Hyderabad to Arunachalam Car rentals in Hyderabad

Arunachalam Temple, one of Tamil Nadu's most spiritual sites, welcomes visitors from all around the world. This blog will help you navigate your journey to the temple with ease while also offering a comprehensive guide to its timings and essential travel tips.

Let your focus remain on devotion—trust a car rental in Hyderabad for a hassle-free journey to Arunachalam.

The Arunachalam Temple isn't just a place of worship, it's a living testament to centuries of history and craftsmanship. Its roots trace back to the 7th century, evolving under the Cholas, Pallavas, and Vijayanagara rulers. With towering gopurams and intricate sculptures, the temple is a masterpiece of ancient architecture.

Whether you visit for spiritual reasons or historical curiosity, this iconic landmark promises a journey through time, culture, and divine artistry. So If you're travelling from Hyderabad, consider booking a car rental in Hyderabad to enjoy a smooth and flexible trip to this sacred destination.

At the sacred foothills of Mount Arunchala lies the Arunachalam Temple, a place of divine reverence dedicated to Lord Shiva as Arunachaleshwara. According to Hindu mythology, Mahadeva once manifested here as a radiant pillar of fire, illuminating the spiritual essence of Annamalai Hill. 

This temple, steeped in Legend and devotion, continues to draw seekers of truth and enlightenment from every corner of the world.

Best Time to Catch the Temple Vibes

Step into the divine aura of Arunachalam Temple, where visitors can seek blessings between 5:00 AM and 12:30 PM or 3:30 PM and 9:30 PM. The mesmerizing aartis at 6:00 AM and 9:00 PM offer a soul stirring experience for all who attend.

Festive Occasions at Arunachalam

Festivals like Karthigai Deepam and Mahashivaratri fill the temple with energy and devotion, drawing thousands of pilgrims. For those seeking tranquility, the winter months provide a comfortable climate, and visiting on weekdays ensures a serene darshan.

Must-Visit Places in Arunachalam

A trip to Arunachalam temple in Thiruvannamalai is just the beginning! The area surrounding the temple is filled with wonderful places to explore, each with its own charm and significance. Whether you're seeking peace, history, or adventure, there's something nearby for you.

Arunachala Hill rises like a silent guardian of devotion, its sacred paths echoing the footsteps of pilgrims on the Giri Pradakshina. Bathed in divine grace, the hill invites seekers to experience its serenity. And If you're planning to explore these places at your own pace, choosing car rental in Hyderabad gives you the flexibility and convenience to travel comfortably.

Nearby visitors can explore :

Seshadri Swamigal Ashram – A peaceful retreat dedicated to the saint Seshadri Swamigal.

Virupaksha Cave – A meditation site where Ramana Maharshi lived for a significant time.

Sri Ramanasramam – A spiritual center preserving Ramana Maharshi’s teachings and samadhi.

Skandashramam – A serene cave where Ramana Maharshi spent his early years in meditation.

Each of these sacred spaces holds a story, waiting for the seekers to listen, reflect and awaken.

Historic Roots of Worship

The Tiruvannamalai Arunachalam Temple, regarded as the largest Lord Shiva temple in the world, is believed to have been established several thousand years ago.

Evidence from inspections reveals that it was constructed by Chola kings in the 9th century, between 850 CE and 1280 CE. Further inscriptions document the involvement of the Vijayanagara rulers, particularly the Sangam, Saluva, and Tuluva dynasties. 

Many travelers today explore these sacred grounds using Self drive car rentals from Hyderabad to Arunachalam, making it easier to witness the grandeur built by multiple dynasties -  the Cholas, Pallavas, Pandyas, Hoysalas, Nayaks of Thanjavur, Kadavaraya, and Banas played key roles in renovating and expanding the vast temple premises.

There are five prakarams in total, built across different time periods. The origins of the first and second remain unknown, the third emerged in the 12th century, and the fourth and fifth took shape in the 16th century.

After the Mughal Empire's collapse, the temple became contested territory between Hindus and Muslims. In 2002, the Archaeological Survey of India recognized it as a national heritage monument and took administrative control.

Stories about the temple

Lingothbavar - During my visit to Thiruvannamalai, I learned about the intriguing Lingothbavar legend. Locals told me how Lord Brahman and Lord Vishnu once debated who was greater. Seeking Lord Shiva's judgement, they witnessed Him transform into an endless column of fire, the Jyothi, stretching from heaven to earth. He challenged them to find His crown and feet. Lord Vishnu became a boar and dug deep into the earth, but failed. Lord Brahma turned into a swan, flying upward, and met the thazhambu flower and a cow. They falsely vouched for Brahma's claim of finding the crown. Angered, Lord Shiva cursed Brahma, saying no temple would worship him, banned the flower from rituals, and declared seeing a cow's face first in the morning unlucky.

Thiruvannamalai marks where He became the pillar of fire to destroy ego. It's also believed that Vishnu and Brahma prayed for Him to appear in a calmer form, leading Him to become the Shivalingam at hill's base, where the Arulmigu Annamalaiyar Temple stands today.

Arthanareeswarar - While exploring the temple corridors, I learned the tale of Arthanareeswarar. One day, Parvathi playfully covered Shiva's eyes, plunging the world into darkness. To atone, she first made a Shivalingam of sand at Kanchipuram before being guided to Thiruvannamalai to pray for unity with him. As she meditated , the demon Makidasuran tried to hinder her, but she transformed into Durga and destroyed him on the Karthigai, full moon. Shiva then appeared as a flame atop the sacred hill and merged Parvathi into his left half, becoming Arthanareeswarar. This divine event is still celebrated during Karthigai deepam. On the tenth evening at exactly 6 p.m, the Lingam form of Arthanareeswarar appears as the Jyothi Swaroopa, blessing devotees with grace and light.



Many pilgrims now arrive here using Self drive car rentals from Hyderabad to Arunachalam, making the journey more flexible and comfortable.

Conclusion

Get ready for your spiritual journey to Arunachalam Temple! Book your car rental in Hyderabad now for a seamless travel experience.

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FAQ

What is the dress code at Arunachalam Temple?

Only traditional wear is allowed. Men: dhotis or veshtis without shirts. Women: sarees or salwar kameez. Western clothing is prohibited.

Can I carry my phone or camera inside?

Not allowed. Phones and cameras are banned in the sanctum and main temple area to maintain decorum.

What are the Girivalam rules?

Walk barefoot, follow a clockwise path, and maintain silence. Best done during full moon nights for a spiritual experience.

Can non-Hindus enter the temple?

They may visit the outer premises but entry to the inner sanctum may be restricted.

What is prohibited inside Arunachalam Temple?

Alcohol, meat, leather items, tobacco, and loud devices are strictly prohibited.

Can I do pooja myself?

Yes, by booking in advance with the temple authorities.

Which is the best car rental from Hyderabad to Arunachalam Temple?

Long Drive Cars provides well-maintained, GPS-equipped self-drive cars for a hassle-free journey.