make a reservation. The accommodations are basic but clean and conveniently located near the temple. Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during festival seasons like Karthigai Deepam.
Other Online Services
Tiruvannamalai Ghee Donation Online
A significant ritual during the Karthigai Deepam festival is the lighting of a massive ghee lamp atop Arunachala hill. Devotees can contribute to this sacred tradition by making a Tiruvannamalai ghee donation online. This service is available on the official temple website, allowing you to be part of the festivities even from a distance.
Plan Your Spiritual Journey
The Arunachalam Temple is not just a place of worship; it’s a center of immense spiritual energy. The best time to visit is between October and December when the weather is pleasant, and the temple celebrates its grandest festival, Karthigai Deepam. Using the Tiruvannamalai online booking facilities can help you organize a hassle-free trip, giving you more time to immerse yourself in prayer and reflection.
Before you finalize your plans, always double-check the latest information and guidelines on the Arunachalam Temple official website. For any specific queries, you can also contact the temple administration directly.
- Address: Sannathi Street, Tiruvannamalai, Tiruvannamalai – 606601
- Contact Number: 04175-252438
- Email ID: jceotvm_20343.hrce@tn.gov.in
Prepare for a journey that promises to be both peaceful and powerful.