Tiruvannamalai Girivalam 2026 Dates, Timings & Pilgrim Guide

 

What is Arunachalam Girivalam?

• Girivalam (Giri Pradakshina) is the sacred circumambulation of Arunachala Hill in Tiruvannamalai.
• Devotees walk the 14 km path around the hill, usually barefoot, chanting Lord Shiva’s names.
• It is believed to remove karma, purify the soul, and grant spiritual enlightenment.
• The practice is especially powerful on Pournami (Full Moon) nights, when spiritual energy peaks.

Arunachalam Girivalam 2026 Dates & Timings

Month	Date	Start Time	End Time (Next Day)
January	2 Jan (Fri)	6:45 PM	3 Jan, 4:43 PM
February	1 Feb (Sun)	5:34 AM	2 Feb, 4:05 AM
March	2 Mar (Mon)	5:59 PM	3 Mar, 5:21 PM
April	1 Apr (Wed)	7:23 AM	2 Apr, 7:44 AM
April	30 Apr (Thu)	9:50 PM	1 May, 11:07 PM
May	30 May (Sat)	12:58 PM	31 May, 2:50 PM
June	29 Jun (Mon)	4:23 AM	30 Jun, 6:00 AM
July	28 Jul (Tue)	7:27 AM	29 Jul, 8:54 AM
August	27 Aug (Thu)	9:46 AM	28 Aug, 10:22 AM
September	25 Sep (Fri)	11:06 AM	26 Sep, 10:44 AM
October	25 Oct (Sun)	11:25 AM	26 Oct, 10:09 AM
November	23 Nov (Mon)	11:00 AM	24 Nov, 9:00 AM
December	23 Dec (Wed)	9:57 AM	24 Dec, 7:40 AM

Significance

• Spiritual Benefits: Cleansing of sins, inner peace, prosperity, and divine blessings.
• Special Occasions: Apart from Pournami, Karthigai Deepam, Maha Shivaratri, and Pradosham are highly auspicious for Girivalam.
• Pilgrim Experience: Thousands gather each month, with peak crowds during Karthigai Deepam (Nov–Dec).

Practical Tips for Pilgrims

• Start early evening on Pournami to avoid heat.
• Carry water, light snacks, and a torch for night circumambulation.
• Walk barefoot if possible, but wear comfortable clothing.
• Stay at Tiruvannamalai lodges or mutts near the temple for convenience.
• Respect the sanctity: avoid littering, chanting is encouraged.