Tiruvannamalai Temple Rules & Dress Code
Tiruvannamalai Temple Rules & Dress Code – Respectful Visit Guide for Pilgrims
The Arunachaleswarar Temple in Tiruvannamalai is one of the most sacred Shiva temples in India.
To maintain purity, discipline and a peaceful devotional atmosphere, the temple follows certain rules for all visitors.
This guide explains the complete rules, dress code, permitted items, restrictions, behavioural guidelines, and important things every pilgrim should know before entering the temple.
General Temple Entry Rules
Respectful Behaviour
Devotees are expected to maintain silence inside the prakarams. Loud talking, arguments or rushing is discouraged, as the temple environment is sacred.
Follow Queue Instructions
During busy hours and festivals, devotees must follow the queue paths set by temple staff and volunteers. These routes may change based on the crowd.
Footwear Must Be Removed
No footwear is allowed inside the temple premises. Footwear stands are available near major entrances.
Photography Restrictions
Photography and videography inside inner prakarams and near sanctum areas is strictly prohibited.
Mobile phone use is also discouraged in crowded or sacred zones.
No Smoking or Alcohol
Smoking, alcohol or any intoxicants are strictly banned inside and around the temple.
Dress Code for Pilgrims
Tiruvannamalai Temple encourages devotees to dress in a modest and respectful manner. While there is no extremely strict enforcement, traditional and decent clothing is recommended.
Recommended for Men
Dhoti, veshti, or cotton pants
Shirts, t-shirts with sleeves
Comfortable and simple clothing for darshan and walking
Recommended for Women
Saree, salwar kameez, churidar
Cotton long skirts
Dupatta or shawl with modern dresses
Clothing to Avoid
Sleeveless tops, deep-neck dresses
Shorts, mini skirts
Tight or revealing clothes
Transparent or flashy outfits
T-shirts with inappropriate graphics or text
These guidelines help maintain a traditional and devotional atmosphere within the temple.
Items Allowed Inside the Temple
Permitted Items
Small bags or purses
Water bottles
Flowers, garlands, coconuts for pooja
Simple offerings from authorized temple counters
Mobile phones (must be on silent mode)
Items Usually Not Allowed
Large bags or suitcases
Video cameras or professional photography equipment
Loudspeakers or music devices
Food items inside inner prakarams
Weapons or sharp objects
Pets
Security checks may be conducted at the entrance, especially during festivals.
Behaviour Inside the Temple
Walk Calmly and Slowly
Crowded areas require patience and discipline. Avoid pushing or rushing.
Maintain Cleanliness
Use dustbins provided inside the prakarams.
Do not litter anywhere in the temple.
Respect Ritual Procedures
When a pooja or abhishekam is happening, wait respectfully and do not walk directly across ritual paths.
No Touching of Sculptures
Touching ancient stones, idols or carved pillars is discouraged to preserve heritage.
Keep Children Supervised
Families with children must ensure they stay close, especially during festival crowds.
Rules for Darshan and Queue Movement
Darshan Restrictions During Poojas
During certain rituals, the temple staff may temporarily stop darshan.
Pilgrims should wait calmly until the process resumes.
Festival Queue Changes
On Deepam, Pournami, Shivaratri and Navaratri, queue routes may be diverted.
Pilgrims must follow police and volunteer instructions during these days.
Senior Citizen Considerations
Elderly devotees should avoid peak hours and choose early morning darshan for more comfort.
Rules During Girivalam (Applies Inside Temple as Well)
Many devotees walk the temple prakarams before or after Girivalam. Basic guidelines include:
Do not block pathways
Avoid loud chanting in crowded areas
Stay hydrated
Follow temple closing times
During Pournami, additional staff help maintain flow between Girivalam walkers and temple visitors.
Offerings and Pooja Guidelines
Authorized Counters Only
Purchase coconuts, ghee lamps, and prasadam only from temple-approved counters.
No Unauthorized Pooja Agents
Devotees should avoid individuals claiming to offer “special darshan” or “shortcuts.”
These practices are not allowed and should be reported.
Safety With Ghee Lamps
If lighting a ghee lamp, ensure:
You place it only in designated lamp stands
It is stable and safely positioned
You keep clothing away from open flames
Mobile Phone and Gadget Rules
Allowed With Restrictions
Mobiles are allowed in outer areas but must remain silent.
Using phones near the sanctum, inner prakarams or during pooja is discouraged.
Prohibited Actions
Photography inside sensitive areas
Recording of rituals
Loud ringtones
Flashlights inside the temple
Temple staff may warn or restrict visitors who misuse devices.
Environmental and Cultural Respect
Preserve the Temple’s Heritage
Do not touch, scratch or lean on ancient sculptures.
Respect Local Traditions
Certain areas may require covering the head or removing accessories.
Follow instructions as displayed.
Avoid Bringing Plastic
Carry reusable bottles and bags whenever possible.
Rules During Major Festivals
Karthigai Deepam, Pournami, Shivaratri and other major utsavams attract lakhs of devotees. Extra rules apply:
Arrive early to avoid rush
Follow barricaded paths strictly
Do not attempt to enter blocked areas
Stay with your group and avoid crowd surges
Listen to police and volunteers for safety
These guidelines ensure the safety of all pilgrims.
Conclusion
The rules and dress code of Tiruvannamalai Temple are designed to protect the sanctity of the space, maintain traditional values and ensure smooth darshan for everyone.
By following these simple guidelines, devotees can experience a peaceful, safe and spiritually fulfilling visit.
A respectful approach inside the temple reflects devotion and helps preserve the holy atmosphere for future generations.