Girivalam & the Sacred Temples Along the Path in Tiruvannamalai

Girivalam & the Sacred Temples Along the Path in Tiruvannamalai

Introduction to Girivalam

Girivalam, or the circumambulation of the sacred Arunachala Hill, is a unique spiritual experience undertaken by thousands of devotees every month. The practice of walking around the hill, a distance of approximately 14 kilometers, holds great significance in Hinduism. Arunachala, believed to be an embodiment of Lord Shiva himself, is revered as one of the Panchabootha Sthalams representing the element of fire. The act of walking around this hill is said to grant devotees immense spiritual and material benefits, with the ultimate goal of salvation.

Girivalam is especially auspicious on the full moon day (Pournami), when thousands of pilgrims throng Tiruvannamalai to partake in this divine practice. Adi Shankaracharya, the great philosopher, recognized the sacredness of Arunachala by calling it "Giripradakshinapriya" – the Lord who loves giripradakshina (circumambulation of the hill).

The Spiritual Significance of Girivalam

The Arunachala Hill, standing at a height of 2,669 feet, is not just a geographical landmark but a symbol of divinity. Thiruvannamalai is considered a Moksha Puri, one of the places believed to grant salvation. The act of circumambulation around the hill is believed to bless the devotees with the grace of Lord Shiva. As Shiva is present in the form of the mountain, every step taken around it is said to bring blessings and remove past karmic debts.

The tradition of Girivalam has been followed for centuries. Devotees chant “Arunachala Siva” while walking, looking at the peak of the hill with every step. The focus and devotion required during Girivalam cleanse the soul and mind. Additionally, Girivalam is believed to bestow physical and material benefits, including relief from diseases, longevity, wealth, and peace of mind.

The Sacred Ashta Lingams

One of the key spiritual highlights of the Girivalam path is the presence of eight sacred Shivalingams, called the Ashta Lingams. These lingams are associated with various cardinal directions and are said to be installed by celestial beings. Each lingam offers distinct blessings and benefits:

1. Indra Lingam (East): Installed by Lord Indra, the king of celestials, it is associated with the Sun and Venus (Sukiran). Worship at this lingam is believed to grant long life and fame.
2. Agni Lingam (Southeast): Installed by Lord Agni, the god of fire, this lingam is linked to the Moon (Chandran). It offers relief from diseases and fear.
3. Yama Lingam (South): Installed by Yama, the god of death, and associated with Mars (Sevvai), this lingam ensures longevity.
4. Niruthi Lingam (Southwest): Installed by Niruthi, the king of giants, and linked to Rahu, this lingam is believed to bestow health, wealth, and fertility.
5. Varuna Lingam (West): Installed by Varuna, the god of rain, and connected with Saturn (Sani), it grants relief from water-related diseases.
6. Vayu Lingam (Northwest): Installed by Vayu, the god of wind, this lingam is associated with Ketu and offers relief from heart, breathing, and stomach ailments.
7. Kubera Lingam (North): Installed by Kubera, the god of wealth, and connected with Jupiter (Guru), worship here improves financial status.
8. Esanya Lingam (Northeast): Installed by Lord Shiva himself and linked to Mercury (Budhan), this lingam provides peace of mind.

Apart from the Ashta Lingams, there are numerous other sacred shrines and ashrams along the Girivalam route, including the temples of Adi Annamalai, Surya Lingam, Chandra Lingam, and more. The path also houses ashrams of revered saints like Sri Ramana Maharishi, Seshadri Swamigal, and Yogi Ramsuratkumar.

History of Girivalam

The origins of Girivalam can be traced back thousands of years. The Arunachala Hill has been revered in sacred Hindu texts as a manifestation of Lord Shiva. The ancient Puranas narrate the story of Lord Shiva appearing as a column of fire to settle the dispute between Lord Vishnu and Lord Brahma regarding supremacy. The fire eventually solidified into the Arunachala Hill.

Adi Shankaracharya and other saints have extolled the virtues of walking around Arunachala. It is said that even the gods perform Girivalam to gain spiritual merit. The Ashta Lingams were installed by different celestial beings and deities over the ages, making the route highly sacred.

FAQs

1. What is Girivalam?

Girivalam is the practice of walking around the sacred Arunachala Hill in Tiruvannamalai, a distance of 14 kilometers.

2. When is the best time to perform Girivalam?

Girivalam is most auspicious on full moon days (Pournami). However, devotees can undertake it on any day.

3. How long does it take to complete Girivalam?

It typically takes 4-5 hours to complete the 14 km circumambulation, depending on the individual's pace.

4. What are the benefits of Girivalam?

Girivalam is believed to offer both spiritual and material benefits, including relief from diseases, longevity, wealth, and peace of mind.

5. Can I wear footwear during Girivalam?

No, footwear is not allowed during Girivalam as a sign of respect and devotion.

6. Is there a specific mantra to chant during Girivalam?

Devotees often chant “Arunachala Siva” or meditate on the divine form of Lord Shiva during the circumambulation.

Best Time to Visit

While Girivalam can be done at any time of the year, the full moon days are particularly significant. During Pournami, thousands of devotees flock to Tiruvannamalai to participate in the circumambulation. The months of November to March, when the weather is cooler, are considered the best time to visit for Girivalam.

How to Reach Tiruvannamalai

• By Air: The nearest airport is Chennai International Airport, about 180 km from Tiruvannamalai. From there, one can hire a taxi or take a bus.
• By Train: Tiruvannamalai is well-connected by rail, with regular trains from major cities like Chennai, Bangalore, and Madurai.
• By Road: Tiruvannamalai is easily accessible by road. Regular buses operate from Chennai, Bangalore, Vellore, and other nearby towns.

Do’s and Don’ts

Do’s:

• Carry enough water and food for the walk.
• Feed animals like dogs and cows along the path.
• Look at the Arunachala Hill with every step you take.
• Maintain silence or chant mantras during the walk.

Don’ts:

• Do not wear footwear.
• Avoid unnecessary conversations and distractions.
• Refrain from littering or causing harm to the environment.

Accommodation Options

Tiruvannamalai offers a variety of accommodation options, ranging from budget lodges to mid-range hotels. Some popular choices include:

• Sri Sarvesha Jayaam: A mid-range hotel offering comfortable amenities.
• Ramana Towers: A spiritual retreat that provides proximity to Sri Ramana Ashram.
• Sparsa Resort: A premium eco-resort for those looking for luxury accommodations.
• Namo Residency: A budget-friendly option located close to key pilgrimage spots.

Conclusion

Girivalam is not just a physical journey but a spiritual one. Walking around the sacred Arunachala Hill, worshiping the Ashta Lingams, and visiting the various ashrams and temples on the way offer a divine experience. For devotees seeking the grace of Lord Shiva, Girivalam is one of the most potent ways to connect with the divine. The sacred path, filled with vibrant spirituality, opens the doors to inner peace and enlightenment.