The world famous Arunachaleswara temple at Tiruvannamalai is one of the pancha botha shrines of Lord Shiva. The temple is spread out on an expanse of nine hectares at the foot of the hill. Built over centuries with each King adding to existing structures, the temple has an array of gopurams and mandapams. The tallest is the rajagopuram on the eastern side 41 m tall and 30 m wise and credited to Krishnadeva Raya, the Vijayanagar King.
Karthigai Deepam is the main festival celebrated at Tiruvannamalai. It marks the conclusion of the 10 day Brahmotsavam in the month of Karthigai. Bharani Deepam is lit before the Karthigai Deepam. Five lamps are lit to symbolize the five elemental forms of Lord Shiva.
Chennai is the nearest Airport and it is 200 km. away from Chennai. You can reach Tiruvannalai by road also. Many tourist taxis, autos are available in the town. There are many hotels available and who want to stay at Ramana Ashram can contact them through fax 91-4175-237491.
