Girivalam Tiruvannamalai

Complete Girivalam Tiruvannamalai guide with route map, timings, benefits, Pournami details, and a step-by-step walkway experience.

Girivalam Girivalam Tiruvannamalai – The Sacred Walk Around Annamalai Hill

Girivalam, also called Giri Pradakshina, is the sacred circumambulation of the Annamalai Hill, believed to be the physical form of Lord Shiva as the Agni (Fire) Linga.
This 14 km walk is one of the most powerful spiritual practices in India, attracting lakhs of devotees every month—especially during Pournami (Full Moon).

The experience of walking under the open sky, with the holy hill on your right side, chanting the divine name of Shiva, brings deep inner peace and blessings.

What Girivalam Tiruvannamalai Means Spiritually

Ancient texts say:
“Girim Sharanam Gacchami – I surrender to the Hill.”

Devotees believe:

  • Annamalai Hill itself is Lord Shiva

  • Walking around it removes negative karma

  • It brings mental clarity and spiritual progress

  • It supports health, prosperity, and emotional strength

  • Even a single Girivalam done with devotion yields immense merit

Many pilgrims experience peace, healing, and a sense of cleansing after completing the walk.

Total Distance of Girivalam

The standard route is about 14 km (approx. 8.6 miles).
It is a flat road, suitable for people of all ages.
Some walk barefoot, while others wear comfortable sandals.

Time required:

  • Fast walkers: 2.5 to 3 hours

  • Normal pace: 4 to 5 hours

  • Elders: 5 to 6 hours

Best Time to Do Girivalam

Pournami (Full Moon Night)

This is the most powerful time for Girivalam.
Lakhs of devotees participate, and the entire route is filled with lamps, chanting, shops, and water points.

Pradosham Days

Spiritually significant for Lord Shiva worship.

Early Morning Hours

Cool weather, peaceful atmosphere, less crowd.

Evening Hours Before Pournami

Ideal for those wanting to avoid peak midnight crowds.

Avoid doing Girivalam in harsh afternoon heat, especially in summer.

Girivalam Route Overview

The route is a full circular path around the hill.
It passes through:

  • Temples and shrines

  • Sacred tanks

  • Ancient meditation points

  • Ashrams and mutts

  • Quiet, natural areas

  • Busy market stretches

Throughout the walk, the Annamalai Hill remains to your right.

Important Shrines Along the Girivalam Path

The path includes eight Lingams, each with unique significance:

Indra Lingam

Associated with strength and overcoming obstacles.

Agni Lingam

Helps clear inner negativity and brings purification.

Yama Lingam

For discipline, long life, and protection.

Niruthi Lingam

Removes fear and supports emotional well-being.

Varuna Lingam

Connected with peace, relationships, and harmony.

Vayu Lingam

Blesses health, calmness, and control of the mind.

Kubera Lingam

Attracts prosperity, wealth, and stability.

Ishan Lingam

Symbolizes divine grace and spiritual upliftment.

Pilgrims usually stop at each Lingam to offer prayers.

Additional Sacred Spots on the Route

Seshadri Ashram

A peaceful meditation space.

Yogi Ram Surat Kumar Ashram

Visited by thousands for its serene spiritual atmosphere.

Nitya Annam / Food Distribution Points

Places offering free food and water.

Rudraksha Shops & Flower Offerings

The route has many devotional stalls and rest spots.

Safety & Crowd Management on Pournami

During Pournami, the district administration arranges:

  • Continuous police patrolling

  • Drinking water booths

  • Medical assistance centers

  • Lighting along the entire path

  • Traffic restrictions for smooth walking

  • Signboards and help desks

Even with the support system, pilgrims must remain cautious in crowded areas.

How to Prepare for Girivalam

Physical Preparation

  • Start drinking water before beginning the walk

  • Wear light and comfortable clothing

  • Carry a small bottle of water

  • Avoid heavy meals before starting

Mental & Spiritual Preparation

  • Begin with a prayer at the Arunachaleswarar Temple

  • Chant simple mantras like “Om Namah Shivaya” while walking

  • Maintain silence for a peaceful experience

What to Carry

  • Water bottle

  • Small towel

  • Mobile with enough charge

  • Light snacks (if needed)

  • A torch for late-night walking

Avoid carrying heavy bags or unnecessary items.

Do’s and Don’ts During Girivalam

Do’s

  • Walk clockwise

  • Keep the hill on your right

  • Drink enough water

  • Take breaks when needed

  • Respect shrines and ashrams

  • Help elders and children

Don’ts

  • Do not litter

  • Do not disturb wildlife near the forest stretch

  • Avoid loud music or shouting

  • Do not try shortcuts through private property

  • Avoid climbing the hill (restricted and dangerous)

Girivalam for Families & Elders

  • Elders can rest at shaded points

  • Families can stay together and walk in groups

  • Best to walk early morning or late evening

  • Wheelchair support is limited on the route

Children enjoy the walk but should be supervised closely.

Girivalam During Special Festivals

Karthigai Deepam Week

The hill glows with the Maha Deepam flame.
The entire route becomes highly energetic and deeply devotional.

Maha Shivaratri

Many devotees walk the entire night in prayer.

Thai & Panguni Pournami

Large crowds, festival shops, and extended facilities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Girivalam allowed every day?

Yes, you can do Girivalam on all days. Pournami is the most special.

Can we walk barefoot?

Many devotees do, but it is optional.

How long is the walk?

Around 14 km.

Is the route safe at night?

During Pournami and major days, it is very safe with lighting and police presence.

Are vehicles allowed?

On normal days yes, but on Pournami, vehicles are restricted.

Girivalam is more than a physical walk—it is a journey of devotion, surrender and inner transformation.
Every step taken around Annamalai Hill is believed to bring blessings, peace and spiritual upliftment.

Whether you do it for health, prayer or divine connection, Girivalam offers a powerful experience that stays with you forever.