Girivalam Guide: How to Walk Around Arunachala Hill in Tiruvannamalai

What is Girivalam?

Girivalam (also spelled Giri Pradakshina) is the sacred practice of walking around Arunachala Hill in Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu. Devotees undertake this 14-kilometer walk barefoot as a mark of devotion to Lord Shiva, especially during Pournami (Full Moon) nights.

🔱 Arunachala is considered a Jyotirlinga – a representation of Shiva as an infinite pillar of light.

Girivalam Route Map & Path Details

• Total Distance: ~14 km (8.7 miles)

• Path Type: Paved road with Girivalam markings

• Time Taken: 3 to 5 hours, depending on pace

• Start Point: Arunachaleswarar Temple East Gopuram

• Direction: Clockwise (as per Hindu tradition)

Key Stops on the Girivalam Path:

1. Indira Lingam

2. Agni Lingam

3. Yama Lingam

4. Niruthi Lingam

5. Varuna Lingam

6. Vayu Lingam

7. Kubera Lingam

8. Esanya Lingam

Each of these lingams represents a direction and cosmic energy. Many devotees offer prayers at all 8.

Spiritual Significance of Girivalam

• Burns Karma: It is believed that walking around Arunachala helps cleanse past karmas.

• Blessings of Moksha (Liberation): Mentioned in sacred texts like Skanda Purana.

• Boosts Inner Peace: Regular Girivalam enhances spiritual clarity and mental peace.

Best Time to Perform Girivalam

Full Moon Nights (Pournami)

These attract hundreds of thousands of devotees each month. Energy is at its peak.

Karthigai Deepam Festival (Usually in November–December)

Witness the flame lit atop the hill—an extraordinary divine experience.

Early Mornings or Evenings

To avoid heat and crowds, especially in summer.

How to Prepare for Girivalam

What to Wear:

• Loose, breathable clothes

• Preferably traditional attire for temple visits

• Walk barefoot (as per tradition)

What to Carry:

• Water bottle

• Small towel

• Flashlight (if walking at night)

• Prayer beads or chants (optional)

Do’s and Don’ts During Girivalam

Do:

• Begin with a darshan at Arunachaleswarar Temple

• Walk silently or chant mantras

• Offer prayers at each Lingam

• Be respectful of fellow devotees

Don’t:

• Litter the path

• Use footwear (unless medically needed)

• Play loud music or take photos inside temple areas

• Engage in commercial activity on the route

Facilities & Safety

• Drinking Water: Available at intervals

• Rest Stops: Many ashrams, tea stalls, and roadside shelters

• Police & Volunteer Assistance: Present during Pournami and festivals

• First Aid Booths: Temporary ones during large gatherings