Tiruvannamalai Train: Station Guide, Booking Steps, Costs, and Temple Transfer

📅 Last Verified: January 2026 | Next Update: April 2026

⚡ Quick Answer

Tiruvannamalai Train usually means reaching Tiruvannamalai Railway Station (Station Code: TNM) and then going ~2 km to Arunachaleswarar (Annamalaiyar) Temple by auto/cab. Book on IRCTC by searching To: TNM, then check platform/coach position on NTES before you start.

📌 Key Takeaways

• ✅ Station Code: TNM
• 🚉 Station Basics: 3 platforms, electrified, Southern Railway (Trichy division)
• 🛕 Temple Transfer: ~2 km from station to Arunachaleswarar Temple
• 📲 Best Tools: IRCTC for booking, NTES for live running/platform
• ⚡ 10X Value Angle: A “last-2-km plan” (exact exit-to-temple options + what goes wrong at peak times)

What Is “tiruvannamalai Train” Exactly?

“Tiruvannamalai Train” typically means you’re arriving at Tiruvannamalai Railway Station (TNM), the main railhead for the temple town. The station is a working Indian Railways station with 3 platforms and is electrified, so you’ll see both express and passenger services halting here.

If your actual destination is the temple, plan your trip as two parts: Train to TNM + 2 km last-mile transfer to Arunachaleswarar Temple.

How to Book Tiruvannamalai Train Tickets (step by Step)

1. Create/Login: Sign in to your IRCTC account.
2. Search Correctly: In “To”, type TNM (Tiruvannamalai). Pick your Date.
3. Choose Train + Class: Prefer trains with a daytime arrival if you’re new, because autos and hotel check-ins are easier.
4. Fill Passenger Details: Name + age + gender as per ID. Add mobile number for updates.
5. Payment: Pay using UPI/card/netbanking. Save the ticket PDF and SMS.
6. Before Travel (Same Day): Check live train running + expected platform using NTES.

Insider Tip: On heavy temple days, choose an arrival window that avoids the “peak check-in rush” (roughly late morning to early afternoon). You’ll get faster autos and less crowd at lodging receptions.

Station Layout, Facilities, and What to Expect at TNM

Tiruvannamalai Railway Station (TNM) has 3 platforms. It is in the Southern Railway zone (Tiruchirappalli division). Parking is available, and you’ll generally find auto stands outside the station gate.

If you’re arriving with family or elders, keep a simple rule: get outside first, then decide transport. Inside the station area, movement gets slower when two trains arrive close together.

⚠️ Common Mistake

People search “Tiruvannamalai” and accidentally pick a nearby town/stop in apps. Always confirm Station Code: TNM before booking.

How to Go From Tiruvannamalai Railway Station to Arunachaleswarar Temple

The temple is about 2 km from Tiruvannamalai Railway Station. For most visitors, these are the practical options:

• Auto-rickshaw: Best balance of cost and speed. Works well for 1–3 people with light luggage.
• Cab/Taxi: Better if you have elders, multiple bags, or you’re arriving late night.
• Walk: Possible if you have no luggage and the weather is comfortable, but avoid it if you’re arriving late or during peak crowd hours.

Insider Tip: If you’re doing Girivalam the same day, drop luggage at your stay first. Carry only water, a small towel, and basic cash/UPI for quick purchases.

Costs: What You’ll Actually Spend (full Breakdown)

Item	Cost Range	How To Get Exact Amount
Train Ticket (Your City → TNM)	Varies by train/class/quota	On IRCTC, select train → class → “Fare” before payment
Last-Mile Transfer (TNM → Temple/Hotel)	Varies by time/crowd	Ask 2 autos and choose; fares rise during festival days and late nights
Local Short Trips (Temple → Girivalam start → Hotel)	Varies by distance	Fix price before you sit, especially on Pournami or weekends

If you want a predictable budget, your main control is choosing the train class and the arrival time. Late-night arrivals often increase last-mile costs.

Mistakes People Make (and How to Avoid Them)

• Arriving late night without a stay confirmed: Book lodging before you start if you’re traveling on weekends or Pournami nights.
• Not checking live running: If the train is delayed, your hotel check-in and darshan plan can break. Check NTES before you leave home.
• Assuming autos will be cheap on peak days: On major temple days, expect negotiation. Have a calm “walk away and ask the next one” approach.
• Carrying too much for Girivalam: Heavy bags make the full loop painful. Keep it minimal.

Decision Helper: Which Arrival Plan Should You Choose?

• Choose a morning arrival if you want easy hotel check-in and a relaxed darshan plan.
• Choose an afternoon arrival if you want to rest first and go for evening temple time.
• Avoid late-night arrival if you’re traveling with elders or children and you don’t have fixed pickup.

🔗 Official Sources & Verification

• IRCTC Ticket Booking: https://www.irctc.co.in/
• NTES Live Train Running/Platform Info: https://enquiry.indianrail.gov.in/ntes/
• Indian Railways Helpline: 139
• Last Verified: January 2026

Train schedules can change. Always verify on IRCTC/NTES before travel.

FAQ

What Is the Station Code for Tiruvannamalai Train?

The station code for Tiruvannamalai Railway Station is TNM.

How Far Is Tiruvannamalai Railway Station From Arunachaleswarar Temple?

It’s about 2 km. Auto or cab is the easiest option if you have luggage.

How Do I Check the Live Platform at Tiruvannamalai Station?

Use NTES, enter your train number, and check the latest running status and platform updates.

Is Tiruvannamalai Station Upgraded Recently?

Tiruvannamalai was included in station redevelopment works under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme, so you may notice improved passenger amenities compared to older photos.

What If I Can’t Get A Direct Train to Tnm?

Search trains to TNM on your date. If you don’t find a suitable option, your best backup is choosing a nearby major junction on the same rail line and then taking a connecting train or road transfer based on IRCTC availability.

Sources used for factual checks (not part of your article):