Tiruvannamalai

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Introducing Tiruvannamalai

The small, unassuming town of Tiruvannamalai, 85km south of Vellore, is something of a hidden gem in a region overwhelmed by significant temples. Flanked by Mt Arunachala, this is an important Shaivite town where Shiva is revered as Arunachaleswar, an aspect of fire. At each full moon the hill swells with thousands of pilgrims who circumnavigate the base of the mountain, but at any time you’ll see gatherings of Shaivite priests, sadhus (spiritual men) and devotees gathered around the temple. Tiruvannamalai is also home to the Sri Ramanasramam Ashram.

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The main post office is just off the road to Gingee; there are several internet cafés in town and opposite the ashram. Although the State Bank of India won’t change travellers cheques, its ATM accepts international cards.

Last updated: Feb 17, 2009

Thorn Tree forum discussion

Recent posts

  1. cayle avatar
    RE: Mahabalipuram

    by cayle 02 September 2011

    Here is my take on things: Mahabalipuram is a madhouse. Don’t get me wrong. It is a very interesting place with lots of history and…
  2. Tommi1 avatar
    RE: South India, Feb 2012. Itinerary advice please

    by Tommi1 23 July 2011

    Here are some of my favourites: Kerala - Kochi: a lovely old town - Kerala backwaters: take a local boat from Allapuzha to Kottayam…
  3. fukusode avatar
    Re: Tiruvannamalai and Ramanathapuram

    by fukusode 10 July 2011

    I will reach Madurai Train station in the morning and need to catch a bus to my home town at Ramanathapuram. This is my first time going…

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