Annamalaiyar temple is a very beautiful temple located in Thiruvannamalai of Tamil Nadu. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and a large number of people are coming all over the year to take blessings in the temple. When you enter the temple, you will find very beautiful architecture and carvings. 

You will find that the temple is built in a huge 25 acre complex. When you enter the temple, you can see a Gopuram which is having a height of 66 m. In this temple, the pooja rituals are performed 6 times throughout the day. 

The idol of Lord Shiva is known as Agni Lingam and the Goddess Parvati is known as Unnamalai Amman. It is believed that whoever is coming to the temple and praying with pure heart will get blessings. 

History of the Annamalaiyar temple thiruvannamalai

The temple was constructed during the rule of Cholas dynasty. King Raja Raja Chola one was a great leader and devotee of Lord Shiva. He led the construction of the temple. However, later on various dynasties came to rule the place and all of them really contributed a lot towards the development of the temple. 

Architecture of the Annamalaiyar temple thiruvannamalai

You can see beautiful Dravidian style architecture inside the temple. The temple has various Mandapams and Shrines. In the temple, you can see beautiful carvings which depict different celestial bodies, deities, stories and a lot more. So, if you are searching for different places to visit in Thiruvannamalai, just visit this temple.

It is also believed that a temple is connected with 5 elements that are - Earth, fire, water, air and space. This is known as Bhoota Stalas. Girivalam is a very famous ritual that happens in the temple. In this ritual, people will walk around the hill while chanting prayers and asking for blessings. 

Different types of festivals are also celebrated in the Annamalaiyar temple thiruvannamalai

Karthigai Deepam festival is one of the most famous festivals that is celebrated here. However, along with this, various other festivals are also celebrated like Mahashivratri, Brahmotsavam and a lot more. 

The time between November to March is considered as the best time to visit the temple. But you can visit the temple anytime throughout the year. So, while going for the Thiruvannamalai tour package, visit this beautiful temple also.