Annamalaiyar Temple

The Annamalaiyar Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to the god Shiva located in the town of Thiruvannamalai in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. Shiva is worshipped as Annamalaiyar, and is represented by the lingam. The temple is one of the largest in India, and is the most visited pilgrimage site in Tamil Nadu. The temple is believed to have been founded by the sage Agastya, who is said to have established the lingam at the site. The temple is mentioned in the Tevaram, the seventh-century Tamil Saiva canonical work, and is described as one of the eight great temples of Tamil Nadu. The temple has been expanded and renovated several times, with the last major renovation taking place in the 18th century. The temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The legend of Annamalaiyar Temple is that the temple is dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva and his consort Parvati. The temple is located on top of Annamalai Hills, which is also known as Arunachala Hill, located in the town of Thiruvannamalai in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. According to legend, the Hindu god Shiva set his home on top of the Arunachala Hill and performed austerities for a thousand years. As a result of his austerities, the Hindu god Parvati was born from the hill. The temple is said to be the place where Parvati was born.

The architecture of the Annamalaiyar Temple is based on the Dravidian style of architecture.

The main festival celebrated at the Annamalaiyar Temple is the Chittirai festival.

The best time to visit Annamalaiyar temple is during the winter season when the temple premises are cool.

How to Reach: The Annamalaiyar temple is located in the town of Thiruvannamalai in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. The temple is located at the base of the Annamalai Hills. The temple is located approximately 226 kilometers (140 miles) from the state capital of Chennai. The temple is located approximately 164 kilometers (102 miles) from the city of Tiruchirappalli. The temple is located approximately 108 kilometers (67 miles) from the city of Vellore. The temple is located approximately 97 kilometers (60 miles) from the city of Pondicherry. The temple is located approximately 43 kilometers (27 miles) from the town of Tiruvannamalai. By Air: The nearest airport to the Annamalaiyar temple is the Tiruchirappalli International Airport. The airport is located approximately 164 kilometers (102 miles) from the temple. By Train: The nearest railway station to the Annamalaiyar temple is the Thiruvannamalai Railway Station. The railway station is located approximately 43 kilometers (27 miles) from the temple. By Road: The Annamalaiyar temple is located on the National Highway 66. The highway is located approximately 226 kilometers (140 miles) from the state capital of Chennai.

The temple is located in the town of Thiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu, India.