Girivalam

Girivalam is a very sacred practice that is done by the devotees In Tamil Nadu. In this practice, the devotees have to take circles around Annamalai Hill, at the time of the full moon. This ritual happens every month. It is believed that if any person is doing this practice, then he will get blessings, and all of the wishes of the person will come true. 

The devotees have to walk 14 km around the hill. The meaning of the Girivalam is itself coming around the hill. While doing the practice, devotees have to chant Arunachala Mantra. The complete process can happen anywhere between 3 to 4 hours.

Various devotees are coming to this place to perform this ritual and go for inner transformation. When you go for the ritual, you can find different Shrines while going through the path. It is believed that all the Shine have their own importance. You can visit the place for this ritual anytime throughout the year. However, it will be advised to check for the specific full moon day on which the ritual will happen. So, while going for the different places to visit in Thiruvannamalai, visit this amazing ritual also.

The ritual dates back to the time of the Cholas and Pallavas dynasties. During that time, various saints were coming to Annamalai hill to go for the ritual. Ramana Maharshi Came to this place in 1879 and devoted his whole life to promoting meditation and self-devotion. 

Overall, the Girivalam is a sacred practice that helps devotees meditate and self-refract. So, if you are going for the Tiruvannamalai tour packages, it will be highly recommended to go for the ritual.